A big-city marathon is an experience like no other. From the complex logistics to the packed race-day schedule, there’s a lot to manage—but with the right mindset and preparation, you’ll be ready for anything.
Here’s what you need to know before taking on the big day.
1. Race weekend starts before Sunday
From Friday through Sunday, the city transforms into a runner’s playground. There’s an expo to visit, gear to check, corral logistics to figure out, a shakeout run, a pasta party—and thousands of other people doing the exact same thing. Don’t wait until race day to get into race mode.
2. The expo is exciting… and overwhelming
You’ll walk in thinking you’re just picking up a bib. You’ll walk out with a bag full of free samples, a $60 hoodie you didn’t need, and a vague feeling that you should buy new shoes right before your marathon (please don’t run in them).
3. You’ll need to plan your morning like a military operation
Figure out how to get to the start line, where to drop off your bag, and when to eat breakfast. If your race is in NYC, for example, you might need to be on a 6 a.m. ferry to start a race at 10:30.
4. Security checks can slow you down
Major marathons come with airport-level safety measures. Bag restrictions, metal detectors, wanding—plan extra time, especially if you’re carrying gear.
5. You’ll walk and run way more than planned
Between the expo, shakeout runs, getting to the start, and walking through endless staging areas, you’ll rack up miles before the race even begins.
And during the race, weaving through runners and taking wide turns means your GPS will likely read more than 26.2 miles. Factor that into your pacing.
6. Porta-potty lines will test your patience
No matter how early you get to the start village, you will wait. Possibly for a long time. Take care of business early, and bring tissues or wipes—just in case.
Related: 10 Tips to Avoid Toilet Breaks During a Race
7. The start is a long wait—literally
In NYC, some runners wait over three hours from the time they leave home to the time they cross the start line. Dress for the weather, bring throwaway clothes, and don’t panic if your legs start to feel stiff—it’s normal.
8. You’ll probably start way too fast
The crowd, the cheers, the adrenaline—they’ll pull you along at a pace that feels amazing for about 5K. Then it stops feeling great. Try to stick to your plan to finish strong.
Related: The #1 Rule for Finishing a Race Strong
9. Pace groups are helpful, but not perfect
Running with a pacer can keep you steady, but corrals are crowded and sometimes the group runs too fast, too slow, or gets split at water stations. Have your own pace plan and don’t rely on them 100%.
10. You’ll feel like a rockstar… and a sardine
Crowds will scream. Bands will play. High fives will fly. But also—you’ll be elbow-to-elbow with thousands of runners. Expect congestion, especially in the first miles.
11. Strangers will cheer your name
And it will feel weirdly emotional. If you want those personal cheers (you do), print your name big and bold on your shirt. In races like Chicago or New York, the crowd support stretches for miles—and hearing your name never gets boring.
12. Water stations can be chaotic
They’re long, wet, slippery, and packed. Plan ahead: move to the side early, make eye contact with volunteers, and don’t come to a full stop in the middle of the road. Oh, and thank the volunteers—they’re heroes.
Related: At What Mile Do Most Runners Quit a Marathon?
13. The post-race shuffle is real
Once you cross the finish line, you’ll shuffle forward in a daze through medal handouts, foil blankets, and snacks. Your legs will scream. Your brain won’t work. Your phone might not either—cell networks get overloaded. Embrace the chaos.
14. Spectator meetups can be tricky
“Meet me at the finish” is a dangerous game. Instead, set a specific spot a few blocks away, and expect it to take 30+ minutes to reunite. Major marathons often have family reunion areas—use them.
15. You’ll want to do it again before your shoes are off
Despite the blisters, fatigue, and finish-line carnage, the high hits hard. Many runners register for their next marathon within 24 hours. Yes, it’s a little unhinged. No, you’re not alone.
Read next: 10 Signs You Might Not Be Ready for a Marathon
The crowds, the logistics, the chaos—now you know what to expect from a big race, and you’ve got the mindset to handle it. So, when the marathon starts, embrace it all—the noise, the energy, the sheer scale of it. They’re all part of the adventure you’ll remember, even after your legs forget how to walk.
