Chicago Marathon Preparation

The Chicago Marathon has finally arrived! You should be thrilled with all of your hard work and dedication and sacrifice – you’re almost ready to compete!

But listen, we’re all human. Even the most experienced runners can make rookie mistakes as the final hours tick down. It is crucial not to let the added jitters of the day before – or even the day of – mess with your “runner mojo.” We know that you know how to run and how to prepare: you wouldn’t be running the big one if that weren’t the case. But, we at The Running Institute have some useful tidbits that we found out about the hard way.

Heed the following advice and it will help keep you safe, fit, and competitive.

The Day before the Race

Don’t change your gear: use the same shoes and clothes that you used during your last longer races. Remember that 26.2 miles is a long way to be battling uncomfortable shoes, a chafing tank, or a pesky clothing tag.
Put together a gear bag: You never know what you’ll need once you get to the race. You don’t want to be without something small but crucial, like extra shoelaces, gloves, sunscreen, or a hat, to name a few items. It’s easy to forget something that seems like an afterthought – but you’ll be happy to not only have more than enough but also to have a place to tuck your sweats away before the start gun blasts. Get this out of the way a few days before so you can put your mind to rest.
Manage your liquids: Besides staying hydrated (obvious), you should bring with you a hydration belt filled with the sports drink that you trained with. The refreshment offered at the race, Gatorade Endurance Formula, may upset your stomach or you may not like how it tastes. Even small fluctuations in the levels of sugar you take in can upset your stomach, according to clevelandclinic.org, so go with what you know.
Logistics: Whether you live in the city or are from out of town, you should study the race map a few times. This will help you identify where the restrooms are, as well as aid and water stations – this will make your life less stressful while pounding the pavement. Also, plan where you are going to park – and how to get to the course.

The Day of the Race

Early to Bed, Early to Rise: Make sure you are in bed at a reasonable hour - even if you don’t expect to sleep much due to nervous energy - and that you get up on time. The last thing you want is to add to the excitement by being rushed. Arrive at the start at least an hour before the race. Trust us, you’ll have plenty to do (like waiting in line at the restrooms near the start or getting your bib pinned on). Even though you have plenty of time, don’t spend it walking around too much or warming up: you’ll be warm enough from walking from the car.
Follow your long race routines: You should take in calories before the big race but be sure to mimic your dietary intake you had for other long races and training runs. And remember the little tricks that work for you and make you happy, like lubricating any areas where chafing has been a problem for you in the past, or wearing a certain favorite pair of socks. Even little things can give you peace of mind. Bring some old clothing to wear to keep yourself warm (like old socks for your hands, etc) at the starting area – you can strip it off at the start and feel warm and fuzzy because that clothing will be donated to charity!
Secure whatever food and drink is coming with you on the run.

Remember, there are many other factors when it comes to running a marathon. If you have any questions or concerns that are more specific to you or that weren’t mentioned here, give us a call at 866-696-7988. We’re happy to help! And remember, the most important thing to do on the big day is TO ENJOY YOURSELF!!