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* Avoid injury. Don't do hard intervals or start doing an alternative workout to 'make up' for the reduction in tapering. Be careful to avoid injury through 'accidental exercise', such as chasing the dog, lifting furniture, etc.
* Stay off your feet as much as possible the week before the race. This can be tough if you are traveling for a race and want to sight see.
* Reduce caffeine [[Caffeine]] intake if you are a regular user. This is true if you are intending to use caffeine in the race or not. Reduced caffeine will make you tired and cranky, but it's may be worth it. (I find reduced caffeine also makes me hungry - YMMV)
* Limit stress as much as possible. The taper period tends to involve a lot of stress due to the change in training pattern and because of the looming race. Stress is catabolic (breaks down the body), and needs to be avoided as much as possible.
* Ensure you get plenty of sleep, especially the week before the race. The night before the race is not critical, but the few nights before that are important.