Hi Runners,
Here's a blog section dedicated to questions that may arise "along the way".  We'll do our best to get you good answers!!

 


Comments

Meridyth

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 05:05:23

At the race.

What is that first race like? How do you combat nerves? What about race etiquette? Is there something I should know about passing, sprinting? Do I call out on your left when passing?
What if I get sick --- what do I do? How do you take a drink from a water station and continue to run?

 

Glenda

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 07:18:02

Hi Meredith
Great Questions!
Lets start first with how to calm your nerves.....try using visualization and imagery.
Picture yourself getting ready for the race. Imagine yourself thinking, focusing, believing and acting in a more relaxed, constructive way and less nervous.
Use positive self messaging:

"I am in control of my thinking, focus and life."

"I control my own thoughts and emotions, and direct the whole pattern of my running performance, health and life."

"I learn through problems or setbacks, and through them I see room for improvements, changes and opportunities for personal growth."

"Everyday I am wiser, more in control, more confident, more driven to be the best I can be!"

Try telling yourself positive messages in the morning when you first wake up and again take 10 minutes to close your eyes, relax and focus on you. Focus on how you want to be on race day, how you want to feel, how you want to behave....you are in control, you have the power!

 

Glenda

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 10:58:58

 

Glenda

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 14:55:20

Hi Again!
Along with keeping your mind set positive...think about ways to relax!
At night before bed....relax and listen to your breathing. Continue breathing, feel your heart rate lowering as you listen to the sound of your own breath. Start relaxing from the top of your head right down to your toes....allowing your mind to be connected to each body part, breath through the relaxation and calm your body....start telling yourself how strong you are and ready for the race. How strong your quads and hamstrings are....how strong your calves are....feel the strength in your feet that are ready to carry you through your goal!

Runners feel free to share any ideas that work for you!

 

Glenda

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 15:13:18

Hi Meredith

Another good question.....etiquette on race day.

When you arrive at the race, don't be intimidated by what other runners are doing ..you are there for you!

First of all position yourself in the group where you feel most comfortable.

Stay within yourself ...try to keep the pace you have been training with even though you may be surrounded by faster and slower paces.

If you want to pass find an opening and go to the outside (pass on the left)

If you want to take a drink from a volunteer...water is all you need for this distance. It is a personal preference if you want to stop, drink and then continue or grab the cup while running and keep running while you take a sip. It is what is most comfortable to you.

Keep the positive messages flowing and finish strong!

Food and drinks are provided so fuel your self after such an amazing achievement!

I think if you are feeling sick...take a moment to deep breath, if you need to be sick again a personal preference how you want to handle it. Everyone is different with their comfort level.

Again if anyone else has anything to add or tips to offer ...please feel free to share.

 



Leave a Reply