The lead up to raceday can be a long, agonising wait, but before you know it, race day is only a matter of days away. Whether you’re racing in Tough Mudder, a national Triathlon or a cycling marathon, preparation is key.

In that long, gruelling lead up, you’ve probably planned out your preparations, workout routine and diet to a T.

Sleep

Sleep is super important when preparing for a race. Sleep should be a priority throughout your training because this is when your body rests and recharges, ready to take on the challenges of the next day. The day before (and the lead up to) race day is no exception, if anything, it’s the most important night’s sleep you’ll need. Get an early night so you can wake up early to give yourself time to get in the zone!

Diet

In the lead up to the big day your diet is really important. Keeping track of what you put into your body and the benefits it’ll provide is paramount, so a good, clean diet is key.

A few days prior and on the day of the event you’ll want to include carbohydrate rich foods into your diet. Carbohydrates will provide you with energy to continue training. As a pre-race meal, opt for a carb heavy dish, think rice, grain, pasta or quinoa. Here’s a few ideas on what to include in your training meals …

Breakfast

• Porridge
• Avocado
• Eggs
• Protein shakes/supplements
• Fruit

Lunch

• Fish
• Chicken
• Yoghurt
• Sweet Potato

Dinner

• Chicken
• Rice
• Vegetables

Snacks

• Nuts
• Granola
• Shakes/Supplements
• Fruit

Check out our blog on what to eat whilst training here.

Training

This won’t be a gentle morning run around the park anymore. You’ll need some stamina training to keep up the pace, regular stretching to get your body used to the frequent training, and a workout routine and schedule to help you condition your muscles for the race. Training for a Triathlon? Check out our Brick Training Guide.

For all the warm ups and workouts, make sure you’re cooling down and recovering properly. Check out our post workout recovery guide for more helpful tips and information.

Pack

Come prepared with everything you’re going to need for the day. This can be anything from your documents or accreditation for the event, snacks for the start and finish line, a change of clothes, shoes, even something to keep you warm or dry!

Whatever you need to take, our KitBrix range is ready for you! Check out the KitBrix Collection for bags, as well as handy accessories and essential gear for the event.

Mental Prep

Make some time to mentally get yourself prepared for the day. However you get in the zone, be it meditation, a pre race ritual, or just turning up and being present, it’s good to be consciously ready to take on the day.

You signed up for the race to achieve a goal, or maybe even prove something to yourself. You might have simply signed up to compete as a bit of fun with a friend. Whatever the reason, take it seriously and get the most out of it as you can.