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With all of the excitement, logistics and preparation that goes into a marathon it can be surprisingly easy to forget essential items which you may need with you on race day. Below is a list of some of the most common items which should help your race day to go smoothly!

The most important thing to remember is that you should never use any gear which you have not first tested during a training long-run. This will help you to avoid small but very unpleasant surprises on race day (an uncomfortable top might be a nuisance on a training run but could cause you serious discomfort on the big day)
Runners (Make sure they are a good pair which you have broken in)Shorts/ Running TightsA comfortable top – Suitable to the weather you expectGloves (colder climates & winter races)Comfortable SocksRace NumbersTiming Chip (Essential!)8 x Safety pins to attach your race numbers / Race beltPlasters (To prevent uncomfortable chafing)VaselineWatch / HR Monitor (One or the other is vital so you can keep track of your progress)Fully charged MP3 PlayerSunglassesSun-lotionWater bottle belt (Although some people prefer to rely soley on Aid stations)Energy drink (To sip before the start of the race and help keep your glycogen levels high)Nutrition (Energy gels, bars, bananas – everybody has their own preference)Hat (If you are balding or have a shaved head this can be very important . Do make sure you are comfortable with the hat your choose as it may also cause you to over-heat.Tracksuit Bottoms / old top – Usually people have to make their way to the Race start quite early in the morning. A pair of tracksuit bottoms and a top can be a very welcome way of keeping your self warm before the race and after you cool down at the finish.

  The night before the Race

Lay all of your gear out and know exactly where everything is and what order you plan to dress. This can be a great help when you find yourself needing to rush out of the door
Know exactly what you are going to eat in the morning and when you are going to eat it.
Carbo-load – Enjoy a good meal high in carbohydrates to ensure your energy levels are toped up for the following morning.

Set your Alarm – Leave yourself plenty of time in the morning to shower/dress/eat and travel to the race start etc…

Time Zones – Many people travel to different countries to run Marathons, If you are one of them double check that your have altered to time on your watch and alarm clock. You wouldn’t be the first person to wake up and discover the race began while you were asleep!
Hydrate – Numerous scientific studies have confirmed and documented the link between hydration and performance. Make sure that you drink enough water and avoid alcohol and coffee for 24hours before the race.

Travel-plan – Know the route you will be taking to the race start and what mode of transport you will use. It also pays to remember that trains may be delayed or be less frequent iof your race is on a Public Holiday so double check tome-tables to be sure.

   The morning of the Race

Eat a good breakfast that is high in Carbohydrates.
Avoid any foods which you have not eaten and tested before your training runs.
Leave plenty of time to get to the start line.

Finally:
Remember to enjoy the day. Wherever you are running your race, the Marathon should be an experience that you look back on with pride. Don’t forget to enjoy the experience; otherwise you might have to run another one just to really understand the feeling!