I was wearing TWO warm layers over my running tank top, and even though it was a sunny morning, there was a cool breeze on the ferry, and I was glad that I was wearing both a fleece and an extra-large hoodie. You can not check any luggage, duffel bags or larger backpacks, and you cannot enter the Start Village with any of the above items, only with the official see-through TCS NYC Marathon bags. The Expo is also a great way to meet other runners and there are around 100 vendors selling running-related products and energy snacks (don’t overdo it on the free samples!).
Visit Brooklyn with me!
You will only gain 810 feet over the course of 26.2 miles, BUT that can feel like a lot when you’re working so hard (or haven’t trained for hills). After a quick section in Harlem, you’ll run up Fifth Avenue (warning, it’s uphill), reaching the northern edge of Central Park around mile 23. The next mile is fairly flat; this is a good place to fight off fatigue and pick it up before the home stretch. Inside Central Park, around mile 24, there are a couple of rolling hills that are no joke—pay attention to your stride and listen to the booming sounds of the crowds and the finish line music to carry you through. Over these miles, reflect on your journey to this very moment, channel the support of the family and friends you have waiting at the finish and at home, and soak in the sights of the city.
NYC requires it’s own special strategy when you are thinking about pacing. It’s not just the massive bridges or the late hills, but the energy levels from crowds that can throw you off your planned pace. Crossing into The Bronx, you’ll notice the crowds have thinned from First Avenue. This is a great time to turn your attention to fueling and hydration.
What to put in your checked bag
If you’re traveling by plane, know that both JFK and LaGuardia may be a decent drive to your lodgings. The pro race livestream will also feature stats from all four pro races and live commentary from Olympians Des Linden and Galen Rupp, and Paralympian Amanda McGrory. Also included is a spectator guide so your friends and family can create an itinerary with the best directions for spotting you during the race. To me, personally, it’s better sometimes to surprise yourself with great results than aiming too high and getting disappointed.
- The starting line at the New York City Marathon is unlike any other marathon in the world.
- For the locals, I recommend enough rest and a stress-free week leading up to the race.
- Most people are used to early marathon starts (7am or 8am), but if you’re in a later start wave (10am or later), you’ll probably be hungry again by the time your start time rolls around.
- They had lots of funny signs and also “power up” signs – appreciated that.
Airbnb vs Hotel
While tackling some bridges and hills, you will be surrounded by a wall of sound. Do some static stretches, jog around and get ready to run 26.2 miles. Cops were checking for bibs, ensuring you had only the clear plastic bag and winding everyone who passed through. Lots of discarded bags, blankets, bottles and such outside because they were on the not allowed list. First you’re going to get a downhill and then a long straight path.
- Over the past few years, the temperatures on race day ranged from 43°Fahrenheit (6° Celsius) to 64°Fahrenheit (18° Celsius), which is quite a difference.
- UPS will transport the checked bags to the finish line in Central Park, so you’ll have the stuff you pack in the bag waiting there for you.
- A weekly newsletter with results, articles, discount alerts and other news about the runners and coaches on the team.
- If you start out too fast on an uphill you are expending far more energy than starting out fast on a flat.
- But you can carry something small like a 24 oz container.
Queensboro Bridge to Manhattan (Miles 16-
The best way to do that is to take the 4/5 or the Q to 86 Street or 96 Street and walk over to 1st Ave where the runners run from 59th Street all the way up to 127th Street before they’re crossing over into the Bronx. The 4/5 runs along Lexington Ave, which is three blocks from 1st Ave, the Q runs along 2nd Ave, one block from 1st Ave. I used a small waist pouch (make sure it’s water resistant) to store my cards, phone and keys, but if you don’t bring much, a running belt also works. There are some fancier pouches that hold a water bottle on each side, but I thought the water stations along the course were sufficient.
– See how each training session fits into the overall NYC Marathon Training Roadmap. Tapering is in essence reducing mileage, it is vitally important for full recovery from training and for peak performance. Read more about the importance of strength training here. Strength is an extremely important contributor to your NYC marathon success, for two main reasons.
What NOT to bring to the New York Marathon
You might even break out a motivational mantra here, such as “You pricematik review got this! ” or “Strong mind, strong body.” Look out for the bands and dancers at the Entertainment Zone at 139th and Morris Avenue. It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of the crowds on the easy grade; you’ll want to save your legs for the hills ahead. Stay loose and focused, and keep your fueling plan in mind—this is a great section to take those first few gels or chews you have stashed in your pocket. Even though New York sits on the coast, the route isn’t by any means flat.
Running the New York Marathon: Before the Race
They had lots of funny signs and also “power up” signs – appreciated that. The other option would be meeting in the Family Reunion are, which is located on Central Park West between W 63rd Street & W 65th Street. Everyone entering this area is subject to bag inspection and screening, and the area gets quite crowded – something to keep in mind. There is a ‘Finisher’s Pavilion’ right near the finish line which is open all day on Monday. You can get your medal engraved ($25) and also pick up a commemorative edition of the New York Times.
Rest days also help prevent injuries which is key to continuing your training for the marathon. The date at which you should start training for the NYC Marathon depends on your level of experience and time goal. Don’t stress or spend energy trying to get around other runners. If you prefer to carry your own electrolyte drink, do it. But, the NYC marathon does not allow packs with a bladder inside.
Right now you must schedule a time slot to pick up your bib. But know the expo is open to the public and will be very crowded. BUT NYC seems to buck that trend which could mean a lot of extra time on your feet.