I am taking part in the Bupa Great Manchester Run in May, Does anyone know..?
what good exercises there are for me to do, what food I should eat and what to do in the race? (for example. run fast at the start and keep that pace, or start slow and speed up)
Answers:
Question about 100m track times for an 8th grader?
According to the website of the Bupa Great Manchester Run, it is a 10K race. There is water provided before and after the race, and that should be sufficient for most runners. If you feel it is necessary, you may wish to get a water bottle. You should have eaten a big meal of carbohydrates (e.g. pasta) the night before so some bananas, toast, and water should be sufficient for breakfast.I noticed that the website recommends that you drink tea before your run. I know from my conversations with your countrymen (and countrywomen), drinking tea is extremely important among the British, especially before a battle. In this case, however, I recommend against being as "patriotic". Tea contains a high level of caffeine, which is a diuretic (makes you go to the loo). If you must defend the honor of your country, keep it to a minimum so that you will not have to make unnecessary stops during your race.
As far as a race strategy, most people do "negative splits" for distance races. That is, the first half is slower than the second half. While you are training, it is important to figure out what the right balance is for you.
The website provides some nice stretching exercises that I recommend that you try. I do just about all of them before any race. These stretches are helpful in preventing injury and getting your muscles warmed up for a big run.
Good luck on your race, and don't forget to wear your medal proudly the next day (or throughout the week).
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