Training Tips For A Destination Marathon
We’re a few weeks into 2020. Time to check in on that New Year’s Resolution! We hope that you’re still going strong on the goals you set for the year. This is especially true if your resolution was to visit Norway to complete one of the many races the country hosts!
Norway hosts loads of exciting marathon races and we know that training for a destination marathon or triathlon can be tricky. Here are a few tips to help you stay on track and knock those 2020 goals out of the park!
Consider Your Travel Dates
If you’re running a marathon in a new city, you’ll definitely want to take some time out to explore while you’re there. But, this is best done after your race. Be sure to arrive a few days before your race in order to carve out that time for any pre-race rituals, routines, fueling meals and final training sessions. Arriving a few days before your race will also help you combat any jet lag, fatigue or dehydration that tends to go along with a long travel day.
Once your race is complete then it’s time to celebrate! This is when you can explore the city and country on a tour or indulge in the local cuisine and beverages. You earned it!
Photo: Sherise N/ Unsplash
Keep The Essentials In Your Carry On
Are there items you simply can’t race without? Whether it’s your lucky socks, your perfectly worn-in runners or that pre-race snack you can’t find anywhere else, don’t make the mistake of putting these items into your checked luggage. If that piece of luggage happens to get lost, you’ll have to do without your race-day essentials and there’s a good chance this will throw you off.
So, if you have to get on a plane to make it to your race destination, pack all of your essentials in your carry-on. That way, if anything should happen to your checked luggage, you’ll still have everything you need to hit your personal best on race day.
Photo: Zan Tt Svvabk W / Unsplash
Be Prepared
For even the most experienced runners, race day often comes with some anxiety and jitters. You’ll probably have an elevated heart rate before you even begin your event. This is completely normal and a great reason why you should be as prepared as possible for race day. Figure out everything you need to know ahead of time so you don’t run into any surprises before you have to start your race.
It’s a good idea to make sure you know exactly where the start line is and how to get there the day before your race. It’s also a good idea to pick up your race kit before race day so you’ll have one less thing to worry about on the day of the event. Once you’ve figured out where you’ll start, take the night before your race to lay out all of your clothes, your water bottle, your race bib and any snacks you’ll want to have with you. If you can, book your hotel as close to the start line as possible so that you can get a longer rest the night before your race.
Taking on a race in a new destination certainly comes with its fair share of hurdles. However, it’s also a great opportunity to combine your passion for fitness and travel into one great experience. With proper preparation and a little foresight, we’re sure you’ll nail your race and have a great vacation while you’re at it.
Did you know?
Norway has loads of great marathons you can participate in. If a marathon is a bit much for you, check out some of the exciting hiking activities on offer in Norway!
See you at the finish line!
Photo: Sporlab / Unsplash