I have to admit that I thought that running and racing were synonymous. Why would one run if it wasn’t to race? I am fortunate enough to live in an area where races are so plentiful, we actually have to choose between multiple races on the same day.
#firstworldrunnerproblems
Anyway, being immersed in the blogging world has opened my eyes to the fact that some people may in fact not actually race, and recently, I have not been racing that much either. I ran a race the other day–it was more the spontaneous type of race where we signed up the night before on a car ride home. It was not my best by far, but it was motivational to be back out there and gave me a spark to set some goals. It also got me reflecting on the days where we would race every weekend–sometimes both days. And then to the days where we actually planned out a race schedule.
Whether you run to race, or race to run, planning a realistic schedule is key to having a positive experience.
Goals
Runners have seemingly infinite number of reasons to run, and therefore infinite goals in terms of what they expect from races. Goals for a race may be 1) to compete, 2) to have fun, or 3) to train. Of course there could be more, but these are the general areas from my personal experience. Identifying the reason, or goal for running the race, will give you peace of mind with the outcome.
Distance
Choosing that sexy marathon may seem so tempting, but be sure to thoroughly think things over before registering. Ask yourself the tough questions like, do I have the time to train, or do I even want to run this distance? Try not to get caught up in the hype and pick a distance that fits your lifestyle.
Location
Running races usually start around 8 or 9 in the morning, so the actual location of the race does play an important part in race scheduling. Choosing races that are closer to home, and an easy commute, can make race morning much more enjoyable.
Sometimes races can serve as a goal–something to train for and a way to motivate yourself to go a little further–so make sure you plan a realistic race schedule to get the most out of race day. Identifying your goals, picking a realistic distance, and choosing a convenient location will all play a part in shaping your race experience.
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It’s so easy to fall into the comparison trap with all that people post on social media! You’ve got some simple, great tips here to keep runners on track with a realistic goal!
Wendy@Taking the Long Way Home recently posted…This or That….Juxtaposition in Running
Totally! Everyone has to focus on their own needs if they want to reap the benefits of running!
Races around here seem to start at 7! Location is certainly key if you don’t want to be up at 4 am. 🙂 Thanks for the linkup
Deborah @ Confessions of a mother runner recently posted…Finding My Edge
Eeek! 7 is a bit too early for my kids schedules…that’s why time is important!
I was guilty for a long time of just signing up for races for the fun of it. Now I try to make them fit my goals and it has worked out a lot better! 🙂
Annmarie recently posted…Hill Sprints & Ultimate Sandbag Strength Workout
Me too…it left me burnt out and unfocused on any goals. I’m much wiser now!
All great tips. I have access to a number of races living in NYC, but I love traveling for races and turning it into a vacation 🙂
Nicole @ Fitful Focus recently posted…The Perfect 10 Workout
NYC is so great! I can’t wait to do some destination races when the kiddies are older!
When it comes to training, it is SO important to be realistic. There have been so many tempting races that I have had to pass on because there wasn’t enough time to fully dedicate to training or they were simply too far away. The best way to set yourself up for success is to plan accordingly!
Janelle @ Run With No Regrets recently posted…How to Track Goals With the Believe Training Journal
You are so right! Thanks Janelle!
I really think about each of these when I sign up for a race. I usually am swayed by location the most since I love the destination race.
Jen @ Pretty Little Grub recently posted…Five Lessons I’ve Learned in 5 Years of Running
Can’t wait to do some destination races! Until then, I’m lucky to have plenty to choose from here!
What’s funny about this is that up until last year, I rarely raced. Maybe once or twice a year. Last year I felt like I was racing every weekend. This year I’ve dialed it back a ton. #longtermgoals
Rachel recently posted…Rockin’ in the Free World: Rock Hall Half Marathon
It’s fun to get it out of your system, but yeah, if you have a goal, you need a plan!
Great tips! I like races for the extra motivation to keep training.
vicki recently posted…Quick Black Beans and Rice
Thanks!! I feel the same!