I started running 13 years ago, and back then running 10 minutes was an eternity for me. I remember somebody saying “if you want your life to appear longer go for a run”, and it’s completely true. Sometimes when I’m running it feels like forever. The first time my friends invited me to run a 5K my first thought was I CAN’T. I just started running, I can’t run a 5K just yet I thought to myself. My friends were very persistent and kept saying “you have to start somewhere” so long story short, I ran the 5K. Afterwards I was miserable for a week, but when the recovery kicked in, I was ready for my second 5K and as crazy as it sounds I was already signing up for the next one!
The great thing about 5k is the distance is short and so is the recovery, meaning you can run harder and run often. So I was running 5K all the time and I started seeing them not only as my easy runs, but also as the way to improve my performance for any race.
Doing 5K you can focus on your pace, on pushing hard for the majority of the race. It helps you prepare logistically for longer races by informing you of the gear you need and how to finish strong. It can also help you level up your training and see the progress. Practice visualizing your way to success and focus what is on your mind those minutes before the gun goes off. 5K help build confidence and are a wonderful training benefit so do them often!
“Fly high, fly straight. We are going to get there anyway.” – that is what my coach Jorge Rivera always says.
3.1, 6.2, 13.1 and 26.2 are just numbers for some people but for runners those numbers mean preparation, training, sacrifices, discipline and lots of SWEAT, but I can guarantee that good things come to those who SWEAT.
Whether you want to start running or train for a PR (Personal Record), you need to have a plan, a goal and focus on that. Your first race will always be a bit of an experiment – where should I go, should I go to the front, to the back? Just try to relax, place yourself in the crowd unless you are running for bigger races and you look for the Pacers, but other than that just do what you have done in your training and enjoy the run.
Runners love the 5K, because you can do them and still have a life, walk normal the day after the race and get fit in the process. Furthermore, it encourages you to develop a combination of endurance, strength and speed, this is why I sign up for lots of them when I’m training for a half or a full marathon.
Every day is a good day to go for a run. Just get out there and take the first step. Remember you are doing this for yourself, you do not have to prove anything or anyone.
Any Klisans says
wow!!!!! Me encantan las fotos y la inspiración!!!! Yo no corro ni a la esquina pero me gustaría!