race

How To Prepare for a Running Race

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Are you looking for something to do that is beneficial for you? Why not learn something new like taking lessons on arts or learning how to play an instrument. Maybe you are athletic and would like to do something about sports. It could be either learning a new sport or joining competitions. Whatever sport you are interested in, there are surely competitions you can join. If you are in a club, it would be a lot easier for you to find one. 

Running is one of those that always seems to have an event. It could be a marathon or a fun run. No matter what, grab that opportunity. It will be beneficial for you to keep in shape. In addition, some of those events are for charity, so you will be helpful for others too. Running a race is not that simple though. You will need to have preparations for it. 

Have the Best Gear

It is just running, why would you need gear? Do not worry, it does you will not need any equipment, but you would need to have the proper attire for it. You would need the right shoes for it. It will be for supporting your ankle, locking your heel into place, and giving your toes enough room to wiggle around. If you are planning to run long distance, get one that is heavier for added comfort. If you are going for a shorter race, have one that is lighter and easier to run with. Clothing is also an important aspect. It would be wise to invest in good ones. Dri-FIT fabrics are designed for this and better for you to look for those.

Train and Practice

To get ready for anything, you would need to practice and running is not a consideration. By training, you will be able to enhance your ability and condition your body. If you are planning to run long distance, endurance is essential and by training, it will be developed. You would also know what your body needs before, during, and after the race. Have a schedule for your training. Remember to not exhaust yourself because it will affect your performance.

Prepare Mentally

Finishing a race is not just about how your body works, but also how your mind takes it. A positive mentality is one of the keys to success. Remember that it is not always about winning, but finishing it. Do not stress about the race too much but relax and have fun while you are at it. 

Prepare Physically

Your physical needs are not just obtained through training, but also how you will take care of yourself. Make sleep your priority. Be sure to have seven to eight hours of sleep in your course of training. Having enough rest will energize you whereas the lack of it will make you feel groggy and dull. Food intake is also important. Be sure to know about proper diet techniques. Carb intake is important to fuel you. Know what other food you would have to eat and avoid. Hydration is also important especially during training, so have a bottle of water and energy drinks with you always. 

Bike Racing for Beginners

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Being on vacation or break does not necessarily mean spending a lot of money to have fun or to relax. You can just stay at home or within your area and search for some fun activities to do. You can also do some sports you enjoy. While you are at it, why not join some competitions? 

One of the simple activities you could do is riding your bicycle. But as said before, you can join some competition or any other event. Joining is simple. You do not have to be really competitive, you can also do it just for fun or even help in case there are events for a charity. Here are some tips you can do before joining:

1. Buy the Best Bicycle for Yourself

A very good tip for this is buying it at your own instead of online. You may be able to save more on buying online, but the advantage of buying them yourself is seeing them and feeling them. You will be able to see and try if the bike fits you, and you will also see its faults. You may have a desired bike you have, but having other’s opinion may also help you. After getting your bike, have it on a test run and make yourself comfortable with it.

2. Have the Essential Gear and Equipment

After getting your bicycle, it does not stop with that. You should also have the essentials that are important for your safety and comfort. First will be your clothing. You cannot just wear anything you like for it might get uncomfortable for you. You would need to have the right clothing and shoes. The clothing consists of base layer, jersey, and cycling shorts. The reason for this is for you to move freely. You should also have the proper padding for your shorts for protection. Another essential for protection is the helmet. If you plan to bring your bike anywhere, be sure to have the security essentials such as a lock.

3. Join a Club

A great way for you to have more ideas and knowledge about cycling is to meet fellow cyclists that share enthusiasm and interest with you. Joining a club will be the fastest way to meet them. You will be able to exchange your knowledge and theirs. This is also helpful for you to know some latest trends and could answer some of your questions. Joining a club also will help you point out which race you can compete or even join them for group competitions.

4. Practice Tactics

Cycling is not just about riding around your neighborhood, it is also knowing the different kinds of routes. Some are more challenging than others, but you can always practice and learn how will go with it. You could also learn your strengths and weaknesses with it and how you will develop them.

5. Search and Know about Races

Before you sign up for anything, be sure to know the details of those races. Here are some examples of races you can join even if you are a beginner:

  1. Time Trial – racing bicycle designed for use in an individual or team time trials raced on roads
  2. Hill Climb – a basic skill that is competed the same to the event of time trial
  3. Road Race – Riding on paved roads that are usually closed down from other traffic.
  4. Circuit Race – This is a race where everyone starts at once, and you go around the course many times. The tricky part is that as you continue with the race the track gets a bit longer each time.
  5. Criterium – Several laps around the same defined route.