Read... But Not About Running
Distract yourself from the race with books and magazines. In the days leading up to a key race, opt for a non-running-related choice of reading. By this time, you've done all the workouts and training that will impact your race at hand, and you don't want to start second-guessing your training.
Compression
Wearing compression gear during travel promotes circulation, which is especially important when you're flying or driving for many hours.
Shop for compression gear on GearUp.
Food
You never want to try new foods the days before or morning of a race. Pack your 'safe' foods and bring snacks for traveling to avoid being left without any options. Research which restaurants will be near your hotel the night before and, if you can, find one you've eaten at many times before so you know exactly what you'll order. Amy Yoder-Begley, a 2008 Olympian who is gluten-intolerant, always travels with a stash of safe snacks and keeps track of restaurants that cater to her specific needs.
Race Transit/Gear Check
Arrive at the start line well in advance to avoid added stress the morning of a race. Work backwards from the start time and write a timeline of your race day morning itinerary, including breakfast and warm-up. Plan for 'buffer' time and be sure you have current directions. Lay out all of your race gear the night before, prepare breakfast, set your alarm, then get to bed early.
More: What to Pack in Your Race Bag
Visualize Your Race
Another highly effective method of quelling race-day nerves is through visualization. This mental training tool helps you feel relaxed and focused rather than anxious; it also helps you strategize your race at hand.
Sports psychologist Jim Bauman encourages runners to integrate all of the senses during these visualization practices using imagery.
"The more of an athlete's senses—visual, auditory, olfactory, taste, touch, and kinesthetic feel—we can include in an imaginary exercise, the more he or she will be able to 'feel like they are in that experience,'" Bauman says.
Know the race course and planned race strategy and then close your eyes and visualize yourself starting your warm-up, feeling confident at the starting line, and running smooth and controlled all the way through the finish line. Pay close attention to the points of the race you know will be uncomfortable, then concentrate on feeling relaxed and running toward your goals rather than dwelling on the pain. Do this often, and when you're running the race, you'll know exactly how you'll want to run
Perfect your pre-race routine in advance by planning how you'll preserve your legs during your travel and leading up to your race, and you'll set yourself up for the successful race you've been working so hard for.
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