The 2017 London Marathon is over for another year, and weΒ were truly inspired and in awe of the runners. Some of my friends are even looking forΒ sponsorship to run next yearΒ – it isΒ definitely something that is on a lot of people’s bucket lists. So where do you start, if you want to run the marathon next year?
This is a massive undertaking and can seem overwhelming, so I have listed my top five tips on how to get started:
1) Join a running group great for motivation, coaching education and support.Β
In Wimbledon we have a group called Wimbledon Windmilers, this is one of Londonβs largest running clubs. It it is a really social club with lots of social meet ups as well as targeted training. They have coach lead and sessions which are not lead, so it’s aΒ great place to start.
CommonΒ RunnersΒ –Β this is a smaller group which meets at the cafe on the common, they offer one-to-one training courses, as well as group sessions.
2) Measure your progress. This is essential for your training.Β
Locally in Wimbledon we haveΒ Park Run. A timed 5K held on the common at 9am every Saturday morning.
3) Stay in the know and keep up-to-date with running news and information.
Check out running magazines for their latest articles, from Women’s Running to Runner’s World.
4) Stay focused.
I love the Couch to 5KΒ app, as it gives you daily weekly coaching guides all the way up to the big day, and you are able to access this whenever you have time.Β They have podcasts, as well as daily and weekly training guides, tips and advice.
5) Find a recommended physiotherapist or local sports masseuse.
YouΒ body is going to go through a lot of stress with intenseΒ training, and you need to ensure that you are in peak condition.Β Two local to Wimbledon are APPI clinics:Β The Australian Physiotherapy and Pilates Institute and Wimbledon Physiotherapy Sports Injury Clinic.
See you at the start line!
By Our Fitness Blogger Shelly Palmer
Visit: fabuliciousfitness.co.uk
Follow: @FitWimbledon
About The Author
Shelly Palmer
South-west Londonβs original fit chick, Shelly lives and breathes dance, teaches and trains instructors in a variety of disciplines, and empowers women to be the best version of themselves.