3 Ways to Gladiate a 10k!

I have to start by saying Sunday's race in Santa Monica was so invigorating. The energy and all the beautiful people truly inspired me.  Not only was the Santa Monica Classic in its 7 year run supporting the  Heal the Bay organization but the euphoric energy you experience running with all those people for the same cause not even an orgasm can beat that.

It's a feeling that no one else can give you.  You have to experience the moment for yourself. 

My old acting coach used to say if you're not fucking, you're not living.  Well I say if you're running a 10k, you're not living. 

Which is why I want to share with you 3 ways to Gladiate a 10k Race. 

You might not win the race especially with all the African runners participating but you will radiate a energy of confidence and euphoria.  

1.   Sing while you Run.  Sing a song that inspires you, that uplifts you.  You can sing it out loud or to yourself. Whatever you prefer!  Hum it! If you want to.  Singing inspires active breathing.  And active breathing allows you to set your own pace of the race. 

 If you follow someone's else pace and when they stop! or change...guess what! You will too!  We don't want that.  We want you to drive you're own speed, inspire you're own pace.

2.   Don't try anything new the day of the race.  Don't go out and buy a new work out bodysuit the day before the race.  You might end up running with your pants or shorts rising down showing your buns. And believe me that is not cute. 

 Don't try a new energy drink, gel or supplement even if Sport Chalet gave you a $10 gift card to buy anything you want.  Don't do anything you don't normally do when you practice running on a normal day.  In fact you want to have something or wear something you normally wear to make you feel like it's a regular day of practice.  

By the way ignore those cute little Asian students passing you water every other mile.  If you don't drink water During your normal run don't drink it on the day During the race just because it's free. You will get cramps and that doesn't feel good at the 3rd mile marker.

3.  Smile the entire Race. This is the Most Important of all 3.   Fake it! you have to.  In the beginning you will be so excited and happy you won't have to fake it.   However, when you get to mile 3, you might be saying... What the Fuck was I thinking when I signed up for this.  

 Just Smile! Sing your favorite song and Believe me! when I tell you! on the turnaround at the 4th mile marker you Get a second wind that is Sooo ...rejuvenating! You're going to be like Damn! Where did that come from?. 

 Just keep smiling, keep singing! Your speed will pickup and the next thing you know... you  ARE at the Finish line. Sweating, Crying, (the ugly cry) because of this  amazing accomplishment you've just achieved.  There is nothing like it!  I tell you! Nothing like it.

I hope you have the courage to participate in the next race.  Check out Active.com for races in your area.  If you like this post feel free to share it with your friends.  

Best, 

Malaika