The anticipation is building, the excitement is palpable, and runners from all walks of life are gearing up for one of the most exhilarating events of the year – the City2Surf! This iconic event is held in August each year, and this year the date is set for the 13th.
It’s an event where participants take in the breathtaking city of Sydney and get to lap up the vibe and energy that it has become renowned for.
In this blog post, we unpack what to expect during the City2Surf and offer training and nutritional tips to help you perform at your best.
What is the City2Surf event?
Each year people from around the world flock to Australia’s Emerald City to take part in the City2Surf fun run. It brings together over 80 000 enthusiastic runners, starting in Sydney’s Hyde Park and ending on the world-famous Bondi Beach. The course stretches over 14 kilometres, taking runners through picturesque landscapes, bustling streets, and lively neighbourhoods. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Sydney, while still ensuring that you push your physical limits.
What makes the City2Surf such a popular event?
There are a few good reasons why the City2Surf is one of the most popular events in Australia. Firstly, it’s the largest fun run in the world. This alone attracts a lot of people as it’s a great bucket list item to tick off.
Secondly, it caters for a wide variety of runners. Seasoned athletes push themselves for their personal best over a shorter distance than what they may be used to running, and amateur runners will find the event doable but also a good challenge.
Next, there is the scenery. It’s a phenomenal run through some of the greatest parts of Sydney where runners pass a number of key landmarks. It’s a mix of city, suburbs, and beachfront. This unique blend of urban and coastal beauty adds an element of excitement that keeps runners coming back year after year. Bondi Beach provides the perfect finish, where runners can take a well-earned dip once they’ve crossed the finish line.
Then, of course, there is the vibe! The electric atmosphere and the unwavering support from spectators lining the route are truly unmatched. Also, the inclusive nature of the event fosters a sense of unity and camaraderie, making it an excellent platform for runners of all skill levels to come together and share their passion for fitness.
Training tips to dominate the City2Surf
You’ve committed to the City2Surf – now what? To prepare for a 14-kilometre run there are a few things that you need to have in place, especially if you are a novice. Having a well-thought-out training plan is key. Even if you’re a seasoned runner, a training plan will be the difference between success of failure.
These training tips will help you perform at your best during the City2Surf:
- Start early and gradually increase intensity: It’s important that you give yourself enough time to build up your endurance. Start with shorter runs and gradually increase your mileage as you go.
- Hill training: This one is important. Since the City2Surf course has some inclines, include hill training in your training programme. This will strengthen your leg muscles and improve your overall performance on race day.
- Long runs: Yes, we know – it’s not everyone’s favourite. But going the distance will make you race-ready. So, schedule one long run per week to simulate the race distance.
- Rest and recovery: As we mentioned above, make sure you include rest days in your training programme. Don’t underestimate the importance of rest and recovery.
- Practice in similar conditions: To be race day ready, you have to train in conditions similar to the big day. Run at the same time as the race to get your body used to pushing itself at that time of day and consider what the climate of the race will be like. This will help you prepare, both mentally and physically, for the City2Surf event.
Nutritional tips from Fixx Nutrition
Proper nutrition plays a pivotal role in fuelling your body for peak performance. Here are a few nutritional tips that will help your body prepare for the City2Surf event, and ensure that it performs at its best on the day.
- Stay hydrated: Hydration is key, both during training and on race day. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and consider carrying a small water bottle during the run.
- Pre-race nutrition: Consume a balanced meal rich in carbohydrates and moderate in protein the night before the race. This will provide your body with sufficient energy storage for the run.
- Race day breakfast: Eat a light, easily digestible breakfast a few hours before the race. Options may include oatmeal, a banana, or a peanut butter sandwich on whole-grain bread.
- Post-race recovery: Refuel your body within 30 minutes of finishing the run with a combination of carbohydrates and protein. Chocolate milk, a smoothie with protein powder, or a fruit yogurt bowl are great options.
- Listen to your body: This one is important. Each individual is unique, so pay attention to how your body responds to different foods and adjust your nutrition plan accordingly.
- Consider the right supplements and nutritional products: Make sure that you fuel your body with the right supplement and products during both your training and on race day. The good news is that Fixx Nutrition has a variety of high-quality natural products that are specifically designed for performance.
Get ready for race day
As the City2Surf approaches, it’s time to get race ready. This is an event that brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate fitness, friendship, and the joy of running. With proper training and nutrition, you can ensure that you’re fully prepared to take on the challenge and create lasting memories along the way.
So, lace up your running shoes, fuel up with Fixx Nutrition’s valuable tips and natural products, and get ready to dominate the World’s Largest Fun Run on 13th August 2023. See you at the starting line!
If you’d like to view our various products, head over to our nutritional products page. If you are worried about cramps on the day, try our popular Crampfix which offers very fast relief from muscle cramps.
