The Boston Marathon Handbook: An Insider’s Guide to Training for and Succeeding in the Ultimate Road Race

by Marc W. Pollina

Every third Monday each April since 1897, the fastest endurance athletes in the world converge on Boston, Massachusetts to run planet Earth’s most prestigious road race, the Boston Marathon. What began with fifteen runners toeing the start on a dirt road is now a global phenomenon, attracting millions of online viewers, more than 500,000 spectators, and 30,000 of the fastest athletes from 120 countries around the world.

Books chronicle its storied history. Memoirs highlight its penchant for self-transformation. The Boston Marathon Handbook takes a different tack, delivering everything we need to know – how to prepare, what to wear, how to qualify, where to celebrate, who to emulate, how to race, and everything else critical (and not so critical) – to ensure race-day success.

In a reverent yet tongue-in-cheek style, The Boston Marathon Handbook educates and entertains in equal measure. Marc W. Pollina presents us with the definitive field guide to the Boston Marathon for participants, aspirants on the cusp of participating, and athletes who dream of participating. In one entertaining package, The Boston Marathon Handbook features tips on getting in, training, navigating Boston and the runners’ expo, racing through each town, celebrating after the finish, shaking off the post-race blues, and figuring out what challenge to pursue next.

288 pages, Paperback

Published February 6, 2024

About the author

Marc W. Pollina is a writer, runner, and entrepreneur. He has completed 28 marathons, including 20 Boston Marathons as a bandit, a charity runner, and a sub-3 qualifier.

Pollina earned a BA in English Literature from Hampden-Sydney College, studied digital transformation at MIT, and founded an innovative cyber-media startup prior to penning his non-fiction debut.

He and his family escape to the Cape when they're not running to and from (and all over) Boston and New York City.

Reviews

[Maddie Barnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an awesome, witty, well-written book for any runner preparing for the marathon (or honestly, even for those who are not but just want to learn more about the history and structure!). Marc Pollina, bravo.

[Bella B · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Boston Marathon Handbook is packed with essential tips on training, qualifying, and race day strategies, all delivered with a touch of wit that keeps the pages turning. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner gearing up for your next race or someone who loves the thrill of cheering on the runners, this book will be an integral part of your bookshelf. Even if you’ve never been to Boston, Marc Pollina's The Boston Marathon Handbook will make you feel like you're standing right at the starting line in Hopkinton. With its humorous and engaging style, this book is a must-read for anyone with dreams of running the Boston Marathon or simply an interest in one of the world’s most iconic road races.

[Jack Hsieh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Worthy of a read!

I will be running my first Boston Marathon and this book provides great information. It is written in a way that's easy to read and with a sense of humor on top of detailed history. More importantly, it explained how one should tackle the course in each segment for success. I highly recommend this book for runners and history buff. A joy.

[Luke Bishop · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a fun book that is great for getting psyched, with some really funny lists. It has a lot of filler info tho that doesn’t have to do with Boston at all (like info about running clothes), and is sorta a beefed-up bathroom book. Still a fun addition to my Boston reading list!

[Adam Ebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book to read while training for Boston. This will be my second Boston, my first was 15 years ago so I wanted to brush up on my experience from 2010. A handy resource for all aspects of the marathon and a great way to stay motivated and get excited while slogging through winter training.

[Kyle Kowalczyk · Rating 3 out of 5]

I heard an interview with the author and the book sounded really good. But he proved to be a better podcaster than a writer. Not what I was expecting, not what I was looking for. Maybe I’ll look at it again when I qualify for Boston. Maybe.

[Belinda Rosenblum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!!! What an amazing book. This book is a must for anyone that has ever run Boston or plans to. Marc is a great writer.

[Russell Barton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full of useful information and insights, while also not taking itself too seriously, this book is a must-read for first time Boston marathon runners.

[Lucy Haswell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is great and an example of how I made this race my entire personality. I’ve been a wreck since Monday and don’t know what to do with myself these days.

[Connie Pollins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! It is very rare to read a book that is informative, entertaining, and inspirational all at once! Superbly written, this book takes the reader on a tour through Boston… the ins-and-outs of the race, the city, the people, the history, and the traditions. Whether you are a seasoned marathoner, an aspiring runner, or just someone that is intrigued by the awesome this race, this book is a must have on your shelf!

[Tony Creveling · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a must read for anyone who has finished a Boston Marathon, training to run it and for any runner in general. Although I never had the opportunity to run Boston this book put me right in the race. It is very informative, funny, thorough, and a great read. I received a copy before the original release date and I'm glad I did. I found myself going back and rereading chapters because I did not want to miss anything!!!!! If I could give it 10 stars I would.