When preparing for a race, particularly a demanding one such as an ultra-trail, a common dilemma is ‘What should I bring?’ or ‘When should I prepare my checklist?’ (or perhaps you might skip it altogether) before the race. Today, I’m here to help you review your equipment. Spoiler alert: anticipation is crucial. Use our checklist equipment before a race to ensure you’re fully prepared.
Checklist equipment before a race
Contents
What equipment do I need to bring?
Here’s a standard list of equipment you should always have with you.
If you’re accustomed to training in the mountains, you’re well aware of the unpredictable weather. It can be a sunny day, and suddenly, it’s pouring rain or even snowing – and this can happen in any season. The English can surely attest to this unpredictability (no offense intended, folks, I’m just teasing – England is actually a fantastic place for hiking!).
Running, especially in such conditions, requires a list of essential equipment for ease and safety. Beyond the traditional UTMB equipment, here are some items you should almost always include in your gear checklist:
- A Special Trail Bag: To carry your equipment. Choose a bag that suits your activity, ensuring it’s comfortable for long runs, even for hours during an ultra. Consider a bag with an integrated whistle to save you the trouble of buying one separately or forgetting it. It’s crucial to get accustomed to running with your bag before the race to avoid any discomfort.
- Your Smartphone: Primarily for emergency calls, whether you’re in the mountains or the city. Store the race control center’s number in your contacts and check your phone’s coverage if you’re traveling abroad. Pro tip: If you’re feeling down during the race, a quick call to your family can be a real morale booster.
- Your Personal Cup: For food during the race. Think environmentally friendly and bring a reusable cup.
- Water and Food Supplies: Carry at least 1 liter of water and enough food. Refreshment points might be spaced out, but you’ll need to stay hydrated and energized. If you’re unsure about race nutrition, consider using a calculator for a personalized nutrition plan.
- Headlamps with Spare Batteries: Essential for ultra runs and night races. Train with your headlamp at night to ensure safety and comfort.
- Warm Clothing and Rain Gear: Include a waterproof jacket with a hood, an extra layer, a hat or beanie, gloves, waterproof pants, and training pants.
- Safety Equipment: Always carry your ID, a survival blanket, and elastic tape. Walking sticks are also recommended (if permitted), especially considering altitude variations.”
Possibly Adapting Equipment Based on Weather Conditions
Competitors should also prepare a list of equipment for extreme weather conditions. Typically, race organizers inform runners of such situations 48 hours before the event.
To summarize, for bad weather, you’ll likely need an additional technical layer to protect against the elements. In contrast, gear for a heatwave should include a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
It’s essential to include these items in your pre-race checklist. The goal is to ensure you’re fully prepared without needing last-minute purchases (unless you forget something!). This approach helps avoid unpleasant surprises and ensures you’re ready for any weather the race day might bring.
When Should I Write My Necessary Checklist Before a Race?
Anticipate the unexpected
The best practice is to start preparing your checklist at least one month before the race. This timeframe allows you to identify and acquire any missing items. By doing this early, you avoid the stress of potential delivery delays and the risk of being unprepared at the last moment.
Allowing ample time before the race not only lets you test your gear but also to revisit and refine your checklist. This step is crucial for race success. Here, success isn’t just about physical preparedness; it’s about your comfort and confidence in your equipment. Feeling at ease with your gear is a significant factor in achieving a great race experience.
Do not forget to test your equipment
If you plan well in advance, you’ll have ample time to test your equipment. It’s crucial to run with all the gear you intend to use during the race. While it might not always be enjoyable, getting accustomed to running in various conditions, be it rain or intense sunshine, is key to being fully prepared. Remember to gradually increase the intensity and duration of your efforts as the race approaches.
Pack everything in your bag and go for a run. Yes, this includes carrying the gear on your back. Running with a backpack weighing 2 to 5 pounds significantly differs from running unencumbered. Your muscles experience additional strain, and your center of gravity shifts. Becoming comfortable with this added weight before race day is vital.
Pay attention to any discomfort caused by your gear. What might be manageable for a few hours could become problematic in an ultra run.
With these tips, you now have a clear idea of the best practices for preparing your gear checklist before a race. You’re all set to focus on your training and approach the race with confidence. Have a fantastic race and enjoy every moment! 😆