I was so prepared to run, but I had no clue what happened when it was all done…👇🫢 Share with someone who might need to hear this!
Here are 3 things I wish someone told me before running the Chicago Marathon:
1. There is one small hill at the end & and after running a very flat course, to me it looked and felt like a mountain. I remember being upset that everyone said the race was flat but failed to mention this moment. 🫢
Some people will walk this portion, I chose to run to make it go by faster. Do what works for you, but be prepared!! This year I am going in with a better plan!
2. After I crossed the finish line I felt SO LOST and LONLEY. Strange I know. I was surrounded by other runners who had just accomplished this incredible challenge, but I felt so alone at the same time. I followed the flow of people and grabbed a water, a blanket, and a banana and collected myself for a minute.
I remember some runners looking at one another smiling. A smile back goes a long way. Some people were crying, others sitting on the ground, others throwing up. Everyone was in their own world. I just took in the moment but kept myself from sitting as I feared I might not want to stand up again.
It wasn’t until I got my medal from a very kind volunteer that I realized I was done. It took me about 10 minutes to process.
3. The walk to my family/the spectators section was about a mile long. Which took me about 25 minutes as I hobbled my way over. 😅 Calling family/friends at this point is always helpful for me! It’s nice to hear a familiar voice!
There are a few other places that you can sneak out. But plan to have a spot for you to reunite with your people in advance just in case your phone doesn’t work or service is bad! I would recommend the mile 27 zone and pick a letter to connect at BEFORE the race!
Tons of vendors and free stuff there too!
I hope maybe this is helpful for anyone who has gone through these feelings at the end/post race feel less alone or helpful for someone running Chicago for their first time! It is an incredible race, hence why I am running it again for the 3rd time. 🫶😂
#chicagomarathon #chicagomarathontips #chicago #marathon #run
Running the Chicago Marathon is a thrilling and rewarding experience, but many runners overlook some crucial details that can really affect their performance and recovery. Firstly, although the Chicago Marathon is known for its flat course, many runners find the final hill near the finish line unexpectedly challenging. This small incline can feel daunting after miles of flat running, so it’s a good idea to train on varied terrain or incorporate hill repeats into your preparation to avoid surprises on race day. After crossing the finish line, it’s common to feel a wave of unexpected emotions, such as loneliness or disorientation, even though you’re surrounded by fellow finishers. This post-race emotional crash happens because your body and mind are shifting from intense physical effort to recovery mode. To ease this transition, take a moment to hydrate, eat a balanced post-race snack like a banana for potassium replenishment, and engage with other runners—a simple smile or chat can lift spirits. The walk from the finish line to the family reunion or spectator zones can be long and exhausting (around a mile). Planning ahead is essential to avoid frustration. Arrange clear meeting points beforehand—mile 27 near the finish provides good options—and have backup communication plans in case of poor cell service. Connecting with family or friends by phone immediately post-race can be comforting and motivating. Additionally, take advantage of the numerous vendors at the finish area offering free items such as recovery snacks, hydration, and warm blankets. These amenities help your body cool down and recover efficiently. If you are preparing for your first Chicago Marathon or are returning for another race, keeping these tips in mind will enhance your overall experience. Remember, every runner’s journey is unique, so adapt these strategies to fit your personal needs. Above all, enjoy the incredible energy of the Chicago Marathon community and celebrate your accomplishment—crossing that finish line is a big deal!