Here is the second in our two-part series of running tips from David Lewis, part of Team HMSTC at this year’s London Marathon.
Did you miss our first instalment of running tips from David? Take a look!
Join a local running club: Most clubs are very friendly and make everyone welcome, especially beginners. The hardest thing is to turn up for the first meeting, but you’ll be amazed how quickly you will progress.
- Start with shorter distances: Commence with regular 5k/3 mile runs. Then, when you feel your body is ready, take on a 10k/6 mile run. This will be a major milestone and you will feel so good about it. Start to run at least two 10k runs a week to increase stamina and endurance.
- Happy Sundays: This is a good day to take on longer runs. The TCS London Marathon is on a Sunday and this trains the body to be used to and expect long runs on this day of the week.
- Christmas target: Aim to complete one or more 15 mile runs by the end of December. If you can complete a continuous 15 mile run you are well on the way to complete the marathon distance. Time on your feet is more important than speed.
- New year, new targets: As you enter 2024 the London Marathon date of April 21 is four months away. That’s still plenty of time, so as well as regular shorter runs try to increase your longer distance runs. Attempt and complete a 20 mile run before the end of January.
- The run in: From the start of February try and find time to complete a long run every week, ideally on a Saturday or a Sunday. Hopefully you will be starting to look forward to the run. This will build up your endurance. If you have to miss a week this is not a problem as you will not lose fitness.
- Organised runs: Enter some organised runs like 10ks, 10 milers and half marathons. These are brilliant for building up experience and obtaining that sense of achievement and, more importantly, confidence levels. There are no barriers. “I can and will complete the marathon.”
You’re starting an amazing journey. Enjoy it and good luck!
If you would like to run and raise money for the Herts MS Therapy Centre, please contact Paul Bishop on 07973 237162 or email him at: presstige39@gmail.com