Tips And Tricks For Marathon Spectators

Running a marathon isn’t just stressful for the runners. Family members, friends and children all come along to try and catch a glimpse of us competing. With thousands of people tracking runners on apps they downloaded the night before, navigating a city they haven’t been to before, and trying to snap a perfect picture is no easy task.

But spectating doesn’t have to be an annoyance. It’s important that as a spectator you enjoy the race as much as everyone else. So here are a few tips to make your day go smoothly:

Make a Friend

Getting the perfect photo with whoever is running - whether you go for the high five or a hug – is difficult, as you don’t have much time to snap a selfie in the bustle of a race, especially when thousands of other people are trying to do the same thing. It is always best to go in a group, so you have someone who can take the picture of you together. If you go alone, make a friend in the crowd who can take your photo and you can reciprocate the offer.

Supporting the Runners

Shouting support from the side lines is what supporters are there for; your words can help motivate the runners in their moment of glory. But there are some things which people like to shout which definitely need to be changed. For example, never tell a runner they’re halfway there, even if they are. Never encourage a runner to go faster, because they can’t. And don’t tell a runner they’re nearly at the finish, because they’re probably not; it is best for runners to stay in the moment rather than thinking ahead.

Taking the Kids

Depending on the age of your children, their attention spans can waver very quickly. They might not be as enthusiastic as you to cheer on thousands of strangers, so come prepared.

Make your posters on race day by bringing some cardboard and makers with you. It gives the kids something to do if they get bored.

Encourage your kids to make lots of noise. We’re used to telling them to be quiet, but this is the perfect opportunity for them to shout and scream along with the rest of the supporters.

Supporters have an important job at running events, without them the races just wouldn’t be the same.