I’ve decided I want to do an event. What do I do now? If you have done an event before, this thought has likely crossed your mind. Below are some tips for those who are thinking about doing their first event.

First things first, sign up! The longer you wait to sign up for your event the more time you have to try to talk yourself out of doing the event. In addition, a lot of these events sell out months before the date of the event. Make the commitment and sign up. It is the first step towards crossing the finish line.

Next, join a club or group. By joining a club or group you are increasing your odds for success. There are clubs in almost every city in the U.S. The thing you will need most throughout your endurance journey is support. These clubs/groups give you access to a welcoming community of people with similar interests. Many of which have a passion for helping newcomers succeed. Take advantage of one of the friendliest sports communities in existence.

Equally important as support is training. Many of these clubs/groups give you access to a training plan and group workouts. These group workouts are a HUGE benefit as you get the opportunity to learn, first hand, from athletes who have been in your shoes before.

Finally, keep the focus on having fun. If you are a competitive person, be competitive, but have fun doing it. If you are the type of person who wants to lose weight, do it with a smile and enjoy watching the pounds melt off. If you are someone who is doing this event because you want to try something new, embrace it with an open heart. You get my point. Whatever your reason may be, take a positive approach and you won’t be let down.

Set yourself up for success. Follow through! Sign up for your event, join a club or training group, and focus on having fun. Whatever event you may choose to do, 5k, 10k, triathlon, or century ride, the experience will be tremendously rewarding.

Written by Jay Pedersen