Sunday is quickly approaching and all the hard work to get ready for the race is behind, but in order to help you prepare the night before, morning of and during the race, here's a checklist of things you'll want to do and bring with you to make sure the race is a SUCCESS!
NIGHT BEFORE:
- Your last meal the night before the race should be a GOOD one. Remember, your fuel starts now. Don't make any drastic changes and go out and 'carb load' on all kinds of crazy pasta and bread. Some is okay and should be included only if it's been a part of your regular diet, but you'll want to be sure to balance with it protein and fat. The last thing you want to do is eat something that will upset your stomach for the next 24 hours. My 21DSD friends, this is the meal you should be sure to include your 1/4 cup of sweet potato, quinoa, or brown rice. And lastly, start hydrating now. Check your urine to see if you're adequately doing so; it should be pale yellow to clear.
- Be well rested! Head to bed early and be sure you get at least 8 hours of sleep. Give yourself time in the morning to wake up feeling rested so you don't wake up late and have to rush around.
Pack ahead of time! Here's a list of what you'll want to have with you -
GEAR FOR RUNNING -
- Camelpak or Fuel Belt
- Clothing for the Race; comfortable, tightly fitted and NO cotton, it will weigh you down
- Sneakers; Not your best ones, but they should be broken in and have good tread
- Train for Life SHIRT!
- Shorts or Compression Tights
- Compression Sleeves for Arms or Legs (optional)
- Sunblock
- Photo ID and Registration Information
- Food - Gels, Sport Beans, Chews, Clif Bars...
- 21DSD Snacks - Banana, Baby Food (Sweet Potato), Nuts
POST RACE -
- Be sure to bring a clean, warm change of clothes: underwear, shirt, shorts/sweatpants, sneakers and socks.
- Trash bag to put your dirty in. Rinse them thoroughly and they will come clean.
- A towel to dry off.
- They are expecting rain for Sunday afternoon, a raincoat/poncho is a good idea!
- Money for food/drink.
Lastly, and most importantly, bring a POSITIVE ATTITUDE! Remember WHY you signed up for this race in the first place. You'll have an amazing feeling of accomplishment when you hit the finish line. Whether this is your first Spartan or 10th, each provides a different challenge and you'll handsomely rewarded knowing you put yourself outside your comfort zone and SUCCEEDED!
If there's anything I didn't answer above that you have questions about, PLEASE comment below!