Once upon a time, I was scrolling Pinterest and saw a photo of a woman running at Walt Disney World. In a tutu. And I said, "I'm going to do that someday." About seven years and 12 medals later, I've definitely earned my RunDisney crown and it's my favorite thing to recommend to friends and family! But what about registration? And early wake-up calls? And costumes? Let's break down my biggest DOs and DON'Ts of running Disney!
To learn more about the race schedules and themes, distances, challenges, times, and locations, visit rundisney.com
DO Plan ahead for registration day
The first thing you need to do for ANY RunDisney event is check the registration dates. RunDisney has become so popular that you'll absolutely want to be online the minute your event registration opens, which is usually a Tuesday morning at 10am EST about 6 months before the race. I like to log in about 10-15 minutes early and wait in the queue, and I usually log in from multiple devices. You also want to set up your profile at https://manage.rundisney.com/login ahead of time so that you can already have your personal info and payment method saved. If you already have a Disney account (MyDisneyExperience, Disney+, etc.), you can use the same login credentials.
DON'T Run without training
Yay, you got a spot in the race of your choice! Now the real work begins. Many people make the mistake of thinking that because this is a Disney race, it's kind of a blow off. In reality, all distances except the 5k are timed and runners are expected to maintain a 16 minute per mile pace. So it's super important that you train appropriately for your race. If you believe you should start in an earlier race corral, you'll also need to submit proof of time from an official timed race (distances vary), so make sure to check your event for requirements. Additionally, the Florida and California weather can be tricky - one weekend I ran a 5k in the rainy 40s on Friday and a half marathon in the sunny upper 80s-low 90s... on Sunday! It's important to get up to speed for your RunDisney race - literally. I really enjoy the Jeff Galloway training plans, which you can find here. Most training plans start 3-5 months before race day.
DO Book your Race-Cation
The best part about running Disney? Being at Disney! If you're not a local (or even if you are), this still counts as a vacation - so as soon as you know you're in for the race weekend, it's time to book your resort hotel and park tickets. I always recommend staying on Disney property for race weekends, as you will receive complimentary transportation to the race expo and to/from the race itself. This is extra important when you factor in the heavy traffic and road closures on race day! Also double check your arrival date and make sure you have time for attending the Race Expo - no one can pick up your bib for you, and there's no day-of pickup option. You'll need to be there at least one day before your event to get yourself set up. When you're making park and dining plans, be sure to factor in proper fueling and rest. For example, would you rather hit the parks for 4 days and then run on what I call "Disney feet"? Or is it better for you to race and then go hard in the parks? What about that extravagant sit-down meal - is 8 PM the night before your race the best time for your reservation? You may also want to consider that runners have a VERY early wake-up call - think 2:30-3:00 AM - so find a room that allows you to get ready without potentially disturbing the rest of your travel party. And definitely plan something special to celebrate your magical miles! A fireworks dessert party, delicious brunch, or even a photo shoot with your new bling can really elevate your experience. Of course, I recommend using an experienced Disney runner and complimentary Vacation Planner to handle all the details - contact me to get started.
DON'T Skip the costume!
A RunDisney race is a veritable parade of magical looks - from tutus to light up cutouts, full Princess gowns to sleek running tights. Most runners DO dress for the occasion - so pick your favorite character or a look that fits the theme! Not too sure about running in a fancy get-up? You can always modify your go-to gear with a character-inspired color palette, or wear the race shirt you'll pick up at the Expo. Even a headband or small accessory can take your race from dull to Disney!
DO Attend the Race Expo
Each race weekend also has an Expo that begins the day before the weekend's first event. The Expo is mandatory for getting checked in and picking up your race bib(s), but it's also a great place to spend time! First is the merchandise - RunDisney releases special event weekend merch, and it has become VERY popular. So popular, in fact, that they're now using a virtual queue system to keep lines and crowds shorter. Make sure you get a spot in the queue by logging into your MyDisneyExperience app the morning you plan to visit the Expo. You can also check out the Expo hall itself, which has so many wonderful vendors each year that can help you make your run more magical and more enjoyable. In addition to Disney and non-Disney inspired running gear like headbands, shirts, shoes, and sunglasses, you will find running fuel, massage and stretching options, and even a KT Tape booth where they'll actually tape you up for the weekend. PLUS the Expo often has fun photo ops and even surprise character meet & greets! I always end up spending about 2-3 hours browsing, shopping, and taking it all in.
Want to know what an actual RunDisney race day looks like? Head to PART TWO of my DOs & DON'Ts of RunDisney post!
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