There is a lot of things to have to remember throughout the week leading up to race day. Over the past few years, I have lived and learned a lot through my race day experiences. While I cannot tell you everything that you need to do on race week, a few 'Do's and Don'ts' of race week are always a good thing to remember while prepping for your big race.
It might sound silly, but please be sure to double check the dates and times of the expo. Also, double check to see if the race allows you to have someone pickup your packet on your behalf (and what information is required to do so). Nothing would be worse than not getting your race bib because you didn't read. Find all the details about packet pick-up and expo here for the Pittsburgh Marathon weekend. |
The night before a race, I always lay out a flat runner. Not only does this allow me to photograph what I am wearing so my friends and family will be able to find me on course or after the race, it also allows me to double check my gear. After all of my race gear is laid out, I am able to quickly identify what I might be missing. Once I have everything together, I charge up any devices that need it and place everything in a pile together so I can quickly get ready in the morning. This helps reduce stress on race morning of trying to locate my socks or find my left shoe. The less stress you can put on yourself on race day, the better. |
You will have enough going through your mind on race day, so don't add extra stress by showing up "late" to the race. Be sure to be familiar with the parking situations such as where parking is permitted and any parking fees that might apply. You will also want to check for road closures that might impact your commute to the race as well. Obviously, mass transit it is always a great option (if available), but sometimes driving and parking is the only option. I am a firm believer of arriving early. You never know what traffic might bring or other things that are beyond your control. It is better to arrive early and have time to relax a bit before heading to the start than to be stressed out over making it to the race in time. |
I am a self proclaimed over user of porto potties pre-race. Weird? Yes. I would rather use the porto potty several times pre-race than to have to stop at mile 6 and stand in a 5 minute line and add minutes to my race time. Obviously things happen and you have to stop sometimes. Any time I pass a bank of porto potties on my way to the start line, I always like to go "one last time" to make sure that my bladder is empty. That my friends is your TMI for the day. |
Do Thank Volunteers Volunteers play such a vital role in race day success - from working the expo, directing you on course, handing you water along the way, to putting that medal around your neck, and the list goes on. Be sure to acknowlege the volunteers and thank them when possible for helping make the race happen. Yes, you might be out of breath as you get water from the final station, but you don't have to say "thank you" directly. A nice nod or little wave will do the trick. Remember, they are giving up their morning (and woke up at a ridiculous time of the morning) to be here for you. |
Even if it isn't toasty out, make sure to stay hydrated. Drink and take fuel before you feel like you need it. If you start to feel thirsty, your body is already getting dehydrated, so plan your hydration accordingly. Be sure to check out the course map for locations of water stations along the way. |
You just conquered 13.1 or 26.2 miles - CELEBRATE IT! When you cross the finish line of the Pittsburgh Marathon and 1/2 Marathon, there are some amazing photo opportunities right there. Capture a few pictures and selfies with your bling and shout your accomplishments all over social media. I mean, it isn't official until it is on Facebook, right? You worked hard to get to this moment, so enjoy it! Hang out in the park for a bit with fellow runners. Share stories with complete strangers about your race. Go out for a celebratory lunch with family and friends. Whatever you choose to do, just celebrate being awesome - you deserve it! |
It's pretty much a well-known fact that runners love to eat. Heck, some of us run just so we can justify a tasty post-run meal. Make sure you take time to get refueled after the race. Your body has worked hard and you have burned a lot of calories getting to that finish line. Make sure to get some carbs into you as soon as possible after crossing the finish line. I personally have to wait a few minutes before I can get anything down, but once you can, start getting some energy back into your body. Doing so will really help your body recover better. Personally, I cannot wait for my Smiley Cookie that will be waiting for me in the finisher's chute. This is probably not the best form of refueling, but it is something I can only have in Pittsburgh (unless Coach Jeff sends me some). No fear though, I will have real food shortly after. |