Marathon Race Day Checklist | Timur Dautov's Notes

Preparing for a marathon involves multiple steps starting from nutrition diet and ending with a praparing your race day kit.

In this article I will cover all neccessary things based on my experience.

Let’s divide preparation into 4 steps process: week before the Race, day bofore the Race, Race day and the Post race day.

Week before the Race

Race Outfit: Choose comfortable, tried-and-tested running clothes, including socks and underwear. Consider weather conditions (layer for cold, light colors for heat).
Running Shoes: Your well-broken-in running shoes.
Race Bib & Timing Chip: If you already have these, make sure they’re ready to go.
Nutrition: Plan your pre-race meal and morning-of breakfast. Pack any specific gels, bars, or snacks you plan to consume before or during the race.
Hydration: Water bottle for the morning or for carrying during the race, if you prefer over race-provided water stations.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or visor, depending on the forecast.
Chafing Prevention: Body glide or similar product to prevent chafing.
Watch or GPS Device: If you plan to track your pace/time.
Bag for Gear Check: If available, plan what you’ll need post-race and what you’re willing to check in (change of clothes, shoes, snacks).

Wake up 3 hours before the race
Morning toilet
Breakfast: Eat your planned pre-race meal 2-3 hours before the start.
Hydration: Start hydrated but balance to avoid needing too many bathroom stops.
Documentation: ID, race confirmation, any required health forms.
Cash/Card: For emergencies or post-race festivities.
Portable Charger: If you’re relying on your phone for communication or navigation.
Warm-up Clothes: Disposable or old clothes you don’t mind parting with if you need to stay warm before the start.
Toiletries: Tissues, lip balm, small towel, wet wipes.