You’ve been training the last twenty plus weeks for your fall marathon and believe it or not it is finally here!
Both the big Detroit and Grand Rapids Marathons are coming up fast, and all of your hard work will soon be put to the test of 26.2 grueling miles!
To help ensure a great race and marathon experience, make sure you consider the following before the big day arrives:
1 – Hydrate
It was a blistering 90 degrees when you started your marathon training, and now we are hitting 60 degrees if we are lucky, most days not even coming out of the 40s or 50s. When it is hot it is easier to remember to drink plenty of fluids, but when the temperature drops some people forget or don’t think it is as important to hydrate. Just like in warm temperatures you risk severe cramping and dehydration from not keeping your body hydrated before and during your marathon training and the race. A water belt is great for long runs and will ensure you always have electrolytes close by.
2 – Taper
Make sure you follow the recommended training plans and taper off before the race. It may seem counter-productive to drop your miles before the event but it is essential not only to be fully rested before the race but also to reduce the risk of injury. As your miles increase the chance of injury also increases, and the last thing you want to happen is to get hurt right before your marathon. Listen to your body and also pay attention and catch “little” injuries early before they can get out of hand.
3 – Apparel
What kind of top should you wear during a marathon? With the cooler temperatures, we’ve seen quite a few runners continue to wear their race singlets or technical shirts along with running sleeves to cover their arms. This way you will be warm when the race starts but can easily roll down the sleeves if you get to warm during the race.
Compression is also popular, not only to improve your race performance but also to aid in your recovery.
What tips do you have for running a fall marathon?
