As you can tell by the title, I ran my first marathon. This post is a reflection on how I got here, the logistics and training that went into preparing for 26.2 miles, and some hard-earned lessons and advice for future first-time marathoners. My goal is to share my perspective on the experience.
Zero to Hero
I wasn't always a "runner." In fact, it all started with joining the UC Merced Run Club during university. Running with friends in the club was genuinely fun and motivating, those casual group runs after classes built my fitness and confidence over time. There's actually truth to the idea that running with others can boost your motivation and consistency. Over a couple of months, my casual jogging turned into a regular habit. By the time my third year in uni was over, I had a solid base and a growing itch to challenge myself further. Running some shorter races and seeing other club members tackle long-distance events inspired me to think: could I run a marathon? Eventually, I decided the marathon would be my next big goal. It felt like a natural progression, a way to test the endurance foundation I had built since those early run club days. The idea of conquering 26.2 miles was intimidating, but I knew that with consistent training and the right mindset, I could get there.
Signing Up
Once I committed to the idea, I went all in and registered in April 2025 for a marathon scheduled in late July 2025. Signing up about three to four months in advance gave me a concrete deadline and training window. The registration itself was an eye-opener: I ended up paying around $350 for the race, which included a bunch of optional add-ons. I splurged on things like an official race jacket, a video recording of my finish, and the professional photo package, basically all the bells and whistles for my first marathon. In hindsight, that total cost was pretty steep for a single race. I've learned that future races don't need to be that expensive: you can save money by skipping the add-ons (for example, standard entry fees without extras are much more reasonable). But as a first-timer, I was excited and wanted the full experience, so I don't really regret it. Just noting for next time: budget wisely and decide which extras matter most.
Logistics were a significant part of the marathon experience. The race I chose was a major city marathon in San Francisco (held on July 27, 2025). That meant dealing with an early start time and travel planning. The full marathon kicked off just after 5 AM, so I had to be in the start area well before dawn. I remember woke up at 2 AM to eat a light pre-race breakfast and drive to the city. To avoid parking nightmares near the start line, I reserved a parking spot in advance (using a service called SpotHero) near downtown. If your race isn't local, I'd also recommend booking accommodations early or sorting out transportation logistics ahead of time. In my case, being relatively close by (about an hour's drive) meant I could skip a hotel, but I had to plan the morning travel carefully. The night before, I laid out all my gear systematically: shoes (already broken-in, never run a marathon in brand-new shoes!), socks, shorts, shirt with my bib already pinned, watch, hat, and a small belt with gels. I set multiple alarms (because who actually sleeps soundly the night before a first marathon?).
Marathon Prep
Unlike many first-time marathoners who follow a strict 16-20 week training plan, I took a more unstructured but intentional approach to training. This wasn't due to lack of effort, I ran consistently, but I didn't have a formal plan saying exactly how many miles to run each week. Instead, I focused on a few key principles:
Consistency and Easy Miles
Most of my runs were done at an easy pace, referred to as Zone 2 training. In practice, this meant running comfortably (like chatting with a friend while running) and keeping my heart rate roughly in the 60-70% of max range. I've learned that Zone 2 running is considered the foundation of long-distance running and is great for building endurance. In plainer terms: running lots of miles at an easy pace builds up your aerobic engine, which is exactly what a first-time marathoner needs. I wasn't worrying about interval splits or hitting fast times in training; I was just logging those steady miles to strengthen my cardio and legs.
Long Runs
Once a week (usually on weekends) I did a longer run to gradually increase my endurance. I worked my way up in distance over the months. My longest run before the marathon was about 18 miles. These long runs were done mostly at a relaxed pace, though sometimes I'd finish a bit faster to simulate picking up tired legs. The main goal was to get my body used to hours on the road. Each time I pushed my long run a couple miles farther, it built not just physical stamina but also mental confidence that "okay, I can handle 15 miles… maybe 18… maybe 20." By race day, the prospect of 26.2 was still daunting, but knowing I had come close in training was reassuring.
Speed Work
While 80% or so of my running was easy, once in a while I incorporated a faster effort. Approximately once a week I'd do either a tempo run or some hill sprints. A tempo run for me might be 3-5 miles at a "comfortably hard" pace, faster than my normal easy pace, but not an all-out sprint. These runs trained me to sustain a quicker pace and improved my lactate threshold (the point where muscles really start burning). I wasn't extremely scientific about it; I just made sure I didn't go every run at the exact same slow pace. Variety helps, and it kept training interesting too.
