10 Things You Need to Know Before Your First Running Event

1. First - shoes!

Although it might seem obvious, it is crucial that you have a good pair of running trainers that fit you well and are comfortable. As well as them keeping you safe on a wet route, the last thing you want halfway around the course is sore feet! TIP - if you're buying new footwear, use Give as you Live Online to raise a bonus FREE donation for your charity when you shop.)

2. Nutrition

Don’t just think that only elite athletes have to plan out their diet on the run-up to a running event. It is key to make sure that you stay hydrated in the days leading up to the event, and learning what fuel works best for your body will help get you around the course, no matter how far.

3. Pace Yourself

Don’t let the occasion or your adrenaline get the better of you. Even if you find yourself behind at the start of the race, keep at a steady pace and catch up with the tiring runners ahead of you nearer the end of the race. If you find yourself getting carried along with the crowd and running faster than you have done in training, slow it down. You’ll be glad you did come those last few miles.

4. Face Your Fear

During the race or even in the run-up to it, you will more than likely have the urge to quit. It is important to break through that wall when you’re running, and if it’s down to nerves, there are other people in the same mindset as you. Before you start, try and encourage a fellow runner and hopefully, they will do the same for you.

5. Enjoy Yourself

People seem to talk about how hard the race was and what didn’t go well, but don’t forget that you signed up for the whole thing in the hope that you will achieve the fun goal you have set yourself. Use your fundraising success and the difference it will make to your charity to keep yourself motivated.

6. Weight Gain Worries

It can be easy to allow yourself a few more treats than usual when you’re doing so much cardio – but stay strong! Don’t fall victim to ‘food entitlement’ which is where just because you’ve exercised, you think you can eat foods that are high in carbohydrates and continue to lose or expect to not gain weight. Monitor your weight as part of your training plan, and you can be confident of success come the big day.

7. Train Solo

If you’re used to practising running with a partner, but you’re going to be on your own on race day, this can throw you completely off mentally. Always try training alone at times just so you know what to expect and are prepared for all possibilities.

8. Don't Worry About The Weather

Whilst running you’ll no doubt be working up a sweat. Miserable weather is bliss – as it can help to keep you cool and hydrated. Just make sure you’ve brought some extra layers and a towel for afterwards!

9. Recover Properly

A crucial part of running an event (or any physically demanding activity) is how to go about letting your body recover. Failing to rest and recover properly can lead to a higher chance of you sustaining an injury, and also a higher chance of over-training fatigue, which will prevent you from being able to train consistently. Give yourself some downtime and brave the ice bath when you need it.

10. Share Your Fundraising Page

Finally, don’t forget to share your Give as you Live Donate fundraising page on the day of your event, and after the event has ended. 20% of donations come in after the event has finished, which is why it is hugely important to promote it even after the race, to make sure you maximize your donations and funds raised for your charity. And what better way to show off that medal and finish-line selfie?!

Not fundraising yet? Set up a FREE fundraising page using Give as you Live Donate and start collecting donations from your supporters. They can choose to add Gift Aid and can select to cover the low fees, meaning your charity will receive 100% of their donation (plus Gift Aid, if applicable).

Even better, you can also raise FREE funds when you shop online with our Give as you Live Online site. Over 4,300 retailers will make FREE donations to your page when you shop!