Race Day Prep: The Ashclub Playbook
A simple race-day system for calm starts, controlled pacing, and clean recovery.
Race day rewards preparation. After dozens of starts with the Ashclub crew, this is the system we trust.
The Night Before
Lay out everything: bib, shoes, socks, outfit, sunscreen, safety pins. Eat a normal dinner. Nothing new. Nothing heavy. Set two alarms. Sleep early.
Race Morning
Wake up 2.5 hours before start time. Eat light: banana with peanut butter, or idli if that works for you. Hydrate early, then stop 30 minutes before the gun.
Warm-Up (Non-Negotiable)
10 minutes easy jog, dynamic stretches, 4 to 6 strides. The Ashclub crew meets 45 minutes before the start for a group warm-up.
During the Race
Start calmer than you want to. The first kilometre should feel controlled. A strong second half beats a reckless first one.
After the Finish
Walk for 5 minutes. Stretch. Refuel within 30 minutes with protein and carbs. Take the photo. Tag @ash_.club.
Recovery Week
Easy runs only for 3 to 4 days post-race. Respect the effort. Let the body absorb it.
Every race leaves data. Use it. Come back sharper.