Last minute tips/tricks and what NOT to do on Marathon/Half-Marathon Day

[escape]

We've seen tips and tricks about preparing for the BIG day but does anyone have anything to share about what didn't work for you?

One that I can think of was drinking a bottle of Powerade before the Half-marathon last year along with a lot of water. Due to the heat and humidity, I actually got a little nauseated and by mile 5, I wasn't feeling too well. I think the sweetness from all the Powerade made me feel that way. If I would have taken it in smaller doses along the way, I don't think I would have had this problem.

Another problem, I wore the Thorlos thick socks. I didn't know any better. I had trained in them all fall and winter with no problems and of course the rule is - don't try anything different the day of the race. By mile 9, due to the heat and humidity and the fact that I sweat a lot, I started getting blisters. By the end of the race, it was ugly. Four blood blisters. Yikes! I know, TMI. Sorry. Just wanted to share my experiences.

Now, these two problems for me might not be a problem for you. I just thought it might be good to share not-so-good experiences here. Anyone else have something to add?

 

[amblackmon]

Thanks for the info. I would be interested in more 'what not to do's'.

Michelle

 

[Big Vic]

Stick to your plan as much as possible. If you haven't done it, worn it, or ate it during your training, don't try it the day of the race.

Common sense rules.

 

[angietuck2]

Don't resist the urge to go to the bathroom, JUST ONE LAST TIME. RFTT last year I didn't even make it to mile 1 but for 1/2 Mar. I made sure I was prepared, yes I was one of those crazy people "observing all the beautiful landscaping" at the start - some of you may know what I'm talking about. But it paid off, made it through whole race.

OK maybe not so great of a subject, but one of those things you know.

angie

 

[wtpclc]

DOn't panic! Your brain can psyche you out very quickly.

Don't think too much in advance. This can cause panic. Set landmarks to work to. Get to the next park, the next mile, teh next tree, teh next step, but don't hink about how much further to the end.

 

[Tiger Lily 03]

What NOT to do: If you see a WISH Team member do NOT be shy. Say hi, we are a friendly bunch. Pretty much all participants are willing to talk. It gets quiet out there at times and is fun to yak it up.

I'd say if you can, stay on the course. Do not step off the roads onto the grassy areas unless you are absolutely certain of your footing. Don't want to risk a fall.

Do Not start out too fast. After the crowd gets moving it is really easy to go out too fast. Keep an eye on your pace. Make it your event.

There will be NO frowning. It's Disney!

 

[skfulkers]

Hmmm, what not to do: don't step in a foot deep water hole 15 minutes before the start of the full marathon. It's amazing how dry-fit socks don't really dry out too fast when they're soaked completely through. Ask Krista how this happened to me (and if she tells you it wasn't because I was looking for a safe place for her to go to the bathroom before the start because she didn't want to wait in the port-o-let lines, she's lying).

Steve

 

[aladdinsgirl]

Hmmm, what not to do: don't step in a foot deep water hole 15 minutes before the start of the full marathon. It's amazing how dry-fit socks don't really dry out too fast when they're soaked completely through. Ask Krista how this happened to me (and if she tells you it wasn't because I was looking for a safe place for her to go to the bathroom before the start because she didn't want to wait in the port-o-let lines, she's lying).

Steve

Heh, heh, that was funny! The best part was after all that, I wouldn't even go to the bathroom!!!

Krista

 

[Optimator]

What not to do?

As can be seen by the previous 2 posts, don't let a Steelers fan lure you into the woods. You're asking for nothing but trouble!

 

[scuba diver]

I've learned to not get freaked out over the "Phatom" pains that start occuring a few days before a big race.

It seems like the mind starts having fun by creating new pains where they were not before. New muscle aches, knee pains, etc, that I've never had before.

 

[wtpclc]

Do NOT take pix if you haven't looked to see what kind of footing there is! ALways look before you snap. Those sill little reflectors in teh road can be deadly, especially if you're still in a pack when you go down. Yes, that would eb marathon #1 for me.

 

[monte]

Yes, never listen to a Steeler fan! lol Go Tom Go! (Brady that is)

What not to do?

As can be seen by the previous 2 posts, don't let a Steelers fan lure you into the woods. You're asking for nothing but trouble!

 

[aladdinsgirl]

Yes, never listen to a Steeler fan! lol Go Tom Go! (Brady that is)

Okay, that's it, we aren't FRIENDS anymore!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[wtpclc]

Okay, that's it, we aren't FRIENDS anymore!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Don't feel bad MOnica. SHe'd toss her first born on the curb for her team.

 

[monte]

Hee,hee...sorry but he's too cute!

 

[nucpharm29]

What not to do?

As can be seen by the previous 2 posts, don't let a Steelers fan lure you into the woods. You're asking for nothing but trouble!

Don't get so involved in the race that you miss the experience. I had major tunnel vision during my first marathon, that I didn't enjoy much of what was going on around me. High-5 the volunteers, thank the scream teamers and traffic control. Look around you, not just at the pavement in front of your feet. There's more to these races than just the start and finish. Run with a buddy--find a WISHer to run/walk with. Having someone to share in the laughter and tears is very important.

 

[wtpclc]

Don't get so involved in the race that you miss the experience. I had major tunnel vision during my first marathon, that I didn't enjoy much of what was going on around me. High-5 the volunteers, thank the scream teamers and traffic control. Look around you, not just at the pavement in front of your feet. There's more to these races than just the start and finish. Run with a buddy--find a WISHer to run/walk with. Having someone to share in the laughter and tears is very important.

Very nicely said Stephanie!

 

[Jen117]

Stephanie - I totally agree!!! My best 1/2 marathon was the one that I did with Mel in Chicago! My previous 2 others were solo and not as enjoying!

I also agree with thanking the volunteers. They seem to really enjoy those gasping for air thank you's that I throw out!

If you normally take fuel on long runs... use it. Don't get caught up in the excitement and then just blow it off. I did that once and the low blood sugar woozies set in!!!

SMILE FOR THE PICTURES!!!

 

[tigger2esq]

Dont forget to say thank you.

if you see an availabe port a potty and think you MIGHT have to go--dont skip it!!! stop and go. becasue the minute you get 10 yards away--you will definitely have to go and then next one might be a ways... LOL

the worst part of my marathon last October in Scranton PA was the almost 2 miles I ran/walked feeling like I was going to pee myself because not only were there no port a pottys, but there wasnt even a nice wooded area to go. ugh.

 

[amblackmon]

Thanks for the great advice! I am doing this with my best friend and we have been training together for months! She has kept me motivated and faithful. I love the part about not missing the experience. I am so excited. I mean really - doing my first half at WDW! What could be better!

Can't wait to see you there!

Michelle