Copyright: Flickr user Martineric

If you’ve never done so, watching a marathon in person can be a fun experience.  Some of the benefits are that it doesn’t cost a thing, you aren’t restricted to a seat (so you can roam around and view from different angles), and the action changes every second.  But how can you be the best spectator possible?

The key to being a great fan at any road race is to keep the spirit of the runner up while also keeping their mind off of how much farther they have to go.  Here are some tips that will help you be the best fan you can be:

Signs or Voices. Both are great cheering mechanisms!

Signs are an excellent way to cheer on any athlete, especially one running a long distance.  They don’t have to be fancy.  Simple is sometimes best. There are numerous approaches you can take.

    • Try an easy phrase, like: Go, Go, Go!
    • Or even a fact: There’s no counting calories today!
    • You can make the runner laugh:  You look like a Kenyan!
    • Or just remind the runners of their achievement:  You R running a MARATHON!

If you don’t feel artistic, use your voice for encouragement.  Runners wear their names on their shirts for this reason. Yell their name and tell them they’re looking “mah-velous.”  If you don’t see a name, look for a distinguishing feature about them.  For example, maybe they’re wearing their country’s flag.  Try to be creative with your cheer because it just might help that runner break through their wall!

A shot of Vitamin C, anyone?  

Runners usually carry something with them to replenish their energy – goo and gummy treats are the most popular choices.  Some spectators carry orange slices to hand out as a tasty alternative.  These can be just the motivation that some runners are looking for to keep going.
Tip: Store the orange slices in plastic bags and wear plastic gloves while handing them out.    

Just Show Up 

Weather is an unpredictable thing.  It might be cold outside or even rainy, but you can always bundle up or carry an umbrella.  The athletes will be out in all sorts of elements for at least four hours.  They’ll be sweaty, wearing a lot less clothing than you, and challenging their bodies.  Having encouraging supporters on the sidelines – even if they don’t know you personally – is a always a welcomed energy booster.

The 2012 spring marathon season kicks off with the Boston Marathon on April 16 and the London Marathon on April 22.  If you’re nearby, why don’t you give these tips a try?