Fuel right
Eat familiar foods that you know won’t upset your stomach. Race day is not the time to try something new. Since a 5K is a short event, eat something with more carbohydrates, which will burn faster than fatty or protein-heavy foods. Give yourself plenty of time to digest your meal so you won’t be racing on a full stomach.
Pin on your bib number
Unless otherwise instructed, pin your bib onto the front of your shirt, not your back. If you can get four safety pins, use them all so it won’t flap around while you’re running. If you aren’t wearing a shirt, pin it to your shorts. Race officials need your number to be visible while you’re running.
Give yourself plenty of time
If you must wait for race day to register or pick up your bib, arrive an hour or more before the start so you can get what you need, visit the facilities and warm up before the race.
There is a long line for the bathroom at every race. Always. Most people get race-day jitters, which can enhance tummy troubles. It’s normal to use the bathroom several times before a race if you’re well-hydrated or if you’re nervous.
Pro tip: Use the bathroom right when you show up before the line gets long. Bring extra toilet paper or tissues, just in case.
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