RUNNING SKILLS

Only a tiny percentage of the population ever run a marathon and it’s a momentous thing to undertake. Whether you just have an urge, or are well on the way with your training plan, getting trustworthy advice is a minefield. Fret not, our Q&A guide tells you all you need to know about training, fuelling and – most importantly – enjoying those 26.2 miles

Words: Anna Harding

You’ve taken the plunge and signed up to run your first marathon. Or perhaps you’ve done one before but you want to make sure you get everything right in training this time round.

You could be aiming for a spring race day, which means you will have started your training already. However, whether you’re running 26.2 miles in the next few months, have a bit longer to train or are toying with getting yourself signed up for one, we’re here to answer all the questions you could possibly have about running a marathon.

Read on to find out exactly how to make sure you hit that start line in the best possible shape and frame of mind on the big day.

What kit do I need?

Marathon running doesn’t require loads of kit. You can happily train for one with the bare minimum of items as long as you have a good pair of running shoes, a supportive sports bra, t-shirt or long-sleeved top, leggings or shorts. You’ll be running several times a week when you’re training, so be prepared for an increase in washing load. You might also consider using a hydration pack in both your training and your race. It will enable you to carry water with you, which is useful on long training runs where you don’t have access to water stations like you would on race day. Do check the rules for your specific race though, as some don’t allow you to run wearing them. For example, the New York City Marathon allows fuel belts and handheld water bottles, but nothing that is worn over the shoulders.

If you’ve got a spring marathon coming up, you’ll probably have to train through the winter, but be prepared that when race day comes, you’re likely to be running in much warmer temperatures. In 2018, the UK experienced a super cold winter but the London Marathon ended up being the hottest on record. If you can, try and test out different possible race day outfits beforehand for all different weathers to make sure none of it chafes and you have options on the day whatever the weather ends up doing.