Your quick guide to getting fun-run fit

Congratulations on putting your hand up to accept an exercise challenge. Whether you’re taking on a charity walk, fun run, obstacle challenge or bike ride, here are our top three pointers to getting you started.

Do your research:

This may seem like a no brainer but finding out exactly what you are getting yourself in to is going to impact the next two points around training and your game day plan. This is also important so you can figure out if the challenge is realistic and achievable based on your physical capabilities. You may need to speak to your GP to determine suitability if you have limitations or other health concerns.

Training:

Unless you regularly participate in the type of event you have signed up for, you will need to do some training. During the training process, identify some of your strengths and weaknesses. If you need help from a professional, you might want to see an Accredited Exercise Physiologist to give you a training plan specific to the event and your individual health concerns. Here’s a tip, having an exercise buddy is a great way to stick to a regular training routine!

Have a game day plan:

It is important to have a game day strategy of how you will tackle the challenge, particularly if it is a long event. It is also important to have a plan of action for managing your diabetes along the way. You may need to consider testing blood glucose levels, carrying hypo supplies, insulin regimes and having a team supporting you. A good idea will be to consult with your diabetes health team if you need help.

Participating in an exercise based charity event is a great way to get back into an active routine. Use the fun and excitement as motivation to continue on with the training routine so you keep reaping the positive rewards of moving more.