In summary, my training was "I just ran, consistently (with intention)". It might not have been the perfect plan, but it got me to the start line healthy and reasonably prepared. For first-time marathoners reading this, know that there are many training philosophies out there. What matters most is commitment and consistency: run regularly, build up your endurance with mostly easy runs, sprinkle in some faster workouts, and don't neglect those all-important long runs. Even without a coach or a detailed plan, you can succeed if you stay dedicated and listen to your body.
Race Day
Thousands of runners lining up for the race
Race morning was surreal. I arrived at the start area at 4:00 AM, the sky still dark and the air brisk (typical San Francisco foggy dawn). There were thousands of runners warming up, checking their gear, and "emptying the tank". I did a few light stretches and a slow jog to warm up, but mainly I tried to stay calm. I reminded myself not to get caught up in the adrenaline and sprint out too fast at the beginning. When the race began, I consciously held back my pace in the early miles. In fact, one piece of advice I'd heard (and followed) is to run the first 5K of a marathon a bit slower than your goal pace, even if you feel great because going out too fast will cause you to bonk later on in the race. Many runners will fly past you, and that's okay. It ultimately paid off: by the halfway point (13 miles in), I was feeling steady and still had plenty of fuel in the tank.
I made a point to take water and electrolytes at every aid station (roughly every 2-3 miles on the course) and consumed the energy gels I brought at regular intervals (about one every 45 minutes). This consistent fueling and hydration strategy was crucial to keep my energy levels stable and prevent dehydration. The course itself was beautiful but challenging. We ran along the waterfront, across the Golden Gate Bridge and back, and through different neighborhoods. The bridge had an incline that surprised my legs, but the views (even in misty fog) were worth it.
Around miles 18-20 was when it was true pain. My legs were getting heavy and every mile felt longer than the last. This is the stage of the marathon where it becomes as much a mental battle as a physical one. I used a few tricks to cope: I broke the remaining distance into smaller goals ("Just get to mile 20... now just get to 21..." and so on), and I thought about all the training miles and support from friends that had brought me here. I also reminded myself that discomfort is temporary and finishing would be worth it. Positive self-talk helped fend off the negative thoughts that creep in when fatigue mounts.
By mile 25, I was running on sheer determination. I won't lie, it was tough. But as I turned the corner and saw the finish line arch in the distance, a surge of adrenaline kicked in. I took whatever I had left to pick up my pace for the final stretch. Crossing the finish line of my first marathon was a powerful moment. I was exhausted, yes, but also proud. A volunteer hung a finisher's medal around my neck and I couldn't stop smiling. I finished in just over 6 hours (I wasn't chasing a time, my main goal was to finish and enjoy the experience, which I did). Standing there after 26.2 miles, I felt a mix of joy and relief. All the months of running had paid off. In a way, it wasn't just about that day, it was about the whole journey from deciding to run a marathon, to signing up, to all those early mornings. The race was like the final exam, and I passed. Sure, I had some aches (icing my legs as I'm writing this lol), but the sense of accomplishment outweighed any physical pain.
Advice
Now that I've had time to reflect, I want to capture what I learned and share some advice for anyone else preparing for their first marathon (and as a reminder to my future self for the next race!). There are things I did well, and things I know I could do better. Here are the key takeaways:
Plan
While my improvised training got me across the finish line, I suspect I could improve my performance with a bit more structure. Next time, I might follow a well-known training plan to ensure I'm hitting proper weekly mileage and tapering correctly before race day. That said, I'll still keep the flexibility to listen to my body. Remember, a plan is a guide and not a rigid law.
Training and Recovery
I want to keep a better log of my weekly runs and how they felt. This can help identify if I'm overtraining or if I need extra rest.
Fuel
I made it through without hitting a major energy crash, but I realize I might have started fueling a bit late in the race. For the next marathon, I plan to start fueling early (some advice says even as early as 20–30 minutes into the race) and consistently take in carbs before I get desperately hungry. Similarly, I'll ensure I'm well-hydrated in the days leading up to the race and not just on race morning. I did carry my own gels, but I might experiment with different nutrition in training to see what works best for my stomach. The saying "nothing new on race day" applies to nutrition strongly. Make sure to practice your fueling plan during long runs so there are no surprises during the marathon.
Pacing
I was happy with my disciplined start and even pacing. In future races, as I get more experienced, I'll work on maybe a negative split (running the second half slightly faster than the first) if possible. But the big lesson was: respect the distance and stick to your plan.
