The Race That Taught Me Everything
April marked a meaningful milestone: six years of running since I broke free from a sedentary lifestyle filled with cigarettes, junk food, and sugary drinks. Since 2010, I’ve participated in countless running events. One race, in particular, reminded me that even with experience, overconfidence can lead to chaos. Despite years of training and planning, I made a series of errors that day—from poor time management to getting a speeding ticket en route to the race.
This article distills the most valuable lessons I’ve learned not just from that race, but from the hundreds of kilometers I’ve run before and since.
Register Early and Plan Strategically
Registering early does more than reserve your spot. It allows you to tailor your training plan to the race’s start time, terrain, and altitude. You can contact the organizers for details or ask runners who participated in previous years. Early registration also lets you avoid queues and focus on what really matters—your warm-up, nutrition, and mental preparation.
Understand Your Travel Needs
Whether you’re driving, taking a bus, or staying overnight near the race, plan your logistics. If possible, travel to the event a day early. You’ll get a feel for the course, locate the start line, check out toilet facilities, and reduce race-day anxiety. If you’re staying with friends or at a hotel, make sure your accommodations are confirmed well in advance.
Know Your Body and Fuel It Properly
There is no one-size-fits-all nutrition advice for runners. Your digestive system is as unique as your fingerprint. Use your training runs to experiment with meals and snacks to determine what your stomach tolerates and what energizes you. By race day, your pre-run and recovery meals should be familiar and reliable, not experimental.
Avoid eating too close to bedtime the night before, and don’t try new foods on race day. Stay hydrated, but stop drinking water at least two hours before going to bed to avoid nighttime interruptions.
Sleep Is Part of Training
In the week leading up to the race, go to bed early to accumulate sleep. Even if nerves disrupt your sleep the night before the event, your body will be ready thanks to your earlier rest.
Before you sleep, review your checklist. Is your gear packed? Your alarm set? Mental clarity starts with physical readiness.
Sex Before a Race? Yes—If It Helps You Relax
Contrary to popular belief, sex the night before a race may actually improve your performance. It reduces stress, promotes better sleep, and can enhance your mood. If it helps you relax, don’t overthink it.
Train for the Weather You’ll Race In
Monitor the race-day forecast well in advance. If it’s likely to be hot, train during the warmer hours. If the race will be chilly, run in the cold. This way, your body acclimatizes. On race day, wear clothing that suits the conditions but can be shed easily. Use sunscreen if needed and wear appropriate headgear.
Gear Check: Familiarity Prevents Failure
Race day is not the time for new shoes, untested energy gels, or unfamiliar running clothes. Use what you’ve trained with. Pin your bib on the night before. Attach your timing chip where instructed—usually your shoe. Carry a few euros in your pocket, pack Vaseline or anti-chafing cream, and bring toilet paper. These small preparations prevent big problems.
Pack Smart, Think Ahead
Use two bags: one for race gear, one for post-race clothes. Include dry socks, a towel, fresh clothes, a plastic bag for wet items, and snacks. Packing from the ground up (starting with shoes and socks) helps ensure nothing gets left behind. Do this the night before, not the morning of.
The Morning Routine: Calm, Not Chaos
Wake early. Use multiple alarms. Eat what you’ve trained with, hydrate appropriately, and give yourself time to stretch, walk, and mentally prepare. Getting to the start line with time to spare isn’t just about punctuality—it’s about peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Every runner has their own pre-race ritual. Some listen to music, others meditate. Find yours. And remember, running teaches us humility. Even after years of practice, there’s always a lesson waiting at the next starting line.
Stay healthy, stay grateful, and always stay prepared.
Discover more in my book: “42 tips that will make you a better runner” where I share my experience of more than ten years of running.
Disclaimer: This article shares personal opinions and experiences. It is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. Use this information at your own risk.
