Training for a marathon includes so much more than the time on your feet. It’s about planning your pre-run meals, pacing, nutrition, sleep, hydration, transportation, injury prevention. After all of that there are still so many things you can’t control like weather or a late start time!
The NYC marathon has a later start than most because all athletes must get to the starting area before they can close the bridges to traffic and then begin the race. This means there is no sleeping in, having a leisurely breakfast and then making your way to the start. Nope we’ll be catching a shuttle at 6:15AM which means 3 hours of my very least favorite thing…WAITING.
In order to better prepare mentally and physically, I reached out to our Asics Coach Andrew Kastor (Deena Kastor’s husband) for a few tips that we can all use.
Tips for a late start and early bus to the finish:
1. Stay WARM! Bring as many articles of clothes as you possibly can to stay warm and dry. Keeping your muscles warm will allow you to jump right into your marathon pace. Shivering before a marathon is a killer! That burns too many carbohydrates right before the race.
2. Eat your main breakfast before you get on the bus to the starting line. Then bring with you some “easy” carbohydrates like a plain bagel or a banana along with some water, Gatorade (NYC), and a hot coffee if you like. -- Note NYC has sent out an email that they will have some of these things at the start area, but still always best to ensure you have what works for you.
3. Get off your feet! You will be on your feet for the entire length of the marathon so the more you sit or better yet, lay down the better.
4. Stay relaxed! Keep the nervousness levels down by breathing, talking with folks, listen to music, etc… Remember, all the hard work has been done and now it is time to cash in the rewards. Be excited about crossing the finish line in a few hours, visual positive outcomes of the race!
I’m never bashful about asking questions because for me more information is always better. Lately my questions have netted information that I need to be getting hills in as many workouts as possible. Which means you can now find me on the Key Biscayne bridge almost daily!!
Good luck to everyone with long runs this weekend!
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Gratitude Journal 
Sept 28
I am grateful for a home that is constantly flooded with natural light throughout the day.
