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HKBU Marathon Team gets ready for the race with running tips from academics and experts
29 Dec 2023
The Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon (SCHKM) is set to take place on 21 January, 2024, with many runners eagerly intensifying their training to achieve their best performance at the race. HKBU Marathon Team, comprising students, alumni and staff, has participated in training sessions led by Hong Kong’s long-distance running expert and former half-marathon and 10K champion, alumnus Chan Ka-ho, learning valuable lessons from his extensive experience in the past two months.
Professor Patrick Lau Wing-chung, Associate Head and Professor of the Department of Sport, Physical Education and Health at HKBU, pointed out some common misconceptions among runners. For instance, some believe that morning exercises can easily boost speed and fitness, but reality proves otherwise. Recent studies suggest that over-focusing on the same set of muscles can lead to injuries. He advocates for a scientific approach to training, including proper attire, adequate sleep, and monitoring weather and health metrics, like heart rate, for better results.
Professor Lau also said that runners should avoid trying new things on the race day, such as unfamiliar shoes or breakfast, to avoid unexpected complications.
Elite student athlete Wong Tsz-to, a two-time winner of the 10K race at the SCHKM and a bronze medalist in the triathlon relay at the Hangzhou Asian Games, aims for another 10K victory this year. He advises runners to start conservatively, especially due to the challenging uphill sections in the latter part of the race. This strategy helps prevent the “hitting the wall” syndrome, characterised by sudden dizziness, weakness, and nausea.
Tsz-to also recommends energy gels before the race and replenishing energy with bars and water at rest stops, ensuring the quantities are adequate throughout the event.
