Insiders Guide to the NYC Marathon w/ BLD

When it comes to the NYC Marathon, few people know the course (and the chaos) better than our own FHITpro and resident runner, BLD. He’s not only run the marathon himself – he’s cheered, coached, and spectated it more times than we can count. Basically, if there’s a good viewing spot, a solid fueling strategy, or a secret to surviving the subway shuffle, BLD’s your guy.

Whether you’re lacing up for 26.2 miles or posting up to cheer on your crew, BLD’s sharing his best insider tips to help you make the most of the big day — from what to wear to how to track your runners like a pro.

How to Maximize Your Day as a Spectator

• Plan ahead!! Some subway stations will be closed and as usual with the MTA some lines will have limited service so double check any/all routes you might be taking on the day. If you’re looking to see runners at multiple spots during the race, the Yellow subway lines (N, R & Q) can get from Brooklyn/Williamsburg to Central Park or the Green line (4 & 6) will get you from Mile 8 up to 1st Avenue where between 103rd street and 125th street will be less crowded.
• Get to your spot early. Lots of other people will be spectating so you want to make sure you can get close enough to the front to be able to see your friends fly by.

How to Be the Best Spectator

• Be personal. During the race I will hear a lot of people shout out Ben but if I hear someone shout out BLD that will get my attention because I know it’s a close friend.
• Grab some mini water bottles, fruit juices, gatorades and/or candy. A lot can happen on race day and it could be exactly what your friends need to help them successfully make it the finish line.
• Have your camera ready, if it’s not online it didn’t happen! Any extra content you can get of your friends during the race will be hugely appreciated.

How to Make Sure Daylight Savings Time Doesn’t Trip You Up

• Your phone will update to the new time but it still makes me nervous so I set multiple alarms. Also give yourself enough time in the morning to prepare. I normally recommend setting it for 15 minutes earlier than you think. As this is the first day of Daylight Savings Time it shouldn’t feel as bad getting up that early on race day and you can be as relaxed as possible while you get ready to make your way to the start line.

How to Track Your Runners

• Tracking apps can be limited (in 2023 the app crashed and you had to re-add all your friends the morning of the race!) so get your friends to also share their location from their phones so you have more than one way to track them.

What to Wear as a Runner

• 100% put your name on your shirt. The NYC marathon crowd and energy is unrivaled, you will have tens of thousands of strangers cheering you on by name. That will give you an extra boost throughout the race! 
• Use anti-chafing cream. This is going to be the longest continuous run you have done, so make sure you are protected from any other unnecessary discomforts. Thighs, waistband of your shorts or leggings, straps on sports bras, under arms (learned this one the hard way!), and some small band aids to cover your nipples for men.

PS – you can track BLD in this year’s marathon with bib number 7118! 

Inspired to keep moving? Book your next FHIX here.