So I got some really big news today. The news is both awesome and terrifying at the same time. I’m going to be running my first 5k race next weekend!!
If I have ever talked to you through Twitter or on my FB page you’ll know I’m the first one to say I’m not a runner. I started running a little less than two months ago because every time I had ever run before it hurt. Running does not come naturally to me, it is hard, I am slow, and I have to push myself to do it. I figured if I wanted to really get in shape I needed to do something that scared me, and running was it. So I went to my school gym, got on a treadmill, and worked on putting one foot in front of the other.
The race I will be running is the Runner’s World 5k on Saturday October 20 at their headquarters in Bethlehem, PA. The location is extra special to me because while I currently live in Central PA I grew up in Eastern PA. I actually lived in Bethlehem when I was younger before moving to the Poconos. I’ve toured Lehigh, and had it on my list of schools to apply to if I didn’t get accepted to Bucknell Early Decision. It means a lot that I’ll be running my first race in a place that has meaning to me. It also means a lot that I’ll be representing FitFluential, the organization that really fueled my love for fitness. I’m hoping I can make all the men and women of that amazing community who encourage and inspire me each and every day proud.
While I’m so excited that my first race ever will be such a big one, I’m also so nervous. I have no idea what to expect when it comes to racing. Here are some big things that have been on my mind:
- What do I wear? The race is at 8am on a Fall day which means it’s going to be cold. I don’t want to wear a jacket and overheat, so I’m thinking I may need to find a long sleeve running top to keep me just warm enough as I run.
- Where should I put my stuff? I know non-essentials should be left in the car but I’m thinking of my car keys and cell phone. My gym treadmills have handy dandy little cup holders, something I won’t have when I’m out running by myself. Do I put my keys in my running pants pocket and leave even my cell phone in my car? I never pack light for anything so this will be a big adjustment for me!
- Should I not listen to music? I was reading on the Runners World website and they say that MP3 players are discouraged. I always run to music, it’s how I pace myself with my interval training. I’m worried if I’ll even be able to run without music.
- Is this run going to be harder than the runs I’ve done before? Here’s where my big worry comes in: I have never run outside. 100% of my runs have been on the treadmill, in a temperature controlled room, with my pace dictated for me by the machine. I’m worried how this will affect my time. I really don’t want to embarrass myself and have to be picked up by the Sag Wagon. I’m going for my first outdoor run on Thursday and I am so nervous. Think happy thoughts for me please!
For all the nerves that I have there are some things I am absolutely confident about involving this race:
- I can do this. I can’t do it fast, and I can’t do it without sweating profusely and breathing super heavy, but I can run 3.1 miles. I alternate between the 5k setting and interval training when I run on the treadmill and my body has yet to let me down.
- I’m so excited to meet other runners. The fitness community is an amazing one, filled with so many inspiring people. This will be my first blogger event of any kind (a whole lot of firsts going on with this event!) and I am so excited to get to meet new people who help make the community what it is. If you’re going to be at the Runners World event and see me please say hi! This is going to sound super dorky but when I’m running at school on a steep incline or to a fast song and my phone chirps that I have a new tweet or email I imagine it’s a comment on my blog or a Tweet cheering me on to keep running. You guys are such a huge motivation for me.
- I’ll be wearing my Saucony Omni 11s. I am SO glad I took the time to research and invest in a good pair of running shoes when I started running. It gives me one less thing to worry about leading up to race day. My Saucony shoes have been amazing to me. They fit my foot, respond to it’s movements, and never cause me pain. I feel so lucky to have found a shoe that works for me.
- I am not doing this for time or for anyone else, I am doing this for me. Even though I’m a competitive person I’m not really thinking of this run as a race. I already know I will be one of the slowest people on the course (hopefully not the slowest!). I’ve been running for less than two months. I know a 5k is nothing to most people who run but it’s a big deal for me. As long as they don’t pick me up on the sag wagon and I get to finish of my own accord I will be happy. I’m not a runner but I love to run. It gives me strength, it gives me courage, and it gives me health. I just want to show others that if I can do it they can do it, running really is possible!
Question of the Day: Have you ran a race before? I so, PLEASE give me advice for this 5k. Anything and everything, I’m all ears!
see if you can find anyone who carries the SPIbelt in your area. looks small, but fits a lot and will hold your keys, phone, headphones, etc. And it doesn’t bounce or move around while you run. As long as they only say MP3 players are discouraged, you can run with your music. Some races actually disqualify people for using headphones – those are the only ones you need to worry about. good luck!
