Tokyo Marathon 2016 is almost upon us and here at Fit Japan we have been busy preparing a guide book aimed to help first time runners of the Tokyo Marathon to plan and prepare for their Tokyo Marathon adventure. The blog post that follows is an extract of tips regarding food, hydration and clothing for the day.
Hydration
The hydration stations are well equipped; clean water is used and stations are frequently, and evenly, spaced throughout the course. You should note the restrictions regarding your own hydration, which can be confusing – I suggest just relying on the very well-equipped hydration stations.
Food
So far, as official stands go, there are plenty of food sources; you can expect bananas, buns, plums, and even tomatoes to be supplied along the race.
The crowd very often brings plenty of goodies to the sidelines and offers them freely to runners as they cheer you along (fighto!!!). Some have chocolates, some have plums, some have miso soup… Don’t be shy and be sure to say arigatou!
Of course, pack your favorite brand of fuel, but just be careful about travel restrictions on fluids.
Clothing
Poncho
Whatever you are wearing for the race itself, it is highly recommended that you pack a poncho for the start line as wind, rain or light snow is likely.
Throw Away Cottons
On top of that, some old warm clothing that you don’t mind disposing of will go a long way. You can quickly whip these extra layers off a few minutes before the gun fires and carefully toss them over the sidelines or hold onto them and drop them into a trash bag along the side of the course.
Of course, you can be a penguin, and huddle in the crowd and try to keep warm by jumping around, but trust us on this, you are much better off packing a pair of warm sweatpants and a cotton jumper to wear while waiting at the start line. When the cold wind rushes through the crowd, you will be thankful.
Gloves
I strongly recommend gloves for the entire race.
Beanie / Buff / Ear Warmers
This one is optional but something to keep your ears and head warm, especially at the start of the race, is worthwhile. Depending on the conditions of the day, you probably can wear this item for the whole race. Again, something you don’t mind tossing away is smarter if you don’t want to end up carrying it the entirety of the race.
Glasses
Transition sunglasses, they help with keeping rain and wind out of your eyes and the sun when it does shine can be quite bright.
Long Pants
If you don’t tolerate the cold well, consider compression pants for your legs and a long sleeve shirt or even two layers for your top.
Hello, I am travelling from India for the marathon. Coming from a warm country, I was wondering if I should wear a long sleeve technical t-shirt and then wear a warmer running jacket over it . I really don’t like the cold.
You will definitely want to layer up John. I recommend a long sleeve and warmer jacket over it that you don’t mind disposing of along the way or right before the race starts as generally it is very chilly waiting at the start line.