Running a race of any distance calls for a commitment that starts weeks, if not months before we reach the starting line. That in itself may sound daunting. But amongst the various sports and disciplines out there, running is actually the simplest! In the sense that it belies the challenge of performing at one’s best, and outperforming others, at a sport which puts one foot ahead of the other.
As we head into peak racing season in Singapore, which tends to start in the latter half of the year (usually August) with the SAFRA Bay Run and Army Half Marathon (SSBR & AHM), it is timely for those who are looking to maintain their fitness or improve upon their Personal Bests to look ahead and hit their strides.
Here’s how the ONE family went full swing into the AHM and race seasons, this quarter:
Training plan on NSMAN Magazine – Mok Ying Ren
Thank you SPH, NSMAN Magazine, SAFRA and AHM 2018 for the opportunity and feature as well! Photos and articles reproduced with permission from SPH.
100PLUS Race Clinic – Mok Ying Ren
Besides helping runners prepare for their upcoming races, the 100PLUS race clinic had also hoped to provide a lively platform for both seasoned and new runners to come together, get to know one another, and learn and grow as one running community. As Mok shared his experiences and tips on hydration and pacing strategies, and it was exciting to see a wide range of questions from diet and training to recovery and injury prevention. The vibrancy and life in today’s running scene are vastly different from a few yesteryears, and that is an encouraging sign!
Race Pacing Strategies – Just as dress rehearsals are important for performing artists before the actual-day event, such shorter races would be beneficial in easing the nerves and allow runners to test out and be comfortable with their race pacing. This confidence-building measure could make or break the difference between a Personal Best and Worst, especially when the stakes are high on a major race like SSBR & AHM.
Hydration and Fuelling – When it comes to race hydration, too little is just as bad as too much. Reaching the right balance for your body will aid in optimal performance in a race. During a 2hour 30min marathon, Mok recommended taking in about 200ml of isotonic sports drinks every 20-30 minutes. Mok also shared that as a 100PLUS ambassador, his go-to drink would be the non-carbonated 100PLUS Active when he is training and running. This drink is formulated to help rehydrate and replenish electrolytes and minerals.
D-day @ SSBR-AHM 2018!
Amongst various athletes that joined their formation in this signature event for the armed forces, Banjamin Quek stood out with his 7th position with a timing of 1:18! It was his 5th year representing his division, and the camaraderie and team spirit that kept him going, despite feeling under the weather on race day. The full-time tutor, who trained 4-5 days a week has been handling an exceptionally challenging year with workload and health. Thus, he was even more delighted that 6th Div was in the 2nd place amongst the formation challenge!
