First Year Movers
P3R is launching the First Year Movers Program, presented by Chicken of the Sea, to help new runners conquer their first big race at the 2025 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend of Events. This initiative is designed to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for first-time marathon and half-marathon participants—from their first training run to crossing the finish line.
With events for all ages and abilities, the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend of Events continues to grow, drawing over 40,000 participants annually, including a significant number of first-time runners. In 2024, an impressive 44% of marathon participants and 34% of half-marathon participants tackled these distances for the first time. The First Year Movers Program builds on this enthusiasm by equipping new runners with the resources they need to train effectively, stay motivated, and cross the finish line with confidence.
If you're a first-timer preparing for your first-ever event, we've got all the info you need to train AND navigate through your first marathon weekend.
First-Timers' FAQs
We've compiled a list of frequently asked questions by first-timers, complete with Pittsburgh-specific answers.
Get your answers
Inspiring Stories!
Every runner on the course was a first-timer at one point. Read some inspiring stories from those who have gone before you!
Learn More
Training Plans
Not sure how to get started? Check out all of our training plans to help get you MOVING! If you're a fitness newbie (or maybe it's been awhile - no judgment!), we recommend starting with the 5K or half marathon walking division plans!
Review the plans
Recharge to Reach the Finish Line
As you embark on your journey to the 2025 Pittsburgh Marathon or Half Marathon, remember that rest and recovery are as crucial as your training runs. It's not just about pushing your limits; it's about giving your body the time it needs to rebuild and strengthen. Let’s explore why rest and recovery are your unsung heroes and how they can propel you towards marathon success.
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Do's and Don'ts for your first race
Participating in your first race can be filled with excitement, nerves, and even some fears. 2022 P3Runner Erica Strasser has all the tips you need to know!
Read more!
A First-Timer's Guide to Marathon Weekend
You have your training plan and are ready to MOVE. 2022 P3Runner Cara Group has all the info you need to guide you through your first race weekend!
Get the guide
What are tangents?
When people run a race, they often look at their watches and realize they actually ran further than the race was supposed to be. Why?!
Learn about tangents
Make the Most Out of Marathon Weekend
2022 P3Runner Jeff Paladina shares how you can get the best experience on marathon weekend!
Read on
Race Bibs Explained
At the beginning of race week, you'll receive an email with your bib number. If you're going to be MOVING in your first race on marathon weekend, you might be wondering what everything on your bib means. (Please note that this example is from 2022.)
Everything you need to know
Marathon Relay
If it's your team's first time running the FedEx Pittsburgh Marathon Relay, you are probably wondering what to expect. Take a peek at our 2023 relay handbook!
Read the handbook
Navigating the Expo
The Pittsburgh Health & Fitness Expo is where reality sets in for most MOVERS - you can feel the excitement of race weekend fill the air! 2022 P3Runner Adrian Crouch walks you through everything you need to know about the expo!
Learn more