ABOVE ALL, STAY HEALTHY

Follow these best practices to ensure you reach the starting line

Since he began coaching marathoners in the 1970s, coach Jeff Galloway has maintained ongoing contact with runners; through the years, he’s talked with more than 400,000, he says. His surveys show that only about five per cent (!) of first-time marathoners who begin training to go 26.2 miles actually cross the finish line that season. Some get too busy, others burn out – and many fall victim to injuries. ‘If you talk to seasoned runners and ask what they’d do differently, they almost always say, “I should have put more effort into taking care of my body”,’ says exercise physiologist Greg Mcmillan. Fortunately, experienced coaches and exercise scientists have identified key behaviours that keep athletes strong and healthy as they prep for the marathon. Build the following habits into your routine from the beginning.

MANCHESTER Race day April 2 Start training December 12

BRIGHTON Race day April 9 Start training December 19

LONDON Race day April 23 Start training December 26

EDINBURGH Race day May 28 Start training January 30

LIVERPOOL Race day May 28 Start training January 30