7 Essential RunDisney Training and Planning Tips for Beginners

Want to know how to start your RunDisney training and how to plan for your runDisney event? These 7 must-do RunDisney training and planning steps will make for more magical miles!

Just starting out with Run Disney and overwhelmed? You have come to the right place! Run Disney events are some of the most magical races on earth, combining the thrill of running with the enchantment of Disney parks. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a first-time participant, these races offer something for everyone.

This post is all about the 7 essential RunDisney training and planning tips for beginners.

Table of Contents

Essential RunDisney Training and Planning Tips for Beginners

1. Choose your race wisely

Run Disney offers a variety of races throughout the year- ranging from 5Ks (3.1 miles), 10k (6.2 miles), half marathons (13.1 miles) to full marathons (26.2 miles). Consider your running ability and choose a race that suits your fitness level. You can find a list of upcoming races on RunDisney.com

2. Register early

Run Disney events are incredibly popular and sell out quickly. Make sure to register as soon as possible to secure your spot in the race. See my Run Disney Planning video for a complete run down on how to register. Key takeaways from this video include:

Be on the runDisney.com site a few minutes before registration opens up. This is generally 10am ET / 7am PT on the day listed in the calendar for general runDisney registration. Note that Club RunDisney members have their own early registration, and virtual runDisney races have a later registration date.
Have your credit card information ready so there are no delays when trying to register- runDisney registration is stressful and a time crunch situation so be sure to have everything you need.
Be sure to have your t-shirt size, and proof of time (if you are trying to get approved for an earlier corral based on prior race times. See my runDisney pace requirements and proof of time blog for more info)
And speaking of having everything you need- if you are registering children be ready with their date of birth and t-shirt size too.

3. Train properly

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned runner, it’s important to train for the distance you’ll be running.

Follow a training plan that includes running, cross-training, and rest days. I like to follow the Jeff Galloway training plan that can be found on RunDisney.com. One great tip is if you hear huffing and puffing, take more frequent walk breaks. Walk breaks will speed up recovery and allow you to last through the race/run. Per Galloway, “The early walk breaks erase fatigue, and the later walk breaks will reduce or eliminate overuse muscle breakdown”.
Start a supportive eating plan– balancing protein, fat, and carbs. Be sure to eat them together to have lasting energy.
If you are training for a long distance (the half, full marathon, or any of the challenges), you will need quick fuel for extended miles. I like Skratch Labs Energy Chews (but these do have caffeine so if you are caffeine sensitive then you may want to choose Gu Energy Nutrition Gels which offer Branched Chain Amino Acids for energy. Both gels offer quick sources of carbs (glucose and fructose) to fuel endurance runs.
For shorter distances, you can do well with just having a small pre-race meal that includes a protein, fat, and carbohydrate source like a protein-type bar. I like Go Macro Bars, and putting electrolytes, like Nuun tabs or Liquid IV, in your water as it gets hot during these races (of course using these electrolytes during longer races is important too).

4. Plan your trip

If you’re traveling to Disney for the race, plan your trip carefully. I highly recommend (if your budget allows) staying at a Disney Resort, particularly a Deluxe Disney resort, as many of them are closer to the start of the race. You will be getting ready and headed to the starting line VERY EARLY, so the closer you are to that starting line, the better.

Some great Disney value resorts have free transportation to the starting line too!

5. Pack accordingly

Don’t forget to pack your running gear, sunscreen, race nutrition, post-race recovery items, and running belt- there are so many things to remember- check out my FREE Run Disney packing list (pop-up link is on my website) so you don’t forget a thing!

I also have a great blog on what to pack for your runDisney trip, which includes my favorite ideas for post-race recovery items like

MioMuscle Motivator Gel
Biofreeze Pain Relief Gel
Deep blue essential oil blend

If you’re staying at a Disney resort, you can have your race bib and other items delivered to your room to save time.

6. Arrive early

On race day, plan to arrive at the starting line early to avoid crowds and ensure that you have plenty of time to warm up. You usually want to be on the bus, or on your way to the race starting place, by 3:30 am EST (I know rough right?). Be sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before. Go to sleep by at least 9pm EST, if not earlier. Bring anything you may need to ensure good sleep- a sleeping mask, white noise machine or app, and even some herbal sleep tea, are great helpers for sleep.

7. Enjoy the experience

Run Disney events are more than just races – they’re a way to soak in Disney magic while challenging yourself. Take in the sights and sounds of the Disney parks, and enjoy the company of fellow runners and Disney characters along the way. There are typically 3-6 different character meet and greets along the runDisney race course, depending on what length runDisney race you are participating in.

With these tips in mind, you’re ready to take on the magic of Run Disney training, and to participate in a magical runDisney event! Lace up your running shoes and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

This blog was all about 7 Essential RunDisney training and planning tips!