If you are like most serious runners, you have dreamed of running a Marathon. You have done all of the preparations for the big race, getting fitted for proper running shoes, learning how to stay hydrated through long runs and varying your workouts will help you build the endurance to trek all 26.1 miles to the finish line on race day. But if you’re unfamiliar with new running locations or have just started branching out into the nationwide marathon circuit, you may not know about some time- and money-saving tips that will keep you going as you prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Learn about the Trail
After you register for your out-of-town marathon, look up the trail information and try to mimic the training in your own area. You may encounter entirely new terrain and obstacles so plan a route and a routine that reflects the race you’ll be running. This will help you to prevent injury on race day, and enable you to reach your time goals.
Prepare for the Weather
Even if the race you are running is located in your home town, you need to be prepared for a wide variety of weather. If you are running a summer race, be sure you take ample amounts of sunscreen with you, and reapply frequently throughout the race. If the weather could be cooler, be sure to layer up and protect your body. If your body core temperature drops too much as you race you could be setting yourself up for immediate and delayed illness. Don’t let the excitement of the race keep you from preparing adequately.
Book a Good Hotel
Finding good accommodations for an out-of-town race can be costly and difficult the closer it gets to race day. If you’re planning on running the Oklahoma City Marathon, for example, consider booking downtown Oklahoma City hotels early to save on cost. Look for hotels near the race trail that offer special amenities to marathon participants. The better you sleep in the week leading up to the race, the better you will perform. Taking pains to find a good hotel will ease your stress and help you be more focused on the experience you have been preparing for.
Find Quality Companionship
Training for a marathon isn’t easy, but the fitness rewards are worth it. Make sure you you get the support you need to make your dreams a reality. Look for local running clubs, or a friend with a similar goal that you could run with. Make sure that you and your companion/s get the workouts you need without overdoing it. It can be too easy to try and keep up with a more athletic friend and injure yourself. Finding a companion to train and race with is worth the effort, as you will be able to share this amazing accomplishment with someone else.
Take What You Need
In an unfamiliar setting, you may not be able to count on local stores stocking the right equipment for your run. When you pack, make sure you take everything you need. If you’re flying, try to fit everything for race day into a carry-on case to avoid the chance of losing your luggage and all your running gear before the race.
Planning a marathon takes energy and determination on and off the trail. Get ahead of the game by organizing your trip early and familiarizing yourself with the new location. You’ll be much better prepared to finish the race if you have a strong grasp on where you’re staying and how to get around afterward. Whether you’re participating in small-town races or large metropolitan events, these five tips for planning your next marathon will help you avoid the stress of unfamiliar territory.