5 Steps to Tackle your First Race
It took me several years of thinking about signing up to run my first 5k, before I actually signed up for one. There were a lot of reasons that held me back from registering for a race for the first time.
For one thing, there was the constant narrative in my mind, “You are not a runner.” Not only was I unsure about my ability to train for and run the race, but I wasn’t sure I belonged at that starting line either.
In coaching numerous beginner runners and runners tackling races for the first time, we’ve all come to know that some amount of nervousness, fear, and/or doubt is totally normal!
Here are 5 steps to help in tackling your first race…
Sign up for the race.
That’s right. Make the decision, even with the nervousness and doubt. The accountability of adding your name to that race roster is step one.
Train for it!
Now, I know that one seems obvious, but I’ve heard countless stories of runners showing up to race day on no training. Whether you are showing up for a 1 mile race or a marathon, the training is important to your success on race day.
To work with Coach Michelle, schedule a coaching call!
Get a coach.
If you aren’t sure how to train for the race or why to train for the race, find yourself a coach. You don’t have to go it alone. Not only are run coaches helpful to experienced runners looking to improve their times or to race a new distance, but they are very helpful to beginner runners. There are a number of pitfalls that can be avoided with a coach to guide you and to support you along the way.
Don’t go out too fast!
Once you’ve gotten to race day, there can be so much excitement at the start line. I’m all for excitement, but I remind all of my athletes to “slow your roll” coming out of the start. It’s very common for newer runners to run much more quickly at the beginning of the race, only to poop out a short while into the race. Avoid the pooping out, and don’t go out too fast!
Be present on race day.
Whether your race is virtual or in-person, you’ve made it to your first starting line!! Let that sink in. You overcame your nervousness, fears, and doubts, and you made it! Consider going without headphones to truly experience the run.
To work with Coach Michelle, schedule a coaching call!
Imagine having such a fun experience that you want to run another race, and another, and….you get the idea. See you at the start line!