QT: A Few Things to Keep in Mind as We Return to Racing

The races are coming…

For many runners, a return to racing can’t happen soon enough.

And, thankfully, it feels to me like we are getting closer every day to races being a regular thing again.

That said…

Not Quite a Return to Normal

As much as a return to racing is exciting, odds are races aren’t going to feel “normal” right off the bat.

If you’re itching to return to racing, cool!

Just make sure you’re willing to roll with the punches on a few fronts for a while until things (hopefully) do get back to normal.

Pre/Post Race

I was talking with one of my athletes a couple of weeks ago who was getting ready for a race, and she mentioned how the pre-race situation was dramatically different than in the past.

Smaller start waves. No runners village situations. Masks required until the race starts.

Same types of adjustments post-race.

Obviously, at least for some of us, the pre/post-race festivities are something we crave about race day.

Getting to talk to other runners in the corrals.

Breaking bread and/or drinking beer after finishing.

And right now, that’s just not something that is really happening.

Is it ideal?

But is it better than not racing?

Aid Stations

When it comes to fueling yourself for races these days, your best bet (IMO) is to be self-sufficient.

Most races, as far as I can tell, will still have some options available to runners.

But can you count on the same number of water stops/aid stations as were available in the past?

Might be a good time to get a handheld or some type of hydration vest/system, because if you’re planning a return to racing soon you might need it!

Don’t Be a Dick

I have one request for you as you begin to plan your return to racing in 2021: don’t be a dick.

If you think the rules/guidelines that are in place due to Covid are stupid or not necessary or too lax or whatever, just stay home.

And don’t pretend like you don’t know what’s going on either.

Races are going above and beyond to communicate the expectations/requirements that are in place.

Either play by the rules or stay home, it really is that simple.

Ready to make a return to racing? Here are a few things to keep in mind before you get to the starting line. #runchat Click To Tweet

How Ready are You to Return to Racing? Chomping at the Bit? Still Planning to Wait a Bit Longer?

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