Considering whether you should lace up your running shoes for a shakeout run before the big race day? Then you’ve come to the right place.
Let’s cut to the chase – we all know that rest and recovery are like the secret sauce for those crucial days leading up to a race. But here’s the scoop from my own experience: runners who sneak in a quick run before the race often end up performing their absolute best.
In essence the shakeout run is a gentle stretch session of the running world. This little session helps loosen up your body and set the stage for maximum performance when it really counts.
But why should you even consider doing a shakeout run, you ask? Well, my friend, that’s precisely what we’re diving into in today’s post.
In this article, I’m your guide to all things shakeout runs. I’ll break it down for you:
- What in the world is a shakeout run, anyway?
- The ins and outs of a shakeout run.
- Why every runner, should seriously consider a shakeout run before race day.
- How to do it like a pro.
- How long these shakeout runs should be
- And so much more.
Sounds like a great plan?
Then let’s get started.
What is a Shakeout Run?
A shakeout run is essentially a brief, gentle run typically done the day before, or the morning of, a race. Think of it as a warm-up act for the main event. Its purpose isn’t to boost fitness, but rather to keep your muscles limber and primed for action. I like to think of it like starting my car and letting it hum gently before setting off on a long journey.
This light jog is designed to loosen up your muscles, get your blood circulating, and help shake off any nerves or stiffness that might be lingering.
The timing of your shakeout run can vary. It often depends on the race distance and your own running experience. For newer runners tackling longer distances, it’s generally a good idea to have your shakeout run the day before the race. On the flip side, seasoned runners gearing up for shorter distances might opt for a shakeout run on the morning of the race.
Travel can also play a role in deciding when to do a shakeout run. If you’ve been cooped up in a car or plane, a shakeout run can be a fantastic way to stretch your legs and ease any travel-induced stiffness.
Top of Form
Difference from Regular Training Runs and Tapering:
Regular training runs are the core of your marathon preparation. These are the long, challenging miles where you build endurance, speed, and strength. They’re like intense gym sessions where each drop of sweat brings you closer to your goal. These runs push your limits and expand your capabilities, serving as the meat and potatoes of your training diet.
On the other hand, shakeout runs are the light, refreshing salad. They’re not about pushing or challenging; they’re about maintenance. Short, slow, and easy, these runs are like a leisurely stroll in the park rather than a rugged hike.
Their purpose is to gently awaken your muscles and cardiovascular system, ensuring everything functions smoothly without adding stress or fatigue. The goal is to shake off stiffness, calm pre-race nerves, and prime your body for the effort ahead
The Benefits of Shakeout Runs
Shakeout runs might not get all the glory, but they’re real game-changers for runners gearing up for a race.
Here’s why squeezing in a shakeout run two days before your big event can make all the difference:
Improved Blood Flow:
A shakeout run gently nudges your circulation into gear, pumping blood and oxygen to your muscles. It’s like giving your car a warm-up before hitting the road to ensure everything runs smoothly. This boost in blood flow primes your muscles for action, making sure they’re fueled up and ready to perform on race day.
Enhanced Wakefulness:
Nothing beats a shakeout run for shaking off any leftover sleepiness. It’s your wake-up call, sharper than your morning coffee, ensuring you’re wide awake and ready to go at the starting line. Research tells us that being up and about for at least a couple of hours before a race is key for top performance. A shakeout run makes sure you’re fully awake and geared up for the challenge ahead.
Reduced Stiffness:
After a day of rest or a sudden drop in training, stiffness can sneak in and slow you down. But a shakeout run is like a quick stretch session that gets your muscles firing again. It helps ward off that sluggish feeling that can come from tapering too abruptly or fueling up the wrong way. By keeping your body moving, even just a bit, you stay loose and ready, avoiding any grinding halts.
Clearing the Mind And Knowing What’s Ahead:
Even if mornings aren’t your thing, a shakeout run can be your secret weapon for clearing away any mental fog. It’s like hitting the reset button for your brain and getting a sneak peek at the racecourse. Taking a spin around part of the route during your shakeout run gives you a feel for what’s to come on race day.
Stocking Up on Energy:
Shakeout runs aren’t just about mental clarity; they can also help your body stock up on glycogen more efficiently. Keep them short and slow to avoid depleting your glycogen stores. Especially for longer races like marathons, you want those energy reserves fully stocked and ready to go.
Muscle Prep on Race Day:
Before you hit the starting line, it’s crucial to get your blood flowing and shake off any muscle stiffness. Stiff muscles can put a damper on your performance and increase your risk of injury. By warming up properly, you’re ensuring your muscles are limber and ready to tackle the challenge ahead.
