Runners’ Lounge – Running articles and tips on race distances from 5K to marathons.

How To Be A Great Spectator—Tips for Supporters

Those who don’t have an interest or the stuff it takes to run a marathon can still participate. If you are not running in the race, you can still be part of the excitement. In order to have a good experience as a spectator, here are a few tips that you should keep in mind.

Pre-Race Logistics For Spectators

Dress in layers so as the weather warms and as you hustle around the course, you can remove clothing to stay comfortable.

Make a plan. Using the course map (in runner’s jargon, it’s called a course, not a route), find out your runner’s projected pace per mile to determine when and where they should reach certain points on the course. Factor in the time — up to 20 minutes in large marathons — it might take your runner to cross the start line. Then adjust your projected meet-up times following the first sighting of your runner.

Know the course the runners will be covering. This includes the start, key points for the runners — hills, the halfway mark, the 20-mile mark and, of course, the finish line. Some runners and spectators drive the course before race day.

If you can't be present to chase after your runner, sign up for virtual runner tracking, which sends alerts to cell phones, pagers and computers as runners move across the timing mats throughout the course.

Bring extra socks, water, energy gel and sunscreen. As the day warms up, be ready to take drop-off attire from your runner as he or she sheds extra clothing.

Make some noise. Bring cowbells, clappers, thundersticks, pom-poms, blow horns, kazoos, whistles and good old-fashion hand clapping and cheering.

Ensure that you arrive at your planned viewing spots to see your runner! Plan on how to get there. Marathons operate successfully because of road closures, which means detoured and backed up traffic. So allow yourself enough time to reach your spot, park and walk in to your viewing spot.

Plan on how to recognize your runner. Know what he or she is wearing and memorize their race number.

Keep in mind when you drop off your marathoner an hour before the race, you probably have four to six hours of standing, walking and waiting ahead of you. Bring your own snacks, drinks, money — and dress accordingly.

Help your runners spot you! Make large and unique signs. Wear bright-colored clothing, a funky hat, use helium balloons. Don’t use directions such as “We’ll be on the north side of the street.” Instead, be clear that you’ll always be viewing from your runners’ right side or left side.

Be careful of what appears like a great place to park. Parking within the course boundaries can lock you inside barricades and spectator roadblocks. Always park outside the perimeter of the course. Take public transportation when possible.

The Start

Watch the start even if you can’t see your runner. It is charged with excitement, determination and pride.

Starting areas get congested. When you drop off your marathoner, have a plan of where to meet before the race gets under way.

Spectators are an important part of the race, and your cheering has an impact on runners. Marathoners run in deep concentration, fatigue and discomfort. Although runners might not always respond, they definitely know you are there. Don’t confuse their lack of response to your cheering for lack of appreciation.

The Middle Miles

A marathon is a grueling event, and any words of encouragement can help out even the greatest runner.

Make a connection with individual runners. Yell their numbers, names, or anything that singles out that you’re cheering for them. He or she will truly appreciate it.

Locate your cheering section on a hill or more challenging portion of the course where runners will need the most encouragement.

If you suspect you've missed sighting your runner, move to the next viewing location.

Travel on and around the course responsibly. Whether by foot or car, watch out for the runners! Learn the street closures.

Be flexible. Your runner might be having a really good day or a struggling one. So arrive early and stay a bit later, just in case.

Use courtesy in crowded viewing areas. Most spectators are good hearted and will often yield so you can move in closer as your runner approaches or to take a picture. Return the courtesy.

Don’t let your support wear off after the midpoint. Try to find a cheering opportunity in the later stretch, miles 18 through 23, when it can grow quieter, lonely and physically demanding.

The Finish

The euphoria escalates at the finish for the most exciting part of the race. Plan to arrive in ample time to secure a good viewing spot as the runners come down the stretch.

Hold a curbside celebration with friends and/or neighbors if the course travels past your area.

Runners in the back of the pack need the most encouragement, as they will be out on the course the longest. Be sure to cheer for them as well!