I have completed two half marathons as a part of Disney’s RunDisney program (Walt Disney World Half Marathon in 2013 and the Princess Half Marathon in 2015). Below are my key take-aways from preparing for and participating in those two events:
1) Find a training program that works for your skill level. I like Hal Higdon’s novice training, but a quick google search will give you all kinds of advice. There are also lots of apps (free and fee-based) that work well with a daily tracker!
2) Don’t plan to PR your Disney race! Disney races are not to break records, but more so to enjoy the experience! Get to know those running with/near you, stop for character selfies, take in your surroundings, have fun!
3) Know you will be getting on a Disney Transportation bus around 3:30 AM on race day and be okay with that! Again, it’s about the experience!!! Embrace it!
4) Pace yourself at the expo the day before. It will be crowded no matter what time you go. It’s almost impossible to show up just to pick up your race packet and leave in less than one hour!
5) Don’t go straight into a park after the race. Go back to your hotel and recover. Then wean yourself into a park at an easy pace!
6) Encourage friends and family to come along, even if they don’t run with you. It’s great to see familiar faces cheering you on! Make a vacation out of it!
7) Be kind to participants of all speeds! Whether you are passing someone or the one being passed (that’s my typical role), know that everyone is doing their best and be proud of their accomplishment!
8) Make up for all those calories burned by eating all the fabulous food Disney has to offer!! See my restaurant recommendations blog post for more information 😉
Happy running!
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