How to run a marathon (or not)

If you are like me and have nothing better to do than to wake up at an unearthly hour to run the longest race in your life, then here are some tips and pointers that can do you good.

Point #1 : Train, like duh.

And I don’t mean the transport. Don’t try to be a hero like me. Running 10km once weeks before the run is not exactly ideal preparation. But if you’re already into the final week and find yourself short of running mileage, forget it. It’s too late, so prepare yourself in other ways. But if you're Nas and you need a year to train, then you better get started now.

Point #2 : Drink up!

Without trying to sound like a SAF Commander, a good hydration plan goes a long way. The day before the race is especially critical. Always have a bottle in hand and drink till your bladder burst. Seriously. No, SERIOUSLY. I drank so much during the race that I had to pee midway. That itself is incredible given the amount of water I lost through sweating. Whatever it is, peeing is way better than having to shit your pants out in the middle of East Coast. Someone that I knew did that. Aku kuat suspect you all know who he is.

Point #3 : You'll never run alone

Find a friend or two that have preferably trained to run with and you'll find yourself constantly pushing yourself. Running with Jon and Darryl not only meant that I was running at a decent pace, it also served as a motivation to not fall behind the both of them. I know, ego sial. And if ever you start doubting yourself during the race, that's what your running buddies are for.

Point #4 : Do not be deceived

This year's marathon attracted a record 50,000 runners and with that many people, you are sure to see thousands of bobbing heads in front of you. That does not mean you're slow though. It can be very tempting to try and overtake everyone in your way ,especially in the first few kilometres when you still have bundles of energy. So always stick to your pace and like the slogan says, "Run your own race". It cannot get any truer than that.

Point #5 : Glass is half full

A marathon is very much a mental race as it is a physical one. And when your body starts to fail you, it is your mind that will pull you through. So always encourage yourself and think positive thoughts. Think food, think hellos, think Nas joget zapin. My personal mantra is with every passing step, I can only get closer to the finish line. Amasham.

Point #6 : Think before you run

This is pretty much a no brainer. Us lazy bums are usually without the necesary training, so it'll be wise to adopt a running strategy. The Run-Walk strategy is preferable and you don't actually have much of a choice. After running yourself to the ground usually around the 20++km mark, it is more strategic to walk fast rather than try to start running again. The cramps won't go away, so just dig deep and open up your strides.

Point #7 : Savour your Olympic moment

You see the finish line and hordes of supporters are cheering for you as you drag yourself for the final few metres. This is YOUR moment, embrace it. As the cameras flash, muka maintain and end your race with a glorious pose. Pat yourself on the back, you've done it!