Unless you are very new here, you know that a couple of weeks ago, I ran my first marathon. It was an absolutely incredible experience and I learned so many things through the training process and the actual race.
- Be prepared for all weather conditions. I was prepared for cold and I was prepared for heat. However, I listened to the forceast and wasn’t prepared for the rain. As I mentioned last week, my only regret is not changing my wet socks before the race. It was stupid and I paid a price for it.
- When traveling to a race, especially a marathon, think carefully about where you stay. I stayed about two blocks from the start line and less than a mile from the finish line. It was a great decision and I highly encourage you to think about the distance from start and finish lines when deciding where to stay.
- Running a marathon is an emotional experience. I really had no idea how emotional I would feel about the total experience. I’m not sure there is a way to prepare for that part, but it’s something to keep in mind.
- Running just 20 miles before race day isn’t enough. Let me be clear — this is just based on my experiences. I simply wasn’t prepared for how much things would hurt after mile 20. I’m definitely planning on running 22 miles before my next marathon. Knowing what happens after mile 20 will also contribute to having a bit more confidence before raceday. Again, everyone is different and it is VERY common for people to only run 20 before race day. But for me, I will make sure to run 22 before attacking the marathon again.
- Have a great plan. I really thought that the plan I used (Run Your First Marathon) worked well for me. I only missed a handful of runs and I was able to do most of my runs with a buddy. However, I really want to kick it into gear for my next marathon and so I’ve decided to do a formal training program this next time around. I’ll share more about that later this week, but it’s important to think about what kind of training plan will work for you.
What’s the #1 thing you learned at your first race?
These are all great tips, especially the one about traveling and choosing where to stay. Over Labor Day weekend, my husband ran the Rock ‘n’ Roll Virginia Beach half and I ran the 5k, and we decided to save money and stay further from the beach. This made for an earlier morning and a longer ride back to the hotel after the race. Although we saved a good amount of money, we’ll definitely rethink this decision before future races that we have to travel for.
Kathryn @ Dancing to Running recently posted…50 Days To Go!
Yes, it’s definitely a cost / benefit analysis. Sometimes saving money is worth it and other times (like when running for numerous hours), I think it’s better to just be close to the race!
Glad to read this Courtney. I am in the process of pouring through training plans and was debating 2 20 milers or making the second a 22 miler. Guess I know what I’ll do now!
Rose @ RoseRunsOn recently posted…Philadelphia Half Marathon Race Recap
It’s definitely a personal decision but I strongly encourage it! Especially considering that 20 is a pretty big mental block…having run past that will only help!
timely post – great tips!! I’m going to have to thik about the 20/22 miler thing! Still so proud of you 🙂
Mar @ Mar on the Run! recently posted…All Marathon, All the Time
I say, definitely do 22. Having just 4 unknown miles is different than 6 unknown miles — I don’t think you’ll regret having done the 22. Of course, you’re gonna rock it either way!
Great lessons learned!! I have never done a full but I do totally agree with staying a good proximity between the start and finish. ESPECIALLY close to the finish!!
Preshii @ The Coily Bombshell recently posted…Women’s Running Series Half Marathon St. Pete RECAP!
Thanks lady! When are you gonna train for a full? Especially since you ROCKED your half marathons!
The one marathon I did, we stayed about a block from the start and it was awesome! One of the best decisions we made!
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YES! It is so nice to be able to walk / stumble back to your hotel 🙂
Congratulations on your first marathon!! What a great list!
I’ve always done a 20 miler as my longest run, but I totally understand what you mean about feeling the need to go longer than that.
Best of luck training for your next race!!
Leana recently posted…Not giving in to the fear
Thanks for the tips. I always try to stay within walking distance of the race – just makes everything so much easier and less stressful. If I ever decide to try a marathon, I will join a formal running plan with my local running store. I think when going for that long, I will need the structure and buddy support.
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I’m really excited about training with a formal support group! I think it will be really beneficial.
I think remembering that just finishing is enough was very important for me. =)
Betsy recently posted…365/324: 30 Days of Thanks Day 21
Very true 🙂
Congrats! That was a HUGE accomplishment. I feel equally emotional and satisfied after finishing my century bike ride every year.
Thanks Becca — and a century is HUGE! I can not even imagine 🙂
Congrats on your first marathon, that is so exciting. I also loved your list. I think what I learned from my first race is to use the water stops!!
Wait … you ran a marathon?!? When did that happen? 😉 Just kidding.
These are really great tips, thank you. I always wondered why you never train the full 42.2km for a marathon when all other distances have you running as far if not farther in training. The Around the Bay I am training for has me doing the full 30km distance in training just a few weeks before race day.
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Congrats again! I have not done a full yet but these are all great tips. I’ve heard other runners also say how emotional running a full is and that they learn so much about themselves!
Meranda@fairytalesandfitness recently posted…The Perfect Winter Socks
Congratulations on finishing your first race. You’ll remember it for the rest of your life for sure, like I remembered mine as if it was just yesterday. Running is emotional, it just gets to that part of your heart, mind and soul like nothing else. Keep running and discovering. Good job again! 🙂
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Great tips!
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