Calming the Pre-Race Jitters:
Race day nerves are no joke – even seasoned runners get jittery. It’s easy for your mind to spiral into worst-case scenarios, but a morning run can help put those fears to rest. Take just 15 minutes to gather your thoughts, repeat your favorite mantra, and connect with your “why.” Let those feel-good endorphins kick in and ease your nerves.
Boosting Confidence:
Feeling a bit shaky before the race? A quick jog can work wonders for your confidence. Use this time to reflect on all the hard work you’ve put in and remind yourself of your goals. It’s the perfect opportunity to get your race day mindset in check and focus on the reasons you’re out there pounding the pavement.
Getting Your Mind Right:
A shakeout run isn’t just about physical prep – it’s also your chance to get mentally dialed in for the race ahead. Think of it as your quiet time to visualize the course, strategize your approach, and get your head in the game. It’s like plotting your first moves in a game of chess – calmly and confidently setting the stage for success. Use this time to banish any doubts, recall your strengths and tactics, and remind yourself of the hard work that brought you here.
Pre-Race Bathroom Break:
Let’s face it – struggling to find a bathroom before a big race is nobody’s idea of fun. Nerves often play a role, but whatever the reason, it’s a situation you definitely want to avoid. Every runner knows the drill: you’re fine until you start running, and then suddenly, nature calls. A shakeout run can help take care of this issue, ensuring you’re ready to hit the starting line feeling confident and comfortable.
How Fast Should You Run Your Shakeout Run?
When it comes to the speed of a shakeout run, think “easy does it.” It’s all about getting those legs moving and waking up your body, rather than pushing your limits. In fact, the focus isn’t about pace; it’s about preparing your body and mind for the race ahead. Focus on how you feel rather than how fast you’re going.
The idea is to keep the effort so low that you could chat with a friend or belt out your favorite tunes without gasping for air. This pace is a notch below what you’d consider an “easy” run, making sure you’re not stressing your body or burning through your energy too soon.
As a rule, you shouldn’t be huffing and puffing. Your breath should be steady and controlled, so much so that you hardly notice it.
When it comes to rate zones, aim to stay in Zone 1 during your shakeout run—that’s below 70% of your max. This helps make sure you’re keeping the effort light and not putting any unnecessary stress on your body right before the big day.
How Long Is A Shakeout Run?
The perfect duration for a shakeout run really depends on what kind of race you’re gearing up for and what works best for you.
Here’s a bit of guidance to help you nail down the right length for your shakeout run:
- For Short Races (like 5Ks): If you’re prepping for a shorter race, your shakeout run might only need to be about 10 to 15 minutes long. The goal is to get your blood moving and help you shake off any pre-race jitters without tiring out your muscles.
- For Longer Races (like Marathons): When you’re facing a marathon or another long-haul race, a 10-minute shakeout run is usually enough. These races are tough, so you want to wake up your muscles and get your heart going while still saving as much energy as possible.
- A Handy Rule of Thumb: A good general tip is to make your shakeout run about half the distance or time of what you’d do on an easy running day. This way, you get enough movement to feel the benefits without the risk of doing too much.
For Beginners or Shorter Distances (e.g., 5K):
Here are examples of shakeout run workouts designed for runners at various stages of their running journey and targeting different race distances:
For Beginners or Tackling Shorter Distances (Like a 5K):
- Duration: Keep it to a quick 10-15 minutes of easy jogging.
- Pace: Aim for comfortably slow, think of it like a brisk walk but with a bit more energy. The pace should be easy enough to chat through.
- Focus: The key here is simplicity and relaxation. You want to calm any pre-race nerves and make sure you’re stepping up to the start line feeling refreshed and eager.
For Intermediate Runners or Mid-Distance Races (10K to Half Marathon):
- Duration: Spend about 20-25 minutes at a pace that doesn’t feel like work.
- Pace: It should feel comfortable and effortless. You’re not trying to push; you’re trying to stay loose.
- Additional Work: Throw in 3-4 strides towards the end of your run. These are short bursts (20-30 seconds) where you up the pace just a bit, concentrating on moving smoothly and easily without any push.
For Advanced Runners or Long-Distance Endeavors (Marathon):
- Duration: Mix it up with 25-30 minutes of easy jogging, combined with specific movements to wake up your muscles.
- Pace: This should be an easy, comfortable jog throughout.
- Additional Work: Include 4-5 strides to get those fast-twitch muscles ready, followed by dynamic stretches that target leg mobility and flexibility. This combo is great for ensuring you’re not just ready to run but ready to perform.
Each of these shakeout run workouts is designed to prep your body and mind for the race ahead without draining the tank. Whether you’re just starting out, moving up in distance, or tackling the big miles, there’s a shakeout run that fits your needs.
