If you’re spectating at a marathon, of course you’re eager to show your support for your friends, family, and even complete strangers. But before you get loud, Runner’s World+ members say there are right—and very wrong—ways to scream and shout during a race.
Almost all of the members we spoke to singled out one particular phrase to avoid at all costs: “You’re almost there!”
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“Especially in a marathon, and you say you’re almost there, and you look down at your watch, and you’re at 10k with 30 more to go. You’re not almost there.”
Members like Eamon O’Reilly, meanwhile, love to hear cowbells while they runs by the crowds. When he’s spectating, he makes sure to have one handy: “I’ll crank that cowbell for hours, but I love hearing the cowbell and just cheering in general,” he says. Runners appreciate the noise, so if your hands get tired of clapping, bring along a noisemaker to keep up the momentum.
For more spectating do’s and don’ts, watch the video above, and Never, ever shout, Youre almost there.
How to Hone Your Finishing Kick Popular Mechanics, Runner’s World, and Bicycling magazines. She recently graduated from Temple University where she studied film and media. Her favorite hobbies include DIY projects, exploring new music, videography, and traveling. On the weekend you can find her shopping at her favorite thrift and antique stores.
