When it comes to marathons, they don't get much bigger and more exciting than the one and only London Marathon. While the Boston Marathon might have the heart of the running elite and Paris really is unrivalled when it comes to the views, The London Marathon has soul. It's the real runners marathon, a true festival of fitness.

And just think you're going to run it in 2024! 

Here are our top tips for making sure that you get to St James Park in one piece and hopefully in your fastest time yet, as the old saying goes - "Fail to prepare and prepare to fail."

Get Your Kit Right Early

With the Marathon still months away, the last thing on your mind right now is probably which socks you'll be wearing on the day. But the earlier you can start testing out trainers, clothes and running fuel the better. This not only gives you plenty of time to figure out what works for you and what doesn't, but it also means that come race day you'll have built a deep confidence in your kit.

Be aware though that what might work wonders for one person, won't necessarily do anything for you and might even be downright bad for you. Some people like gels, others prefer bars and the perfect pair of trainers for one person, is likely to leave the next hobbling by mile 8. 

This doesn't mean you have to spend a fortune on tonnes of gear either, a well fitted pair of trainers, a pair of shorts, a technical t shirt and a few Flapjacks will go a long way and won't cost the earth.
 

Training 

There are thousands and thousands of Marathon training plans out there, including the London Marathon's very own plan. With so many to choose from it can be a little overwhelming, the important thing is to find a plan suited for you. 

Both the level that you are currently at and that you can actually stick to. It might be the greatest plan in the world with lots of fancy splits but if you can only do half of it because of fitness or time limitations then it's no good to you. The best plan really is the one that you can stick to!

Here is our easy to follow plan, download it now for free

There's more to training for a marathon than just running lots and lots, you need to recover from all the time on your feet too. Ask any seasoned runner and they will tell that allowing your body to recover properly each night is (almost) as important as the training, get plenty of sleep, eat well and move, whether that's stretching, yoga or just going for a little walk. In the beginning this might seem like a little bit of overkill but as the miles start adding up your body will thank you for looking after it. You can also download our full Marathon Nutrition Guide here.

Have a Tune Up Run

There is a huge difference between going out for a 26.22 mile run on any given day and running in an organised marathon. The buzz you get from thousands of other runners, not to mention the amazing people cheering from the sideline is unlike anything else on earth. Don't underestimate just how powerful an effect this support can have on you, especially when times get tough (it might be invaluable later on if you hit the wall).

However running in big crowds isn't all easy, the sheer number of people can make running difficult to say the least. All those elbows jostling for position can certainly take some getting used to.

The best way to do this is to get out and run a few shorter races in the build up. This will not only build your confidence but also help you develop a race day routine which works for you.

Tune Up Runs Down South 

• Coventry Half Marathon
• Wimbledon Common October Half Marathon
• River Thames Half Marathon

Tune Up Runs Up North  

• Hardmoors Roseberry Topping Half Marathon
• Lancaster Half Marathon
• Kielder Half Marathon

 Get the FREE Marathon Nutrition Guide here.