Are you taking on the iconic OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon this May?
Training for a half marathon takes drive, determination, and focus. It’s important to prepare and practice your strategy prior to conquering your race.
The 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, is the perfect training series to help you prepare and feel confident stepping up to the start line on May 6. The 3-race series – a 3 Miler (Feb 11), 6-Miler (Mar 4), and 10-Miler (April 1) – helps you gauge your training progression, practice your race day strategy (hydration, pacing, fueling), meet running friends, have fun, and earn some swag.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for each race and conquer the Miler Series with success:
Preparation:
- Register early! You can register now through Feb 5 and pay just $65 to take part in all three events, known as the Podium Series. You can also sign up for each Miler Series race independently for the lowest price online, or you may register on site for an additional cost (Please note, you must be registered for the full “Podium Series” to receive the shirt and medal).
- Give yourself plenty of time to train. Be sure to find a training plan that properly guides you to take on each distance. Be careful not to ramp up your training too quickly, this can cause injury.
Race-Day:
- Plan your pace. After crossing the start line, it is essential that you maintain a pace that you can hold throughout the duration of the race. Know what pace is best for you and be mindful not to start the race too quicky.
- Dress properly. The Miler Series takes place during the tail end of the winter months, so temperatures can be cold. Make sure to dress according to the weather, feel comfortable, and bundle up if it’s cold!
- Meet a running buddy! Find other participants around you who will help you stay on pace and maybe even make a new friend.
- Practice hydration. It is essential to stay fueled and hydrated throughout a long-distance race. Practice stopping at water stations, what we like to call Pit Stations, to ensure a smoother and safer race experience.
- Get excited! We hope the Miler Series will not only serve as preparation, but also spark your excitement to cross the finish line at the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon on May 6!
If you’re considering the Miler Series, be sure to check out the Challenges during registration! Participants may elevate their experience by bundling the Miler Series with other 500 Festival races to conquer additional mileage and earn more gear!