8 Things We Learned From Our First Disney 5K

Yes, this sounds silly but it is so worth mentioning, especially in Florida. We started our first 5K in sweatshirts and gloves. This time around, we will be in tank tops and shorts from the beginning. The point is, even when it was chilly, we sweated. Drink lots of water in the days leading up to the race and drink more if you even begin to feel thirsty. And Disney will help…there are water stations before the race starts, tables along the way, and refreshments at the end. Take advantage of them all.

2 -Food

This is a horrible time to crash diet. Trust me from experience. Eat healthy, but make sure you have some good carbs and lean protein the night before. And please eat something that morning. We have found a banana and a granola bar were perfect on the way to the race. There will also be water, Powerade and snacks at the finish line. Diet next week.

3 -Bring your camera

We had no idea before our first race but THERE ARE CHARACTERS ALONG THE COURSE!!!

(C) Indigofrost

My husband almost squealed when we saw the first character station. Some of the groups literally ran from character to character for their photos. At that point we just wanted to finish and were afraid of being swept (more on that later) plus we didn’t have our cameras. Also, there were character meet and greets before the race started. We did have our camera for that, but put it in the bag check before the race started. If you are in a group, have one person carry a camera and share pictures after the race.

4 -Enjoy the extras.

Our first race was during the Princess ½ Marathon Weekend. There was an awesome expo going at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex. Everything was designed for runners. There was something for everyone. We even found someone to look at my husband’s leg and help him determine he had slight shin splints. Go to these events. There are giveaways, memorabilia, clothing, accessories and great information on upcoming races.

5 -Sleep well the night before.

The adrenaline of your first race will take you a long way but please make sure you get a good night’s sleep. You will be so glad you did by mile 2!

6 -Volunteers

OK, so the race starts at 7am. You got up at 5am. The volunteers who are handing you water, your medal, picking up the trash, and are encouraging you along the way probably were up at 3am or before. And the kicker is, they are at least as excited as you are to be there. Thank them as you go by. It is the least we can do.

7 -Arrive early

Yes, you will probably stand around some but it will so be worth it. The line for pictures with the characters will close long before the race starts so make sure to get there in time to get yours taken. There will be a DJ to entertain everyone, and it does take a while to file everybody into the chute (where everyone starts the race). And don’t forget time for potty breaks, looking for friends and that last stab at hydration.

8 -Bag check

Great place for keys, dry shirt, non-running shoes, and whatever you may not be able to live without for a few hours. We took sunscreen and lathered it on right before we turned in the bags. Very convenient and helpful.

Sweep van (Bonus tidbit)

Yes, there is a team following the racers to pick up stragglers. We have done 2 5K’s and our times were over what they said we needed to do and yet we still finished. We were told as the first race started (Royal family 5K) to just keep going and that unless we were WAY behind the group we would not be picked up. Yes, keep your pace going but do not panic over a sweep van breathing down your neck. The race can’t last forever, but Disney wants as many people as possible to finish with good memories.

Have fun!!! It is Disney, after all!