Any experienced runner will tell you that preparation is the key to running races successfully. Before beginning to prepare your body for the race, you need to prepare yourself mentally and think positively. First things first, you need to take out your running shoes, get a new running shirt and shorts, and a water bottle. This will keep you motivated during the training that should ideally begin six weeks before the race. However, as with any form of physical activity, you should start slow and pick pace gradually.
Make sure that you begin your training with warm ups and follow a carbohydrate rich diet during your training. Carbohydrate loading helps in maintaining optimum blood sugar levels and avoids any energy dip during training. Most individuals preparing for running a race include food items that have high carbohydrate content such as bananas, bread, pasta, and rice in their every day meals. While it is important to prepare yourself physically and psychologically for running races, do not forget to take care of your skin. Use sunscreen when training out in the open to minimize damage from the harmful UV rays of the sun.
Hydrate your body properly before running. This is extremely important, as lack of hydration while running races can affect your performance considerably. It is highly recommended that you drink one to two liters of water before the race. However, do not consume it all at once but in small quantities during and after breakfast and while on your way to the race venue. You should not have anything forty minutes prior to the race to allow your digestive system ample time to settle. Additionally, you should check the food and drink rules of the race to avoid disqualification due to an inadvertent mistake. Finally, arrive early at the race venue and be prepared to give your best.