AJC Peachtree Road Race Updates: Little aches and pains

Hello Peachtree racers!

So you’re registered. You’ve got your training plan, or you’ve joined the ATC’s fantastic In-Training Program, led by running expert Bob Wells. You’re getting some miles in.

And boy, are you tired. Your feet hurt, you’re aching in embarrassing places, and the spring sunshine is blowing its hot, moist breath right down your neck. It’s OK! You have license to moan. After all, are you really training for a race if you don’t complain a little?

RACE COUNTDOWN: 62 DAYS

That’s over two months from today, Saturday, May 3. Plenty of time to shake out whatever’s ailing ya.

Today we’ll address some of those little issues that can stand in between you and a great run.

MUST-KNOW INFO

🤞🏽 Lottery results will be out this coming week. Don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll get in! If not, there are other ways to run through Atlanta Track Club charity programs.

🚧 Volunteers needed! You don’t need to race to enjoy the Peachtree. Volunteers help set up and manage things during the race, but there are also opportunities in the days leading up to the race. Learn more here.

✅ Make a note: This year’s pre-race expo, where you can pick up your race packet and browse an endless array of running accoutrements (and say hi to your friends at the AJC!), will be held in Lenox Square in Buckhead. It will NOT be at the Georgia World Congress Center this year. Plan now to not be confused later.

🎆 Don’t forget the fireworks. While you’re planning, remember that the pre-Peachtree fireworks are back! They’ll light up the sky near Lenox July 3, the night before the race. Participants get special viewing access.

📱 Get the app: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution app is the destination for all your Peachtree needs, including race day tracking and access to exclusive perks. You’ll also be supporting local journalism in our fair city, which is a nice dose of karma. Download here for Apple or Google Play.

TRAINING SPOTLIGHT: CAN YOU TAKE THE HEAT?

If you don't hydrate enough, you might end up like this.

Southern heat and humidity is no joke, especially if you’re visiting from somewhere less armpit-like. July in Atlanta WILL humble (and possibly endanger) you if you don’t prepare.

Think you’re hydrating enough? Think again:

• Start hydrating days before a race, NOT just the day of. Keep a water bottle close by so your insides are all supple and refreshed. You and the water bottle are lovers now. Inseparable.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol before a race. They’re diuretics, meaning they’ll dry you out. They’ll also mess with your energy levels.
• Drink water before you feel thirsty. By the time you feel thirsty, the delicate little orchid that is your body is already parched. You better be sweating, too, or it could be a sign you need a serious hydration check.

🥵 More training tips for racing in the heat, including what NOT to wear and what to NOT eat

ASK AN EXPERT

Take care of yourself now, so you can relax in victory later!

ATC In-Training coach Bob Wells is back to answer your most burning questions about running, training and staying the course. Thanks for sending in questions! Now send in some more.

Q: How can I deal with cramps in the middle of a run?

A: Cramps are tricky and can be quite debilitating, especially in the middle of a race. At that point it’s really too late to do much about the cramp other than to try to massage, stretch, walk, or run it out. If possible, you want to try to keep moving providing you can do so safely and without injuring yourself.

Common causes of cramps include:

• a lack of training, meaning your musculoskeletal system isn’t adequately prepared for the event
• insufficient hydration that includes electrolytes with emphasis on sodium

The best advice I can offer is to make sure you prepare, and your training should include practicing hydrating before and during runs.

Q: I get blisters no matter what I do, and I’ve tried everything. Any tips?

A: One popular remedy you may not know is lathering your feet up with a petroleum jelly product like Vaseline or other anti-friction cream. These products help prevent blisters by reducing chafing and keeping the skin moisturized. Taping your feet and moleskin are other popular options. If you try these options without success, I think your next obvious step is to see a runner friendly podiatrist.

Thanks, Bob! The ATC In-Training Program for the Peachtree Road Race has already begun, but you can still join! Registration is open until May 12.

SAY HI TO YOUR AJC RUNNING BUDDIES!

We’re not just fans of the Peachtree at the AJC, we’re runners, too! I caught up with two of my AJC colleagues (I know them, they’re cool), who are training for very different PRR experiences.

THE VETERAN: Matt, running his 23rd Peachtree

🍑 Why he loves the Peachtree: “When we first moved here we went out to breakfast July 4 morning. Looking around the restaurant we were seeing a bunch of people wearing their AJC Peachtree T-shirts. I thought it was so cool that Atlanta had this huge event on July 4th. After doing it the first time I was hooked.”

🍑 His advice: “Bring a little cash to pay for Marta to get back home. Also if you are meeting friends or family in the park, agree ahead of time on a location in the park. Try to go back to Peachtree Street and enjoy the race as a spectator.”

THE NEWBIE: Betsy, running her first Peachtree

🍑 Why she’s running her first PRR with her mom: “I have been deeply involved in planning this year’s race. Seeing all of the excitement that is going into planning, there is no one better to share that experience with than my own mom!”

🍑 What she’s nervous about: “Being really hot and potentially having my mom beat me.”

UPCOMING RACE EVENTS

Atlanta Track Club races:

• May 10: Northside Hospital Atlanta Women’s 4 Miler
• May 31: Braves Country 5K & Dash (this is one of my favorite ATC races)