How To Make Your Next Race Your Best Race:

 
While I love to run, I really love to race. There’s something about the energy before, during and after a race that I crave. I love all distances but would have to say the half marathon is my favourite. I usually try and run about 5 or 6 a year.

How To Make Your Next Race Your Best Race:

Figure Out What You Want To Accomplish.
Do you have a goal(s) for the race? Do you want to PR, run with friends, run the whole distance, without walking, or stop and take photos every mile? From there, find a training plan that works for you. There are plans to turn walkers into runners and runners into sprinters and everything in between. 

Treat Your Body Right. 
Learn how to properly fuel your body, stretch and add some cross-training. All of the above will make you a better runner. All of them are equally as important. Also, learn to embrace the taper! You may feel like you've lost all training but your body will thank you and you'll be rewarded on race day with fresh legs!

Don't Try Anything New On Race Day.  

Think of your long training runs as a dress rehearsal. Test out your fuel, clothes, technology, runners. You don't want to deal with any "what-ifs" on race day. 

Listen To Your Body. 

If you need a break, take one. If you're feeling a little ache somewhere, stop running. If you'd rather catch up on the latest episode of the Bachelor, do it. It's okay to step away from your training sometimes. Sticking to a plan can be exhausting some days. The nice thing is, you'll usually end up craving a run.

Have Fun! 
Most of my PR's have come during the races I've trained hard for but also had fun in. The NYC Half was my favourite race! I trusted my training and enjoyed the atmosphere, trying to take it all in. Your best race doesn't have to mean a PR though. Sometimes, it's just about getting out there and having fun and enjoying running because you really do love it!

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Guest Post


Hi, I’m Kaella and I blog at “Kaella On The Run.” I am a single mom and I work full-time in the media. In 2012, I made a lifetime commitment to running. It’s something I love to do and need to make time for in my busy life.

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