We recently asked members of the BuzzFeed Community to tell us how they take care of themselves mentally and physically while preparing for a race. Here’s what they said:
Please note that these aren't medical recommendations. Be sure to check with your doctor before starting any kind of treatment.
1. Run in the morning so that the rest of the day is yours.
2. Don’t drink the night before a training run.
3. Take a break from running and cross train.
4. Two words: Body Glide.
5. Try running without headphones to stay tuned into your body.
6. Get involved with epsom salt baths and a foam roller.
7. Listen to podcasts and audiobooks if you need a break from music.
"They can make the run go by faster because you're actively listening and before you know it you've crushed your run."—deabel01
8. Make sure you go to a running store and get shoes that are properly fitted to your feet.
9. Make it tougher to skip your training runs by leaving your gear out.
10. Set a goal for your finish that’s somewhat ambitious but totally do-able.
"Don't try to run a sub-2 hour half marathon if you're just starting to run. If you push yourself too far telling yourself 'I need to achieve that goal,' you're running a huge risk for some permanent injuries."
11. Listen to your body and take an extra rest day if you need it.
12. Find different and interesting routes to run and landmarks to track your distance and motivate you.
13. If you’re itching to move on rest days, stick with a chill yoga class or a walk.
14. Don’t forget to drink a lot of water on training days (and all days tbh).
15. Use a calorie tracking app to ensure you're eating enough food to sustain your body during workouts.
"As long as you are eating healthy foods, eat as much as you need. You're body needs food for fuel and recovery."
—Samantha Ewing, Facebook
16. Invest in wool-blend running socks.
17. Treat yourself to a pedicure and massage when possible/affordable.
18. Sign up for races with friends so that training days are basically friend dates.
19. Become a less injury-prone runner by doing strength training a few times per week.
20. And make sure to focus on strengthening your core.
21. Entertain yourself during long runs by pretending you’re a secret agent on a mission.
22. Eat simple carbs before your long runs and recover from them with carbs and protein.
23. Or take dance classes to use and work your legs in different ways.
24. Instead of comparing yourself to other runners, get psyched about your own progress.
25. And most importantly: don't forget to treat yo' self.
You've got this!
