How stay warm before marathon or half marathon that starts early? (Read 887 times)

I'm running a half marathon later this month (3/25). The race starts at 7 AM. Fortunately, it is in Atlanta, but even still it will be pretty cold. The low temp on the date of the race for the last few years has been between 30 and 45 F. In order to be sure I get down there on time, park, warm up, etc etc., I'm guessing I will be down there for about 1 hr before the race starts. Any suggestions on how to stay warm and reasonably comfortable during that time? Do you buy some kind of cheap overcoat or sweatshirt or something that you can toss aside once the race is about to start?

Very interesting and good to know! I never would have thought of that.

If it's raining, get yourself a garbage bag, poke holes for your head and arms. It'll keep you dry, block the wind, and you can toss once you're warmed up. Get another one so you can have a place to sit too.

It's tough to beat the old garbage trick. When I have questions about a race, I always ask the garbage bag people - it's a sure thing that they're veterans. Add in a pair of holy sweatsocks (with holes ... not blessed by your priest, although that could be good, too) and you've got the perfect running ensemble.

Do they have sweat storage? You can just mark a bag with your bib number and they'll hold your warmer clothes for you. If they don't offer that, I'd just take some old sweats to toss away after you get started. But you can't beat getting back into sweats afterwards as you're cooling down! Good luck.

I'm a fan of wearing old long sleeved tshirts and throwing them away (well, not away, but tossing them aside). Another good idea: if you think you are only going to wear gloves for the first couple of miles, get the ultra cheap ones at a drugstore or grocery store (under $3) ... then toss those too!