pacing strategies affect race results. They asked 11 experienced female runners to run 5K on a treadmill to determine their average for the distance. The runners were then asked to run 5K again, but tackling the first 1.63K at different speeds: once

Standfirst: How to make race day go your way - guaranteed!Author:Pics:Issue date: 100 tips bookletKeywords: Article type: featureuan143-->Of course, you’ve trained solidly, practised your race pace, kept hydrated all weekend, had an early night

pacing strategies affect race results. They asked 11 experienced female runners to run 5K on a treadmill to determine their average for the distance. The runners were then asked to run 5K again, but tackling the first 1.63K at different speeds: once

and advances your pulse rate to the 120-150 beats per minute range. The latter two effects get your heart ready to handle the opening moments of the race without undue stress. Jog for about 8-10 minutes, and then don’t stand around for more than about two

It would seem natural that your heart rate monitor should be your greatest ally when it comes to race day – but as ever, the reasoning is not that simple. While you can use your experience from previous competitions to your advantage, you'll find that you can't just transfer w...

as they want for the first 15 seconds of a race without suffering any ill effects. This is true - but only if the race is 15 seconds long. That's because you have only 15 to 20 seconds worth of phosphocreatine in your muscles to use for sprints. Once you

than 5K race pace. Then, after three to five minutes of easy jog recovery, run one mile at your 5K race pace (this would be about 5:15 to 5:20 based on your PB of 16:32). Jog 800 metres to recover, then run 800 metres at slightly faster than 5K race

own concoction by mixing 10 tablespoons of sugar and two-thirds of a teaspoon of salt with two litres of water. Ideally, you should take in 400ml of a sports drink just before the half-marathon begins and then 80-120ml every 10-15 minutes during

of a race: getting through a difficult mile, passing runners comfortably, finishing smooth and strong.Time savings: 10-20 seconds Change Your ShoesIt may be obvious advice, but it is worth repeating. Buy a pair of racing flats or performance trainers

way you can," says sports psychologist Victor Thompson (sportspsychologist.co.uk). The good news is that even when you've been put out of the running, there are ways to keep training and remain part of the race-day action.Get back to classAfter having