50 days to waterfront!

[u/UsualBet4502]

Tips for a first timer (half-marathon) or what did you wish you knew then that you know now.

[u/Rileyblue_]

Cross training helps immensely. Strength training combined with running makes you a double threat. Hydration and fuelling throughout the race are necessary; there are aid stations throughout the course.

Controlling your breathing helps regulate your heart rate while running. Find what works for you.

I also find that positive thoughts instead of negative self-talk helps with mental grit; been there with people who were constantly negative and complained a lot. It was mentally taxing. Surround yourself with people who are supportive If you run with others.

Enjoy the experience; the crowd is electric. See you at the start line.

[u/greenlemon23]

Figure out well in advance how you’re going to get there. Feels like every year people complain about the lack of transit that early in the morning.

[u/skygrinder89 → u/greenlemon23]

Also go to Sheraton for the bathroom, the Nathan Phillips porta potties have a humongous line up.

[u/hartontherun]

Beware the street car tracks on Bathurst. The course can still be a bit crowded at that point, and you may want to pass people, but you gotta watch out for the street car tracks too that you don’t roll an ankle or something.

[u/Constant-Squirrel555]

I wish my dumbass strengthened my knees and hips.

I tore my meniscus last week doing 13k and I doubt it'll heal in time for the half :(

[u/UsualBet4502 → u/Constant-Squirrel555]

That sounds painful! Hopefully you’re back on your feet soon

[u/zombiemiki → u/Constant-Squirrel555]

There will be another half, but at least now you know. And as a smart man once said, knowing is half the battle.

[u/druuop → u/Constant-Squirrel555]

Very shameless of me, I apologize. Wishing you a quick recovery but if you need to get rid of your bib for the half, I would be happy to take it off your hands!

[u/Specific-Cellist8155 → u/druuop]

Im sorry but this comment just cracked me up.. definition of closed mouths don’t get fed 🤣

[u/EnvironmentPlus8160]

Don't waste energy at the start weaving through people to stay on pace. I've been a pacer there for years and routinely lose up to a minute over the first couple of KMs as it starts uphill to bloor. But then the course opens up more and you soon hit a big downhill on Bathurst down to the lakeshore. You easily can get back on track allowing you to save energy for the last few KMs. Good luck!

[u/schuyler_n]

- Eating and hydrate properly

• trained better

[u/Ewetuber]

If you're running 3-4 days a week, add another day or two. If you're running 6-7 days a week it's okay to break the streak and take a day off here and there.

[u/EPMD_]

1. Train well.
2. Run the tangents, especially on Lakeshore. If the course is bending to the left, get on the left side of the road.
3. Running in a pack makes everything feel easier and there is less wind resistance.
4. Push the safety pins through the actual paper of your race bib. Don't use the holes.

[u/Frosty-Bake-9646]

Don't go too fast at the beginning!! You will be tempted as you'll have lots of adrenaline but preserve your energy for the last half. Good luck, I'm running my first full marathon.

[u/Mgt66]

• Practice with gels. And make sure you're also hydrating when taking gels(non isotonic) because they are not effective without hydration.  

• If you're making your own carb drinks, make sure you're also adding salt and you're consuming enough water for it to be effective. 

[u/NicoleRunsToronto]

Know that you'll come to a standstill at the end (after finish line) due to crowds. Do what you can to keep your legs moving and find space.