Taking the first steps when it comes to marathon training can be really daunting. Running 26.2 miles is a huge challenge and there’s loads of (often conflicting) advice out there, so it can be difficult to know where to start.

When I’m training for any race, and especially when I’m training for a marathon, I like to keep things really simple. I’ve found that whenever I’ve overthought my training things tend to go wrong and I end up getting really stressed out, which isn’t really the point when running is something I do for fun.

Over the years (and through quite a bit of trial and error) I’ve found a few little things that help me navigate marathon training and keep things stress free!

Be Realistic

Be realistic about your fitness ans how much time and energy you can devote to training, there is no shame in following a novice or beginners plan and it’s far better than going too hard and crashing out. On the flip side if you’ve got lofty goals then you need to be prepared to train for them! 

When I was training for London marathon I knew I’d have a lot of competing demands on my time so I chose a plan that included three runs a week for time rather than distance, that way I could plan my time realistically. You can find out more about how I trained for London Marathon here.

Consider a Coach

Coaches aren’t just for the pros, and they can really help you to get the most out of your training cycle by helping you stay focused, maximising the quality of each training session and helping to troubleshoot any issues before they become big problems. Look for a coach who knows the marathon you’re planning to take part in, whose values align with your own and who listens to you and understands your lifestyle and goals.

Not all coaches are built the same, and just because someone can run fast it doesn’t mean they’re a great coach. Ask any coach you’re considering what their qualifications are, whether they engage in continuous professional development and how they approach things like changing up your plan to meet your needs.

Start a Diary

Starting a training diary has two functions - firstly it helps you keep track of all your upcoming sessions and commits you to doing them, if it’s in the diary there’s no going back! Secondly, it’s a great way to track your progress, see what works for you (and what doesn’t) and look back on how far you’ve come when the going gets tough.

You don’t need anything fancy to start a training diary, you could use the diary on your phone (and make use of the alerts to remind you when to run), make a spreadsheet or grab a notepad to jot everything down in. If you do want to treat yourself then the Believe Training Journal not only looks beautiful, but it’s full of inspirational quotes and secrets from pro-runners.

Buddy Up

I trained for my first marathon with one of my friends and it made the world of difference when it came to accountability - I could not bail on our weekly runs and I could not slack when it came to following the plan! If you can’t rope a friend in think about joining a running club or connecting with other runners via social media (it’s where I’ve forged some of my best running friendships over the years!). Even having someone check in with you over text can make a world of difference when it comes to accountability.

Check In On Your Nutrition

What you eat can have a big impact on how you run and recover. When you’re training for a marathon you’re putting a lot of demands on your body, and you need to fuel it to keep up with those demands, so it’s worth checking in on your nutrition right at the start of your training cycle. From experience, I know that during the training cycles where I’ve really nailed my nutrition - and crucially made sure I’ve been eating enough food to keep up with my training’s energy demands - I’ve performed better and recovered faster. I’ve shared more about marathon nutrition here.

Get Your Kit In Order

A new training cycle is a great excuse for some shiny new kit! Get all your existing run kit out and do an audit, get rid of anything that doesn’t fit, is worn out or you simply don’t wear and then work out what gaps you have.

If you’re training for a spring marathon you’ll be training through the winter so will need cosy layers, long tights, a good waterproof and high viz gear for those dark, damp after work runs. Check out the state of your running shoes, are they going to carry you through the training cycle or is it worth investing in some new ones? Run commuting, do you have a backpack that you can run with and fits your essentials?

Here’s the gear I’ve been eying up for my next training cycle:

I love the Brooks Run Visible collection, and the Run Visible Convertible Jacket is perfect for winter training. Wind and water resistant it will keep you warm and dry, fluro, high contrast reflectivity makes sure you can be seen, and if they weather changes you can stow the jacket away into a nifty pack you can wear like a vest!

My friend Ellie recommended these Zero Gravity High Waisted leggings from Sweaty Betty after I head Evie and I’m now a devotee. With the perfect amount of compression and a nice high waist they offer me just the right support around my c-section incision, which can be a little uncomfortable when I run. They’re also really light weight and quick drying, and come in some great designs.

Tracksmith gear is spendy but it is worth the investment - I’ve wearing the same Harrier Long Sleeved training top (which was gifted to me by Strava) for I don’t know how long and it still looks good as new. If you can stretch to it, it is definitely worth the price tag. If you’re after a more affordable alternative I’d recommend Runderwear’s Running Baselayer, which is also on regular rotation in my running closet.

I picked up a pair of Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 running shoes during my last training cycle and I really like them! A neutral shoe designed for road running, the Gel-Nimbus 24 feels like you’re running on a marshmallow. Light and soft with a flexible mid-sole they’re a comfy choice for longer runs and offer a lovely smooth ride, perfect for all those long training runs!

Socks aren’t the sexiest subject, but they are really important when you’re clocking up a lot of miles. Specifically designed for running, socks like Stance Run Tab Socks are designed to protect and support your feet, minimise the risk of sores and blisters and offer enhanced breathability and comfort. Trust me, good socks make a big difference on a long run!