What is the best way to get ready for a 5k?

[Anonymous]

What is the best way to get ready for a 5k? Suggestions beyond "train" please!

[NotJustAnotherGuy]

8-12 mile slow runs, 4-6 mile runs at an uncomfortable (hard breathing) pace, 6-8 800m repeats and 3-4 1600m repeats at race pace, 30-60-90s x 2 (find a big hill, 30 sec sprint up, jog down, 60 sec sprint up, jog down, 90 sec sprint up, jog down, rest, repeat). <--- great workouts for 5k preparation

Those runs will prepare you for all the different elements of a 5k race. The endurance/distance, the difficult breathing, charging hills, the last mile sprint, etc..

When you encounter a hill on a 5k charge up and through it. 30-60-90s will really help in preventing death on hills-- albeit they're very exhausting and mentally challenging.

Remember mentality plays a very large role and consistent training is necessary in order to be physically prepared.

[martyfellow]

Do some slow 10k runs, alternating with days when you just do afew 400 m sprints. Makes ure and eat a lot of carobs the day before and stetch before and ESPECIALLY after, or get a massage after, yum!

[Josephiiin]

Nutrition. Be careful in what you eat.. A Wrong or poor diet might give you bad or slow results.

And do NOT push yorself too hard, especially if you are not an experienced runner.

It's not necessary (Or however you spell that word) to run and work hard every day, Have some lazy days as well. Your body will love you for that.

And also, get enough sleep.

REMEMBER: Do strecthes, especially on your legs!

-And yeah, I read that by trining your abs you might become a faster runner.

-Good luck. Hope this helps

[Anonymous]

Get together with a running group and it will keep you motivated. Meetup.com is a good site. Also maybe Facebook.

[Anonymous]

Are you a runner already, or are you mostly sedentary and trying to get in shape for a 5K?

[Asker]

I'm very active, but not a runner at all!