Running the New York City Marathon was one of the most thrilling moments of my life. I was hoping to run again this year, but wasn’t able to. Hopefully, there will be a marathon on my schedule next year.
Before the marathon, I did all the things that marathoners do before a race. I carbed up days before the race and made sure I drank plenty of water. I took it easy and didn’t risk doing anything that would strain my muscles. Chances are, if you are reading this to prepare for the marathon, you’ve done the same. You’ve researched nipple covers and are aware of what to eat and what to stay away from. Here are some other things to consider before running the NYC Marathon.
- I get asked for advice about running the NYC Marathon a lot, and my number one piece of advice is take toilet paper with you. Put it in a pocket, running belt, or a fanny pack. There are a lot of porta-potties on the route, and all of them will run out of toilet paper by the end of the day. The closer you get to the finish line, the less likely you’ll find some. Even if you need to stuff tissues in a pocket, you’ll be glad you did.
- I’m not a morning person and have difficulty with early-morning wake-up calls. On the days leading up to the race, I began waking up at an ungodly hour. That way, I wasn’t so out of sorts when the day of the race began.
- Find out when the buses are leaving for Staten Island and get there early. The lines are long, so be ready to stand in one spot and be extremely tired.
- When you get to Staten Island, you’ll see more bagels in one day than you’ll see in an entire lifetime. Bagels are everywhere. Just remember, what you eat comes out. The same goes for coffee. See the first tip.
- The party on Staten Island is a vibe. It’s where you get a first glimpse of how people are going to act throughout the day. It’s a positive atmosphere, and a good time is being had everywhere. Some people are dancing, some are sleeping, and many are stretching. Find your people and enjoy the moment. If you are running solo, this is a great time to find a running buddy.
- When you start, you’re going to have a big adrenaline rush. Remember your starting pace and don’t race ahead. Take it easy even though every part of you is going to want to take off.
- My calves seized up around the 20th mile. I went to the medical tent, but they were out of the muscle relief spray. I got stretched out, which helped a lot. Listen to your body. If a muscle is getting tight, go right away to have it treated.
- When you pick up your bib the day before the race, indulge yourself with some rewards. You’ve earned it. Buy the t-shirt or the glass. One of my favorite glasses to drink a beer from is a glass I bought at the pre-event.
- Write your name on your bib or your shirt. People will yell encouragement to you as you run by. I have never loved NYC as much as I did while running in the marathon.
- Enjoy the crowd. High-five people, drink a beer with them if you want, and have fun with the people. You will run by bars during the Brooklyn stretch, and people will hand out beers and shots. The crowd definitely helps you get through the race.
- Don’t stop on the bridges for a break. When you stop, it is hard to get going again, and the bridges can crush you. Especially the Queensborough Bridge. If you need to walk a bit, that’s fine. Just don’t stop.
- Be courteous. There are many people donating their time to help you on your special day. A “thank you” goes a long way.
- If someone special is rooting you on, have them bring you something to help get you over the edge. My family brought me energy gels and a banana, which were needed.
- Central Park sucks at the end. Your legs will be shot, and it will go on and on. It will seem like the longest mile of your life. I was not prepared for how bad I would feel at that moment.
- Budget for the photos. You ran the race, so be proud of yourself. Buy the photo to show off your accomplishment.
- If wearing an Apple Watch, put it on low power mode. My watch died towards the end of the race.
- Bring a small battery charger for your phone. You might need to make a phone call after the race and if you’ve been listening to music, your battery might be low.
- Ubers or super expensive after you get out of Central Park. My. plan at the beginning of the day was to take an Uber or a Taxi. After looking at the prices, the subway was the best bet. Be prepared for the subway ride home.
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Break up the marathon into sections and boroughs.
- Miles 1-2: Staten Island and the Verrazzano Bridge.
- Miles 3-12: Brooklyn
- Miles 13-16: Queens and into Manhattan over the Queensboro Bridge.
- Miles 17-21: North Manhattan
- Miles 21-23: Bronx
- Miles 23-24: Final push up Fifth Ave. into Central Park.
- Miles 24-26: Central Park for the last portion of the race.
20. Don’t stop at the finish line. It is a long walk to get out of Central Park. It will feel like the longest walk of your life. As soon as you stop, your legs will freeze up. Get your medal and cape and keep moving.
Running a marathon makes you feel you can accomplish anything. Have fun and enjoy the day. It isn’t a serious moment unless you’re trying to win it all. Chances are, you’re not running for time. You’ll be a main character for the day, so soak it up. And then, soak in the tub.
More marathon and running stories:
Thoughts After Running the NYC Marathon
10 Running Apps to Get You Moving and Help Accomplish Your Goals
Tips For Runners Over 40
8 Types of Runners You Hate to Cross Paths With
