Ready, Set, Run: Ingredients for a Successful 5K Run

By Debi Pillarella, M.Ed.

Now that Thanksgiving is over, one great way to work off the mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie is by preparing for a 5K event. According to the American Council on Exercise, running is one of the most effective, time-efficient workouts. A 5K, or 3.1 miles, is a great first race for beginning runners. It’s short enough for new runners to be successful, but long enough for the experienced runner to challenge him or herself to perfect time and technique before taking on longer-distance runs. If you’re running your first 5K, follow these tips to ensure success:

Get READY:
Reduce your risk of injury with a few important steps to help ensure your run is successful and enjoyable.

• Check with Your Physician: Make sure you don’t have any medical/health issues that would prevent you from being able to run.
• Get Your Gear: Not only should you have proper fitting running shoes, but they should be light-weight, breathable and provide good arch and ankle support. In addition to proper footwear, make certain your clothing is conducive to running. Moisture-wicking, anti-microbial, layered clothing works best.
• Set a Personal Goal: Setting a realistic and achievable workout goal is a great way to stick to your running plan. Start out small and add on gradually.

Get SET:
Be careful not to do too much too soon. To plan for an upcoming event, grab a buddy and start with a simple walking program, progress to a walk/run program and ultimately end up with an all–running program. Take time to warm up and cool down, as well as spend a bit of extra time stretching after your cool down. Listen to your body and reduce or increase your frequency, intensity, and/or duration as needed. Here are some additional tips to help you train for your first 5K:

• Between your scheduled runs, make sure to cardio cross train (i.e. bike, swim), strength train and take time off to recover (at least twice a week) to give your body a much needed break.
• Give your body the fuel it needs to perform at its optimal condition. For example, a whole grain bagel is a great pre-run snack. Make sure to have a light carb and protein snack handy for after your run.
• Remember to stay hydrated before, during and after your run. Consume at least 16 ounces two to three hours before your run, 7-10 ounces every 15 minutes during your run, and several more ounces after.

RUN, RUN, RUN:
Once your big day has arrived, make sure you are familiar with the course, whether it’s by taking a look at the race map or even driving through the route in the days prior. Familiarity with where you’re running will help keep you motivated and have a positive impact on your pace.

Come race day, keep these tips in mind:

• If this is your first race, position yourself toward the ‘back of the pack’ so you’re not in the way of the experienced runner who is running for ‘time’. Remember your goal is to finish the race, rather than be too concerned about your time.
• Start out at a comfortable pace and preserve your energy for an all-out, strong finish.
• Take advantage of the water stations along the route. Keeping hydrated during a race will improve your performance. Remember to take small sips so not to upset your stomach.
• When you cross the finish line, don’t stop moving. Keep walking down the course to prevent a traffic jam, as well as to cool your body. Walk around for a few minutes and follow up with some gentle stretches, especially for the lower body.

Debi Pillarella, M.Ed., is the Youth Fitness Spokesperson for the American Council on Exercise (ACE) as well as the Program Director at Fitness Pointe. She has authored numerous publications on youth and family fitness and writes a regular column, entitled “Fit Family”, for NWI Parenting Magazine. She lives in Munster, Indiana with her husband and two children.

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