Before a race, competitors usually train long enough to have the necessary stamina and conditions to face the challenge. A long time full of sacrifices, ups and downs and, finally, the long awaited thing arrives: the race.
During race week, people are often very nervous and eager to finally put their training time to the test. However, last minute problems always occur, especially if you do not take the necessary precautions to reduce these inconveniences: you forgot your shoes, you do not feel well, you ate something that you should not … there are infinities of problems that can be present.
In order to minimize these circumstances, find out what not to do on the day of a running race . In this way, you can meet your goals without setbacks.
5 things you should not do before a running race
1. Eat foods that you have not eaten before
The most reasonable thing is that, during the time of physical preparation; that is, during training, runners consume a diet rich in nutrients, which provide the energy necessary for your body to withstand these adverse conditions.
One of the main mistakes runners make is that they always tend to try “new foods” during moments leading up to the race. This is a problem since they can show an intolerance to said food.
What is recommended for runners is to follow their normal diet, also before a race. If this is not done, you may have gastrointestinal problems before running . This advice should be applied for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks one or two days before the competition.
2. Wear unusual clothes
During the preparation time, you should find the perfect outfit for the day of the race: one that makes you feel comfortable, fresh and light so that it will not irritate your skin and does not make you feel discomfort throughout the race.
To make sure you don’t wear new clothes due to pre-race accidents, either because you forgot your running shoes or sports shorts, pack everything in advance and check everything beforehand to make sure you have all the necessary supplies to take to good term your competition.
3. Not making sure of your career goals
If you plan to sign up for a race, you have to make sure of the purpose of the race, because there are competitions where people simply run for fun, walk, take photos and even chat along the way. However, if you enroll in a real competition, where everyone wants to reach the finish line, make sure not to get in the way of the other competitors, if your real plans are not the competition as such, but simply to finish it and have a fun time with your friends. training partners.
4. Running too fast at first
Many novice runners make this big mistake: impulsively chasing the top runner in order not to lose their stride.
This can cause great physical wear at the beginning of the race ; therefore, you will run out of power for the rest of the section.
Try to be patient in the beginning and relax in the first few kilometers so that, in the end, you can bring out the best in you.
5. Surrender
The most difficult moment of the running race is the one where you feel like you can’t take it anymore. It is there that you have to remember all the hard training and obstacles that you had to overcome to get this far.
When the going gets tough. don’t throw in the towel, you owe it to yourself to finish the race, that’s why you have to complete it, giving your best until the end.
If you think about giving up before starting the race, think about why you are there and what your goal is – that will help you complete your goals.
conclusion
Beginning runners always make a number of common mistakes before a race; for example, eating foods you shouldn’t, wearing uncomfortable clothing, or not following your own instincts.
The tips provided above are only intended to help you so that you can compete without problems. We advise you to follow them to enjoy the experience of competing in running races .
References
- Angela, B. 5 Things Not to Do on Race Day. For Active [Revised June 2019].
