How to Prepare to Run a Race

Originally published on the I Earned It Blog.

7 Tips to Get Going

With the weather warming up and running season on the rise, it’s a great time to get up and get moving! Running a race can be the perfect way to get fit while having fun. 

According to Outside Interactive, “Running can give you a longer life, better sleep, improved immunity, mood, and more.”

Here are seven tips to get going:

1. Set specific and achievable goals. Creating goals helps you understand where you’re going and can remind you to stay on target. Setting specific goals can give you perspective and clarity for the best results. And make sure your goal is achievable by not overdoing it. For example, if you’re running your first half marathon, just finishing is an accomplishment.
2. Create a workout plan. Ensure your plan includes cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises to help you build the strength and stamina needed to run a race. Additionally, schedule your fitness to get enough practice before the big race. Plus, planning your fitness can help you reach your goals by providing consistency. 
3. Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. Find little ways to be more active during your day. Try taking the stairs instead of the elevator or walking during lunch. 
4. Eat a balanced and nutritious diet. If you’re increasing your exercise, you must eat a proper diet to support your fitness goals. Remember, don’t skip meals, especially when exercising; you must eat at least three meals daily to support a healthy body. Additionally, try to incorporate foods from each category of the food pyramid for balanced nutrition.
5. Stay hydrated and get enough rest. Staying hydrated and getting proper rest when exercising is essential to allow your body to recover and recharge. Remember to drink water before, during, and after your workout. And get good rest by incorporating rest days into your fitness routine and getting enough sleep every night.
6. Find a workout buddy or join a fitness community. A workout buddy can provide you with support and motivation along your fitness journey. Plus, you’ll have someone to share your goals and progress with. Additionally, you can invigorate each other if your motivation is slipping. 
7. Track your progress and celebrate your successes along the way. Making your goal measurable allows you to track how often you are achieving your goal and can help you stay on course. And celebrating your success along the way can keep you motivated in the long run to achieve your goals. It helps push you to get to the next step of your goal.

If you’re ready to try running a race, remember to set specific and achievable goals, take care of yourself and celebrate your successes along the way.