Race Tips: Preparing Well For The Alamo Half Marathon

By Edward Kelly


Getting ready for a long distance race is never an easy affair. World renowned runners always put in months of hard work. As such, it is your sacrifice and commitment that will see you get to the finish line. Whether you may be taking part in the Alamo half marathon for charity or for the thrill of racing, you ought to take time to prepare for it. Here are a few things you should include in your training routine.

Before embarking on your daily runs, you ought to know your limits. In other words, know what your body can and cannot take. This way, you will be able to identify your weaknesses and work on them. If your leg muscles tire after short periods of exercising, consult your personal trainer on the best way to condition them for long races. Furthermore, apply for membership at a local gym. This will enable you to get access to high quality training gear.

Marathons only involve intensive running. You can never become a winner simply because you are muscularly unrivaled. Stamina plays a vital role in making one emerge victorious when competing in a long distance track event. Improving your stamina means starting practicing early enough, preferably one year before you compete. With a little under a year before the event commences, you still have time to get in shape.

Most experienced trainers are of the view that if you want to be a great runner, you ought to begin taking on short distances daily. In training, a short distance should begin at three miles. When you wake up in the morning, purpose to complete this distance. Slowly increase the distance covered to six miles as the days go by.

Once your body is used to the routine, set days when you will be undertaking long runs. These fall in the range of seven miles and more. It is advisable to schedule your long runs to take place once a week. In a similar manner, increase your mileage gradually till you hit the nine mile mark.

Speed is very crucial when it comes to running. World champions have lost in the past to amateurs due to mistakes made with a few miles to go. To avoid getting fatigued early in the race, ensure your speed is consistent for the most part when racing. With a few miles left, increase your speed slightly. If you do this daily during your training, you should have an easy time during the real race.

The metabolic rate of your body is greatly dependent on the type of food you consume. Avoid meals that have a high fat content as they tend to induce fatigue. Start taking carbohydrate and vitamin based meals instead. This way, you will get enough energy to complete the race comfortably.

In addition to this, ensure you are well hydrated. During the race day, water stations may be located strategically along the course. Be sure to simulate this during your training to avoid falling prey to the unexpected. All said and done, one key thing that will determine success is your will. Without it, the training you put may be in vain.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment