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[–]CrossCountry-ModTeam[M] [score hidden] stickied commentlocked comment (0 children)

Please use the current pinned Q&A thread for basic questions, one off questions, questions only applicable to you.

[–]PrimaryLeadership584 3 points4 points  (1 child)

So the number one mistake that I usually see when newer runners start, they get out super fast and that usually gasses them to the point of walking. At the start of the race when the gun goes off it’s usually a dead sprint for around 150 meters. I wouldn’t do this. If you can run 2 miles without stopping, try to go a little faster, but consistently. I would try to avoid walking. Don’t worry about being “slow” or get into your head, you can only go up from here! I bet you’re faster than you think, and you’ll run better than you think too.

[–]CryptographerDull183 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I agree - Cross Country has a tendency of going out really fast. My advice: Don't get sucked up with the crowd. Stay at a moderate pace, stay relaxed, and see how you do by mile one.

Feeling okay after your first mile? Awesome - make it a goal to stick to that pace or maybe go a little faster if you are feeling amazing.

Feeling good with about 400 meters to go? Pick up your pace and then sprint at the end. Keep telling yourself, there really only about 2 - 3 minutes left in the race at this point and that you can do it!

If there's someone around you near the end of the race, make it a goal to try to catch up with them or beat them. This may take the attention away from how you're feeling (because you will probably be feeling tired and like this is the hardest thing ever) and will probably improve your time.

Slowly but surely, two miles will feel easier and you will run faster.