Canberra Times Fun Run Prep

By Ashleigh Went.

It’s that time again: the Canberra Times Fun Run is back September 4 – that’s right, Father’s Day. Whether you’re embracing the family vibe and dragging dad along for the run, excited to get together and get active with friends or looking to score a PB, here’s our guide to the event:

Training

The race is less than a month away, so we’d hope that you’d been training at least a little bit in the lead up. That being said, there’s three events: a 5km, 10km and 14km run, so depending on your fitness level you might not need specific training. There’s still a little time to ramp things up if you’re feeling competitive, but make sure you taper your efforts with a little rest in the few days or week leading up the fun run so that you’re not too tuckered out.

A photo posted by Erin Molan (@erin_molan) on Aug 14, 2016 at 1:49pm PDT

Fuel right

Everyone has a different approach to how they go before training: some suggest carb loading, others say it’s best to avoid anything that could upset your stomach, while some say just eat what you’d usually eat. It’s a good idea to make sure you eat properly the night before so you have something in the tank for the run, but try to avoid things which are especially fatty or that you’ve never tried before so that you minimise gastrointestinal distress. A happy tummy means a happy run.

Race Day

Make sure you get up in time to get yourself to the event, and check that you’ve got your race bib and some safety pins to secure it to your clothes. Wear something that makes you feel good and that’s comfortable to run in – the same goes for your shoes.

A photo posted by Nike+ Run Club (@nikerunning) on Jul 22, 2016 at 4:09am PDT

Recovery

Ahh, the blessed post run high. Refuel with some good quality food, and make sure you celebrate your achievements! Why not have a celebratory beverage and then a nice long kip. After all, you’ve earned it.

The Canberra Times Fun Run is on Sunday September 4, 2016.