March 6, 2025

Training for any race takes dedication and hard work. Here is a list of things you can do to get prepped for Bloomsday 2025, held on Sunday, May 4.

Get Started on a Running or Walking Program

There are endless options to improve your endurance when preparing for a long-distance run or walk. Find one that best caters to your needs and goals. Interval training is a great way to get your heart rate up and give your body the boost it needs to keep running during steady periods. If you plan on walking, it’s a good idea to get into a weekly or even daily walking routine to prepare your muscles and joints for the 12-Kilometer trek through Spokane’s streets.

Join a Team or Find a Partner

Exercising with other people can often be a lot more fun than going by yourself. When we have a reliable teammate or partner to push us, we tend to reach past our own expectations and achieve our goals more effectively.

Increase Your Water Intake

It is recommended that a person drinks between five and eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day. When preparing for Bloomsday, it’s important to consistently drink water throughout the day and get in the habit of drinking water before you are even thirsty.

Visit Your Provider

Though Bloomsday participants run and walk at all levels, it’s a good idea to visit your healthcare provider before starting a training program to make sure your health is not at risk.

Start Stretching Regularly

It is always good to stretch before and after doing any strenuous physical activity, but daily stretching is great for increasing flexibility to prevent future injury. If you don’t have much experience with stretching, taking up a yoga class or even finding a TV program that teaches stretching, yoga, or Pilates at home could be beneficial to your Bloomsday experience.

Follow a Structured Training Plan

Consider following a structured training plan that gradually increases your mileage and includes a mix of easy runs, long runs, and speed workouts.

Focus on Nutrition

Eating a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats will fuel your training. Don’t forget to include plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Get Proper Footwear

Invest in a good pair of running shoes that provide the right support for your feet. Visit a specialty running store to get fitted, if possible.

Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to any signs of pain or fatigue. Rest and recovery are just as important as the training itself.

As Bloomsday 2025 approaches, focusing on the key areas above will help ensure you’re ready to have fun and give it your all. Spokane’s streets await—let’s make this Bloomsday your best yet!