Questions about W&D 1/2

[katiekomo]

I hope this is the right place to post this...

I'm running the 1/2 marathon because my sweet DH told me that I couldn't (well, not really, he simply pointed out that I hate to sweat and be uncomfortable and do any physical activity).
This was on a high after having camped at Fort Wilderness for 5 days (I did that after DH said similar things about me wanting to camp!). I loved that, so maybe I'll love this?? While on that high I went ahead and signed up for the W&D 1/2 and planned my outfit! Actual training miles: 0.

An obvious newbie to running, I have a few questions concerning the day of the event:

What should I plan on doing? Since this will be the first full day of our vacation, I scheduled for us to sleep late, then DTD/resort hop. I have a feeling I'll be a bundle of nerves and certainly don't want to walk all over the parks and tire myself out! Is that a good plan? Too much activity? Too little?

Secondly, what should I plan on eating? Since most races are early in the morning, I'm not finding a ton of help in this area. We'll be staying at PO and will have only Disney transportation. I know that people "carbo-load" the night before a big race. But should I do that hours before a big race? Any help in this are would be greatly appreciated!!

 

[rKyDeX]

I'm a Fort Wilderness camper too!

What should I plan on doing? Since this will be the first full day of our vacation, I scheduled for us to sleep late, then DTD/resort hop. I have a feeling I'll be a bundle of nerves and certainly don't want to walk all over the parks and tire myself out! Is that a good plan? Too much activity? Too little?

I would wait to make plans until you are deeper into your training. It will give you a little better idea of energy level needed to do your "long runs" and how much rest you may require on the previous day (or earlier in the day if you train at night).

Secondly, what should I plan on eating? Since most races are early in the morning, I'm not finding a ton of help in this area. We'll be staying at PO and will have only Disney transportation. I know that people "carbo-load" the night before a big race. But should I do that hours before a big race? Any help in this are would be greatly appreciated!!

I don't think carbo loading is that necessary for the "recreational runner". For an "elite runner" who doesn't plan on taking in any nourishment during the race - sure it makes sense.

Again, your training can guide you here. You will learn how what and when you eat before your run affects you. I myself, will probably have a normal lunch and will skip dinner before the race. I'm sure others will have other advice that you can try while training to determine what works for you.

God luck and get on with your training - it's not too early.

 

[Bookwood]

I just wanted to stop and say you got good advice fron rKYDex. Pay attention to your energy levels and food before long runs (try different things and write results down). Personally I like to carbo load with Pizza- it's comfort food and I know how it will affect me in the morning (bathroom stops ect), and it's available almost everywhere! I'd plan on an early night (at least for you- let the rest of the family stay out if it'll help you get to sleep early) but that's all I do the day before, as far as "not doing anything". I did learn in my first TOT race though that I shouldn't spend all day in the parks and then run that night! LOL