Have you decided to run a half marathon? These guidelines will ensure you are ready when the big race day comes.
Make sure you allot adequate time to train. Take into account your starting fitness level (are you truly a novice, or have you run a bit before?) as you plan. Find a reasonable training plan and then tack on an extra week or more to allow room for sickness or injury. A good training program will tell you to go for a long run one day a week, run shorter runs three days a week, and cross train or rest on the remaining days. Take your time building the distances for those long runs.
Buy the right equipment. Make sure you have running clothing that fits right and wicks away sweat, plus good running shoes, and anti-chafing balm. If your training route doesn’t loop (whereas you could place water bottles that you could access on long runs), buy a camelback or bottle belt. You should also have some form of self defense with you, such as mace.
You should plan on running the full thirteen miles at least once before the race. Make sure you leave room to have an easy week before the race, not running the couple days before the actual race. It’s a good idea to eat plenty of carbs those few days before the race.
On race day, get up early and eat something like an egg sandwich or a bagel with cream cheese. A lot of runners like to eat a power bar just before the race, and everyone benefits from a couple energy gels midrace. If you usually drink powerade during your workouts, you can do so during the race; otherwise, stick to water.
After the race, be sure to drink a lot. If you feel even a little bit of stomach upset, drink an energy drink but don’t eat yet. It’s wise to stretch out your muscles and just relax, enjoying your great acheivement as you plan your next race.
