Seattle Marathon 2008. Photo by rob.r.
If you're following the "Countdown to 5K in 30 Days," you have two weeks until your first 5K race. According to the Couch to 5K running program, you should be running about 2.75 miles (or 28 minutes) three times a week now.
Running a race isn't quite like going to the opera, but you still need to mind your P's and Q's to put your best foot forward. After all, you're sharing a limited space with hundreds to thousands of other runners.
According to Yishane Lee in "Runners World," there are 10 rules of the road for new runners to remember:
1. P is for going your own PACE.
"Whether you're running or racing, go your own pace, in your own space." Which brings us to rule number 2.
2. P is for knowing your PLACE.
Just like on the highway, if you find yourself slowing down, pull over to one side to let faster runners pass by.
3. Q is for keeping conversations QUIET.
A race is not the place for private chitchat. Everyone is within earshot when you're discussing your latest bout with the other kind of "runs," so keep potty talk, expletives, and other inappropriate conversations to a minimum.
4. P is for leashing your POOCH.
Most race directors discourage dogs. However, if you do bring along your fur friend as a running partner, keep your pooch on a tight leash and out of the way of your fellow competitors.
5. P is for PIT stop etiquette.
There is a reason why aid stations are set up on both sides of crowded racecourses. If you need to take a pit stop, please don't cut runners off trying to get to the Honey Bucket on the other side.
6. P is for PICKING your spit spot.
Nobody wants to get hit by your spit. If your snot starts running down your throat, move to the far edge of the course before you launch your loogey. Also, watch where you toss your half-finished cup of water.
7. Q is for QUASHING odors.
If you've ever been stuck behind someone who has eaten too many bean burritos, you know how far offensive smells carry -- even outdoors. Bodily functions can't always be helped, but you can watch what you eat before a race (you don't want indigestion anyway). Wear clean clothes, deodorant, and limit your use of heavily perfumed personal products that other runners might be highly allergic to.
8. P is for wearing PROPER attire.
Unless you're running in a costume-based theme race, stick to traditional running attire that won't send parents running to cover their children's eyes.
9. Q is for not being a poor QUITTER.
It goes without saying that you should always be a "good sport." Even if you can't finish the race yourself, don't ruin the experience for other runners by whining to them about it.
10. P is for having a POSITIVE attitude.
Last but not least, remember why you're running the race in the first place.
It's not about winning—it's about finishing what you start." -- Yishane Lee
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