42.125, a magic number for most of us. The ultimate race to conquer for any runner. The path towards completing that magic number is definitely not an easy path – both in terms of the training you put in and in terms of completing a 42.125 km run in one session. But rest assured, it is possible and you can do it too. In this article, we will give you some tips and tricks on how to conquer your first Marathon and how to prepare for the big day.
Put in the training and see the results
If you are training to complete a 42km race, then training should be about getting used to being on your feet for long periods of time and being in excellent health and fitness shape. There are countless different training programs on the internet which will guide you to your first 42km race. They all have the same goal, a very similar structure, just different workouts to get you there. If you are a somewhat experienced runner then running a marathon will be possible after just a few months of specific marathon training. If you are completely new to running you should calculate in at least 6 months of training before the big day.
Start out easy, gradually go for longer and faster runs. Eventually, you should be able to run 21 km trial runs without feeling sore for the next 2 weeks. 4-6 weeks before your big day we even recommend to squeezing in a trial 42km run. No need to go all out here, but try to stay on your feet for 42km. This will give you a massive confidence boost for your big day.
We also recommend you don’t always train by yourself! Join a local running club like the Randburg Harriers and find a group of other avid runners you can train with and push yourself with.
The week before your race, it’s all about resting and recovering. Your body needs to feel fresh and ready to go. Avoid doing any exercise that makes your muscles and body tired and reduce the pace and distance in your final training runs leading up to the race.
Fuel your body right and it will run for you
Fuel your body right! This goes for the months, weeks and days leading up to the race as well as during the race. If you are giving your body the fuel it needs, it will recover faster, build muscles faster and ultimately run faster and longer for you. Don’t take this lightly. Nutrition is just as important as training.
While training for your first 42 km run, test different sports gels, sports drinks and energy bars and see how your body reacts to them. These gels and bars are filled with carbohydrates and have two benefits for your body. Once the sugars in your body have been digested, they offer a substantial source of carbs for further fuel. Second, these gels and bars send a message to your brain that more energy is available and you can push even harder than before.
Regardless of what you are going to consume during your race, make sure you consume a full, healthy meal the night before your race and drink lots of fluids.