KNOW THE COURSE: The best thing to do is to incorporate runs along the marathon route into your training, but if it's too late for that, at least try to drive the course before race day. The first time I ran the Baltimore Marathon, well-meaning people kept yelling, Last hill! Last hill! as I staggered upward. Having run the route before, I knew it wasn t, but I have to think it was pretty dispiriting for people who heard that and were then surprised to discover there was plenty more uphill to go. If you re coming in from out of town, it's likely impossible for you to see much of the course before race day, but you can at least study the course map in advance so you have an idea of what sights to look forward to on the route, and to develop a plan for Gu, Gatorade, water, etc.
DON T STRESS ABOUT YOUR TIME: You may have a goal in mind, or even just a vague idea of how long you think a marathon should take, but try not to worry too much about it while you re out on the course. Take it easy. Don t try to push yourself and, above all, don t try to make up for a slow start. This is your first marathon, so you re setting a PR no matter what.
WALK THROUGH THE WATER STOPS: Olympians may look cool when they down some water, pour the rest on their heads, crush the cups and throw them to the side without breaking stride. The rest of us are better served by walking through the water stops. That way you have a better chance of actually drinking something, and it gives your legs a break. Any time you lose in the process you ll probably gain back by being fresher and better hydrated. Besides, you re not worrying about your time, remember?
You can read yesterday's tips from Sun reporter and marathoner Liz F. Kay here.
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