Fun run tips
What to eat
Eat a healthy meal that may include fruit, juice, yogurt, a bagel, toast or cereal. Eat about two hours before the run. If you eat or drink too close to start time, you may get a stomachache.
What to wear
On the morning of the race, listen to the weather forecast. What you wear depends on the weather:
- If it's cool, dress in layers so you can take off or put on items depending on the temperature.
- If it's hot, be sure to wear something light and cool. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sun screen.
If the temperature is warm, or gets warmer during the race, don't push yourself too hard. Hot temperatures make running more difficult so adjust your pace accordingly.
How much water do you need?
Drink one to two cups of water about two hours before your run. If you drink this amount too close to run time, you'll have to use the bathroom at the run site or may get a stomach ache while running.
If your run is 5k or less, you won't need to bring water with you on the run. Most fun runs will have a water stop so have a drink of water on your way by, especially if it's hot and humid.
Drink water when you finish to replace fluid lost through sweat. Sports drinks aren't needed for this kind of event.
Warming up
Do a short warm-up of five minutes of brisk walking or slow jogging followed by stretching. Trying to start a fun run at a slow, warm-up pace is difficult due to the excitement of running with so many other people. Chances are you'll will be running slightly faster than you're used to.
How fast should you go?
Run at the pace you have been training at during your preparation. Trying to run faster because it's a fun run or race will likely result in you getting tired sooner and possibly not completing the distance.
Don’t forget to have fun!