With the New Year comes resolutions for many of us. Some will decide to read more, while others will make the commitment to begin an exercise program. This exercise program might include running and even the decision to run in your first runDisney event! To help you get ready for your first runDisney race, we asked our new runDisney panelist, Lindsey M., for her best tips. We think you will find her suggestions helpful, and we wish you good luck with your resolutions for 2017!
First, Lindsey M. recommends, “Get the right pair of shoes! Look for a local running store and have someone examine your stride and properly size your foot. A large percentage of running injuries come from people being in the wrong shoe, and it can make or break how you feel come race day. It’s worth the investment to insure you’ll be healthy and strong to run come race day. “
“For a new runDisney runner my first piece of advice would be to use a training program. A great one to use would be Jeff Galloway’s as he actually releases a training plan for each runDisney race. The plan is released in a calendar format with each date and the distance required for that day, so it takes all the guess work out of your training! These are great programs that take you week by week to make sure you are completely prepared come race day without pushing yourself too far.”
Lindsey M. reminds new runners not to get overwhelmed by the distance of the race or those tough training days. “I know the first time I saw the training program my eyes immediately jumped to the days I would have to be running 10+ miles, but I promise your body will amaze you if you maintain your training. There will be days that you don’t feel like running or you get out the door and it’s just not a great run, but these are the days that make you stronger, both mentally and physically. Push through them and keep the castle in mind!”
Next, it’s time to pick a race! There is a runDisney race for everyone from kids races to full marathons. You can even run on both coasts at Disneyland Resort or Walt Disney World Resort or even at Disneyland Paris.
Most importantly, Lindsey M. reminds new runners to enjoy yourself you are running at a Disney Park after all! “runDisney was my first half marathon distance, and I’m so glad it was because it is such a supportive, non-competitive environment. You will make friends along the course and sometimes it’s a complete stranger that motivates you to keep pushing. You spend weeks leading up to your race training and there’s nothing quite like crossing your first runDisney finish line! Not only are you making yourself and your health a priority, but you get to reward yourself with a trip to the most magical place on earth. So take a moment and congratulate yourself on having the courage to start and since you’ll be at a Disney Park there is a little extra faith, trust and pixie dust that will help you cross that finish line.”
For more runDisney tips or to ask questions about planning your upcoming Disney vacation, be sure to visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for a personalized response from our knowledgeable panel.
