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Race Day Checklist, Everything You Need to Bring

Race day is not the time to realise you’ve forgotten something important.

A solid prep the night before means you can rock up calm, focused, and ready to perform, not scrambling around asking to borrow gear.

If you want to get the most out of your Paladin Fitness Race, here’s exactly what you should bring.


🎒 The Essentials (Don’t Leave Home Without These)

Let’s start with the non-negotiables.

These are the items you absolutely need to compete and get through the day smoothly:

  • Your registration confirmation or ticket
  • Photo ID (just in case)
  • Comfortable training gear (already tested, not brand new)
  • Proper running shoes
  • Water bottle

Simple, but easy to overlook if you’re rushing.


👕 What to Wear (And What to Avoid)

You’re going to be running, sweating, and moving through different workout stations, so what you wear matters.

Best options:

  • Lightweight, sweat-wicking shirt or singlet
  • Flexible shorts or tights
  • Supportive sports bra (if needed)
  • Grip-friendly shoes with good support

Avoid:

  • Brand new gear you haven’t trained in
  • Heavy cotton shirts (they’ll hold sweat and slow you down)
  • Anything that restricts movement

👉 If it’s uncomfortable in training, it’ll be worse on race day.


🧂 Fuel & Hydration

Even though the race isn’t an ultra, it’s still high intensity.

Bring:

  • Water or electrolytes
  • A small snack (banana, muesli bar, or something easy to digest)
  • Post-race fuel (protein shake or quick carbs)

You don’t need to overcomplicate it, but you do need something in the tank.


🧠 Pre-Race Setup Kit

These are the small things that make a big difference:

  • Towel (you’ll want it)
  • Change of clothes
  • Hat or sunnies if it’s outdoors
  • Sunscreen
  • Deodorant (your future self will thank you)

It’s all about comfort before and after your heat.


🦵 Body Prep & Support

If you’ve been training properly, you already know what your body needs.

Consider bringing:

  • Tape or strapping if you use it
  • Knee sleeves or wrist wraps
  • Foam roller or massage ball (for warm-up)

Nothing new here, stick to what you’ve used in training.


🎧 Extras That Help You Lock In

Not essential, but useful:

  • Headphones for your warm-up
  • Phone (for timing, music, or photos)
  • Small gym bag to keep everything organised

Keeping your setup clean and simple helps you stay focused.


❌ What NOT to Bring

Overpacking is just as bad as forgetting things.

Leave these at home:

  • Anything you haven’t trained with
  • Bulky gear you won’t use
  • Heavy meals right before your race
  • A complicated plan

👉 Keep it simple, keep it sharp.


⏱️ Night Before Checklist

Do yourself a favour and pack everything the night before.

Run through:

  • Gear laid out
  • Bag packed
  • Alarm set
  • Travel time planned

Race morning should feel controlled, not chaotic.


💬 Final Word

Race day isn’t just about fitness, it’s about preparation.

The more dialled your setup is, the more energy you can put into the actual race.

👉 Show up ready, stay focused, and back your training.

We’ll see you on the start line, Legend.