Marathon leading up to your first marathon

#3 Choosing your first marathon

Go out and cheer a friend

Marathon races can range from quiet, low-key races on backcountry roads to spectator-lined urban races with huge amounts of runners. To help you get used to what different races entail and identify your personal preference, cheer a friend at a marathon or volunteer.

Simulating the race course, if you do not have access to it, can also be a good option. Having low expectations from your first marathon is advisable as it will promote a nourishing first experience and will aid the completion. Breaking down the marathon course into smaller, digestible bits is another strategy that you can employ to figure out training routines and race rituals.