With THON Weekend just around the corner, it’s time to make those final preparations. Whether you’re dancing, volunteering, or supporting your friends from the stands, this weekend will test your stamina and commitment to a great cause. But don’t worry, if you prepare correctly, your weekend will be a lot more manageable.

Here’s your ultimate checklist to make sure you’re physically, mentally, and logistically prepared for the weekend ahead.

Cut Out Caffeine & Hydrate

If you rely on caffeine to power through your days, it may be past the point of weaning off of it and could be time to cut it out completely, cold turkey. Take these next few days to acclimate yourself to no caffeine. You don’t want to experience caffeine withdrawal mid-THON Weekend.

Instead of coffee, tea, and energy drinks, reach for your water bottle instead. Even if you’re not dancing, keeping your energy stable without caffeine will help you stay alert and engaged, whether you’re in the stands or supporting dancers during committee shifts.

Get Moving & Stretch – But Don’t Overdo It

Standing for 46 hours isn’t an easy feat, and the more prepared your body is, the better. Work on building up your stamina with cardio workouts, and focus on stretching to keep your muscles loose. The goal is to stay as comfortable as possible during the weekend. Maybe try a beginner yoga class or go for a walk on a treadmill (it is way too cold outside). Don’t go and hit PRs on a leg day in these next couple of days.

If you’re a dancer, remember, that once THON Weekend starts, Dancer Relations Committee members will be there to help with stretches during the hourly line dance, but you’ve got to do your part now to try to avoid unnecessary soreness.

Have Comfortable Shoes

When you’re standing for hours, blisters will be your worst enemy. Make sure you’re wearing the right pair of sneakers, ones that fit your feet properly and that you’ve already broken in. Whether that is a pair already in your closet or a pair you are buying today, wear them as much as possible in these last few days. Make sure they are the right pair of shoes to prevent any discomfort during the weekend. 

Stock Up On THON Gear 

If you already feel you are too late to get the good stuff, remember that Amazon Prime exists. THON Weekend only comes around once a year, so make the most of it. Think fun socks and colorful tutus. Having a high-energy outfit, even if you don’t have that energy mid-way through the weekend, might help to motivate you, or you might help motivate someone else who is struggling to make it through.

Dancers, make sure you have a fanny pack. It isn’t as much fun as tutus and socks, but it is necessary so you can have all of your essentials attached to you without having to carry a bag.

Get A Clear Bag

For those attending THON Weekend in the stands, make sure you’re aware of the clear bag policy in place at the Bryce Jordan Center. Backpacks won’t be allowed, so make sure you have a clear bag that meets the required size (no larger than 12” x 12” x 6”). You’ll be glad you have it when you skip the hassle at the gate.

Get Ahead On Schoolwork

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of THON Weekend approaching, but you’ll thank yourself later if you can get your work done before the weekend hits. Even though THON Weekend is all about dancing, fundraising, and supporting, you’ll still have assignments waiting for you, or even worse, deadlines during the 46 hours. Get ahead on your schoolwork during these next few days so you can focus on recovering after the weekend rather than worrying about unfinished assignments.

Stay Healthy

In the lead-up to THON, it’s important to be cautious about your social interactions, especially if you’re a dancer. Large crowds or packed venues could increase your risk of getting sick. If you’re planning on going out, be considerate of your health and the health of others. Above all, remember that this weekend is about the kids, and we all need to make sure their experience is as positive and safe as possible.

Rest Up

Lastly, but maybe the most crucial, get your sleep. The key to surviving THON Weekend is being as well-rested as possible. Since you won’t be getting much in the way of sleep during the weekend, depending on your role, get it in now. Getting a few good nights of sleep will set you up for success, so prioritize rest now and make sure you’re well-rested when the weekend begins.

We dance in two, folks!