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How to Get a New PB or Not!
It is almost impossible to get a new personal best every time you run a race. Applying these 10 principles will ensure that you have a better chance. Print off this checklist and pin it up where you will see it each day and before you run.
1. Training
DO - Stick to the plan as much as practicle
DON'T - Leave it all to the last few weeks
2. Listen to your body
DO - Rest if you are feeling under par
DON'T - Run hard even if you should be in bed
3. Pick the right race
DO - Check reviews for a flat, fast race with high PB potential
DON'T - Expect a PB on hills if you normally run on flat courses
4. Equipment
DO - Pack the right equipment the night before a race
DON'T - Leave it until the last minute and forget your shorts!
5. Eat
DO - Eat a large portion of a good carbohydrate rich meal the night before the race
DON'T - Scoff a huge curry and 10 pints
6. Sleep
DO - Get 8 hours per night, each night for a week before the race
DON'T - Hit the local nightclub and get to bed at 4am
7. Eliminate Stress
DO - Arrive well before the race start, knowing where to park, how to register and where the start is
DON'T - Have to sprint to the start
8. Warm up
DO - Take the time to do a proper warm up
DON'T - Wait in the cold and only move when you hear the starters pistol
9. Race Strategy
DO - Know what pace you need to run at
DON'T - Fly off with the race leaders and have to sit down after the first 400 yards
10. Visualise
DO - Close your eyes and "see" yourself completing the race in a new PB
DON'T - Keep seeing yourself as coming in last
Remember all sorts of factors play a part in getting a PB some of which are not within your control so if you don't get a PB this time see, look at what you can improve and see this race as preparation for your next PB.
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