If like to run big and popular marathons and other races, you may find yourself surrounded by lots of runners, from start to finish. To help ease your frustration and improve your race performance, try these tips on how to deal with crowds at races.
Line Up Properly
Faster runners should line up at the front of the starting line, slower runners and walkers at the back. Some races have corrals based on estimated pace or post pace signs. If not, ask runners nearby about their anticipated pace; if it’s faster than yours, move further back.
Most races use timing devices on your race bib, so the time it takes you to reach the starting line won’t count in your final net time.
Get to the Race Start Early
Part of lining up properly also means getting there with plenty of time to spare. I’ll sometimes talk to runners who complain about getting stuck behind a huge group of walkers at the start. But then they’ll confess that they got to the race start right before the gun went off, so they didn’t have time to get a good spot. Give yourself plenty of time to get to the race start, especially if you need to pick up your race packet there. Head to the starting line and find a good spot for your pace.
Use Extra Caution at the Start
Even when you’ve lined up properly, crowds at the starts can be a real headache. I’ve seen a lot of falls, as runners stumble trying to pass slower runners, get jostled by the crowds, or trip over a water bottle or piece of clothing that someone discarded at the start.
When you line up at a race start, make sure that you don’t get distracted by the excitement of the race. Pay close attention to other runners, and be on the lookout for discarded items.
Have a Plan for Water Stops
Many runners get frustrated at the crowded water stops, but if you take the right approach, you can keep your frustration to a minimum. First, don’t go to the first table at the water stop. That’s where all the rookies stop and, if it’s a big race, it’s going to be very congested. Keep running to one of the tables farther down.
Run through the middle of the road, since people are more likely to stop suddenly at the tables along the sides. If there are tables on both sides of the course, go to a table on the left side. Since most people are right-handed, the tables on the right tend to be much more popular.
Keep Moving at the Finish
Practice good race etiquette, and keep moving through the finish line or in the chute. There will be runners coming in right behind you, so keep going until it’s safe to come to a stop. If you keep moving, hopefully other runners will do the same and you can avoid congestion.
Stick to Small Races
If you really, really hate dealing with huge crowds at road races, there are still plenty of smaller, local races. Look on sites such as Active.com for races in your area. Once you find some races, you can always check the results from last year’s races to see how many finishers they had.
Race Tips for Beginners
If you’ve never run a race before or you’re looking for some helpful racing advice, check out these articles for more information about running races.
Tips for Your First Road Race: As your race day approaches, you may have some questions and concerns about what to expect on race day. Here are some tips for running your first race.
Common Racing Mistakes: Here are some of the most common racing mistakes and how you can avoid them.
Tips for Dealing With Pre-Race Jitters: Nervous about your big race? That’s completely normal. Get tips on how to calm your fears.
What to Wear in a Race: Get tips on what you should and shouldn’t wear for a race.
How to Put on Your Race Bib: Not sure what to do with that race bib? Here’s are step-by-step instructions on how to put on a race bib properly.
Mental Tips to Get Through Races: If you find yourself struggling during your race, try some of these mental tricks to get you to the finish.
Road Race Etiquette Tips: To make sure you don’t annoy fellow runners (and avoid looking like a newbie), follow these running etiquette tips during races.
About the author: Christine Luff is a certified RRCA running coach, and certified as a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and a weight management specialist by the American Council on Exercise. Her book, Run for Good: How to Create a Lifelong Running Habit, is available on Amazon.
