Getting rid of the pre race jitters

Friday, October 14, 2011

So this weekend I am headed out to run this race:

It is the Nike Women's Marathon and Half Marathon in San Francisco. 30,000 women compete in this race running all over the city. Probably one of the most empowering things you can experience. I ran the half last year and am doing it again this year!!

With this in mind I thought I would give some tips to calm those pre race jitters and make sure you are prepared as best you can come race morning!

1. Make sure you are prepared! Have the race outfit you are going to wear set out with the bib number on your shirt and timing chip on your shoe. Most races start EARLY in the morning (just like Nike Women's) and without having the essentials laid out and ready to go, you could be scrambling trying to get down to the starting line. There is nothing worse then getting to the starting line with the gun already gone off (trust me, been there done that :)).

2. If you are planning on running with music spend some time putting together the ultimate playlist and make sure your batteries are fully charged. Find music that pumps you up and carry you through some tough miles during the race.

3. Get some sleep. I have always heard the night before the night of the race is the most important night for sleep. You want to make sure 2 nights before the race that you are well rested. It will allow you to full energy the day of the race.

4. Eat the right foods. DO NOT eat something new the morning of the race. Make sure you have tried your pre race meal before a long run during your training. Trying new foods can cause you to have an upset stomach or not give you all the energy/fuel you need for the race. My pre race meal, is a pack of oatmeal, a banana, and a glass of orange juice.

5. Make sure to do a few strides (quick sprints) or a little 5 minute warm up jog to get your muscles loose. This way you are not starting the race with cold muscles. Do a little stretching as well. By doing this you wont have to use the first mile or two of the raced to get warmed up.

Hope these few tips will help you feel geared up and ready to go the morning of your big race! Prepartation is key but most importantly have fun!!!