Race week! For an upcoming race I'll need to wake up about 2.5 hours earlier than I normally do. Should I try to wake up at this time all week in preparation, running the risk of getting not much sleep all week before the race, or should I wake up at my normal time all week and accept that I'll probably get less sleep the night before the race?
I wouldn't change up my sleep schedule for the race. Better to stack quality sleep days rather than toy around with it too much. The night before the race in my opinion is the less important one. Lots of people have performed well before races with little or no sleep beforehand due to nerves, new environment, etc.
I would however consider shifting your bedtime the night before the race by an hour if possible. Try to do your best to wind down and relax and consider taking some melatonin to help you fall asleep. Then bank whatever sleep you can get and excitement should help take over the wake-up process.
Thanks, I'll go with this strategy.
I usually wake up a few hours earlier than reporting time so I am fresh.
I rest in the car, eat my donut breakfast,pop a red bull and a 5 hour energy and a water sip...rest..warm up...put my number on....warm up a bit more, take a break, walk some..stretch...walk a bit more...
Breathe....focus and race
I support the prep time
Wow highly caffeinated! I'd be worried about having an accident. Otherwise sounds great.