Oh wow good to know about the headphone thing! Ill definitely have to check out that spibelt, thanks!
How exciting for you! I’d wear a long sleeve shirt. You might be chilly at the start but you’ll be fine once you get moving.
Keys – If you can, tie your car key into your shoelaces. Just make sure it’s secure!
Good luck!
Ohh what a good thought regarding car keys!! Thanks so much!
so excited for you!! you will do awesome! i havent run a race yet, so i dont have much advice, but you are going to rock it! happy wednesday! spa love!
Aww thank you so much!! This means a lot! <3
I’ll be there that weekend too!…running the half Sunday! Yo will be great. I would say-no music. Soak in the atmosphere and everyone that will be cheering you on! Good luck, you’ll be great
Aww thank you! That’s so exciting, good luck on your big run! We should do a FF meetup sometime that weekend!
Ahhh I’m running my first 5k in two weeks and we’re like basically in the same boat. I have all the same questions/fears you have haha. I’m a treadmill runner and am terrified my feet are going to be like- concrete- what’s this?! BAH. Be sure to let us all know how it goes and GOOD LUCK!
Aw thank you! I will definitely post updates! It’s so good to know I’m not the only primary treadmill runner! That’s so exciting your race is so soon! I’m thinking happy running thoughts for you!
So many questions!! I remember having them
All too 🙂 if you own a long sleeve running shirt and you’ve already worn it running, then go ahead and wear that. If you are considering purchasing something new and wearing it race day, then skip that idea and grab an old long sleeve tee or sweatshirt that’s on it’s last leg. Wear that at the start and toss it once you warm up. (This means you will need to pin your bib to the shirt you wear under so you don’t fiddle with it during the race)
On to keys and phone issues: I recently bought a spibelt after a half marathon without my usual partner to carry that stuff for me. On and everyday basis, I leave my phone locked in my glove box and my key hidden under my car seat with the door unlocked. Archaic and over-trusting but that’s me!!
Will this run be harder??? Nope! Even though running on a treadmill with zero incline is more like running downhill, running outside will be easier for a few reasons. Number 1: there are so many things going on around you to look at do you will be distracted. Number 2: the weather will cool you down as you run so you will feel less fatigued. Number 3: race day adrenaline is probably the greatest thing in the world! It makes you faster, more focused and usually pushes you further, faster than you had planned!
I hope you enjoy your first race. It is a special memory for every runner 🙂
Thank you so much for all the helpful info!! I’m so excited, I can’t believe ill be running my first race next weekend!
First, I’m super excited you are coming! I’ll see you there–I’m doing the half on Sunday, so I’ll be cheering for you all on Saturday!
So here’s the deal: Wear shorts and short sleeves or long sleeves, depending on the temps. Put on a dumpy old shirt you no longer like over top for the time before the race and then ditch it off to the side right before you start. Trust me, you will warm up and you don’t wan to overheat!
No music! Most races don’t allow it anyhow and just soak in the sights and sounds. As to other stuff–just leave it in the car, or let one of your FF buddies (like me) hold it until you are finished. In terms of difficulty–you will probably be surprised at the fact that you’ll run faster than ever before simply b/c you will be pulled along by the crowds and excitement!
I’m excited for you–first races are special races!
Oh yay! I’m so excited to get to meet you!! And so excited for you to run the half marathon, what an incredible accomplishment!! Thanks so much for all the helpful info! 😀
you are going to have so much fun! I wish I could run it! I just don’t have enough vacation days to use! Can’t wait to see your recap! (: Good luck!
Aw thanks girly! I’m so excited! But I so wish you could be there!!
I’ll be there running the 5K and Half that weekend, so I hope to see then :-). Amanda’s and Sarah’s got it right and you will have a great time during the race. I use my phone now for GPS, I will be carrying it with a belt clip for the 5K and my Nathan waist pack for the Half. Find another FFA who will be going at about your pace and enjoy the experience :-).
Oh good idea to use your phone for a gps! I’m so excited, we should all do a FFA meetup! Good luck on your half marathon, that is so exciting!!
