The 22nd Life Time Miami Marathon and Half is upon us, and it's about to shut down the city streets this weekend. While Sunday is the main event drawing in 18,000 runners, preparations have been rolling for much longer than just a few days. According to NBC Miami, Frankie Ruiz, the race co-founder, clarified that athletes don't just decide to run a marathon overnight. "Some of these folks have been training their whole lives to do that race that day," said Ruiz. "Some training programs start 16 weeks out. Some start a full year out."

Many Miamians have been gearing up, including NBC6 Producer Marcela Valdivia, who was inspired to run her first half marathon after watching the 2023 marathon. "I've been in Miami for a year, and I think it's really exciting to be able to run the city that's given so much to me," Valdivia told NBC Miami. Miami streets will begin to close today and will remain inaccessible through Sunday afternoon, so runners like Valdivia will need to carefully navigate the city even before the starting gun fires.

Ruiz emphasizes the uniqueness of the Miami Marathon, pointing out the international diversity of participants and the vibrant energy of the city. It's more than just a race; it's a full week of activities. This year introduces a new feature: a pickleball showcase at the Health & Fitness Expo. "This is where pickleball and running meet," Ruiz told NBC Miami. Runners can take advantage of various briefings, a Tropical 5K, and even a cleanup event before they take to the starting line on Sunday.

Navigating the event is also a big task for the organizers, who have to coordinate with multiple municipalities and federal agencies. "We're actually crossing various different municipalities," said Ruiz. "So, we do work with Miami Beach, Miami, Miami-Dade County, the U.S. Coast Guard, and various federal agencies to, actually, even the state, Florida Department of Transportation, to make sure that we get permission to use 26.2 miles of roadways." Not just a physical challenge for runners, the marathon is also a logistical ballet that requires immense planning and coordination, reflected in the street closures noted by the Miami Herald. Make sure to plan accordingly if you're trying to get around town this weekend.

While the runners are psyching themselves up to conquer the pavement, Miami braces for the wave of sweat, adrenaline, and sportiness. Whether you're lacing up your shoes or just planning to cheer, the Life Time Miami Marathon and Half promises to be yet another testament to the endurance and spirit of the Magic City.