The Right Way to Schedule Races

Whether you are participating in 5K and 10K distances or tackling half and full marathons (or beyond), success in distance running requires three critical elements.

The first is an athlete—regardless of age or ability—who is intrinsically motivated. That athlete then needs an individualized training regimen designed to see progress over both the short and long term.

The third and most overlooked element of a successful running program is the intelligent planning of a racing season in order to reap the benefits of training.

Many runners fail to do long-term planning for how often to race or at what distances. This can lead to injury, underperformance or simple burnout when it matters most—the day of a goal race.

Use these six tried and true tips to make sure you're racing your way to a successful year of running.

About the Author

Pete Rea

ZAP Fitness is a Reebok-sponsored non-profit facility that supports post-collegiate distance runners in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. ZAP puts on adult running camps during the summer and is available for retreats all year. The facility has a state-of-the-art weight room, exercise science lab for testing, and a 24-bed lodge. Coaches at the facility include 2-time Olympic trials qualifier Zika Rea, 2007 USATF National XC Champion Ryan Warrenburg, and head coach Pete Rea. For more information, go to zapfitness.com or call 828-295-6198.
ZAP Fitness is a Reebok-sponsored non-profit facility that supports post-collegiate distance runners in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. ZAP puts on adult running camps during the summer and is available for retreats all year. The facility has a state-of-the-art weight room, exercise science lab for testing, and a 24-bed lodge. Coaches at the facility include 2-time Olympic trials qualifier Zika Rea, 2007 USATF National XC Champion Ryan Warrenburg, and head coach Pete Rea. For more information, go to zapfitness.com or call 828-295-6198.

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