When you’re running a marathon, hearing cheers from the sideline can give you a boost, and help you step up your pace as you push toward the finish line. Yet if you’re the one cheering, it’s important to know what’s motivating or potentially hindering, so you can help your favorite athlete run their best.
Here are some rules from the roadside :
Don’t scream, “You’re almost there!” —unless the finish line is within clear sight. Some people say the marathon doesn’t begin until mile 20; I say it doesn’t begin until mile 26.
Do offer free hugs. Sometimes that’s all a runner needs to boost his or her spirit, and reinvigorate the drive to continue forging onward. And besides, the world could use more hugging, though I digress.
Don’t offer anything that requires too much effort to open. Sliced banana’s are a good thing. Whole banana’s can be difficult to peel while running.
Do tell runners they look good. It never hurts to tell a passing runner that her or she looks strong (even if they appear weak or looks terrible). They’ll know you’re lying, but it’s the thought that matters, and that will make them feel good.
Don’t offer any food unless you’re willing to pick up after the runners and help keep the course clean. Orange slices can be good for a runner; slipping on orange peels can be problematic for a runner.
Do display funny signs along the route; you’ll help your runner’s race feel lighter. Recently I’ve seen some good ones:
“Congrats. You’re running better than the government!”
“Smile. Who needs toenails anyway.”
“Don’t worry, Humpty Dumpty had Wall issues too!”
Do pat yourself on the back after a long day of cheering. We runners appreciate your revelry, and even when we’re too exhausted to thank you, we’re glad for all you do!
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or condition. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, altering your sleep habits, taking supplements, or starting a new fitness routine.
Dean Karnazes
An internationally recognized endurance athlete and a New York Times bestselling author, Dean Karnazes has pushed his body and mind to inconceivable limits. Among his many accomplishments, he has run 350 continuous miles, foregoing sleep for three nights. He ran across Death Valley in 120-degree temperatures, and he ran a marathon to the South Pole in negative 40 degrees. On ten different occasions, he has run a 200-mile relay race solo, racing alongside teams of twelve.
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