Run-Down Forums

[Guest]

I'm doing my first 8k and want to know if I'm training enough for it. I Have been running every other day 4.5 miles and in between days 2 miles. I don't want to be too sore but want to be able to compete.
Also should I drink a sports drink and eat a power bar before the race.
Any advice would be appreciated.

[Anonymously Posted by: 'Melissa']

[Dan]

Hi Melissa,

Not to alarm you, but I'd recommend some longer runs if you don't want your body to be in shock after 8k. 8,000 meters is almost exactly 5 miles, so you want to be confortable over distances longer than 5 miles. After all, it's natural to try and run faster in a race than in practice. It's good that you're varying the distances between days. That will help you get the most out of your harder workouts.

Sports drinks and power bars are completely optional; don't be pulled in by advertising. I ate power bars before races for years, but I cannot do so anymore due to food allergies. I like sports drinks such as gatorade, but only after running. Before or during gives me quite a side ache.

Best of luck,
Dan

[Guest]

Thanks Dan,
Good advice. I'm getting there on my distance and I know I need to have longer endurance. I'll see how I fair during the race, if I do. Thanks for reminding me about the drink, I do the same thing if I drink before but as long as I running and drinking I don't get the cramps. Thanks alot, I'm a beginner at this at age 37 but I'll get there.
Melissa

[Anonymously Posted by: 'Melissa']

[Dan]

I should also say that drinking water before or during running doesn't bother me at all, so experiment with that if it's warm enough to get at all dehydrated.

Everyone has to start somewhere.