Whether next Sunday’s NYC Half-Marathon is your first race or your 50th, it’s always good to head into race day with a few things in mind. The following six tips will get you to the start—and finish line—in good shape.

1) Arrive early - The race is scheduled to start at 7:00am, but you must be in your assigned corral by 6:35am. Start corrals open at 5:30am, so plan accordingly to allow adequate time to stretch, use the bathroom and warm up.

2) Never wear new running sneakers on race day - Make sure that you have trained in what you are racing in. By breaking in your sneakers prior to race day, you are limiting the chances of developing blisters.

3) Run your own race - Do not get caught up in the ‘mad rush’ at the beginning. Remember to stay true to your training and listen to your body. It is important that you remain at a comfortable pace.

4) Remain hydrated and be careful at water stations - During the race, water stations can become chaotic and overcrowded. Be sure that you do not cut off a runner on your way to water station. If you need to slow down or stop, make sure no one is behind you.

5) Continue through the finish line - Once you cross the finish line, make sure to continue to move and do not immediately stop. There will be runners behind you and you do not want to get in their way

6) Remember to cool down - After the race, you will be excited, but don’t neglect your cool down. Make sure to stretch, rehydrate THEN celebrate.

Good luck and enjoy the race!