First Timer Guide - Running

If you've never entered a run event before – DON’T WORRY! We have years of experience and are happy to help you in any way we can.  We have devised a list of helpful tips to get you going from how to enter to a very detailed race day checklist and some tips on training.

Signing Up

Step 1. Visit the Activity Wales Events website

Step 2. Pick an event so you have had enough time to train for it.  We advise giving yourself 3 months.

Step 3. A 5 or 10k would be a great starting event for you. 

Step 4. Choose a race! Now put all your details into the system and sign up. Now put your credit card away and the hardest part is done! Congratulations you are all signed up!!

Now that you have a solid date on the calendar, let’s get started.

Race Day Checklist

At Activity Wales Events we know that those pre-race jitters can get the better of you, so it’s important to stay calm and make sure you’re fully prepared in order to minimise those nerves. Whether you live just around the corner, or on the other side of the world, here’s a comprehensive list of absolutely everything you’ll need before, during, and after your race; along with some useful extras to guarantee a positive experience.

Pre-race

• Race confirmation
• Race pack (released two weeks before the race)
• Photo ID
• Signed disclaimer (You will have done this online when you registered)
• Personal insurance
• Map & directions to race location & registration (See Website)
• Course map & area map
• Area guide for restaurants and events (see our website)
• Vaseline/anti-chafing lotion
• Hat/visor
• Sun cream
• Lip balm with UV protection
• Toiletries including travel-sized first aid kit
• Travel alarm
• Your usual pre-training breakfast(we recommend not changing your routine for a race – race as you train)

Race day:

• Trainers (we recommend not buying brand new ones for the event. Make sure you test your running shoes & know they’re comfortable)
• Socks– again, not cotton to help prevent blisters
• Hat/visor
• Short/long-sleeve shirt for race, as weather dictates
• Shorts/tights as weather dictates
• Gels or sports drink(if you train with them – race as you train)
• Plasters/nipple guards(if necessary)

Post-race:

• Extra socks
• Compression clothing to aid recovery
• Warm, comfortable clothing to minimize illness/injury/chafing
• Waterproof jacket
• Food for replenishment
• Towel– your transition towel will most likely be filthy
• Ibuprofen to reduce inflammation

Useful extras:

• Plastic bags for ice, wet/dirty clothes and swift wetsuit entry
• First aid kit & insect bite cream
• Waterproof permanent parker
• Safety Pins(& cable ties to secure race number – race belts are an easier option & available at the expo)

Also check out the following tips -