With only weeks to go in the programme there are some big mistakes that we can make before race day. Here are some key points to stay focused on that will help you have the best performance come the race.  
 

You have done enough:
The closer we get to race day the more doubt we experience. This doubt can cause us to make decisions that will have a negative effect on our performance. Right now we are allowing our bodies to recover and build strength which will equal a good race, don’t add extra sessions in or catch up for ones that you have missed. You need to trust that you have done enough and just stick to the programme from here - but still come to all sessions, finish this off strong.
 

Stay away from extra cross-training exercise:
Because your running is reducing at this point it can be tempting to think that you should add extra gym sessions or other types of exercise in. Doing this will hinder your taper and your race day performance. If you desperately want to add extra exercise in, aim to do a stretch class, yoga or body balance class. This way you can tick your exercise box, help aid recovery and not damage your chance of a good performance. 
 

It’s time for great habits:
When we are in our taper phase and the body is recovering we want to do everything we can to help it. Now is the time to make sure you are putting good nutrients into your machine ;o) It’s also time to catch up on some well needed rest, aim to get to bed earlier or allow yourself a longer sleep in a couple times a week if you can make it work. 
 

A big part of being a good athlete is knowing what to do when you aren’t training. This time is just as important as the time you have spent out on the footpaths. Remind yourself that your focus is on recovery and allow your body to build towards race day. By doing this you will increase your chance of having a race that you can be proud of.