It takes more than passion and good physique to be a good marathon runner. So marathon organizers must pay more attention to providing timely first aid to the runners, says an article on guancha.gmw.cn. Excerpts:

A retried soldier in his early 30s collapsed on the ground near the finishing line of a marathon in Zhuhai, Guangdong province, last weekend and died four hours later in a nearby hospital. The man was known for his excellent physical health, but became the fourth marathoner to die during a race in China this year.

Marathon running is becoming increasingly popular in China, especially because more and more people consider it an inexpensive way to keep physically fit. Its popularity can be gauged from the fact that 38 marathons had been held in the country by early December this year.

Running, an aerobic exercise, does not suit everyone. So people should consult physicians or experts before choosing running as a form exercise.

Besides, a strong person may not necessarily be a good marathoner, and not all runners can meet the demands of a marathon. In particular, amateur runners should seek professional guidance and training to know whether they can run a marathon. And marathon organizers must dissuade people, who do not seem fit, from taking part in a race. More importantly, they should provide timely and professional medical aid to runners during emergencies.

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