1. Socks

Wearing socks is necessary while running a half marathon. They act as a barrier between your shoes and your skin. You can get blisters by wearing the wrong pair, which would ruin your race. So, it is essential not to skimp on the socks. Use compression socks made from high-performance yarn that draw sweat away and are soft against your skin. 

Their perfect compression helps in increasing your blood flow, keeping you feeling fresh for several miles. You can also choose sweat-wicking socks without compression to keep your feet comfortable and dry.

2. Shoes

You must choose the right pair of shoes to prevent your feet from cramps and fatigue. Such shoes would also help you in achieving a strong finish. You can get a pair of such shoes from your local store that sells running gear. There are many different categories of these shoes to choose from. 

You can have consistent cushioning and a smooth ride with neutral running shoes. They range from lightweight and snappy shoes to soft and pillowy trainers. With stability running shoes, you can get ample support as you run, thus reducing the effects of overpronation. Stability shoes typically give you a firmer feeling than neutral shoes. They have strategic cushioning to facilitate efficient foot movement. 

Another category is race shoes. They are designed to be as lightweight as possible. A carbon or nylon plate is often incorporated for maximum energy. These shoes are springy and responsive, which you’ll need when you want to be fast.

3. Tops

When it comes to energy gels, breakfast, and clothes, don’t try something new on race day. Another thing to avoid is wearing cotton clothes. You’ll be wet and chafing all the time as cotton absorbs sweat and dries slowly. If you’re a male, wear a comfortable T-shirt. If you’re a woman, wear short sleeves for women. 

Choose the shirts made from technical fibres that dry quickly and wick sweat. This would help you stay comfortable at all times. Another essential gear for women is a solid sports bra. For maximum support and compression, a racerback style would be the best choice.

4. Bottoms

Just like a good T-shirt, you’ll also need a pair of tights or shorts. They must be designed specifically for running. Upon wearing such shorts or tights, you’ll have one less headache to deal with during your race. For men, the lightweight and breezy running shorts would be a great option. 

Women can choose any of the tights that provide ankle-length coverage without restricting movement. It must be made from a stretchy and soft fabric. They can also try shorts that are lightweight and keep them dry while helping them perform their best.

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Such feelings are meant to push you, so it is necessary that you’re not overwhelmed by them. A lot of unnecessary stress can be overcome by preparing yourself the day before your race. Here are a few things you need to do the day before your half marathon:

1. Plan your travel

You may be heading for a destination race or running in your own hometown. Whatever the nature of your race, you must plan out how to reach the starting line. Lane closures or delays in traffic can cause you unnecessary stress. So, you must know where are you required to park your vehicle and the distance from the starting line. 

You must also know how to get back if your race has different starting and ending points. If there are shuttles arranged for you, their running times and pick-up locations must be researched. Planning out all these things in advance would help you in arriving at your destination unrushed.

2. Pack your gear

By laying out your gear and food the night before, you can avoid the last-minute rush and forgetfulness. This will prevent you from forgetting things on the day of the race. It would also help you avoid getting delayed. Pack all your running gear in the same place if you’re travelling. This will make it easier for you to locate your gear on the day of the race.

3. Get to know the course

If you want to prepare yourself for success, knowing the course ahead of your race is essential. This helps you in understanding your speed, preparing for the hills, and even planning bathroom breaks. You won’t get any last-minute surprises, such as the presence of a difficult stretch halfway through the race. 

You’ll know about the difficult stretch in advance owing to your study of the course. This will give you complete peace of mind on race day.

4. Watch what you’re eating

The prospect of treating yourself with a bread buffet or pasta the day before your race might get you excited. You must definitely load your body with the fuel that is needed for all the effort ahead. Still, it is important to stay healthy and you must not overdo it. 

It would be wise to choose foods that can be digested easily by your body. Eat high-quality carbohydrates so that your body will have energy that’s readily accessible during the race.

5. Be mindful of what you’re drinking

It is necessary to stay hydrated, but this must not be in high quantities. You’ll have to face much more serious consequences if you’re over-hydrated. On the day before your race, make sure that you are avoiding excess alcohol and caffeine. You must also make sure that you’re drinking only when you are thirsty.

6. Get your body ready

The training plan you’re following might recommend that the day before the race must be very easy. You should stick to this concept when it comes to other physical activities. For example, you’d certainly want your legs to be fresh for the race the next day. 

So, in order to get this result, you must not run longer distances the day before. You must also avoid long walks or strenuous bike rides. Getting enough sleep the night before your race is also important for getting your body ready.

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