5. Take a look at the course.
If you're running a race you've never run before, try to see as much of the course as possible. I like to do my warm up jog over the first and last part of the course so that I'm familiar with the start and finish of the race. Make note of any unusual course features, such as unusual turns, hills or un-marshalled areas.
More: 10 Tips to Race Tough
I once ran a race up a long steep hill near the finish, followed by a 90-degree right hand turn and a 50-meter sprint to the finish. Many people in that race got discouraged on the hill, not realizing that the race was almost over. Little details like this can give you an edge over your competitors, and may be the difference between setting a personal record and narrowly missing one.
6. Know where the aid stations and medical tents are on the course.
This is particularly important in long races such as a half marathon or marathon where you might potentially find yourself in some physical difficulty. Knowing where the aid stations are will help you plan your fluid intake and can serve as a motivational tool. It's a good idea to find out what drinks the aid stations serve and practice with them in your training. You don't want to find out during a race that the particular brand of sports drink they have doesn't agree with your stomach.
More: Which Fluid Hydrates Best?
If you're struggling and considering dropping out, it's helpful to know where you can get medical attention if you need it. Many race numbers have a form on the back for your emergency medical information. Make sure you fill it out; you never know when it will be necessary. Having the right information on hand can help you get appropriate treatment that much sooner.
7. Have an exit strategy.
Finally, make sure you know how to get to your vehicle or to public transit after the race. Most races have the local streets blocked for traffic until the race is officially over, which could leave you waiting for hours after a marathon just to get out of the area.
More: 10 Dos and Dont's of Running
If you take public transit, make sure the trains or buses are running on the time (Sunday mornings when races take place are notoriously underserved by many public transit systems). You'll also want to have access to food and fluids as soon as possible after your race to replenish your energy.
Pre-race planning allows you to focus on the race itself without any distractions. This lets you enjoy the experience, keeps your stress low and, with no worries to distract you, may even help you run faster.
More: 5 Ways to Race Faster
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