Running a marathon is a thrilling experience but being able to finish it is an entirely different matter.  For this reason, it’s best that you come prepared before you take that first stride at the starting line.  Here are several marathon tips that first timers should follow for a safe and enjoyable run.

Let old habits remain

• As the race approaches, don’t change your diet, your shoes or your routine. 
• Arrange your shoes, socks, running shirt and other items you plan to wear the night prior to the race. 
• Sleep well a day or two before the race and give your feet enough rest. 

Carbohydrates, water and diet

• Carbo-loading with pasta or rice and eating other starchy foods is a practice followed by long-distance runners since it helps give the body the energy it needs to run a race.  
• When carbo-loading, avoid hard training as doing so will burn stored carbohydrates.  Exercise must be minimized.
• Drink lots of water.  Regardless of how much water you take in during training, it’s very important to drink lots of water before, during and after the race to prevent dehydration.

Clothing and Mother Nature

• Protect yourself against chafing.  Wear shorts that you know won’t chafe or consider purchasing an anti-chafing cream.
• Dress for the weather and be adaptable to weather conditions.  Accept whatever situation Mother Nature offers and adjust accordingly.  If it’s hot, slow down and drink more water, if it rains, dress accordingly and watch out for slippery areas.
• Trash bags make a suitable wind/raincoat.

 The Big Day

• Once the starting gun is fired, don’t get too excited by running too fast.  Do this and you’ll pay for it later when you cramp or lose steam after the halfway point. 
• Have a time goal in mind for the first few miles and stick to it. 
• Remember your first goal --- to finish the marathon.  Don’t obsess about your finishing time; this should be secondary to running a safe and smart race.
• The crowds lining the course will help motivate you by clapping and cheering.  Draw on this energy.
• Pump your fists in the air and yell as you cross the finish line.

Relax and have fun.  Realize that the hard part, the months of training you just endured is over.  The race is merely a formality, an opportunity to celebrate you achieving perhaps the best physical shape of your life.  Enjoy the moment, you certainly earned and deserve it!