Ready … set … go train for the Crescent City Classic
The Crescent City Classic 10k is a NOLA tradition. Whether participating this year for the first time or the 20th, you’ll want to take steps now to prepare your body and mind.
Each year, this race offers an excellent opportunity to take in the sights of our beautiful city while raising money for worthy causes in our community. Before you step out on race day, use these tips from our LCMC Health team to get ready.
What to know about this year’s Crescent City Classic
The Crescent City Classic has been a mainstay in our community since 1979, running every year on the Saturday before Easter Sunday. This year’s race is Saturday, March 30.
The starting line for the 10k course (that’s 6.2 miles) is in front of the Caesars Superdome. The course then winds through the city, passing through the French Quarter and along Esplanade Avenue on the way to New Orleans City Park.
Thinking 6.2 miles doesn’t sound like it’s for you? You might be surprised! This race prides itself on being “a race for all y’all,” including runners, joggers, walkers, athletes who use racing wheelchairs and kids in strollers.
Your guide to running (or walking) your way to success
You’ve signed up for the race. Now what? Get ready with these tips:
Take it slow and build up. Unless you usually hit the pavement or the treadmill for miles regularly, you’ll want to take your time getting started. Consider your fitness level and how active you usually are, and then set a realistic starting point. Beginners can start with a mile, then add time and distance as the weeks go along, building up to the 6.2-mile target.
Stretch those limbs. Before you start your run or walk on any given day, give those muscles a good stretch. You want your legs, lower body and core to feel loose and warm when you start moving. Many stretching movements come naturally, but these five stretches can be a good place to begin.
Choose the right shoes. OK, what are the right shoes? The right shoes are the ones that fit your feet well and remain comfortable throughout your walk or run. If you don’t have a favorite pair, visit a fitness shoe store, where shoe experts can help you find the best fit for your feet.
Rest up. While you’re training for the race, physical activity plays an essential part in the training, but rest does, too. As you’re conditioning your body to run or walk, you also want to give it downtime. Rest and quality sleep can help your muscles, ligaments and joints recover from activity and prepare to be active again.
Drink up. It’s healthy to stay hydrated in general, but it’s even more vital when physically active. Don’t wait for your body to signal you’re thirsty. Drink water continually throughout the day, including before, during and after physical activity of any kind. Maintaining hydration will also be important on race day, so take advantage of the water stations available at every mile on the route.
Take it slow and build up. Why is this tip on the list twice? The first reference talks about how to train for the Crescent City Classic, and this reference is about how to run or walk on race day! You’ve put in the hard work, so don’t jeopardize your race by starting too fast and furious. Begin by walking, jogging or running at a comfortable pace then increase your intensity as you go along if you want to.
While we won’t record this as an actual tip, we have one more piece of advice: Have fun! Set yourself up for success in the 10k by not stressing. Enjoy yourself, slow down if you need to, take in the sights and know that you’re benefiting your health and our community.
If being more physically active is part of your resolutions, visit your primary care provider to reach your health goals! Find one here.
