There are certain rules many experienced runners follow on race day. Here some of the rules and how I have broken them.
Rule #1: Don’t wear new clothes or gear on race day.
Many runners have heard this rule. It is always best to test out new gear before a big race, just in case there is a problem.
During my first Marathon, I wore a new belt, that I had not properly tested out during a long run. It was a convenient place to carry my fuel and car keys. Unfortunately, after 26 miles of running, I had a bloody bruise on my back in the shape of a belt buckle. I learned my lesson and no longer wear that particular belt. I bought a flip belt instead, that does not include any buckles.
Another lesson I learned this year is to test out new gear before a long run. Races are not the only time malfunctioning gear can be problematic. During a 20 mile run I was carrying Tailwind in a new water pack that I had not tested. At mile 4 it burst, spilling my drink all over me. With 16 miles left to run, I was left with only a few ounces to drink. I had to turn the pack upside down to salvage the remaining Tailwind, which I then awkwardly drank from the spout.
I have also learned not to fill the water pack all the way. If there is less pressure, it is less likely to burst.
Rule #2: Don’t eat new foods before a race.
It’s surprising how many people eat something new before a race that simply doesn’t agree with them.
Runners may be traveling out of town for a race and at the mercy of a restaurant or relative to prepare their pre-race meal. It is best to stick to a routine and pick foods you eat regularly and know will agree with you.
As someone who does not usually consume pork products, I broke this rule last month at the Flying Pig Marathon, and ate pork both during the Marathon, and at the restaurant the night before the race. By eating bacon during the race, it really was a Pig Powered PR.
Fortunately, I did not have any negative impact from the bacon. The Bacon Mac N’ Cheese was awesome. But I have heard many stories of runners suffering a food allergy or negative reaction before a race, so it is best to be cautious about what you eat. Food poisoning, although not as common, is also something to be careful to avoid, prior to a big race.
Rule #3: Test out your race day fueling strategy during your long run.
It is important to know exactly what you plan to eat before and during your race.
During my last Marathon, I forgot to bring my fuel with me and was at the mercy of the Marathon to eat whatever snacks were provided along the course.
I estimate I ate around 600 calories during the race, but I certainly had not tested out eating 4 Hershey kisses, 2 cookies, 1 Swedish fish, 1 strip of bacon, 2 pretzel sticks, 2 potato chips, cheese nips, Blackberry GU, and a York peppermint patty, during any of my training runs.
I am not used to eating real food during a race, and trying to eat while running was challenging. Next time, I will probably forgo the stacks and stick to my plan.
Rule #4: Do not wear cotton socks.
As mentioned above it is best to test out all running gear prior to race day. This includes your socks.
I have broken this rule twice recently by wearing new socks during a race. Often at a large marathon expo it is tempting to buy new gear or socks, but if you wear the new item during your race, without testing it first there is a risk something may not fit as expected.
During my first Half Marathon I made the mistake of wearing cotton socks. Cotton is not ideal for running because it traps moisture and sweat and stays wet. This can be very uncomfortable for your feet as they are especially prone to blister once they are wet. A better option is breathable and moisture wicking material designed to keep your feet dry during your run.
Since switching to non-cotton socks, my feet and especially my toe nails are much happier!
Run Cari 