WEEK 17 HALF MARATHON 2018

​WEEK 17 HALF MARATHON 2018 STARTS 
Some of you may be running your race at the end of this week, on Saturday, or on Sunday. Good luck if you are putting toes to the start line. If not, and you are racing the next weekend May 19 or 20, it’s important to carry on with the taper.
 
Monday’s post will link to a Runner’s World article on fueling for the race. Take time to go over the helpful hints on carbohydrate loading before race day. If you are flying to attend a distant competition, check out what food and fluid sources are available to you in the days leading up to the race, for meals before that day, and breakfast that morning. Check a bag so you can stow food items in it. 
 
Even if you have access to a car where you’ll be, grocery shopping may be challenging. Be sure the local store carries your brands and special dietary items. If you are driving from home, bring with you as much of what you need to eat and drink as is possible. 
 
Staying with friends can be tricky. It’s usually not polite to hand over a list of specific food items to a host /hostess to obtain for you the week before arrival, but so important not to disrupt your usual routine in advance of and on the morning of the race. So, do it and plan to bring generous gifts to make up for the extra work that will be necessary on your behalf.
 
Determine in advance the restaurants you will dine in for meals if that’s the nutrition plan. Check menus online. Call ahead. Possibly service will change for a big race bringing in thousands of additional potential patrons on race weekend; ask if there are pre-race issues of which runners should be aware before arriving.
 
I once was shy in this regard when staying with friends for races.  We weren’t on the same frequency about pre-race food and rest.  I did not signal that I needed their help to eat and sleep according to plan.  These were stressful events for me. Remember that those who are non-runners, or running the shorter 5K, may be in a party mood at a time when you must stay in training mode.  Make your intentions clear but promise that after the race you’ll join and even lead the fun.
 
My hostess for another away race was a runner.  She went through menus with me before I arrived on her doorstep, gym bag in hand. Mary, you’re one of a kind! I hope to repay her kindness in the future.
 
In addition to nutrition, plan transportation and parking in advance too, Even if you’re running a ‘neighborhood’ race, that familiar landscape can change with the influx of runners.
 
Race day is almost here! Let the taper allow you to be fresh for the big effort and get all the travel details settled so your mental focus can be on performance.
 
RUN & MOVE HAPPY!

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