My Community is Hosting a Road Race: Now What??

by Julie Drozdowski

I recently ran a half marathon in a city in upstate NY.  It was a lovely race with good support, particularly from the local Police Department
and the race crew.  Generally when I have run races, the local community has been wonderful; but there is always an incident or two that gets me thinking about what could be better.  So, I asked some running friends what they loved and didn’t love about running races in a city.

Here are some tips from your friendly area runners…


DO:

• know when the race is and what streets will be closed when.  It is usually pretty well publicized
• map out a way to cheer at multiple points, it keeps things interesting for everyone.
• more cowbell, noisemakers, be loud, be funny (runners love to laugh)
• be original (play music, play instruments, dance, costumes, high fives from kids)
• volunteer, or at least be supportive.
• keep track of where your elite runner is place wise, especially if they have a goal.
• call out names, or even bib numbers. Make it personal-you never know how much it means.
• make funny posters, Google has some great ideas.
• stick around and cheer on the runners at the back of the pack, they need the most encouragement, since they've been pushing themselves for a much longer time
• ask your runner friends and family what they would like in terms of support.
• consider jumping in a running a block or two with a runner you know, especially toward the end when they’re tired and need the motivation to finish.

Greater Binghamton Bridge Run

May 3, 2015

Don't miss out, register now!

DON'T:

• get mad at runners or volunteers for blocking streets. The road marshals are trying to keep the runners safe.
• cut in front of runners, even slow ones, especially near the finish line.  It’s not an obstacle course race (unless it is)
• smoke in places where the athletes will breathe it in.
• take food/drinks intended for runners.
• say “you’re almost there” unless the finish line is in sight.  Most runners push at the end and don’t want to burn out 
• yell “Run, Forrest, run” (or any other cliché for that matter, be original!)

Above all, please remember that races will happen and runners love your support (and participation!)  Don’t be afraid to encourage the runners in your life and give us a cheer when we run by.

Excuses, Excuses, Excuses... Go Run!

Who doesn't LOVE the holidays? Spending time with family, friends and all the food (hello pie!!). However, it's usually always right in the middle of a training block or can totally screw up your workout routine. You know what I'm talking about. Here's a few common 'excuses' and some plans of action to limit them!

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Holiday Distractions

Excuse : With all the holiday distractions, I'm not motivated to exercise.

The Fix: Make a realistic plan and be consistent. Take time to set some concrete fitness goals for yourself during the holidays and share them with your family. Or commit to a road race or triathlon - Holiday races are a fun time for everyone and typically donate to a local charity.

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Holiday Travel

Excuse : I can't stick to an exercise routine because of all my holiday travel. 

The Fix: Be flexible and think ahead. Find training partners in the community or connect with local running clubs. Further, neighborhood gyms often offer special deals for travelers or mix up exercising by doing fitness routines from your favorite magazines or trying something new, like yoga!

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Holiday Meals

Excuse : I can't resist huge holiday meals.

The Fix: Cut yourself some slack, but be smart. If you're watching calories, have a plan before you indulge. Also, don't commit the common blunder of going for a long run or ride before the big feast. With a revved up appetite, you'll eat even more. Better to go to dinner with normal hunger, then burn off those carbs with a long workout the next day.  

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Finding Time

Excuse : I can't find the time to exercise.

The Fix: Get up early and enlist group support. Of course, there will be times when the best plan gets sidelined, but just keep moving- a little is better than nothing.

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Snacking and Packing

Excuse : With all these treats and goodies around, I'm constantly snacking.
The Fix: Control your cookie monster. While a few holiday meals won't set you back, constant snacking can be detrimental. But it does help to know a few tricks - Eat a small meal before you go to a party to avoid overindulging. Stay away from the bar--that glass of pinot could cause you to eat more. Fill three-quarters of a plate with healthy foods, saving a small space for treats.