Only ONE WEEK to go until the Northlake Neighbors 5K/10K race so let’s talk about all the things you can do this week to get you prepped for race day! These tried and true tips are sure to help you feel more prepared at the starting line and more proud at the finish line.
1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
Hydration takes time so start early. Chugging water prior to the start will not only leave you with a side ache and urgent need to use the potty, but it will do little for your body and muscles. Making sure to drink plenty of water all week long with ensure that you are properly hydrated on race day – keeping your muscles and body feeling good before, during, and after the race!
2. Fuel Your Body
Whatever you do, don’t pull a Michael Scott and carb load immediately before the race unless you want to be vomiting along the side of the road. Use the week prior to the race to put plenty of healthy foods including fruits, vegetables, and healthy carbs into your body to ensure your muscles have plenty of energy to use during your run.
3. Get to Know the Course
If you can, take the time to walk the course. Knowing what to expect helps to prepare your body and mind for the race. Familiarizing yourself with the terrain can help with your muscle motor planning and knowing when to conserve and when to expend energy. Your mind will also have a hard visual of the finish line which will help you stay in the game mentally!
4. Don’t Do Anything New
The week before the race is NOT the time to try a new wild workout or start a new diet regimen. New things take time for your body to get used to so hold off on those new things until after the run if you want to be feeling your best on race day.
5. Get Excited!
Let yourself get excited! Whether you’ve been training for a long time or only a little, whether this is the culmination of a big goal or a spontaneous decision, whether this is your first race or 100th, let yourself enjoy the fact that the day is finally here. Get excited to test yourself, push yourself, perform, and be proud of the outcome no matter what happens!
For help prepping for or recovering from your next race, make sure to call Life Changes Physical Therapy.