Why marathon runners are given a silver blanket?

Answer 1

They are Heatsheets® made out of polyethylene. Runners are typically wearing just shorts and a light shirt, so when they stop they get cold. The space blanket is an inexpensive way to keep the runner warm until they can retreive their warmup clothes.

Answer 2

They are Heatsheets® made out of polyethylene. Runners are typically wearing just shorts and a light shirt, so when they stop they get cold. The space blanket is an inexpensive way to keep the runner warm until they can retreive their warmup clothes.

Answer 3

They are Heatsheets® made out of polyethylene. Runners are typically wearing just shorts and a light shirt, so when they stop they get cold. The space blanket is an inexpensive way to keep the runner warm until they can retreive their warmup clothes.

Answer 4

Speaking from experience (4 marathons) the "space blankets" are to keep the runners warm. After running that far the body is depleted. Add to that, dehydration and it is common for runners to get chilled once they stop. I don't get warmed up for a few hours after a run of more than 18 miles.

Answer 5

After an athlete has run for a long time their body is emitting extremely high levels of heat - so high that because the body has been pushed to the limit. They need to insulate themselves straightaway to prevent collapse. I have read of a case where a man died from not using a silver blanket.

Answer 6

because after a marathon your body will loose heat and the foil will reflect the heat.

Answer 7

Keeps the runners from cooling down too quickly and getting hypothermia.