Getting ready for event day
Anyone can take part in a Race for Life 2023, all you need to do is find an event and fundraise!
Download a training plan
If you're looking for some extra support, download one of our training plans, created with our sponsor Runners Need, to help you get prepared for the Race for Life.
Easy ways to prepare for your event
If you're taking part in Race for Life and you want to get into the spirit of things beforehand, you can start walking more in the run-up to your event with our top tips:
1. Go for a short 15 minute walk - Try a short 15 minute walk every other day - why not walk the kids to school or leave the car behind when you pop to the shops?
2. Extend your activities - Take the dog for longer walks, or get off the bus a stop or two early.
3. Take a Sunday stroll - Gather the family together for a nice long Sunday stroll in the countryside! For maximum impact, try to do this a few times before your event.
4. Measure your success - Remember, even walking around the shops counts. Why not invest in a pedometer to see how far you're going? Or check your phone, most smartphones have inbuilt step trackers.
5. On the day - It's time for your event! Take it easy this week in preparation.
Top tips for everyone
We’ve worked with our sponsor Runners Need to provide some top tips to help everyone have a great Race for Life.
1. To get the most out of your event, it’s important to wear the right shoes. Our sponsor Runners Need can offer you a free gait analysis by one of their in-store experts. Find out more about gait analysis
2. If you’re new to walking longer distances, jogging or running, don’t worry about your pace or how long you go for – this will come in time. Remember, consistency is key.
3. Make your runs enjoyable by adopting a training plan tailored to smash your goals. It’s crucial to build your fitness up gradually and to embrace a walk/run strategy in your personal plan.
4. We know life can take over sometimes, so make sure you schedule in training time that works best for you.
5. Remember to warm up and cool down before any physical exercise. Your body will thank you for it.
6. Learn about the right nutrition to help you get the most out of your training, stay energised on runs and recover effectively afterwards. Read Runners Need’s expert guide to running nutrition
7. Tracking your progress can be a fantastic way of staying motivated. Download apps to your phone such as Strava, Map My Run or Runkeeper, they’re great for those that don’t own a sports watch or pedometer.
8. A great night’s sleep is key to helping your body recover quickly. So avoid using your smartphone, watching TV or consuming caffeine before bed. That way, you can wake up refreshed and vitalised for another day’s training.
9. Hydration is vital to keep your body functioning properly. So, make sure you drink plenty of water before, during and after physical exercise.
10. For those who need to wear one, choosing a good-fitting sports bra is just as important as finding the right running shoes – if it fits right and is comfortable, you’ll run well. Check out Runners Need's blog on how to find the perfect sports bra.
11. Remember to stay sun smart when you’re training and keep covered up.
12. And finally, remember to have fun. You’re doing something amazing, so thank you. We hope you enjoy your event!
