It may not be January anymore; new year resolutions might have been set in stone by now. But if you are still thinking of whether to train towards a PB this year, I would say go for it. A Personal Best (PB) is a goal that motivates you to run faster than you ever have.
Certain races are more suitable for runners to nail a PB than others. There are many factors to consider in choosing the right race to attempt a PB. Meiji Run 2017 might be the race you want to consider to go for a PB. Here’s why.
1. Cashback Rewards
Let’s talk money! If you complete the 10 km run in less than 50 minutes, you’ll be rewarded with $10 cash voucher, which can be used at Meiji Fair on the event day, with a minimum purchase of $20. That’s 50% saving!
Aim higher, complete the 10 km run in less than 40 minutes and a cash voucher of $50 will be yours to spend to your heart’s content. Considering that the ticket price for the 10 km run is $55 and finisher’s hamper is worth $20, earning a $50 cash voucher basically means you run for free.
Now, if you finish the 10 km run in less than 30 minutes, you’ll get $100 cash vouchers, chance of winning the first prize of $500, as well as a high possibility of setting the national record of fastest 10 km finisher, beating the current national record of 31:15.95 held by Soh Rui Yong. Are you tempted?
2. Race Condition
For the 10 km category, participants may choose 4 different waves (4:00 p.m., 4:05 p.m., 4:10 p.m., 4:15 p.m.). Meanwhile, 5 km runners can choose from 3 different waves (5:15 p.m., 5:20 p.m., 5:25 p.m.). This allows fast runners to run in front of the pack and avoid bottlenecks, increasing the chance of getting a PB.
The race will take place in Sentosa and involve reasonably flat terrain. Both 5 km and 10 km categories will flag off in the late afternoon from 4:00 p.m. and 5:15 p.m. respectively. According to College of William and Mary kinesiologists, 4.00 pm to 8.00 pm is the most conducive time for runners to accomplish greatest workout outcome, because during these hours, runners experience peak chronobiological oscillation where the body’s torque and hormones are at optimal levels to support muscles to perform at their peak.
Running in a humid country like Singapore is usually associated with continuous perspiration and increased body heat, which may adversely affect a runner’s performance. Luckily, Meiji Run 2017 is held at Sentosa, where the breeze blows constantly, reducing the speed at which heat builds up inside a runner’s body.
3. Race Entitlements
Runners of Meiji Run are truly spoilt with entitlements and food. Beside event tee and finisher medal, runners are showered with a Meiji bottle (10 km only), tote bag, towel, finisher hamper (worth $20) and option to purchase Hello Panda or Milk Cow at $5 per piece.
Leverage on the thoughts of savouring Meiji’s finisher hamper right after the finish line as a motivation to push you to break boundaries. After all, you deserve a delicious treat after a hard run.
4. Fun Activities and Meiji Fair
Food lovers will love the mini Japanese food fair that serves appetizing Japanese food and beverages. You can also catch a movie at the Outdoor Movie Screening if that’s your definition of cooling down. Don’t forget to preserve the memories of this fun day with your loved ones by visiting the Photo Booth.
Who doesn’t love shopping at discounted price? Meiji Fair is open to runners and public as well. Runners who shop at Meiji Fair get the chance to join lucky draw to win 2 air tickets to Japan. Furthermore, all customers who spend above $50 in a single receipt will get to spin the wheel prize to win Meiji products or limited edition Meiji plush toys.
Conclusion
The stars are aligned. The race route, flag off time, and location make Meiji Run a suitable choice to attempt a PB. The cashback reward is certainly a great incentive to push through your own limits. You are entitled to so many goodies and entertainment, such as Meiji’s finisher hamper, food fair, movie screening, photo booth, discounted goods and a chance to fly to Japan for free.
They say the sky is the limit. Don’t be afraid to dream and reach for it. Strive for a PB this year. The external conditions have been favourable for you to work towards a PB, now it’s your turn to train hard, eat the right nutrition and rest well.
Do you have any plans to achieve a PB this year? What’s your PB goals?
Sign up for before 14 April 2017 to enjoy early bird rates.