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Monday, July 3, 2006
Keep It Safe at the Road Race!
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Tomorrow, Atlanta will be hosting the largest 10K run in the world. Each year, more and more heat related injuries are reported. Most of these injuries can be avoided with some simple prevention. Here are some qucik tips:
1. Drink plenty of water- Yeah, yeah, you know this one right? However, I have to mention it because it is most important. Drink at least one quart of water when you wake up. Then drink water staggerd throughout the rest of the morning. Leave out sodas, coffee, tea, etc. You can drink Powerade, Gatorade, or something similar. No matter what, you can’t go wrong with water. By the way, drink plenty of water after the race too. There are fools that will go drink beer and alcohool immediately after the race. Don’t be one of them. You can still put your health at risk.
2. Eat a light Breakfast- Don’t eat a big breakfast. Eat a light fruit such as bananas or a starchy carbohydrate like oatmeal. Do not combine protein (i.e. eggs, bacon, ham) with your meal this morning. Protein does not digest that well and can create gastric distension as you run. DO NOT go without eating something.
3. Wear light clothing- At the Peachtree Road Race you will see some “crazies” dressed in costumes. That’s just nuts. Wear light weight, light colored clothing. Wear cotton or “runner specific” wear like Body Armour, Nike, and Asics run wear. The race will be much easier for you and you will sweat less.
4. Wear sunscreen- Be sure to wear sunsreen to prevent burns. your face and shoulders will be most succeptable.
5. Medical Conditions- If you have any medical conditions such as diabetes or any heart related conditions, be sure you take some form of medical marker (necklace, bracelet or just use a marker and write it on your arm) letting medical professionals realize what your conditions are in case of an emergency. Having a buddy or two who is running with you know your conditions is advisable too. The safest thing to do, is just not to the risk, especially if you are not a conditioned athlete. Also check for medical checkpoints. Awareness can be the difference between life and death when seeking help.
6. Post Race- Have plenty of water waiting for you. Have a carbohydrate snack and/or Powerade (or equivalent) waiting for you to get your blood sugar and electrolytes back up. Of course, a lot of this is depending upon whether you have access to your vehicle or someone elses.
I’m sure that there may be some other points I could have left out. Therefore, do some research and be as prepared as possible. Don’t take chances with your life.
HAVE A HAPPY 4th OF JULY!
Kelly Huggins, Roadrace
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