This is me last year at The London Marathon.
The picture on the left was taken at 18 miles going around Canary Wharf. As you can see I was in a lot of pain, having picked up a foot injury and I was so close to giving in.
Running a marathon is just as demanding mentally as it is physically and it took a huge amount of mental resilience to keep going to the end.
For those of you running your first event this year whether it be London or elsewhere and are feeling nervous, I have a few tips to help you:
1️⃣ A 7 minute mile is the same distance as a 15 minute mile
2️⃣ Your friends, family and anyone who knows you will be more impressed by the fact you’ve completed a marathon rather than the time
3️⃣ Break the race down into smaller chunks, I used 5 mile blocks to monitor my progress
4️⃣ The crowds push you every step of the way
5️⃣ Get your name printed on the front of your top, the crowd calling your name has such a powerful effect
6️⃣ What is your WHY? Remind yourself of why you are doing this, think about the money you have raised for charity, all the early starts and long runs in all sorts of weather. You’ve done the training now this is where you get to apply it
7️⃣ I got over taken by 12 runners dressed as dogs, 6 teletubies and 4 clowns, don’t be upset if this happens, use it to your advantage - if they can do it, why can’t you!!
8️⃣ Rewards - have a reward to look forward to for after you have finished the race. I had a weekend away booked with some friends
9️⃣ DONT TRY NEW THINGS ON RACE DAY - so many runners by new shoes, tops etc at the expo and use them on race day. I have spoken to so many runners who have ruined their race by doing something new.
🔟ENJOY IT. Although I was in a lot of pain, I thoroughly enjoyed the event and I am already looking forward to getting back out there in 2024
I hope this helps, if it does why not share it on your social media.
Keep checking back over the next few weeks for a few final nutrition tips in the build up to race day
Any last minute questions, drop me a message
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