Last month we introduced you to the three women making up our Big Marathon Challenge team in 2018! Now their training is well under way, we catch up with them to see how they are getting on

Photos Joe Branston

Running a marathon takes perseverance and a whole heap of motivation. It’s an exciting journey, but even the most dedicated marathoner knows it’s tough to get to the start line.

Here at Women’s Running, we’ve decided to make the marathon journey that little bit easier for three women, with our Big Marathon Challenge! Together with our sponsor, ASICS, who have kitted out the team, and coaching partner, Full Potential, we are supporting them every step of the way to reach the start line of the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon on 8 April 2018.

The New Year has well and truly begun, which means the women are getting to grips with their personalised training plans. We caught up with them to find out how they’re getting on…

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CAROLINE STAFFORD

Age 37

From Oakham, Rutland

Occupation Self-employed baker and owner of the-kitsch-hen.co.uk

How is your training going?

Really well. It’s full on and challenging but I’m really enjoying it. I like mixing up the running with strength work in the gym and it’s great to feel the improvements

What advice from Richard have you found most useful so far?

To use recovery runs as just that! I’m a little competitive with myself and initially would try to push myself at each session. Richard has helped me understand the purpose of easy runs – it’s helped me think about how all the sessions fit together.

What changes have you made to your training as a result of Richard’s advice?

I’m stretching more! I’ve always been a bit quick with my stretches. Richard has helped me realise the importance of proper stretching – even on rest days.

How are you getting on with fitting in the training?

I’m lucky in that I work from home for myself, so I’m pretty flexible. It’s been tough during winter when the weather’s been so awful and I’ve had to resort to running on a treadmill – I much prefer running outside!