Your first race :)

Now that you have learnt more about running, you might want to take part in a race! So, how do you prepare for your first race?!

Most beginner runners start out with shorter distances, such as 5km races. Before racing however, you should run most of this distance consistently during your training.

Running Competitor.com has training tips for first timers planning to run 5km. Some of the tips they give include setting yourself a realistic target time that you can achieve as well as getting yourself a training plan.

They suggest getting a training plan that is easy to understand and fits your lifestyle. There are many training plans available for you that you can find from running magazines or even online!


Some of the websites that you can find training plans from include About.com 5k Training: Train to run your first 5k. This training plan takes 8 weeks and is for beginners who can run at least a mile (1.6km).

For those beginner runners who are slightly better and can run a comfortable 2 miles (about 3.2km), About.com Advanced Beginner Training is suited for you!

How to Prep for a 5K is a useful video you can watch about preparing for a 5km race even if you have not been running for very long.

Well, once you have signed up for your race, here are some tips for it! One of the most important things to know before you go is where the starting and finishing lines are! Also, you should remember to pick your race packet up early.

Your race bib should be pinned to the front of your shirt and your timing chip should be attached securely to either your ankle or shoe. Remember to wear clothes that you are comfortable running in and eat a meal that is preferably high in carbo and low in fat and protein.

More tips on preparing for your first race can be found at About.com Race Day Tips and at 8 Tips to Rock Your First Race (Run Addicts). Have fun running! :)


Photos from:
http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/chxIDTupfG-/Mo+Farah+5k+Run/JVfp68UuYwv

http://running.about.com/od/racetraining/tp/racedaytips.htm

References:
http://www.runaddicts.net/start-to-run/8-tips-to-rock-your-first-race

http://running.about.com/od/racetraining/tp/racedaytips.htm

http://www.livestrong.com/article/524958-what-i-need-to-know-to-run-a-5k/

http://completerunning.com/archives/2006/09/03/five-tips-for-running-your-first-race/

http://running.about.com/od/racetraining/a/5Kadvbeginner.htm