Chicago Marathon: Insider Tips and Must-knows for a Successful Race

TLDRGet insider tips and key information from experienced Chicago Marathon runners to ensure a successful race. Learn about pre-race preparation, GPS issues, graded bridges, fueling options, and more!

Key insights

🏃‍♂️Plan your pre-race sightseeing after the marathon to conserve energy.

🚽Arrive early to have enough time for bathroom breaks and lining up at the starting corral.

🌡️Dress warm for the chilly race morning with an average starting temperature of 53°F.

👣Walk around post-race to aid in recovery instead of sitting for long periods.

🍽️Make dinner reservations ahead of time to avoid being hungry after the marathon.

Q&A

Will the tall buildings affect my GPS watch accuracy?

Yes, due to tall buildings, your GPS watch may be inaccurate. Turn off auto lap and auto pause and manually hit the lap button when you see mile markers on the course.

Are there any potential hazards on the race course?

Pay attention to the metal graded bridges with carpet on them, as tripping hazards may exist. Be aware of aid stations and fueling options, especially regarding gels and hydration.

Is the Chicago Marathon course hilly?

The course is mostly flat, but there is a hill towards the end. Prepare for it by incorporating hills into your training and finish strong.

Does the road camber affect running performance?

Vary the side of the road you run on to avoid constant camber. Taking tangents on turns can also save distance and time.

How important is fueling during the marathon?

Proper nutrition and fueling can make a significant difference in marathon performance. Follow a good nutrition plan to improve your time and avoid hitting the wall.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Get insider tips and must-knows for a successful Chicago Marathon from experienced runners.

01:51GPS watch accuracy may be affected by tall buildings. Use manual lap button on mile markers for accurate timing.

03:01Watch out for metal graded bridges with carpet in the middle to avoid tripping hazards.

03:47Be aware of aid stations and fueling options. Plan your nutrition and hydration strategies accordingly.

04:02Prepare for a hill towards the end of the course and finish strong.

04:26Vary the side of the road you run on to counter road camber. Taking tangents on turns can save distance and time.

04:54Proper fueling can cut minutes off your marathon time. Follow a good nutrition plan for better performance.

05:01Check out a video for a detailed marathon fueling strategy.