If you're lucky enough to be cheering on a runner at a marathon (full or half—both are iconic!), consider this your time to shine creatively. And considering you're here, reading this, chances are you're preparing to whip up a marathon sign—a high-impact, low-effort way to make your favorite marathoner smile, tear up (happy tears, hopefully), and/or push through that brutal last stretch. And you rock for that! Though overshadowed, poster holders are very key players in every marathon, because the right message can give a runner a second (or third, or fourth) wind.

As a former marathoner who knows exactly what kind of signs can keep runners entertained while they’re fighting for their lives (or thriving, good for them!) on the course, I'm here to share some of the very best marathon sign ideas for you to steal. Whether you're looking to write something laugh-out-loud funny, heartwarmingly sweet, or a full-blown love letter in marker, this roundup has all the inspo you need to create a marathon masterpiece.

To help you out even more, I also broke the list up into sections, so you can find the perfect message for a friend, family member, stranger, or the love of your life in a jiffy. So, without further adieu, grab some poster board, and let's get to it.

Marathon Sign Ideas for Friends

  • That’s my best friend! She’s a real FAST bitch! 💨
  • In your marathon era!
  • Your ex is *definitely* watching the live tracker.
  • Run like Taylor Swift just dropped surprise tour dates.
  • You can brag about this for AGES.
  • Text me if you want me to call you an Uber.
  • The faster you run, the sooner we drink.
  • “You're doing amazing, sweetie!” – Kris Jenner Me
  • This is proof I support your bad decisions.
  • Remember you paid for this!

Marathon Sign Ideas for Your S.O.

  • On a scale of 1-10, I love you 26.2!
  • This is the longest you've ever ignored my texts.
  • You’re crushing this race harder than I'm crushing on you.
  • You look hot when you sweat 💦.
  • Run like I just found out you watched our show without me.
  • Don’t worry, I don’t love you for your toenails!
  • Hurry up so I can squeeze you like a gel pack!
  • Endorphins look good on you.
  • Came for the race, stayed for the view.
  • I'm your emergency contact, right?

Marathon Sign Ideas for Family Members

  • Mom always said you were the stubborn one.
  • Today, you're the favorite child.
  • Dad, you thought it said “rum,” didn’t you?
  • She's not a regular mom, she's a MARATHON mom.
  • I promise to exaggerate your PR at Thanksgiving.
  • Dad joke loading: ETA 26.2 miles ⌛️.
  • Run like Mom's posting your splits on Facebook. (She is.)
  • You're giving our family name an athletic reputation!
  • Finish strong so I can brag that you're my [insert familial relation]!
  • My [insert family member] runs faster than your [insert family member]!

Marathon Sign Ideas for Strangers

  • This crowd is your fan club!
  • Your legs hurt because you’re kicking so much ass.
  • You trained for this, and it SHOWS!
  • IDK you, but I’m proud of you!
  • In the clurb, we all run.
  • Don’t stop now–people are watching!
  • Tap here for a power boost! ⚡
  • I made this sign just for you! Yes, you!
  • You can do hard things!
  • The finish line has snacks!