BACK TO MARATHON TRAINING

How long does it take to prepare for a Marathon?

 The longer the better, it could be as little as 6 months or a gradual progression over a few years depending on your health, previous experience, injuries or time available to train.

What are the age constraints?

Youngsters under the age of 20 years should not be encouraged to run long distances unless they have elite potential (many of the world top marathon runners are in their early 20s – however, it is generally recognised that mid thirties is the optimum age for such an endurance event). In reality most first time marathon runners tend to be a bit older after years of watching ‘The London’ on TV or coming to the end of another sporting career – the challenge of a marathon seems a good idea!

 What gear do I need?

Thankfully very little. The most important item(s) being a suitable pair of trainers. Best advice is to visit a specialist sports shop where the staff understand runners and the demands of long distance running. Some of these shops invite you to run on a running machine where your natural running action is recorded, when it is played back any unusual traits can be accommodated by shoes designed to suit your style, if your style is ‘neutral’ there will be an even wider range available for you. These shoes will not last for ever, so you need to budget for their renewal as the miles clock up.

 During warm weather shorts and a vest is about all you need, in reality much of the training will be carried out when it is cold, wet, windy and dark. To make matters as comfortable as possible an investment in a track suit, light weight shower proof jacket and trousers is a good start. Choose light colours where possible but a reflective top is a must on those dark evenings. A hat and lightweight gloves will also be welcome on frosty runs.

HOW FAR & HOW OFTEN