5 common mistakes runners make on race day

5 common mistakes runners make on race day

As a certified running coach with over 14 half marathons and six full marathons under my belt, I can say that without a doubt, a lot of things need to happen for you to run a successful race. I was reminded of this during my recent trip to Lululemon's SeaWheeze Half Marathon. (Read on for that #Fail moment.) When packing for my trip, I must have gone through my list of racing essentials a dozen times and double- and triple-checked my suitcase to make sure I didn't forget anything for the trek from New York City to Vancouver. (Luckily, I remembered everything from the energy gel to the SPIbelt.)

However, it's more than just being perfectly organized. Whether you're heading toward the big day hoping to just cross the finish line or lacing up and praying for a personal record, avoid these five racing mistakes and you'll have a better run, we promise.

1. Skip warm-up.

For years, I only warmed up when I ran with other athletes. This feels terrible for the whole internet to see, but it's the truth. In a group setting, everyone prepares together. It's time for you ALL to take time together to get better as a unit. And, well, it would be weird to skip a group warm-up.

But alone? It's easy to convince yourself that it's okay to skip. Man, there are so many other things you could do with those five to ten minutes—especially if you add a run to your already hectic morning routine. Reality check: A must, before every run and on race day.

No matter how silly you feel doing lunges, knee hugs, and quad pulls alone in a big field, it's worth your time. Especially for early morning races when your body is tense from hours of rest. (Try this warm-up routine that works for running and any other workout.)

2. No time for package pickup.

For months before the big day, all you think about is a date. The date. However, there are usually some other logistical things you need to consider in order to get to the start line - including the time to go to packet pickup and get your race number. (This is especially important if you are traveling to your race destination.) Many races do not offer participants the option to take their belongings with them on the day, and the last thing you want is to miss packet pickup. get up and that all the training is for nothing. (Related: 5 Lessons I Learned from My First Trail Race)

3. Wear something new on race day.

My name is Emily Abbate, I know this rule well and recently made this mistake. Scenario: I run in this sports bra a lot. It is one of my goals. Not only is it super comfortable, but it also gives me the support I need whether I'm tackling a breezy 5K or a weekend 10-mile run. I did a bit of shopping the day before SeaWheeze and noticed the bra came in a fun new print that I just had to have. And so I did it.

The matter? I usually wash all my clothes with a special detergent before wearing them. (You never know who tried on these leggings before you!) Fast forward 24 hours after I wore my brand new bra on the SeaWheeze course. The only place I can rub myself all over my body 13.1 miles later? Right on the bra line. The lesson: Put your race day outfit through not just one but several test runs, especially on your longest run comparable to the race distance. The last thing you want is to rock a pair of tights that keep falling down, a t-shirt that makes you feel super self-conscious, or a bra that digs into your armpits. (Check out these other tips for avoiding chafing.)

4. You don't practice your nutrition strategy.

Race day is not the day to experiment with a new pre-run smoothie recipe or mid-run snack. Try eating a few breakfasts before long runs during your workout to make sure everything sits well in your stomach. The same applies to fuel during the race.

No matter the distance, you have nutritional options along the route. For shorter races, that might just mean choosing between water or a sports drink like Gatorade Endurance. After 10km, you may have access to energy gels or other snacks/snacks to refuel you. Whatever you achieve, make sure you've had it before.

Example: I have been a big fan of CLIF's raspberry energy gel for years. I've taken it with me for at least four full marathons, stashed in my bags. Recently, on a training run, I wanted to mix things up and try the athletic chewing (think gummies) route instead. About 15 minutes after chewing I felt super crampy. So cramped, in fact, that I had to stop my run. Imagine if I had decided to mix things up on race day itself? Big buzz kill. (Here's a beginner's guide to fueling for a half marathon.)

5. Not enjoying the moment.

Let’s refocus on that initial goal. Whether you're running for time or just for fun, both approaches can be fun. If you're too ~in the zone~, you'll miss out on one of the greatest joys of racing: the experience as a whole. You know, the audience, your followers, the feel-good vibes of the performance. You haven't come this far just to tune out the world's upcoming race day, so embrace it.