The time is almost here—you talked to your doctor before starting a new exercise regime, laced up your running shoes, trained hard, and your first 5K is approaching. You are feeling ready, but are there any last-minute things you can do to prepare? Check out these five tips for your first 5K!

1.      Plan your outfit accordingly. When we mention fashion, we do not just mean dressing in something cute (although there are a lot of great athletic clothes from which to choose). First and foremost, you should dress for the weather, but once you have taken that into consideration, wear the outfit you wore during your best training run. “You’re not going to deal with any unforeseen issues that can come up, like chafing or leggings falling down, and you’ll also have good memories tied to the outfit—it’s a physical reminder of how well you can do and how much fun you can have while running.” Additionally, be sure not to wear a new pair of shoes for the race—you will want ample time to break them in to avoid blisters on the big day.

2.      Recruit some loved ones to root for you at the race. It can be a lot more fun to know you have a cheering section to support you on the big day. Having in-person support can give you a big mood boost which could help lift your spirits during the race when you are feeling tired and rundown (pun intended). Even better, recruit friends to run the race with you!

3.      Do not line up at the front. Although it might be tempting, head for a starting spot near the middle or the back instead. “The front is typically reserved for runners who are going all-out and are trying to set a personal record. No matter where you start though, don't feel pressured to keep up with the runners around you.”

4.      Start slow and pick up the pace later. You do not want to burn out all of your energy too quickly and, in fact, it could be advantageous to your performance to start out slower. “This actually helps you run a better and usually faster race, and it’s also easier and more fun to pass people.”[1]

5.      Do not worry about your time. After training so hard, it can be easy to fixate on your time. However, for your first race, your focus should be on crossing the finish line regardless of your final time. The point is to have fun, and it can be hard to enjoy yourself if you are obsessively checking your watch.

            What are your favorite tips for a first 5K that we forgot to mention? Tag us on social media and show us how you stay Bodē Strong while chasing your fitness goals!

[1] Tucker, Alexa. “14 Simple Tips That Will Make Running Your First 5K Actually Enjoyable.” SELF, SELF, 26 Sept. 2016, https://www.self.com/story/simple-tips-that-make-running-a-5k-enjoyable.