Race day for runners can bring a sudden onset of nerves and excitement, but there are lots of steps (both small and large) that you can take to make sure it all goes as smoothly as possible. Proper preparation will ensure nothing takes you by surprise while you're on the course, whether it's knowing where to find the restrooms, having enough safety pins, or being aware of where the hills are along the course. There are also techniques you can use to keep yourself focused during the run, avoid stomach upsets, and stick to your planned pace rather than heading off too fast and burning out before the end.
With that in mind, here are 21 key tips that will help ensure your race day goes smooth as silk, and you have an amazing time on the course. Make sure you have read – and reread – all the race information so that you know what time to turn up, where the start is, the location of the all-important toilets (see tip four) and whether you will be in a pen for your predicted time. Planning ahead for all the small details will ensure there are no last-minute race day panics.
It's also worth taking time to familiarize yourself with the rules to make sure you're not caught out. Nobody wants to end up like , who crossed the line first, but was disqualified for taking water from somewhere other than an official aid station. Having a buddy who runs at your pace can make the miles fly by much faster, giving you welcome company and conversation.
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