Spring has finally sprung! The runners are out and about all over campus proving to all of us that hibernating in the gym all winter really paid off. If you’ve been thinking about getting into running, now is the time! Everywhere you look there are registrations for 5ks, 5-mile runs, and the race of all races… the marathon.
Whether you’re a rookie or a veteran, running is an everywoman’s sport. Marathons seem intense and impossible for beginners, but with time and training you will be crossing the finish line in no time. Here are few tips to go from zero to sixty when preparing for a big race.
Do some research: First things first. Find a race that will fit into your schedule. Local marathons are a good start for beginners. If you’re looking for more of a destination race, the annual Chicago marathon through the city always draws a huge crowd of avid runners. The Boston marathon is also popular among runners, but may seem overwhelming for a first timer. Once you’ve found the race that works for you, make the commitment.
Training Technology: It turns out your smart phone has more to offer you than Snapchat and Tinder. Apps like iMap My Run and Nike Training Club are essential for any beginning runner. These apps have built in GPS’s that allow you to track your route and tell you exactly how much ground you’ve covered. They even coach you through the run telling you how much time you have left before reaching your next mile. Nike just came out with its most innovative work out technology yet. The Fuelband. It is worn on the wrist and keeps track of how much total activity you’ve done throughout the day. This technology syncs to an app on your phone that records all of your progress.
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Running Swag: Get your run on and look good doing it. Every runner has a brand that they prefer to sport over others. Nike and Lululemon are the most common seen here at Miami. Spandex has definitely become more popular for running and working out. The material is tight to the skin to ensure that no straps or undergarments will be sliding out of place. That’s the last thing you want to be worrying about while running, especially during a race.
Stick to a Schedule: It’s time to get a planner. Every week should be planned ahead of time with how long you will run each day. It may seem overwhelming once you lay it at first, but eventually it will mesh perfectly into your schedule and believe it or not it will become something you look forward to. Marathonrookie.com and halhigdon.com offer detailed week-by-week schedules for all types of runners and races.
Race Day Preparation: You’ve got this. When race day is approaching, don’t psych yourself out. You’ve come so far and you have months of training behind you to prove it. Think about all you’ve accomplished and channel your energy into the race. Be sure to configure a bumpin’ playlist full of your favorite pump up jams. Don’t forget to charge up your iPod or Mp3 player because nothing is worse that hearing the sounds of your feet hit the ground during a race. Fuel up on carbs the night before the big day and get a full night’s rest.
Make a change this summer. Your body will never be as able as it is now, so take advantage of that and push yourself to work harder than ever before. You’ll find that you’re stronger than you thought.
Get on your feet and go the distance.