Countdown To Dopey Day 8: Race Week Runs Should Feel Easy -Why “Boring” Is Exactly Right
Race week is here, and if your runs feel slow, awkward, or unimpressive — you’re doing it right. In Day 8 of the Countdown to Dopey, Coach Jill Bartholomew breaks down exactly what race-week runs should feel like and why pushing the pace now can sabotage your performance later. This episode explains the difference between taper and race prep, why hard efforts steal freshness, and how short, easy runs protect the fitness you’ve already earned. You’ll learn why race-week runs are check-ins, not tests, how travel, humidity, and sleep impact your body, and when it’s smart to cut a run short. Jill also covers confidence, acclimation, hydration, fueling, and why arriving calm matters more than pace. If you’re racing the runDisney Dopey Challenge (or any endurance event), this episode will help you stop second-guessing your fitness, trust your training, and show up at the start line rested, confident, and ready to execute.
takeaways
- Race week should feel easy and unimpressive.
- Tapering is different from race prep; both are essential.
- Hard efforts in the week leading to a race can hinder performance.
- Check-in runs are meant to keep your body moving, not to test limits.
- Acclimating to race conditions is crucial for performance.
- Confidence is key; focus on feeling prepared rather than fast.
- Hydration strategies should be adjusted based on weather conditions.
- Sleep is important; do your best to rest before race day.
- Proper fueling is essential; avoid starting new diets before races.
- Managing stress can enhance race day experience.
If you are training for a Triathlon or Run event of any distance from your first 10k to your first full IRONMAN and beyond, connect with Jill to talk about how to take your performance to the next level! Jill is the Head Coach and owner of Be Fierce Multisport is a full time, professional coach and works with athletes of all skill levels.
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