Enjoy the Moment (but Don't Get Carried Away)
I made sure to soak in the atmosphere. That was great; it kept my spirits up. From chatting with the fellow runners to engaging with the spectators, those small interactions gave me energy. I want to keep that joyful approach. At the same time, I learned not to let excitement derail my focus (for example, I didn't do anything crazy like sprint up a hill to show off). It's a balance: have fun out there, but keep your head in the game.
Tips
Consistent Training
Give yourself enough weeks (typically 16-20 weeks) to train and increase your running mileage gradually. It's more important to be consistently good, rather than being occasionally great. Increase your long run distance little by little, and don't jump from say 10 miles to 20 miles in one go. Your body needs time to adapt to longer distances.
Zone 2 Runs
A common mistake for new runners is doing their training runs too fast. Aim to do roughly 80% (or more) of your running at zone 2. This builds your endurance base efficiently. Easy runs might feel boring, but trust me, they are the foundation that will carry you through the marathon.
Speed Runs
While easy miles should dominate, include one run per week that challenges you a bit like tempo, fartlek, hill sprints, and so on. These improve your speed and strength, which makes marathon pace feel easier over time. Just don't overdo it on speed; one quality session a week is plenty for a first-timer.
Long Runs
Work up to doing at least one 18-20 mile run before race day. This not only trains your body to handle hours of running but also trains your mind to push through fatigue. Practice fueling on these long runs exactly as you plan to during the race.
Recovery
Rest days are part of training. Your muscles actually get stronger when you allow them to recover. Take at least 1-2 rest days per week. Skip a run if you feel the need too. Also, prioritize sleep and nutrition.
Plan Early
Reduce pre-race stress by organizing the logistics well in advance. Register early to secure your spot (and possibly cheaper fees). Book hotels or travel if needed, figure out how you'll get to the start line (parking, shuttles, drop-off), and go to the expo early to avoid last-minute rush. The night before, lay out all your gear and essentials.
Race Gear
Stick with the shoes, socks, clothing, and even breakfast that you know work for you from training. Blisters or an upset stomach can sabotage your marathon; prevent that by using only proven gear and nutrition on race day. (And yes, apply a lubricant or balm on any areas prone to chafing, you'll thank yourself later.)
Pace Yourself
Adrenaline at the start can cause you to go out way too fast. Don't: it will come back to bite you. Instead, start a bit slower than your goal pace for the first few miles; it will feel weird as people pass you, but many of them will burn out later. Running your own pace is crucial.
Fuel
Don't wait until you're "dying" to take in nutrition and fluids. Begin fueling relatively early into the race and keep a schedule (for example, a gel every 40-45 minutes, water at every aid station). Similarly, drink water and electrolytes regularly. By the time you feel true thirst, you're pretty much cooked.
Mind Over Matter
Anticipate that at some point, it's going to hurt and your mind will throw negative thoughts at you ("Why am I doing this?"). This is normal! Have a mental strategy for those moments. It could be repeating a mantra (my go-to was "one mile at a time" around mile 20), or recalling your motivation for running, or remembering people who supported you. Stay positive and don't give up when it gets tough because that's exactly when you need to dig deep. Trust your training and know that many others are feeling the same pain. As long as you're not injured, you can push through fatigue. The reward at the finish is worth it.
Enjoy the Experience
This is your first damn marathon. Soak in the atmosphere. Smile for the cameras, high-five spectators, and celebrate the fact that you're out there doing something amazing. Not many people even attempt a marathon! Of course you'll be focused, but don't zone out so much that you forget to experience the camaraderie of the race. The journey truly is as important as the destination. And no matter what your finish time is, be proud of your achievement when you cross that line. You only get one first marathon, so make it a positive memory.
Post-Finish
After you finish, your body will be depleted. Grab some water right away and whatever recovery snacks are provided. Keep moving for a little bit to let your heart rate come down gradually. In the days after, focus on sleep, light movement like walking/yoga, and clean-eats to help your muscles recover. It's normal to feel sore for several days. Take pride in your accomplishment and reflect on what went well and what you might do differently next time.
Mission accomplished!
Running my first marathon taught me a lot about myself: my discipline, my limits, and my ability to persevere. But above all, it was deeply rewarding and enlightening. The marathon is an awesome goal, but it demands respect and smart preparation. For anyone reading who is considering their first marathon: I hope these insights help you go into it with realistic expectations and a solid plan. And for future me (if I'm reading this before marathon #2): remember these lessons and let's get after that next finish line.
Until next time, happy running!