Run Walk Repeat

A Fun Life At All Paces

Its Almost Time….. Be Prepared

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So with the Princess Half at “T” minus 25 days – thought I would share my process of preparation of the NON training variety.  Of course I am no expert and what works for me does not work for everyone, but here ya go.

1. Costume 
Its a Disney Race loaded with photo ops and character stops.  I am not going for a personal best and want to look festive.  Is your costume planned out?  Will it be ready in time?  I have a costume fairy working her magic on my Anastasia get up.  I will need to get some heavy duty lipstick, and need to make my gold comb…which in all likelihood will be attached to my good old white hat since I always run in it!   IF YOU ARE WEARING SOMETHING SPECIAL, YOU GOT IT ALL READY?

2. Weather
It is Florida in February, who knows what the weather will be.  Be prepared in planning your attire,  Keep an eye on the forecast leading up to the race.  I warm up pretty quickly when I exercise, so for me if its cold I just need something for the walk from the parking lot to the start…which BTW is a 20 minute stroll.  Last year, I had found a men’s XXXL fleece robe on sale at Target for $4, I wore that and was so comfy.  If you are cold natured and want to be warm as long as possible, bring something you can toss when you get hot or to just wear until the race starts.  The volunteers will collect any discarded items and donate them. Suggestions other than a robe: an old blanket, a garbage bag, jacket and pants you can easily get off.  In 2011 it was still warm enough that you didn’t need anything, but in 2010 it was I think in the 30’s at the start. I highly suggest getting some knee socks on clearance, cutting the toes off and using them as arm warmers!  Hit those clearance racks at Target and Walmart now if you need something.  Oh and I usually pack 2 bottom choices, your capris and shorts or skirt. Hey if its cold or hot I am prepared. And looking at the forecast if there is a chance  of really cold weather, you better believe I would have a long sleeve shirt option as well as long tights.  

3. Race Gear and Gadgets
Are you bringing a camera, phone or Ipod.  Make sure you know where and how you will handle these during the race. Do you like being in control of your water intake – though there is PLENTY of water and powerade along the course…if so, do you know how you will carry it during the race?  AND don’t forget what are you going to do with your Gu’s/Gel’s/Blocks/Sports beans or whatever you use for race nutrition. I have an IFitness Belt, a Spibelt and a Sparkle Skirt Tech Skirt that all suit the purpose quite well.   The Sparkle Skirt has 3 pockets, its quite amazing – the built in shorts do NOT ride up and stuff stays in the pockets.

4. Packing List
I make fun of the husband when we go on trips.  He has a document he prints out and modifies with each trip we make to help him pack and not forget anything.  Its really NOT a bad idea and for the Princess – I DO write down a list and check it off. Because I am flying this year and don’t want to pay for my bag to be checked, I am going to try to pack light.  Oh and I always wear my running shoes on the plane, so I don’t forget them!

5. Supplies
As for supplies, well I will leave that up to you!  My must haves:  Athletic Tape for my arch – old foot issue, Zensha Compression Sleeves for my Calves – yeah I have issues and they work for me, Body Glide, Gu’s and Shot Blocks, Sunblock, Vaseline for lips, Cap – I always have on one when I run, Sunglasses, Iphone – for interval cues and music, headphones and small digital camera.  I am a pack mule when I run this race.  I can store all my stuff in Sparkle Skirt or one of my belts. I usually bring one belt in case I want to use it, but unlikely with the Sparkle Tech!  Thing is, after 2 previous half marathons I know this works for me.  I know what I like, I train with this stuff so I know it works.

There you have it…this is how I prepare for the race….well not the running part, though I will say, the supplies factor into my training.

Julie @RunWalkRepeat
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About Julie @RunWalkRepeat

Wife, Mom, Southerner, Former Cubicle Dweller, Sting Fanatic and Reluctant Runner. I got started on family a little later in life than most and run for my health. A fan of Food, Entertainment, Travel, Galloway Running and Disney, I like to find the fun in all things in life.