Based on my experience, here’s what I think: physically it will be harder. For me, outside running is more work just because there isn’t a belt helping move you along. And it will be colder than the gym. So due to those, I think it’ll be “harder” BUT mentally easier. The race day atmosphere will help a great deal! And your training and excitement will override any environmental stuff!
Things that help me mentally: be sure to look around! I try to see all the beautiful scenery & be grateful that I can even do this! It’s an amazing thing! I make it a point to thank all of the volunteers on the route. It’s nice, I appreciate their time, and it helps me get my mind off of negative thoughts!
And I think it IS a big deal! I’ve done 2 5ks doing run/wall intervals & this weekend ill do my first full running 5k. Don’t let anyone tell you it’s “just” 3 miles. There are so many people who’ll never do it!
You can so do this! Just keep you let head up and enjoy the experience! 🙂
Aww thank you so much! This was such a sweet comment! How exciting you’re doing you first full running 5k this weekend, good luck!! I’m doing my first outdoor run tomorrow and I’m so nervous! I think once I get that under my belt I will feel better!
What do I wear? — It really depends on your internal body temperature and what you prefer. i LOVE chilly runs. if it’s in the 40-50’s, i’d wear a short sleeved shirt (you can even use some old tube socks as arm warmers until you warm up and then throw them away. however, if you like to be warm, i’d suggest a long sleeved tech shirt.
Where should I put my stuff? — you don’t need your cell phone, right? so you can leave that in the car. put your cell phone key in your pocket and that’s all you need.
Should I not listen to music? — also a personal preference. whatever i do in training, i do on race day. if you listen to music on your training runs, then listen to music on race day unless you’re running with friends.
Is this run going to be harder than the runs I’ve done before? — it’s not necessarily going to be harder than running inside – just different. the excitement of race day will get you through it.
good luck!
Aww thanks so much girly!! I’m so excited to get to experience a race, it sounds like such an amazing event!
Awesome girl! You will do great!!! Put your keys and cell phone in a spibelt or iFitness belt. You should be able to find one of those at a running store. It probably will be a little harder than the treadmill but you can do it…just don’t start out too fast. Pace yourself. If it’s supposed to be really cold wear layers…that way you can take some of them off when you get hot. Most races discourage music but a lot of people run with it…so I would do what you normally do and use your music. Good luck!!! I can’t wait to read all about it!!!
Aww thanks so much Mindy!! Ill definitely have to look into those fitness belts!
I am about to walk in my first race ever and have the same questions. So many things that the experienced people know that are so elusive to us newbies! I figured I’d just put all my stuff in my pocket since I don’t care about my time. But it’s possible I’m a complete fool. Have fun – the event sounds perfect for you.
That’s so exciting you’re about to be in your first event too!! Sending lots of good thoughts your way!! I know, it didn’t dawn on me until I signed up that I really don’t have a clue how races work. Only one way to learn I guess! ;P
Good luck on the run!
I second the above comments – wear a running shirt you’ve worn before, then throw an old long sleeve tee (one that you’re fine throwing away) over it so you can ditch it when you warm up. Another option is to wear your jacket and tie it around your waist when you get warm, but try that before race day so you don’t end up fussing with it.
As for keys, etc. A lot of races have bag checks (even for 5Ks), so that might be an option. Otherwise, getting a SPI belt is a good idea.
Finally, ditch the headphones on race day. There will be so much going on, and so many new people to meet (yes, you’ll meet people while you’re racing), you want to be able to give this race your full attention, and it will be over before you know it!
That’s so exciting ill meet people while I run! That never even occured to me! Hopefully ill be able to form coherent sentences. Thanks so much for the good luck wishes!
Congrats on the first race! I ran my first 5k earlier this summer and am running my first 10k this Saturday. I don’t have much advice because I’m a newbie too, but just wishing you luck!
Aw thank you so much! This means a lot! How awesome you’re on to a 10k now! Sending good racing thoughts your way!
You’ll kill it girl, GL and enjoy that race, so bummed I couldn’t make it!
Aw I so wish you could! Thanks so much for the good luck wishes!
I am so excited for you! My #1 tip would be to not do anything new on race day, i.e. don’t eat anything that morning that you usually don’t before running, don’t wear any new clothing you haven’t already run in, etc. You want to make sure you are comfortable and fueled well so that you will have a good and fun race! Can’t wait to hear how it goes!
