Run Like A Mother: A Decade of Running & 10 Tips for Running a 5K

Did you know? Run Like A Mother (RLAM) is 10? 

Ten years ago this Mother's Day, twenty Ridgefield moms gathered outside of Steve's Bagels ready to hit the pavement and give themselves the best gift of all - time together doing something empowering, invigorating, and healthy - running.

What they started on that early morning in May of 2007 would become a long running (no pun) tradition, thanks to Run Like A Mother Founder, Megan Searfoss. 

Thank you to Megan, for making Run Like A Mother more than a race. Truly, it's way of life. 

Founder of RLAM, Megan Searfoss Shares Top Ten Tips for Running a 5K 

  1. Set a goal-  Don’t let that be “just to finish”, we know that will happen.  Set a realistic time, and then to push to reach it so that you cross the finish line knowing you challenged yourself. 
  2. Choose Your Race Day Outfit-  Most Run Like a Mother athletes like to wear the race-day tee for the race.  Whether you do or not, make sure your shorts, shoes, socks, bra and any other item that you have on is tried and true.  Never wear new shoes, socks or bras on race day.  Remember, cotton is rotten on race day!  Cotton is not forgiving and a quick way to chafe your way across the finish line.
  3. Eat right for race day.  Practice running at the same time of day as the start of the race.  Find what works for you and what might go through you. 
  4. Get your ZZZZZs-  That being said, one of my favorite sayings is, “Sleep is not necessary for AWESOMENESS”.  If you are nervous and can’t sleep the night before a race, don’t sweat it, accept it.  Two nights before race day is when your ZZZZZs count.
  5. Make friends with Debbie Downer and Nancy Negative-  It is common to doubt yourself and let in negative thoughts, those feelings will always visit.  Instead of fighting with them, acknowledge their existence them and assure yourself that you can still run your best. 
  6. Pick up your race day package early.  Most races have “Package Pick-Up” a few days before the race.  Waiting until race morning can lead to unnecessary stress before the race
  7. Have a mantra- Find words or a phrase that keep you focused and are motivating.  Repeating words will calm your thoughts.  “Strong, smooth, steady.”   “I am a runner, I am running, I will finish”.  “Powerful, graceful, effortless”     
  8. Know the Course-  Be familiar with race day logistics; where to park, find your family at the finish line and most importantly, where the port-a-johns are located.  Attention to these little details will relieve unnecessary race day stress.
  9. Line up appropriately- Unless you are planning to win, don’t toe the start line.  Seed yourself according the pace you think you will run.  Most races have pace signs that indicate where you should start.  Seeding yourself too far up front will be discouraging, putting yourself too far back will  be frustrating. 
  10. Soak it up!  You have trained, you are ready, now look around you and embrace all the energy.  Smile at those that are nervous, it will make everyone feel better. The race is the reward, enjoy the run!

Register for RLAM HERE.

*Image courtesy of RLAM Facebook. 

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Submitted by Ridgefield, CT

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