Undertaking a marathon is no mean feat. Respect the distance and your body by preparing for Event Day in the following ways.
Undertaking a marathon is no mean feat. Respect the distance and your body by preparing for Event Day in the following ways.
- If you are concerned about your health in the run up to the TCS London Marathon, go to see your GP.
- Write your name and emergency contact details on the back of your bib number. If you have any medical conditions or take any medications, write them down too.
- Do not swap your bib number with anyone – we will not know who to contact in an emergency if you do.
- Do not run the TCS London Marathon if you feel unwell in any way.
- Do not run in new shoes on Marathon Day. And if you’re wearing fancy dress, make sure you train in your costume.
- Practise drinking on your long training runs – hydration is a fine balance. Don’t start dehydrated, but nor do you need to aggressively over-hydrate beforehand.
- Adapt your goals to the temperature and humidity on Marathon Day. If it is hot or humid, go slow.
- Do not take anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen before or during the marathon. Take paracetamol instead if you need painkillers.
- Drink according to your thirst – do not drink too much water or sports drink during the marathon; you do not need to drink at every Drinks Station.
- Do not gulp large volumes of fluid after your marathon – if you need to rehydrate, try to do so slowly.