By Adriana Noton
Many runners use mascot costumes as a way of generating additional interest and cash for good and charitable causes. Anyone who has run in a public race of any size will have encountered fellow runners in a whole variety of bizarre outfits. However, the activity is not as straightforward as it looks and there are a number of considerations when it comes to running safely.
Comfort is always important when running a long distance, so it is wise not to neglect thinking about what will be worn immediately under the costume. Friction is the enemy of all runners, and can cause all kinds of skin problems which can be very uncomfortable. It is wise to wear sensible running shorts under the costume, and to make sure that the legs are not restricted in any way by the suit.
Comfort is always important when running a long distance, so it is wise not to neglect thinking about what will be worn immediately under the costume. Friction is the enemy of all runners, and can cause all kinds of skin problems which can be very uncomfortable. It is wise to wear sensible running shorts under the costume, and to make sure that the legs are not restricted in any way by the suit.
How a runner sees should also be considered carefully. Many outfits have a large head piece which can be bulky and obstruct sight, impeding progress and making the runner uncomfortable and stressed. This can also lead to breathing difficulties and feelings of panic, not pleasant experiences when the body is stressed due to running long distances.
There is also the vital question of hydration to consider. It is self-evident that a runner who is carrying more weight in the form of a novelty costume will sweat considerably more than someone in lightweight running gear. Drinking more fluid during a race may well be necessary, and it is important to consider how this will be managed while wearing an outfit, while energy gels provide useful carbohydrate top-ups.
Keeping cool will also help with matters relating to hydration and energy levels. Wearing an outfit which can be dismantled easily means that a runner can keep cool as the race progresses without having to stop for too long or altogether due to the heat. The way in which the outfit attaches should also be accessible.
It is also important not to wear too many layers beneath an outfit as this can mean that the body's core temperature can climb too quickly. Lightweight gear is the best option, with the minimum required to be comfortable the best option to take. This will help prevent fluid and energy being burnt away unnecessarily.
Training properly is important for any runner at any level of event, in order to assess how much extra liquid and additional carbohydrate they might need. Preparation will always mean that the race will go better, and training whilst wearing an outfit is the on
There is also the vital question of hydration to consider. It is self-evident that a runner who is carrying more weight in the form of a novelty costume will sweat considerably more than someone in lightweight running gear. Drinking more fluid during a race may well be necessary, and it is important to consider how this will be managed while wearing an outfit, while energy gels provide useful carbohydrate top-ups.
Keeping cool will also help with matters relating to hydration and energy levels. Wearing an outfit which can be dismantled easily means that a runner can keep cool as the race progresses without having to stop for too long or altogether due to the heat. The way in which the outfit attaches should also be accessible.
It is also important not to wear too many layers beneath an outfit as this can mean that the body's core temperature can climb too quickly. Lightweight gear is the best option, with the minimum required to be comfortable the best option to take. This will help prevent fluid and energy being burnt away unnecessarily.
Training properly is important for any runner at any level of event, in order to assess how much extra liquid and additional carbohydrate they might need. Preparation will always mean that the race will go better, and training whilst wearing an outfit is the on
Keeping cool will also help with matters relating to hydration and energy levels. Wearing an outfit which can be dismantled easily means that a runner can keep cool as the race progresses without having to stop for too long or altogether due to the heat. The way in which the outfit attaches should also be accessible.
It is also important not to wear too many layers beneath an outfit as this can mean that the body's core temperature can climb too quickly. Lightweight gear is the best option, with the minimum required to be comfortable the best option to take. This will help prevent fluid and energy being burnt away unnecessarily.
Training properly is important for any runner at any level of event, in order to assess how much extra liquid and additional carbohydrate they might need. Preparation will always mean that the race will go better, and training whilst wearing an outfit is the only viable method of really acclimatising to how it will feel during the race. Weather also plays a part, and the effects of rain or similar can only be assessed by wearing the suit and running in it.
The final consideration is for runners using mascot costumes to always have additional help around the course on the day of the race. It can be a good idea to have a non-costumed running partner to go around the course to help. Having other helpers at intervals around the route to provide additional drinks and other aids is also useful.
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It is also important not to wear too many layers beneath an outfit as this can mean that the body's core temperature can climb too quickly. Lightweight gear is the best option, with the minimum required to be comfortable the best option to take. This will help prevent fluid and energy being burnt away unnecessarily.
Training properly is important for any runner at any level of event, in order to assess how much extra liquid and additional carbohydrate they might need. Preparation will always mean that the race will go better, and training whilst wearing an outfit is the only viable method of really acclimatising to how it will feel during the race. Weather also plays a part, and the effects of rain or similar can only be assessed by wearing the suit and running in it.
The final consideration is for runners using mascot costumes to always have additional help around the course on the day of the race. It can be a good idea to have a non-costumed running partner to go around the course to help. Having other helpers at intervals around the route to provide additional drinks and other aids is also useful.
About the Author:
We specialize in creating the best mascot, storing, repairing, and cleaning them. We also provide trained performers. Loonie Times Mascot Character Productions 1720 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M6R 1B3, Canada +1 416-504-2146