Fun run preparation: Final two week checklist
Are you training for a fun run? Whether it's the Bridge to Bridge in Brisbane or the City2Surf in Sydney, there are simple things you can do to the final couple of weeks to ensure you are at your peak on race day.
Stick to your training plan!
As it gets closer to race day, the nerves will kick in. Chances are you will start to question whether you've done enough training to go the distance. Avoid tampering with your training plan by adding extra runs or increasing your distances. The last thing you need is to end up nursing an injury before you even get to the starting line.
Treat yourself to a massage
On your recovery days, treat yourself to a massage at least 1.5-2 weeks prior to run. This can help loosen up tight muscles from the previous weeks of training. However, avoid choosing the deep tissue option, you don't want to risk having bruised calves.
Drink plenty of H20
It's important to ensure your body is adequately hydrated for the race event. Any run where your body is subjected to stress, can result in dehydration. You don't need to go crazy, just ensure you have a water bottle so you can sip small amounts throughout the day.
Eat healthy meals
The average runner burns up to 100 calories each hour during a race. It's important not to deprive your body of essential vitamins and minerals leading up to the event. Forget fad diets and restricting your carbs, stick to healthy well-balanced meals. It's all about quality rather than quantity.
Take your race clothes for a test run
Make sure you have your running gear sorted at least two weeks prior to the date of your race. This will allow you to test run your socks, shoes and clothing several times before the big day and deal with any issues that might cause chaffing or blisters.
Get plenty of Zzzz's
Pre-race jitters can lead to a restless night's sleep, the night prior to a big race. Early nights leading up to the event of up to 7-8 hours a night will ensure you are not exhausted on race day, even if you didn't sleep well the night before.
Rebel is an official event partner of the City2Surf.