HOW TO: Preparing for a Fun Run!

Read Lino’s article on how to handle a bad run here.

So you’ve decided to attempt a fun run. Congratulations! It could be your first or maybe you’ve done one or more before.

How do you Prepare?

First and foremost, get a good training program and stick to it. A good plan should not only incorporate running, but should also include some cross training, as well as stretching or yoga. It is also very important is giving your body time to rest, and of course refuelling with the best possible nutrition.

Never try something new on your fun run, especially if it is your first. Play with some strategies so you can reduce the chance of discomfort during the event.

With all of this, you are giving yourself the best chance to have a great run! Remember –  a fun run is just that, fun!

Nutrition

On a few of your longer training runs, try the food and hydration that you are planning to have the day before and on the day of the event. This will reduce the chance of food playing havoc with your digestive system on the day of the run. Don’t try anything new on the day of the run and remember, keep it basic! Foods that are easily digestible such as bananas, oats and nuts are a good place to start, finding what works best for you is key!

Clothing and Shoes

Wearing new clothing and a shiny pair of running shoes always makes us feel good but there is nothing worse than running and a new piece of clothing causing blisters or chaffing. Whatever you do, always try your running outfit and shoes at least a couple of times before your event.

Sleep

Most of us lead busy lives and between work, family, socialising and training we often don’t get enough sleep. So, in the lead up to your event (especially in the final week), try to cut back on the busyness and get yourself to bed as early as possible! An extra 30mins of sleep each night can help greatly in ensuring you are better rested and therefore ready for a great run.

Mental Preparation

There is nothing wrong with feeling a little nervous about your first fun run! It’s a new experience and hopefully the some nerves will help you to make sure you prepare better for your run. So get organised! Get your clothes, shoes, socks and hat etc. ready the day before. Ensure you know your plan for the morning of the run, including what you are going to eat, what you are going to take and how you are going to get the start line.

“Completing a fun run can be just as much about preparing your mind as it is preparing your body.”

Read any information about the run you are going to participate in so that you are familiar with the course. It may also help to talk to someone that has done this run for any tips they may have. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the experience of your first fun run. Hopefully it will be the first of many so use it as a learning experience rather than putting too much pressure on yourself.

Doing all these things will leave you feeling more relaxed about your run!

See here for a calendar of Melbourne’s upcoming fun-runs!

We’re here to help.

Come in and have a chat with one of our physio’s about a running assessment, and how you can optimise your chances of having the best run possible.