Double Olympian's top tips for getting to the start-line in the best shape possible

Double Olympian Paul Evans and his team of Active Norfolk coaches have been working with over 80 people who are new to running, in the lead up to Run Norwich, to get them ready for their first 10k.

Below are Paul’s last minute top tips for getting to the start-line in the best shape possible, ahead of the race on Sunday.

Saturday during day:

– All the hard work is now done. Saturday you should have your feet up, relaxing and conserving all your energy for tomorrow’s big effort.

– Don’t spend too much time on your feet. Resting up is the order of the day!

Saturday evening:

– Pack your race bag the night before, have a list of things to pack – don’t forget your race shoes, race number and safety pins.

– Try and get an early night if you can, remember tomorrow will be an early start!

– Play it safe, your evening meal should be a dish that is tried and tested and will not result in an upset stomach on race day.

Sunday – Race day:

– Same as last night – eat a breakfast you have had before. No experimenting!

– Get to the starting area in plenty of time find out where the start line is, where you need to be when the gun goes off, and where the toilets are.

– Give yourself plenty of time to warm up, this should not be rushed, the last thing you need is to get to the start line with your heart rate already racing because you are running late and already stressed.

– Pace judgement – everybody will have a race plan, my advice is, if anything undercook the first mile, you can always pull it back in the latter part of the race, when you are passing all the runners that ran the first mile too quick.

– Reward yourself after your run. Running 10k is something to be proud of – and you have been part of the inaugural Run Norwich 10k!

Don’t miss Active Norfolk at the runners meet and greet area after the race – just look out for the big purple gazebo! Find out more on Facebook: activenorfolk and Twitter: @activenorfolk.