More and more often, instead of the usual formats of recreation, which involve sightseeing with the obligatory imprinting of themselves against the backdrop of Parisian towers or Salisbury spires, travelers prefer tours with mass races. This format is called marathon tourism.
Marathon tourism – what is it?
This is a new and quite specific format of recreation: you come to another country, guess the date of your visit in such a way that your arrival in the country coincides with a mass marathon race, and join the race. The formats can be very different - jogging in the park, distances of 10-15-20 kilometers, half marathon and marathon distances (and there is also an ultramarathon!). This brings a pleasant variety to excursions to museums, ancient temples, cafes and restaurants.
Why are people "fooled" by marathon tourism?
Someone likes the feeling of belonging to a big holiday, others are looking for a way to distract themselves, and some like the opportunity to "gallop through Europe" to see the whole city with their own eyes, in all its diversity, to look into the streets and nooks and crannies, where tourists usually do not visit.
In addition, sports involve and addict: many marathon runners, having overcome one distance, go to the start line year after year, or even begin to collect races, going to marathons in different countries. Also the number of races is growing – along with the world-famous marathons in Berlin, London and Boston, over the past five years, several marathon races have appeared in Eastern Europe, Scandinavia and even the Baltic States, and not only in the capital Riga, but also in the small, "chamber" Daugavpils.
Why is a half marathon better than a full marathon?
The most important principle of marathon tourism is simple and logical: assess your desires and capabilities and take the burden on your shoulder - so that sports achievements do not spoil the trip as such. Experienced marathon runners never set personal records during "guest" races - otherwise there is a risk of overbreaking and spending the rest of the vacation in the room, or even in a hospital bed (such cases have happened). Therefore, many athletes limit themselves to a half marathon or even a shorter distance - so that afterwards there is strength left for hiking to sightseeing.
As for the optimal date, it is best to run first and then walk - this way you will have plenty of time to explore local attractions, taste delicacies and relax with friends. Otherwise, there is a risk of overdoing it with rest, and it will turn out that by the date of the expected race, you will not only run - you will crawl with great difficulty!
How is "marathon tourism" being developed?
First of all, it should be remembered that marathon tourism is first of all tourism, and only then a marathon; This means that the most important task of the organizer is profit. In addition to registration fees for participation in the race, tourists are offered full-fledged tours, including not only sports games, but also more usual trips out of town or sightseeing.
What is the secret of the growing popularity of marathon tourism?
The secret of the growing popularity of marathon tourism is in the combination of sports, travel and vivid emotions. Here are just a few key reasons why people love it:
A new travel format
Marathon tourism is not just a race, but a chance to see the world in a new way. People run along the simplest, not always "touristy" streets of Paris, New York, Tokyo, Rome or Cape Town, and along with the most picturesque and iconic locations, they will see the other side of the coin — and this is sometimes no less interesting.
Motivation to train
Participating in a marathon abroad is a great goal that motivates you to train regularly. The tour turns into a "sports adventure" and helps to adhere to a healthy lifestyle.
Emotions and atmosphere
Marathons abroad are always a holiday. Crowds of fans, music, creative costumes, support at every kilometer - all this creates a special atmosphere that remains in the memory for a lifetime! In addition, marathon tourism brings together people from all over the world, providing an opportunity to become part of the global running community, make friends and find like-minded people with other interests.
In addition, participants share bright photos and stories on social networks, tell their stories: this inspires others and creates an "engagement effect" — you want to experience the same.
Unique locations
Some marathons are organized in places where people rarely go, such as deserts, glaciers, mountains, or islands. This adds to the exoticism and makes each race special.
Where can you go for "marathon" impressions?
Midnight Sun Run
Along with the main August marathon, another half marathon is held in the capital of Iceland in June. These days, white nights reign here, for two whole months it is as bright as day. The race starts at nine in the evening and ends closer to midnight, and then the participants climb into the geothermal spring and celebrate their success.
Marathon on the Great Wall of China
The length of all sections of the Great Wall of China exceeds 20 thousand kilometers. This distance is enough to run five hundred marathons, but usually one marathon is enough for an unforgettable charge of emotions. Or even halves. For several years, this marathon was a purely internal event "for the insiders", but now China has opened, so this year in May (the race will take place on May 17) a full house is expected.
Valencia
The secret of the popularity of this race is in the unusual route: it passes through ancient irrigation facilities turned into a kind of museum. The marathon race takes place in December, the "half" runs on October 26.
Boston Marathon
The oldest race on Earth (of those that are held regularly and continuously). It was first held in 1897. Despite the fact that it mainly passes through pastoral and flat Massachusetts, at the final stage the runners have to overcome a series of sharp climbs, including the famous "Hill of Broken Hearts" (as you can guess, this hides a romantic story in the best traditions of Hollywood). It takes place on April 21.
