Tips for Publix Marathon Runners

Dr. Brooks Moore offers these tips to Publix Marathon runners on Sunday.

The race starts Sunday, March 18 at 7 a.m. at Centennial Olympic Park. Both the half marathon and the full marathon course run through historic Atlanta neighborhoods including Virginia-Highland, Poncey-Highland and Druid Hills.

• Be ready for all types of weather. March weather in Atlanta can be unpredictable. Check weather reports, and be prepared for extreme heat or cold, along with thunder and lightening.
• Take the flags on the course seriously.
  • Green = Proceed at your normal pace.
  • Yellow= Slow down and proceed with caution because of moderate weather conditions such as high heat and humidity.
  • Red= The marathon is no longer being timed. Proceed with caution to the nearest exchange point or seek immediate shelter due to severe weather conditions or other emergency.
  • Black= The race is canceled. Please exit the course immediately.
• Be conscious of changing road conditions. Last year, more than 30 runners were transported from the course for musculoskeletal injuries like twisted ankles. Spanning the Sweet Auburn District, Inman Park, Decatur, Druid Hills, Virginia-Highland and Midtown, the course can offer some challenging road conditions such as loose gravel and pot holes. It's better to be safe than to be fast.
• Listen to your body. A good rule of thumb is to seek medical attention on the course if you're experiencing symptoms for which you would normally go to the doctor or call the ambulance. Chest pain, dizziness and confusion are particularly concerning and should be checked out right away.
• Identify yourself. Complete the identification information on the back of your race bib, so that should you not be able to speak for yourself due to injury or illness, medical personnel will know who you are and how to reach your emergency contact.

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