hello, i've put myself in for my first running race, its 5K and its in 10 days. i've been training for it for about 2 months by running gradually increasing distances about 2/3 times a week. (i started off with 1K, then increased it every week. most recently i've been running about 4K at a time).

i wondered if theres anyone here with experience on preparing for races. e.g. how near to the race should I continue training up until? i was thinking that i'll continue running up until maybe the friday (the race is on the sunday), so i'll be rested for the race.

also, i have a problem with blisters on my feet. i keep seeming to find that i could quite happily go on running physically, but i end up having to stop because of the pain in my feet. anyone have any tips on how to avoid them?

thanks

I used to run cross country. What shoes are you using? I used to get horrible blisters and shin splints until I went to a store called Fleet Feet (In CA)...it was something like that. They watched the way that I walked and jogged and recommended shoes good for me. They were Saucony and cost about $120, however I ran everyday in those shoes for a year with no blisters! :) I would say you're doing good right now at training. I wouldn't try to increase your distance since the 5k is soon. I would just keep running what you are. When you get into the race, something just pumps through your body and you don't even realize how far you're capable of running. :) you'll do good, don't fret. Keep hydrated!

thanks for the help, as far as my shoes go i just run in my trusty reebok running shoes. they're usually fine but i may have to consider getting something like you suggested if the blisters dont improve!

There are plenty of 5K training plans out on the web. Just do a search. I've done a few 5K's myself and have always taken it easy the week leading to the weekend (5K's usually run on weekend). Definitely the day before. Like Star_Shine says, make sure you are in the right running shoes for you! Don't go by price tag or look, go to a real running store (i.e. Fleet Feet) . Which 5K is this? Good Luck!

Thankyou i'll do that.
its just a local one in my town, they do them every year when its the carnival, sort of a fund raising thing.

It may also be your socks...what kind are you wearing? When I got fitted for my shoes (same way as above) they also told me what socks to wear....thin, not all cotton. Also, there are some anti-blisters products (powders) you can shake into your socks before you put them on. Good luck.

Yes, I forgot to mention the socks! Don't wear cotton!! Cotton can be the cause of blisters.

And just to mention. Uh, try and avoid cotton underwear. Cotton and sweat don't mix!