From the September 2012 issue of Runner’s World

Our experts solve the issue of loud spectators and answer more of your questions

Q I run marathons across the country, and the amount of noise coming from the sidelines drives me nuts. Shrieking fans are one thing, but what’s with the cowbells and loud music? I’m considering wearing earplugs. Good solution?
– LUKAS D.

A Noise on a race course is like heat – it’s ambient, it’s beyond your control, and different runners have different tolerances. Some runners thrive on crowd noise and loud music, using it as a source of energy. Others, like you, not so much. The way I see it, you have two options: (1) suck it up and/or learn to deal with the noise, or (2) find smaller races with more rural courses. I’d try these approaches before resorting to earplugs. Watch out, though: even along a very rural course, you still may find cowbells… on cows. Good luck! [blows air horn]

Q My running partner’s birthday is coming up. I want to get her a running-themed gift. Any suggestions?
– ANNETTE G.

A The best running gifts are a lot like the best non-running gifts – they’re personal, thoughtful, and say something about your relationship with the recipient. Without knowing more about your running buddy, then, it’s hard for me to give specific ideas. But how about… matching, running-themed jewellery, like necklaces or bracelets (you wear one, she wears one)? A running book with a personalised inscription from you? Maybe even a small jar of soil scooped up from her favourite trail, with a colourful tag and a nice note? You really can’t go wrong. Remember, you’ve already given your running partner the best gift of all: companionship.

Q I’ve put on 2kg since the London Marathon! This can’t be right, can it?

A Not unusual. Post-race your mileage falls off a cliff, but appetite doesn’t. Eat mindfully and you’ll be okay.

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