Running and racing are two different modes for me. I didn’t realise quite how different they are (other than the change of pace and number of people going in the same direction) until a couple of years ago. I was having a pretty stressful period on the domestic front. Even going for a run I’d still be worrying about things. But then I did a half marathon and when I finished I realised that during the race I’d be thinking only about running leaving no space to worry about anything else.
What I think about during a race… and your should too
Having a good race is obviously a lot about training. But when you line up at the start, there’s still a lot to think about. You still have to navigate plenty of things that will affect your race to a greater or lesser degree including:
Nutrtion
Hydration
Pacing
Race positioning
Road positioning