It’s no secret that all marathoners are a little out there, especially during their taper period. After four months of high mileage and nonstop marathon chatter, suddenly running less leaves us nervous, buzzing with energy and asking bizarre questions—almost like we’ve never raced.
As someone gearing up for their first Boston Marathon, I joined a 2025 Boston Marathon Facebook group to see what other runners were discussing. There were common questions: How do I get into the city from the airport? What events are happening during the weekend? Where are the best cheering spots for family and friends? And then there were these six.
Can I take an Uber to Hopkinton?
Unless you plan on arriving before roads into Hopkinton close at 6:30 a.m., or you want to throw money away, sure. But your best bet? Use one of the hundreds of free buses included in your registration fee from the Boston Common to the Athletes’ Village.
What’s the best way for spectators to cross Boylston Street on race day?
Don’t. It’s not possible.
Should I run in new or old shoes on Monday?
If your “old” shoes are too worn out to make it 42.2 km, grab a new pair—but test them first! A 5K shakeout run on Saturday or Sunday will help decide if they work for you.
Can I run in another wave or corral?
The rules are: You can move back, but not up. You can shift to a later wave or corral (higher-numbered ones) if needed, but not to the first corral of a later wave. If you’re caught moving up, you could run the risk of being disqualified.
Why isn’t there a bag drop at the start?
It might sound practical, but in reality, it would turn Marathon Monday into a logistical nightmare. The only things you can take with you to the start are items you’re willing to discard, or things you plan on carrying (or consuming) during the race.
How far should I go for my final long run?
This might be the most reasonable question of the bunch. But honestly, it’s something you could ask AI or Google before posting in a Facebook group. If you need a quick answer, 12–20 km should work.
