Here you can read a really valuable article how to improve you 5k time. It's all about fartlek , but the author puts it into control. How much you should run, how often, what should be breaks and what should be the time of your running distances. It's very helpful if you want to run 5k in a particular time. Enjoy and keep running :)
2009.11.01I found one article about Pre-race preparation. You can read it here . Thre are quite good tips for people who are preparing for the race.
Tips I like the most:
1. Watch something inspirational the day before the race. It helps you to stay focused and motivated.
2. Draw a map of the place where the race will be. All downhills, uphills and so on. It's really helpful, because if you know that after 2 miles is a hill, you slow down and don't waste so much energy - you will need it later.
3. If you are very stressed before the race - read a book, meditate, listen to the music - it helps you to relax.
And there are few more tips. I will really use them.
So have a nice next race, people :)