NYC Marathon: The Hill That Wasn't There Yesterday
So, you're planning to run the NYC Marathon, huh? Good for you! You’re about to embark on a journey of pain, glory, and questionable life choices. But before you lace up those shoes and start dreaming of a finisher's medal, let's talk about something that might dampen your enthusiasm slightly: elevation gain.
The Big Apple, Not the Big Hill
Now, New York City isn’t exactly known for its mountainous terrain. It's more like a concrete jungle with the occasional skyscraper. But don't be fooled! This marathon is not a flat pancake. It's more like a waffle with some surprisingly steep syrup-filled pockets.
The total elevation gain for the NYC Marathon is around 900 feet. That might not sound like much, but trust me, when you're already running 26.2 miles, those feet feel like mountains. It's like climbing a skyscraper... 3 times. Just kidding, it's not that bad. But it's enough to make you question your life choices and wonder if you'd be better off binge-watching Netflix.
The Culprits: Bridges and Bridges
The main culprits behind this elevation torture are the bridges. You've got the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, the Queensboro Bridge, and the Willis Avenue Bridge. These babies are not kind to your quads. It's like running on a treadmill set to "incline hell."
How to Survive the Hills (or at Least Pretend To)
Don't worry, it's not all doom and gloom. There are ways to tackle this elevation challenge. Here are a few tips:
- Embrace the Suck: This might sound counterintuitive, but sometimes the best way to deal with something is to just accept it. So, embrace the hills, give them a good old-fashioned middle finger, and keep running.
- Hill Repeats: Incorporate hill repeats into your training. This will help your legs get stronger and mentally prepare you for the ups and downs of the course.
- Gear Up: Invest in a good pair of running shoes with adequate support. And don't forget to pack some energy gels or chews for those uphill battles.
FAQ: Hill-Related Queries
How to deal with the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge?
- Just close your eyes and think about pizza.
How to conquer the Queensboro Bridge?
- Channel your inner Rocky and pretend you're training for a fight.
How to survive the Willis Avenue Bridge?
- Remind yourself that it's almost over. And then treat yourself to a slice of pizza when you're done.
How to mentally prepare for the hills?
- Listen to upbeat music, count your blessings, or bribe yourself with post-race treats.
How to avoid quitting when faced with a hill?
- Remember, every step you take is one step closer to the finish line. And pizza.
So, there you have it. The NYC Marathon is not just a test of endurance, but also a battle against gravity. But with the right mindset and preparation, you can conquer those hills and emerge victorious. Good luck!