Ready to Run?

Alright all you Urbanthletes we're on the eve of the race, are you pumped?!?! In my opinion if you've been getting after it at CrossFit and getting some runs in then you're more than ready for the race. I do want to use this article to point out a few things that have helped me in past races.

• When it comes to diet, stick to what you know. There is no reason to "Carbo Load" on two pounds of pasta the night before a race. It is wise to make sure your Glycogen stores are full but this can be achieved through a solid meal that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. On race morning, try to eat two to three hours before the race starts. Eating within two hours of race time may cause an upset stomach during the event. For this meal it is best to stick with easily digestible foods including cantaloupe, watermelon, bananas, oatmeal, hard boiled eggs and whey protein shakes. Finally, you should be taking in plenty of water in the days leading up to the race so you are fully hydrated. However, it is best to ease up on water once you get within an hour of the race.
  
• Spend a few minutes the night before to get yourself together. I recommend checking the weather, picking out your clothes and attaching your race bib to your shirt. Also pack your bag with all of the items you might need including your timing chip, water bottle, gels, towel, hat, sunglasses and any other gear that might be necessary (remember iPods cannot be worn during the Urbanathlon). It's a good idea to take the gear check tag from your bib and attach it to your bag since you'll want to store it while you run.
  
• Know the course. Take a few minutes to review the course map and in this event's case, know the obstacles. I learned a valuable lesson last year when I had nobody to follow for a moment and I ended up taking a wrong turn coming out of Soldier Field.
• Give yourself plenty of time on race day. For tomorrow's race we are meeting at 7:15am at the Gillette Rock Wall on the Festival grounds (note this is not the final obstacle wall, but the giant rock climbing wall). Give yourself time to stretch, warm-up and take in the events leading up to the race. There is nothing worse than showing up to a race late and running around frantic trying to get ready to compete.
  
• As you start the race, pace yourself. Your adrenaline will be up but make sure to run your race. If you're running the race solo be sure to take in water and/or Gatorade when possible. The few seconds you spend drinking will be well spent.
• After the race be sure to eat something. Although you may not feel like it, your body needs to start repairing. After that grab a beverage and meet up with the rest of the CFCE crew to party!
  

We're still planning on having the CFCE t-shirts available Saturday morning before the race so be ready to run in style. Also if you got Lululemon shorts on Tuesday be sure to wear them. We're looking forward to a great time on Saturday!