You sure you're warming up properly? You need to try and get

your HR up to about 90% of max before you start on a 5K. I find this also clears the system. Big mistake I used to make on shorter distances (10K or less). You can get away with it to a degree on a half marathon or a full because you can ease into it (although you should obviously still warm up) but on shorter distances you must be at the races before the start. This is especially important if you're an 'older' competitor say 40 and above because its takes longer to get your HR up than younger athletes. Hope this helps and nice one for getting fitter. You'll never regret it.

Posted By: Chopper, Jul 16, 10:47:07