Have you taken on your first marathon? Or maybe even convinced yourself to do another one?

If you’re the latter then you will most definitely be aware of the ups and downs of taking on a marathon! However, if you’re new to the game then it’s an emotional one.

Us runners know we all run for a reason. Running gives us something non-runners will never understand. That’s what you have to remind yourself when taking on this distance because it’s HARD. Always remind yourself why you are doing it.

Running in general is hard, but 26.2 miles can wipe you clean off your arse and put you right in your place! I’ve had it happen to me a few times and so now I’m definitely more respectful of this distance.

Marathons typically run in Spring. If you are training for one now you will most likely be thinking:

• Why?
• Why am I trying to do this?
• My body can’t work at this level anymore.

You will probably be feeling exhausted.

When you train for a marathon the aim is to cover 26.2 miles – that’s a long way to go. The training leading up to this is gruelling, hard, exhausting and I would be lying if I was to say you’ll want to do every run.

Here’s a top tip!

Try to ensure you are getting a good 8-10 hours sleep when training. This can be hard to work around your family life but it really will help with recovery

If you have niggles!

Your body is working hard so expect tightness, sore joints and maybe some niggles if you have suffered with previous injuries. When you are working at your limit your muscles will be tired and your body will be sore. Remember you are at risk of injury as your body will be tired. Ensure you’re getting enough protein for recovery. Use strength work to ensure your joints are strong. Also ensure your vitamin intake is up there as you will be utilising everything you take. It’s hard work training a lot!

Cold, dark nights/bad weather

And you can’t be bothered. If you work then those mid-week runs will probably have to be first thing in the morning or late after work which means you’re having to go out in the dark. After a day at work it’s probably the last thing you want to do, especially if it’s raining and cold. If you have an afternoon or day off mid week then I would strongly recommend getting your run done in this time. You’re more likely to do it.

Hunger

Yes that’s right your appetite is through the roof. Your metabolism is sky high and you will be eating like a horse. You actually don’t need more calories than you burn training for a marathon. Typically I have always gained a few lbs in marathon training partly because I’m so hungry I can’t stop eating.

Remember if Sundays are your long run then Monday/Tuesday may be the days when you are hungrier. Ensure you don’t overeat the wrong foods. You still need good nutrition. Plus don’t get into the habit of “I can eat what I want“ because no one can. I hear this often!

These feelings are ALL normal. You have to channel your mind’s strength in marathon training (a lot more than the body in my experience).

The biggest factor of all is ENJOY it! Running a marathon is pretty epic. You’re in the 1% of the population.  As much as it hurts, take it in, appreciate what your body is and what it can do.

Remember if you’re really feeling on the limit a cut back week is ok. Colds and coughs may happen so don’t try and train ill. In the long term it won’t do your marathon training any good and you’ll only knock your immunity.

Listen to your body.

Book some races on the lead up to the big distance – a half marathon or some 10km runs. Races are good to keep your head in the marathon frame of mind.

Just think of the after feeling of completing the distance – it’s an amazing achievement!

Happy training all. Stay focused and Graft.