Being organised with a marathon checklist a few days before your race is the easiest way to have a stress free and successful run. Whether it’s your first or 100th marathon, it’s always worth adding a marathon checklist to your marathon prep.
Marathon Prep
To help you get race ready and focus on what really matters (crossing the finish line and having a great time), we’ve partnered with Runna to create a detailed marathon checklist that covers everything you need.
Your Marathon Essentials
Marathon prep can feel overwhelming, and the race-day excitement might make you forget even the most important details, so we recommend preparing everything you need for your run a few days in advance so that you have time to get everything ticked off and ready. Some marathon essentials come down to personal preferences, but there are a few essentials you need to pack in all cases, and a few things that depend on the weather.
Below, you’ll find a list of all the essential items you need to think of.
- Trainers: Make sure you wear well-fitted, broken-in trainers you’ve already worn on your longer runs and consider a gait analysis if you haven’t already.
- Running tights or shorts: Opt for shorts, tights, or pants that are comfortable, don’t limit your movement, and don’t cause chafing. Technical, moisture-wicking fabrics are best. Again, don’t try anything new on race day.
- Running top: A moisture-wicking top will help regulate your body temperature throughout the race. If the weather is chilly, you can bring an old layer to the start line and take it off just before you start running.
- Running socks or compression socks: Proper running socks help prevent blisters, while compression socks might be useful in preventing soreness and swelling.
- Comfortable underwear and sports bra: For a distance like the marathon, you want to make sure the underwear and sports bra you’re wearing are comfortable and don’t cause irritation or chafing.
- Suncream: Nobody wants to get burnt and it’s very easily done during a long hot race, so pop some cream on before and during the race if possible.
- Hairband: If you need to tie up your hair to keep it out of your face or off your neck in the race, make sure to bring a hairband.
- ID: If you need an ID to get your race bib, make sure you take it with you to the race bib collection point.
- Race bib & timing chip: An obvious one but very easy to forget when you’re in a rush! You need your bib in order to run and your chip to record your official time.
- Safety pins: Make sure you take safety pins to secure your race bib to your clothes. Sometimes these are provided but not always.
- Hydration: On most races, you’ll have hydration stations every 5 or 10km, but in case you don’t (or don’t want to stop), make sure you have your hydration with you, whether that’s a bottle or vest.
- Electrolyte supplements: Replenishing lost electrolytes is essential for reducing fatigue and cramps during marathons.
- Fuel: Use energy gels or bars to help you avoid hitting a wall. Make sure you’ve tested your fuel of choice during your longer training runs though so you know what works best for you.
- Vaseline: To ensure you stay comfortable and avoid painful skin irritation or chafing, you can use vaseline or Body Glide.
- Plasters and blister pads: Unfortunately blisters and sores are part of running, so make sure you’re prepared.
- Running backpack or belt: Get a well-fitting running backpack or running belt to safely carry your essentials.
- Smart watch or phone: To keep an eye on your marathon pace and stay on target, make sure you take your GPS watch or phone with you.
- Directions to the start line: Double check where you need to be and at what time.
- Marathon breakfast: Get a large, carb-heavy breakfast before you set out for your race, ideally 2-3 hours prior.
Weather Proof Marathon Prep
Check the forecast the day before and prepare for the weather conditions you’ll have on race day.
- Rain poncho: If it’s forecast to be wet and windy, a single-use rain poncho can save you from starting your race soaking wet.
- Running jacket: If you’ll be running in cold weather, bring a breathable running jacket.
- Sunglasses: If you think you’ll need sunglasses, it’s good to test out running in them before the big day.
- Running hat, visor or headband: You might need a hat or visor to protect your head from the sun or a headband to help you stay warm.
- Running gloves: If you’ll be running in colder weather, a pair of light running gloves can help you fight the chill.
Optional race gear
The below items aren’t essential, but might help you have a better time:
- Headphones or earbuds: Music can help you push harder mid-race, but make sure you have your playlist ready! Some runners also like to have pace cues or listen to a running podcast during more monotonous stretches. Check out Runna’s podcast on Spotify or Apple if you need ideas! And check whether your race allows headphones (not all do).
- Gear check bag: If you’ll be checking your gear and post-race kit, make sure you bring a bag to put your personal belongings.
Your Post Marathon Checklist
After you cross the finish line, there are a few key items that’ll help you feel better:
- Post marathon fuel: Replenish your energy after the race with post-race protein packed snacks you know you enjoy.
- A change of clothes: Clean, dry clothes will help you stay comfortable, fresh and warm after the race. Don’t forget clean socks!
- Towel: If you can get a shower at the race site, a towel is a must. Otherwise, it’ll be handy for freshening up after you finish.
- Wet wipes: If no showers are available, wet wipes are the second best thing to keep you fresh before you put on your post-race clothes.
- Deodorant: Bring a deodorant stick to freshen up and prepare for post race celebrations.
- Foam roller or massage ball: After a marathon, you’ll probably have a few stiff spots or cramps. A large foam roller might be impractical, unless you came by car, but a massage ball might be exactly what you need to relieve stiffness in your muscles.
- Comfortable shoes or slippers: Your tired feet will love slipping into something cosy and comfortable after the race.
- Money, bank card, driving license: Essential for post-race celebrations, emergencies, or simply getting home.
Marathon Prep Made Easy
Preparing for a marathon is no small feat, but with our marathon checklist, you'll be ready to tackle those 26.2 miles like a pro. If you prepare all of your marathon essentials a few days in advance, you’ll be able to sit back, relax and enjoy the build up to the big day!