Thanks so much for the great tips! I’m so excited!!
Aw you will do fine! Hopefully I can answer some of your questions…As far as what to wear, a long sleeved shirt is fine – if you think you might be cold you could always wear a zip up sweatshirt and tie it around you race once you warm up. But a good rule of thumb is to dress for 10 degrees warmer than it is outside. You WANT to be a little cold at the start.
As far as your stuff, you really only need your key to get into your car. I usually tie it around my shoelaces (then I can look down and make sure its still there if i get worried). If you really want to carry your cell phone, try to wear pants with a pocket, or you can buy something to hold it (like a SPIBelt – I have one and LOVE it).
As far as music, races generally discourage it but they don’t not allow it all together. I wore my headphones for one half marathon and was fine – I just only put one ear bud in. If you have to wear music just really pay attention to where other runners are – nothing is more frustrating than someone not paying attention during a race! You may like running without music though – especially during the race. The atmosphere is awesome and sometimes you end up talking to other runners which is really fun.
I would definitely run outside before the race if you have a chance – you don’t have to do a full 3 miles though unless you want to. Even a mile or 2 would help you get used to it. Running outside is different on the treadmill because of hills, wind, etc. So I definitely recommend you do even a short run outside before the race.
I can also pretty much guarantee you won’t be picked up by the sag wagon. There will probably be people walking the 5k so you will be far from last – don’t worry. 🙂
Also, don’t try anything new on race day. Where clothes,shoes, etc that you’ve run in before.
You will do great – crossing the finish of my first race is one of my greatest memories. Savor it!
I’m so excited to get to cross the finish line!! Thank you so much for all the great advice!
Congrats on signing up for your first race!! I just ran a 10k as part of a triathlon relay team this weekend and it was COLD! I live in Texas so the 46 degree starting temperature for the race isn’t what I’m used to running in, but it ended up being perfect! I wore a long-sleeved Nike running shirt and capris and felt great. Oh, and I had a headband for my ears. Very important!
Is anyone coming to watch you? If so, ask them to hold your stuff. Otherwise tie your car key to your shoe and leave everything else in your trunk!
Don’t listen to music! You’re going to be caught up in the race atmosphere and won’t even need it.
This run can be as hard or as easy as you want it to be. If you want to try and go “fast” (whatever that means for you at your running level), still try not to sprint out of the starting line. Races are exciting and the adrenaline will be pumping, but you don’t want to go out too fast and then run out of energy before you get to the end. Even if you run this race “slow,” think of how good you’ll feel when you beat this time the next time you run a race! Enjoy it and take it all in.
Have fun! I have only run 3 races so far and have loved every one of them. I love being surrounded by other runners of varying fitness levels. It makes me feel like a real runner and like I’m part of something.
If you want to read about my triathlon experience this weekend in the cold, check it out. http://wp.me/p2IwZg-cm
I can’t wait to read your update post on how it goes 🙂
Unfortunately it’s going to just be me at the race, although I know some awesome FitFluential Ambassadors will be there, and one of them has already offered to hold my stuff.
That is so awesome you were in a triathlon! I’m totally making a cup of cider and reading your post after my run today, thank you! 😀
I did my first 5k last year in October, I live in Jersey. It was chilly but I wore a long sleeve shirt and was OK but I needed a jacket afterwards. I left my cell phone with my husband, I would put the keys in a pocket. I didn’t listen to music but some people did, although I confess it was very nice hearing people encouraging me (even people I didn’t know!). And lastly, I made better time than in my practice because I was more motivated. Hope my experience helps you, you’ll have a lot of fun!
It’s so crazy to think there are people cheering as you run, that is so exciting, I can’t wait to experience it!
You can SO do this! And I sure hope we get teh chance to meet up. 🙂
What to wear – I would say capris and a short sleeved shirt because you will probably get warmer than you think while running. They should have gear check to where you can check a jacket to have to keep you warm before/after the race. Or you can keep a jacket in your car and go back for it after to stay warm when not running?
Carry – I love my SpiBelt to carry my phone and things. You could also do the gear check thing if you don’t want to run with anything.
Biggest tip for running outside at a race – don’t go out too fast. The energy will help carry you through the race but it can also make it easy to do way faster than you’re used to and burn out by the end.
I’ll be there cheering!
