Training Tips
It's All Mental after Sconset
Those who attempt this beach run should expect a pretty grueling day. It is not suppose to be easy, if it was, their would be no pride in the accomplishment.
That having been said, there are things you can do to make the day go by more pleasantly.
Talk to someone who has completed the race.
Feel free to email us or visit our Facebook page to ask questions. Many runner are regulars and can provide good suggestions for hydration products and footwear that has worked for them in the past. They may also know what works best for each leg of the course.
Stay Hydrated
We provide water at all the exchange points and some of the more remote sections of the course, but if the sun is pumping you need to seriously consider carrying some water. Fuel belts and handheld water bottles are popular. We have seen soloists use Camelbak products to keep hydrated and a good pit crew can be helpful when staged between check points. Some runners find gels and gummies to be useful as well.
Footwear
We could award a prize every year to the most creative footwear. Participants have tried everything from toe socks to Crocs. Because each leg has different sand consistency, and even one leg can run differently depending on the tide, veterans tend to go barefoot in order to easily adapt to the conditions. If you decide to run in shoes prepare to get them wet, to carry them, and eventually toss them (discarding shoes on the course or in the ocean is prohibited. Any team found littering will be disqualified and pay a fine).
Vibram's FiveFinger shoes have become popular over the years but runners have had mixed results. Some runner find they are helpful, especially over shelly beaches. Others have had trouble with blisters, particularly if sand gets in them. We have seen runners wear socks with them to help prevent blisters.
We suggest your best bet is to bring a pair of shoes you do not mind tossing after the race and to be prepared to run barefoot if needed. Expect blisters and bring comfortable footwear for after the race.
* Above brands and products are suggestions based on popularity among previous runners. The Rock Run does not have sponsors and does not endorse any particular brands or products.
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