ObesityHelp

I wish I had known that I could have done the 10K.  You will get swept up in the atmosphere and it will carry you farther than knew.   I might drink an extra glass about an hour before but honestly for a 5K I wouldn't do anything different than I normally do.  After is when I might drink a few extra glasses and perhaps a replenishing drink. 

Wear less than you think you should.  Only once have I been in a race where I wish I'd worn more and that was a long race on Cape Cod in February where I really wished that I had gloves.  A quarter mile later there was a pair sitting on the ground waiting for me.

Anyway, as for warming up, perhaps a half mile of jogging to literally get the muscles warm.  If you want to throw in 3-4 accelerations for good measure, it probably won't hurt.  For your first race though, just lining up and going when everyone else does is good too.

Don't bring music to your first race.  Take in the atmosphere!

Get there 45 min to an hour before the race.  You will sit around feelig foolish for being so early but it will be a stress free wait.   Gives time to get your # on correctly, go to the bathroom a few times, warm up etc...

looks like everyone gave you good advice.  I like to get to races early so that I can check-in, stretch out, use the bathroom, etc.

i've raced with music most of the time, but my fastest times have been without, and I've really enjoyed the people when i don't have headphones. 

Otherwise, do what you normally do.  Don't wear anything new, just go with tried and true.

What I wish I knew on my first 5k?   I wish I knew that walking during it isn't a crime and that finishing IS winning.

I ran my first 5K last October.  I got so caught up in the moment, I was really running too fast.  Had to walk a few times and still finished at my regular time interval.  You think you're running slow when everyone is passing you up.  Just try to keep your own pace.  I have a water belt and wore that because it was hot and I needed to pour water over my head--Arizona.  Don't think that will be a problem in IL.

I just ate 1/2 of a protein bar that morning for breakfast.  I find I can't run after eating more than that in the AM or I get diarrhea.  Don't know why--just my system.

Have fun.

How was your first 5k experience? I'm sure you did a good job. Congratulations! :)

 I love running outside and I think your trainer is right try out different terrain. Can you do the 5k course for practice runs?
Like someone mentioned before wear a lightweight jacket you can tie around you or one you can drop and come back for.....keeping in mind you might never see it again.
I always trained with music but I have found some of the larger races frown upon music so it is up to you. I personally wished I never did start w music. 
Good luck it is addicting. I can honestly say I never ran a 5k I always chickened out but last year I did a half marathon and it was so much fun! Your gonna love getting caught up in the moment!
Congrats and goods luck!