Aww thank you so much girly!! I’m so excited for this!
I’m so excited for you! You’ll have so much fun! To answer some of your questions:
1) You’ll be surprised at how quickly you get warm. Depending on how cold it is, you might be fine in running capris/pants and a t-shirt. A long sleeved shirt that you can take off might be a good idea too.
2) They should have a gear check where you can put your stuff, but if you don’t want to bother with that, can you bring someone to come watch you and have them hold your stuff?
3) Most race websites discourage headphones, but tons of people will be listening to music. If it motivates you, do it!
4) This race will probably be easier than any of your other runs. The energy of the crowd will carry you to the finish line!
Good luck!
Aw thanks girly! I can’t believe this is happening in a week, I just really want to get out there and be able to finish strong and not embarrass myself. Fingers crossed! ;p
I also use a SPIbelt to carry my phone, car key, drivers license and sometimes money.
Good luck at your first race!! 🙂
Thank you so much!! Everyone recommends the SPIbelt, I’m really going to have to check it out!
you are going to have an AMAZING time! i ran my first 10k not too long ago, and i had such a fantastic experience. i felt so accomplished, and i had so much FUN. the adrenaline must have gotten to me also because i ran it much faster than i anticipated and much faster than on my previous practice runs.
i didn’t carry anything with me except my ipod. if running with music works best for you then definitely run with music! tons of people do.
i had someone to hold my stuff for me, but when i run outside for training i will tie my keys into my shoelaces because i don’t like them bouncing up and down in my pocket. when i tie the keys into the shoelaces i leave off all key chains, so there is no bouncing or jangling going on.
good luck!! you will do fantastic and you will have a blast, guaranteed!
ps. use the bathroom before the race ; )
Such good advice about the bathroom!! haha Thank you! 😀
Erin,
I just posted one of my how to columns with you in mind: prepping for your first 5k! I advise you to check it out for helpful tips. 🙂
Aw thank you so much girly!! It is such a helpful post!
I am so excited for you! I started running in May and did my 1st 5k on July 4th! I had all the same questions and anxieties! I arrived super early because I knew parking would suck, I was worried about getting my bib and having to pee…LOL!
Keys: I now have an Amphipod (from the running store) for my key. It attaches to your shoes laces. But my 1st few races I put just the key (off the ring) on a thin lanyard around my neck.
Phone/Music: I am addicted to my phone, plus I always want a few pics. So I put the iHeartRadio app on my phone and put it in my sports bra (top of the left boob…lol) works great! I always run with music. I don’t like hearing myself breath and once during a race my music quit and hearing other people breath was even worse! LOL..
For the record, I have now run 7 races and have never NOT been allowed to have headphones.
Clothing: PA weather is probably about the same as MI weather. Wear what you are comfortable with! Honestly, I found these Danskin long sleeve workout shirts at Walmart for $8.97! I love them! It was about 45 at my IN 4-mile race. I wore shorts and that long sleeve shirt with my sports bra. I was chilly before the run, but it was perfect.
I get warm while running but for me, I don’t get hot when it is this chilly out!
I wear thin gloves and my Bondi-Band to cover my ears.
Honestly, just wear what you are comfortable in. You run all the time so remind yourself of that. Eat or don’t, just as you always do.
I got the best advice and it has worked great for me!
Complete rest day 2 days out (If your race is Saturday, rest on Thurs). Run for an easy 20 minutes the day before the race. No more, no less.
But do whatever you do when you run regularly!
You will do great!
As for finishing last…My last 5k, the final finisher came in at 2 hours and 12 minutes.
Trust me…you will NOT be last!!
Can’t wait to hear about it!!
Aww thank you so much!! Congrats on your first race, I hope you had a blast!
For a 5K, I would only carry my cell phone in my hand for mid-race pics. I wouldn’t use an ipod because it’s a short race & I wanna hear all the excitement around me to pump me up. In a longer race (half & full marathons) I would use an ipod. I have the BF drive me to most my races, so I don’t need a car key. I do use an Amphipod Race-Lite-Go belt to keep gel, key, ipod, cell in it if it’s a race where I need that stuff. In the car I keep flip flops, water, clothes, towel in if I need them post-race. This race sounds like a super fun one! Can’t wait to read the recap.
Aw thanks so much! I can’t wait to experience it and then recap it here!