When you do races (like 5 and 10k)

Do you run the entire time, or do you walk a bit in between?

I'm just curious since I'm going to finish the couch to 5k eventually (even though I am taking it slow) and I hope to do a race after that. I just wanted to know what the norm was.

Is your personal goal to run the whole thing without stopping? Or is it to have the best possible time (which may include walking to rest a bit, not sure as I've never run a race)

Re: When you do races (like 5 and 10k)

I think it's OK anyway you want. seriously...

When I ran HS XC, I walked up the huge hill (cardiac) at sunken meadow (I had this weird fast walk thing) every single time - and I still qualified as all-county...so personally think there are benefits.


now - on flatish courses - I run the entire thing. I have been debating the James St Hill for Cow Harbor. I've been doing the training runs and thought that I would build muscle memory by running it every time. last week, I was beat and walked for maybe 10 seconds. and I beat last year's time by 5 minutes - on a training run!


I read about a runner who ran a 2:19 marathon walking through water stations!!!


so I think it's up to you and I don't think walking is bad if you use it to your advantage!

Re: When you do races (like 5 and 10k)

So far I've only run 3 races, and I haven't had to walk at all. Luckily I've never had a cramp during a race, then I would have to walk. Even though I'm not there to win, I can't help but want to keep up a good pace and try to get the best time that I can. It becomes addicting! I've only run mostly flat courses, I think if hills were involved i would probably "speed" walk up those. Just do your best and if your body is telling you to walk and re-energize for a bit, listen to it! Have fun!

Re: When you do races (like 5 and 10k)

I usually run the entire first mile, then walk fast two minutes, then run another mile, then walk fast two minutes, etc etc... this method has actually given me better time results than when I have run the entire thing, which surprised me. Not sure why though, maybe because it saves up my reserves so I can go faster when I do run, I don't know?

Re: When you do races (like 5 and 10k)

I've only done 3 races so far and have ran the entire time however I saw a lot of people stopping to walk a little.