Sporting Feet: training tips

Thinking of taking on a marathon, or just going for a jog? Fiona Adams passes on some expert tips for top training and nifty nutrition, with help from Surrey-based footwear shop Sporting Feet

I like running. There is a freedom to it: open your front door, run down the road, find the river or a park and jog along for half and hour or so then head home. You can clear your head and put the world to rights; it’s free and you can pick your moment according to the weather. Of course, there are dispiriting times when you lack enthusiasm or energy (I was once overtaken in Bushy Park by someone pushing a child in a buggy) but on the whole it can be very uplifting.

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Mind you, a quick sprint around the park is not the same as taking on a much longer course,as those of you training for this month’s Virgin Money London Marathon will surely testify. And while neither should be attempted without honestly assessing your current fitness or sparing a thought to kit (decent running shoes for a start), it’s also important to realize that a weekly 30-minute jog will not prepare you sufficiently for 26 miles and 385 yards of hard road running. 

Marathons require commitment, proper training patterns and really good nutrition. They are not, to coin a phrase, a walk in the park. However, don’t let me put you off. You can give yourself the best possible chance of completing them – and enjoying them – if you prepare well.

If you are already signed up for an upcoming race or are tempted to take on a new challenge, read our advice from local Richmond and Putney experts Sporting Feet. They're even offering a pair of top-flight running shoes to get you going.

Rest days are as important as any run – give your body time to recover.

Increase your mileage slowly – Increase your miles by no more than 10% week on week, and increase distance before intensity.

Follow a training plan – to slowly work towards your goal and have regular training runs.

Make sure you have the right kit – Footwear is the most important thing, so have yourself properly fitted. Do you need sports insoles, technical running socks or a good sports bra?

Leave time to taper your training before a marathon – The last few weeks should be about easing of the miles and being in top condition.

If you’re going to use gels or similar, try them out first – No one wants an upset stomach on race day!

You can visit the Sporting Feet website to find out more and view their specialised stock