WITH LESS THAN two weeks to go, it’s now time to start thinking about the Run in the Dark race day and although you won’t make much of an improvement to your fitness between now and then you can still ensure you are ready for race week by preparing in advance.
If you were thinking of replacing your running shoes or any items of clothing then now is the time to do it as you don’t want to be introducing anything new in the days before the race just in case there’s any discomfort.
If you have your favourite items of clothing that you plan on wearing then make sure they’re available and use something else for those last few sessions as you don’t want to discover at the last minute that your running top is in the wash basket.
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Don’t try catch up on lost training sessions as this may leave you fatigued rather than rested and ideally you won’t to be at the start line feeling rested and free from aches and pains.
Think about what the weather might be like and always be prepared for the worst by making sure you have a rain jacket and maybe a hat and gloves packed.
Don’t rely on the goody bag to refuel after your run by making sure you pack something to aid your recovery. You could also pack a snack to keep you going before the race starts and if you plan on going to the race from work don’t forget to pack a change of clothes if required.
Familiarise yourself with the surrounding area by taking a look at the race route map as this makes it easier to plan your route to and from the event.
Don’t try anything new on Race Day.
Don’t try catch up on lost training sessions.
Use the week before the race to ensure you are race ready.
Familiarise yourself with the surrounding area.
Be aware of road closures and places to park.
Expect bad weather and pack accordingly.
Pack a plastic bag just in case it’s needed to keep items dry.
It’s advisable to consult with your doctor before starting on any new exercise routine if starting from a base of zero fitness and years of inactivity.
Run In The Dark training plan: getting ready for race week
WITH LESS THAN two weeks to go, it’s now time to start thinking about the Run in the Dark race day and although you won’t make much of an improvement to your fitness between now and then you can still ensure you are ready for race week by preparing in advance.
If you were thinking of replacing your running shoes or any items of clothing then now is the time to do it as you don’t want to be introducing anything new in the days before the race just in case there’s any discomfort.
If you have your favourite items of clothing that you plan on wearing then make sure they’re available and use something else for those last few sessions as you don’t want to discover at the last minute that your running top is in the wash basket.
Don’t try catch up on lost training sessions as this may leave you fatigued rather than rested and ideally you won’t to be at the start line feeling rested and free from aches and pains.
Think about what the weather might be like and always be prepared for the worst by making sure you have a rain jacket and maybe a hat and gloves packed.
Don’t rely on the goody bag to refuel after your run by making sure you pack something to aid your recovery. You could also pack a snack to keep you going before the race starts and if you plan on going to the race from work don’t forget to pack a change of clothes if required.
Familiarise yourself with the surrounding area by taking a look at the race route map as this makes it easier to plan your route to and from the event.
It’s advisable to consult with your doctor before starting on any new exercise routine if starting from a base of zero fitness and years of inactivity.
John O’Regan is a renowned adventure runner and the Life Style Sports Run in the Dark’s expert coach. Follow him on Twitter: @johnoregan777. He is available an online Q&A every Monday from 8-9pm on the event’s Facebook Page to answer training related questions.
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Fitness John O'Regan run in the dark Training