Whether it’s your first race or 100th, deciding
which race to register for can be a daunting task. With so many races to choose
from, here is a little checklist I go through when deciding which race I’m
going to run.
Training: While
running my last few races, I met quite of few people out on the course who
expressed that this was there first race (or first at this distance), and they
were not prepared. From 5ks to marathons and any race in between, I highly encourage
you to respect the distance, and train.
Before deciding which race to register, set realistic
expectations about your goals and the amount of time you can put into training.
Depending on the distance and your current fitness level, training programs can
range from 8 weeks till 6 months.
Another aspect to consider with training is a program to
follow. My absolute favorite is Jeff Galloway. Fortunately for me, I have
enough races under my belt where I can pretty much map out my own training
program, but I always refer to Galloway for guidance. There are tons of training programs
available; so I definitely suggest you do your homework. Do your research, ask
around, and compare two or three programs before making a decision.
When I first started running, I began with a C25k app on my
phone. Since my last few races have been half-marathons, I typically start
about 12 -15 weeks out from the race. My total mileage ranges from 12-25 miles
each week. Again using Galloway as my base, I normally run two short runs
(30-45 minutes) and one weekend long run.
Location: As a
mother runner, location is a very important deciding factor when I’m looking to
register for races. I tend to stay local, because it’s easier on my family,
plus it keeps the cost down (we’ll get to that later). The races I register for
are typically within a few miles from my residence. There’s just something
about getting a good night’s rest in your own bed the night before a race, and
only having to drive a short distance post race.
Since I’m a born & raised “Jersey Girl” I always scope
out races in this area because it usually means my parents get to spend some
time with my children, and I have a guaranteed sitter on race day! Regardless
of the location,
http://www.runningintheusa.com/Race/Default.aspx
is an excellent resource for choosing a race. I like the site because you can
search races by state and distance.
Swag: I’m a
sucker for athletic swag, so if a race features a great medal (a.k.a. bling) and/
or premium article of clothing I’ll register 90% of the time. It’s just one of
those things you can’t really explain. Some get it, others don’t, but this
chick loves to run pretty.
Out of all the races, I’ve run Zooma Annapolis (my first
half) has had the best swag yet. For this race, I received two technical tees,
a water bottle, yoga mat, finisher’s medal, finisher’s necklace, and a reusable
tote bag.
Bling is also a big component for race swag. I love when
race organizers publish sample of the finisher’s medals. Some organizers have
really gotten creative, even offering larger medals for those that complete
half or full marathons. Hard to pick a favorite for this one…I love all my
medals.
As vain as it sounds, be sure to check out what the swag is
like before registering for your next race.
Expenses: I love
running (well kind of) and everything that comes with the sport/ community, but
let’s be honest it’s expensive. Shoes, gear, supplements, and race fee’s OH MY!
All of these things can add up rather quickly. I do my best to stick to a race
budget. I don’t have a said dollar amount, but I do have limits. I haven’t
grown to love the sport so much to pay an excess of $90 to run a race, but I
know many of people who have.
A great way to cut down on cost is to race local and
register early. We already discussed location, but following race organizers on
social media are great for knowing your costs up front, and when prices may
increase. I tend to keep a tentative calendar of races that I would potentially
be interested in running, and keep a look out on the fees. If there is a race
that I’m really interesting in running, I’ll mark it on a calendar or in my
phone so I can save a few extra bucks.
Traveling expenses are another factor to consider. I don’t
do to many overnight trips, but if you do partnering up with friends is a great
way to share expenses.
Cause: I have
also been known to register for a race because it “speaks to me.” Weird I know,
but that is just how it is sometimes. It maybe a particular charity, location,
or even the name of a race that attracts me (i.e. Iron Girl), and I go for it.
The same thing may also apply for me not wanting to participate in a race. Take
for instance, the Baltimore Running Festival (BRF); one of the premier events
in the community. Even if you aren’t a runner, if you live in or near Charm
City you know all about it. It seems like everyone and his or her grandmother
is running this race, but I don’t have the desire too. Not really sure why, but
just cause!
I hope my fab five tips will give you something to consider
before registering for your next race! As always feel free to drop me a line or
two. Thanks for the read.
