It’s almost here. All those months of long, hard work. Days spent running and endless Gatorades guzzled, all for the big race day.

Whether you’ve signed up for a lofty marathon or your first 5km race, preparing for your race or fun run isn't just about training for weeks and weeks on end (though I guess that’s important, too).

If you’re about to lace up those shoes and have collected your race bib, it’s important to make sure you’re ready for whatever life (and the running gods) throws at you – no matter the distance.

From hydration prep to the curation of the perfect playlist, when you hit that pavement, even the smallest thing can make a difference between an okay performance and a PB. Ahead, we’ve pulled together the ultimate race day guide, with everything you need to do and collect to make this race your best. 

#1. Make a list (and check it twice)

You’ll want to create a list of what you need far in advance of race day (you don’t need any additional stress, babe!). Your list could include essentials like sunscreen, hydration, and sunnies (and, of course, running shoes).

You’ll also want to include some of the bits and pieces you need to make a run, you know, fun. Think: your AirPods, smartwatch, lip balm, band-aids, and a post-race snack. 

Make sure you also pack a credit card or cash on you, or alternatively have your wallet set up on your phone for ultimate ease for that mandatory post-run pub meal.

Here’s our full recommended checklist:

• Anti-chafing cream
• Suncream
• Lip balm (these are our favourites!)
• Cap 
• Water bottle
• Sunglasses
• Apple watch (which has pace-setting functions)
• Energy gels/sports drinks
• Band-aids
• Lollies
• Extra pair of socks, shirts and pants
• Waterproof jacket 
• Towel
• Snacks
• Phone 
• Credit card/cash 
• Wireless headphones

#2. Pack your bags like a pro

We’re strong advocates for packing your bag as soon as possible. There’s nothing worse than getting to the day before your big race (or god forbid, the day of!) and realising that you need to run to the shops to pick up some last-minute items. 

Set all of your gear out on your bed and have a list you physically check off to make sure you don’t forget anything. 

Imagine getting to the start line only to realise you forgot your AirPods. Nightmare.

#3. Curate the perfect playlist

Running is one thing. Making sure you’re in the right headspace for it is a whole other beast. Having the right playlist is an essential component to your race – and one we suggest doing in advance (after all, no one wants to be shuffling through songs when they’re 6km in!). 

You might think of curating the playlist based on your tried and tested pump-up jams. Or, you might consider curating it based on the ideal pace you’d like to upkeep and hinge it on the beats per minute in a song.

For a long run, you might want to sit at songs that are at more of the 120 BPM range. But if you're hoping to go quicker, aim for 140 BPM. Once you've figured out your ideal BPM, head on over to your favourite music app and check out what playlists are on offer for that pace!

Hot tip: You can set up your Apple Watch so it starts your favourite playlist automatically when you begin a workout!

#4. Get acquainted with your running pace

Understanding your pace isn’t just useful from a music perspective – it also helps you gauge whether you’re on track and on target, eliminating the chance of mishaps and poor timing down the line.

You can find your running pace on most smartwatches and some apps also help you figure it out. Keep an eye on your pace during the run to see how you’re faring with your performance.

#5. Make sure you have an emergency contact on you

This one is especially for those among us who are going on an extra long run, especially in an unfamiliar place. You’ll want to make sure that you have an emergency contact set up and on you in case something bad goes down.

An easy way to do this is by setting up your Medical ID, which you can access on both iPhone and Android. Here, add critical information like your name, allergies and medical conditions, and who they should contact in an emergency.

#6. Share your location

It’s always a good idea to share your location before you head out on a big run – both for safety reasons and so your friends and family know where you are in your journey. They’ll be able to see just how you're tracking and be there at the finish line just in time to congratulate you!

#7. Document, journal and reflect

While we’re usually in the zone when that gun first goes off, try to take one moment when you feel like you need a little break to take a snap of yourself on the run for the memory book. Some phones, including newer models of the iPhone, have Action mode, designed to capture you in motion. Goodbye blurry snaps, and hello cute TikTok content. 

After your run, take your paper and pen out (or more realistically, your Notes app), and journal how you’re feeling. Reflect on your huge achievement and add your photos or videos to revisit later at your next race. 

After all, what’s the point of doing a run if you can’t humble brag to everyone afterwards?!

For more tips on how to set up your tech for your next fun run or race, head to support.apple.com