10 things to prepare for your next marathon/half marathon

When was the last time you went for a run? Was it the last IPPT?

RUNs are getting more and more popular in Singapore. Every year there are many sponsored runs happening in Singapore. We have the Sundown Marathon in May , Mizuno Mount Faber Run, Shape Run, Army Half Marathon ( also known as Singapore Bay Run ) , Nike 10k Run, New Balance Real Run and of course the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon. For a more detailed list of runs, you can always check out sgrunners calendar of events here.

Each run has its unique selling point and some of you probably will have go experience each and everyone of them! Share with us and our readers which run you love the most and what you find best about each!

In this post, SGTOP10 will share the 10 things he/she should prepare before their next marathon. So read on, and we will see you at the finishing line!

Take it easy
It may be your first official run, but don’t get over excited about it. You should be doing your normal training routine the days before the run. Don’t fret about the time you will clock in the upcoming race.

The night before the event, meet with friends and relax, get yourself distracted, and forget about the upcoming event. You have already done all the training and should be well prepared.

.

Drink water
Drink Water
Drink Water
Drink Water

I cannot stress enough the importance of hydration. Inadequate hydration can cause heat exhaustion and heat stroke. However do not over hydrate yourself with water in the last 24 hours.

.

Eat your regular food
Do not try new foods on an already nervous or excited stomach. Do plenty of carbo loading the night before the race, but be sure to eat early. Most of the runs occur in the morning and it is not recommended to go for a heavy breakfast prior to the run. An energy snack in the morning before the run should do the job, and you can always replenish after the run.

.

Camera!
Take pictures! But don’t run with a SLR. If you want to take professional pictures, don’t run. If you want to enjoy the run, just bring a point and shoot camera. Show everyone on Facebook and twitter your accomplishments, and get their best wishes and congratulations on having completed the run.

.

Take care of yourself
Sunscreen Foot powder and anti abrasion oil. If you need them, use them. This is not your last run, there will be many more to come. You have to take good care of yourself!

.

Stretch! Stretch! Stretch!
Prior to the run, remember to stretch and loosen up those limbs. This will greatly complement the run and prevent unnecessary injuries.

.

Don’t bring more, don’t bring less
Decide what you need to take with you the night before the run and get them ready. It is best to have a checklist so you do not miss out anything important. Get everything ready the night before you go to bed.

.

Where do I put my bag?
If you drive, this will not be a problem. For our non driving readers, be as light as possible when you go for the run. Though there are deposit counters at the start/end point, it is strongly not recommended to bring valuables along. If possible, just bring a pouch that carries some cash, your ezlink card and a good camera phone. That should be sufficient.

.

Enough Rest is the Best
Don’t arrange overnight mahjong sessions or party the night away and think you can then go straight for the run. Experience will tell you that you need enough rest for your body to carry you through the 2 or more hours of running the next day! Make sure you get a full 8 hours sleep the night before the run!!

.

Set your alarm clock

After so much preparation for the run, nothing is as frustrating as oversleeping on the big morning. Most of the runs (other than the Sundown Marathon ) happen in the wee hours of the morning . They usually start at 5.30 or 6.30 AM, depending on the distance you are covering. Unless you are an early bird by nature, set at least 2 alarms or you will not be able to catch the worms!

.