Do you need some advice on how to pace yourself for the Cancer Research UK London Winter Run? Anya Culling is here to give you 5 of her best tips for event day.

Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned runner, pacing yourself is key to a successful and enjoyable day. Let’s see the tips:

 

1. Pace Yourself

At the start of the race, it’s easy to get carried away with the rush of adrenaline. The crowd’s energy can push you to go faster, but it’s important to stick to your pace from the get-go. If you start too quickly, you risk burning out later on. The early part is all about setting yourself up for a strong finish.

2. Find Your Groove

Once you’ve settled into your pace, focus on finding your rhythm. This means finding the pace that feels comfortable and sustainable for you. Listen to your body and try to enter that “flow state”. Get lost in the experience, enjoy the scenery, and take in the vibrant atmosphere. Sometimes, a little boredom (in a good way) is the sign that your body is in a steady groove.

3. Fuelling

Even though the weather is cold, you’re still exerting a lot of energy, so make sure you’re fuelling properly. Take a sip of water or a quick snack if you need one. This will also help to refocus your mind. Keeping yourself energized ensures that you’ll have the strength to finish strong!

 

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Walk

It’s easy to feel like you have to run the entire distance, but it’s okay to take a breather. If you’re feeling fatigued or if your legs need a break, walking for a short period can actually help you reset and refocus. You might even find that walking for a moment gives you the energy to keep running later on. Take a moment to recalibrate—remember why you’re participating and why it’s worth it. If you’re with a buddy, you can take this opportunity to share some encouragement or catch up on the fun, light-hearted parts of the race.

 

5. Finish with A Flair

When you’re nearing the final stretch, it’s time to give it your all! Push yourself to the finish line with everything you’ve got. The energy you’ve conserved will allow you to go all-in at the end. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best or just want to enjoy the moment, finishing strong is incredibly rewarding. Plus, those finish line photos are going to look epic, so give the photographers a big smile or even a high-energy pose! Finish the race feeling like a champion, knowing you’ve completed a fun and challenging event.

Final Thoughts

Remember that this race is about enjoying yourself and the atmosphere. It’s about setting a pace that works for YOU and finding your stride. So pace yourself, stay fuelled, and finish with a sense of accomplishment!