Team World Vision loves beginners! And we want to help you feel confident as you train to accomplish a significant goal. Here are some questions that you may be asking yourself...

Can I really do this?

YES! You can do it! You might be attempting something you never thought you would, but we believe you can cross that finish line. The key is to stick to the training plan. If you do all of the runs during the week you will be the best prepared for your long run each weekend, and of course, the race.

What should I wear?

Take a look at our gear checklist to assist you to be safe and comfortable while you run. Most importantly, make sure you have your Team World Vision t-shirt! It's great for training, and you'll definitely want to wear it on race day.

It can be helpful if what you wear is made of wicking material. This can prevent sweat from soaking into your clothes and help keep you cooler. This applies to shirts, shorts, sports bras, and socks!

What kind of running shoes should I buy?

Go to a running speciality store to be fitted. They will watch you run to help determine the best shoes for you. These stores are used to beginners! It might be scary to walk into a running store for the first time, but go proudly! Tell them you are new to running and are not sure what style you need. They will help find the right fit for you.

Do I need a watch?

It's important to wear a watch in order to keep track of your pace, or the number of minutes it takes you to run each kilometre. It's especially key if you are doing a run/walk program and need to keep track of the time you run and then the time you walk. You don't need to spend a lot of money on a watch! GPS systems are great, but a $10 watch works just fine!

What do I do when it rains?

It's important to train in different kinds of weather because you never know what it's going to be like on race day. And who knows, you might realise you like running in the rain. But please be sensible.

You might want to jot down on your training program or in a running log what you wear in what kinds of weather, and how it feels. If it’s 20 degrees and you wear a jacket but get too hot on the run, the next time it’s 20 degrees, you'll know to lose the jacket.

What is an expo?

The race expo takes place the weekend of the race. It's where you check in and pick up your timing chip and bib number for your shirt. Usually, the expo goes for 2 days (Friday and Saturday before a Sunday race, for example.)

Remember the expo as you make travel arrangements. Most races require you pick up your race packet and bib number in person at the expo, and don't allow you to pick up your bib number on race morning. Plus, it's fun to walk around and pick up free samples!

What do I do if I get injured?

See a doctor. A sports doctor or sports clinic can help you get back in the game faster than your regular physician might.

What is my pace?

Your pace is basically the speed that you run, or the number of minutes it takes you to complete each kilometre. A 10-minute pace means you run each kilometre in 10 minutes. It can take a little while to figure out your pace.

It's good to complete a 5k test run every few weeks to help adjust your pace during your training program. You run this distance as fast as you can to determine what pace you should be training and running the race at.

Do I have to run the whole time?

No! Actually, many people do better on a run/walk program where they alternate several minutes of running with a minute or two of walking. You’ll find there are training programs that incorporate this technique into your training.

“The miracle isn’t that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start.”