Boston: Mile by Mile

The Boston Marathon is one of the most iconic and prestigious marathons in the world. Held annually on Patriot’s Day (the third Monday of April), the race attracts thousands of runners from all over the globe to compete on the challenging course that winds through the historic streets of Boston.

As a sports chiropractic office, we’re especially interested in the Boston Marathon because we know how important it is for runners to stay healthy and injury-free throughout their training and racing. That’s why we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the significance of this amazing event and offer some tips for runners who are preparing to tackle the course.

The Boston Marathon has a long and storied history, dating back to 1897, when the first race was held with just 15 participants. Over the years, the race has grown in size and stature, becoming a symbol of human endurance and resilience. It’s not just a race, but a celebration of the human spirit, as thousands of runners push themselves to the limit, overcoming obstacles and challenges along the way.

The Boston Marathon is known for its difficult course, which includes steep hills, winding turns, and unpredictable weather conditions. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to run the Boston marathon here is a break down mile by mile.

Mile 1 Hopkinton : Huge drop 130 feet, don’t try and fight the crowd. Enjoy the moment and protect your body as you descend.

Mile 2 – 3 Ashland : Moderate decline/rolling hills, set your pace here.

Mile 4 : Mild elevation 25 feet.

Mile 5 Framingham : Rolling hills, mild decline, pack thins out here. Try to find your friends if you know anyone else running with a similar race pace goal.

Mile 6 Framingham Train Station : Flattens out, resist the urge to speed up, don’t trip on the train tracks.

Mile 7 – 10 Natick : Mild elevation, mostly flat.

Mile 10 : Big crowds to boost your energy, slow down if you’re not feeling fresh here.

Mile 11 : Uphill 1st 1/4, Downhill last 3/4.

Mile 12 Wellesley College : It’s gonna get LOUD. Slight drop at the 20K mark.

Mile 13 – 15 : Mostly flat, regroup and assess, slow down if you’re not feeling fresh. Regroup with an appropriate pace friend.

Mile 15 Newton Lower Falls: Things start to get real here. Slight incline, then half mile in STEEP DROP 100 feet, followed by 9 miles of hills.

Mile 16 Highway Overpass : Possibly the toughest part of the course. Any weather will hit you hardest here.

Mile 17 Firehouse Hill : More crowds to motivate you.

Mile 18 – 19 Forever Young Statue : Another hill.

Mile 20 Heartbreak Hill : Steep half mile climb, pace your breath, look at the road not the top of the hill.

Mile 21 – 23 Boston College : Steep declines, watch out for the trolley tracks.

Mile 24 Brookline : Short hill.

Mile 25 – 26.2 Boston : Running through the city to the finish line!

The Boston Marathon is more than just a race. It’s a testament to the power of the human spirit and the importance of setting goals and pushing ourselves to be our best. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a first-timer, we wish you all the best as you prepare for this incredible event.

https://boston.cbslocal.com/guide/mile-by-mile-guide-to-the-boston-marathon

https://www.baa.org/races/boston-marathon/course-map

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