When you are getting ready for a big fitness event, there are several things that you need to do to get ready. You want your body to be in its absolute top shape so that you enjoy the event, do well while you are doing it and reduce your risk of injuries. Training [http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fitness-training/HQ01305] can be grueling, but it will all be well worth the effort once you are done. That sense of satisfaction is incredible, whether you are running a 5k or even a marathon.

Before you get started with a training routine it is important to get an idea of your health status. You should start with a quick check up with your doctor, however, you might want to continue following up on some of your potential issues. If the doctor says that you have high cholesterol for instance, you will want to see if your hard work is paying off. No one is going to want to continually go back to the doctor, however. Instead, you can use the services at www.healthtestingcenters.com for all the health related tests that you might need.

Once you establish that you are healthy enough to really train you will have to decide how to get started. If you have been sedentary for a long time or are a total beginner, it is important that you know a bit about body mechanics and form so that you don't hurt yourself. You can find tips for training online [http://www.livestrong.com/exercise-routines/], in magazines, with personal trainers and even with phone apps. As long as you start slowly and build up gradually, you will increase your chances of great success with your goals.

In addition to training tips, you will also need to consider the right equipment and gear. Shoes are definitely an important factor to start with because they cushion your feet for running and can protect them from injury. Clothing, like running shorts are nice but may not be necessary until the actual event.

No matter what kind of event you want to train for, you should be looking to increase your strength (with weights) your flexibility and your cardiovascular fitness. The better your heart and lungs work the stronger you will be able to perform. Focus on finishing the event the first time and then improving your time on the next one. For some people, the thrill of competition is like a drug, one they never want to stop pursuing.