The Day Before a Marathon

What happens the day before a marathon?

I visited the race location for the marathon to pick up my running "bib" and race packet. At this race, there was also a table labeled "SWITCH" for people who had registered for the full marathon and wanted to switch to the half. I was happy not to need this table!

My running bib for the marathon! #261

Race organizers usually hand out a shirt or a even better...a jacket! I was happy to get another running jacket!

Carb-load! It's very important to eat lots of carbohydrates before a marathon. I am gluten/wheat-intolerant, which means I usually eat rice or potatoes.

It's very important to stay hydrated  the day before a marathon !

It's very important to rest the day before a marathon. I try not to do anything out of the ordinary. No running, jumping, rearranging the furniture (to prevent tripping), running down the stairs, or wearing shoes that will pinch my toes!

Pour over your running schedule, lamenting how wrong it is to not run and yet eat so much! (You'll note that I had 2 very easy weeks in September. This was to prevent a running injury...and it worked!)

I keep my eye on the clock to make sure that I am pacing myself well throughout the day. I need to make sure that I get everything done before I get to bed. I also like to try to think about how I am going to feel "24 from hours from now..."

Get your shoes and clothes ready for the race.

Essentials for the marathon: Aleve to help with inflammation, Immodium to help prevent "runner's diarrhea,"  Vaseline to prevent help prevent chafing, Gu is on-the-go nutrition for endurance athletes, Snickers bars for more on-the-go nutrition, and my inhalers. 

Another shot of my supplies - this time with my running sunglasses and some Gatorade - Rain-style.  Missing from this picture is my GPS sports watch, which made all the difference in my Smuttynose race.

I never would have run a 4:05:03 without this baby!