Make It the Perfect Race Day
A few weeks ago, I ran RunTheBluegrass in the POURING down rain. A May half-marathon in Kentucky should be hot and sunny, right? At least that is the weather I predicted when selecting the Pacers’ shirts to be worn for the race. My shoes were water-logged to the point it became a challenge to keep moving forward, but I kept going with each step being closer to the finish line. Yet, despite the monsoon, I finished with a PR.
If you actually think about it, how many races have you completed with the perfect temperature and the perfect sky on the most perfect race day ever? I guarantee that most seasoned runners have crossed the finish line in the rain, snow, heat, humidity, and even in perfect weather. So what is stopping you from allowing your training runs to be in the elements you may face on race day?
~TRAIN IN THE HEAT: However, be mindful that you may not hit your fastest speed. You should slow down your pace and stay hydrated while being smart and listening to your body as it adapts to the warmer temps that you might encounter on race day.
~TRAIN WHEN HUNGRY: You will learn the importance of what does and does not work as fuel during the race. Just make sure that you take the time to eat after your run. This may also help in the event that a race is delayed but you’ve prepared for the race to begin on time.
~TRAIN IN THE RAIN: This will give you a chance to find what does and does not work as far as apparel in the rain. You will also have a chance to realize the importance of Body Glide and where you need to apply it.
TRAIN WHEN YOU ARE TIRED: Chances are, if you are running a big race the next day, you will be too excited to sleep. You’ll also have a chance to figure out which source of energy works the best.
TRAIN WITHOUT MUSIC: Due to safety reasons, some races do not allow the use of participants to wear ear buds or headphones.
If you train in all of the elements, you will be able to feel confident and excited as you’re walking towards the start line for your perfect race day.
