Marathon checklist
Everything you need for your marathon or race
Did you successfully completed your longest training runs and does the stress start to rise? That red circle in your agenda comes very close now? That only means one thing: it's marathon time.
But what to carry to your marathon? Running shoes and clothes are obvious. But you better put some other essentials in your sports bag, too. It would be much easier to pack your bag with a checklist, wouldn't it?
With the Runners' lab checklist, you won't forget anything. Imagine: you're at the start of the race without your favorite music, compression sleeves or other essentials to run successfully over the finish line...
Thing to keep in mind for your marathon
Be prepared at the start of your marathon
During trainings, it's evindent: you step outside in your comfortable running clothes, music in the ears and maybe a pair of sleeves and a cap. But a marathon or other race bring some considerations.
The biggest different from your daily trainings, is the movement you have to make. After the trip towards start location, you probably have to pass by the bagage drop-off, than follows a toilet visit before you enter the start box. And there, you have to endure the nerve-racking minutes before the start sign.
That's why you should think of an extra sweater, jacket or pants to keep you warm. Also sleeves can be the solution, because you can easily roll them down during running.
Another important thing: your bib number. Did you pick it up before, don't forget to take it with you. If you have to pick it up on the day itself, keep your identity card with you. Also think of safety pins or a race belt to pin your bib number.
Experienced marathon runner:
"Wear an old sweater or pants in the starting box, that you can leave there when you start running. A lot of organisations carry these clothes for charity."
Comfortabel at the finish line
When you finish your training at home, changes are you jump immediately in the shower. That's not probable after a marathon. But your body cools down quickly after an intensive activity. An extra layer is therefore desirable. Also recovery is important, so take a recovery shake or bar with you in your baggage.
International marathon
You can go that extra mile, literally, and run a marathon abroad. Beside the running essentials, you should keep in mind other things. For example your usual breakfast or diner with carbs.
To guarantee a comfortable trip back home, a recovery device could be nice. A foamroller, massage gun or massage stick can do good for your muscles.
Also be prepared for the factors you can't control. The weather, for example. Probably you leave a few days before your marathon, so it's no bad idea to be prepared for every weather condition. A rain jacket, tight or buff may seem unnecessary now, but you never know what the weather forecast will bring.
Packed for your marathon with the checklist in hand? Than you're ready to be awarded for your hard work and trainings.
Let's go and run a marathon!
The marathon dream
To be well prepared for your marathon, you should do more than just pack your baggage. It's months of hard work and trainings.
Do you need some inspiration or motivation to start training towards your (first) marathon? Follow our own Runners' lab advisors in their road to the Berlin marathon.