Tips for running a marathon

With 120,000 runners recently finding out whether they have successfully got a ballot place in the 2010 Virgin London Marathon, a buzz of activity is surrounding next year's iconic race. The results of the ballot have been announced and those lucky enough to have secured their 'own place' will be jumping for joy. And those unlucky in the official ballot this year, will be scouring through the hundreds of charities offering 'Gold Bond' places, and running for a cause close to their heart. Once a place is assured - everything is focused on training and finding a suitable training plan, to ensure that the 26.2 miles is achievable, regardless of experience, age, and speed.

So, if you're one of those lucky people planning to run on 25th April 2010, here are few tips to help you get started, and help you to answer the question that's no doubt hovering around in your head...

Can I really train for a marathon? - If you haven't exercised in a while, get a check up from the doctor to ensure you're fit enough to do the training, as well as the final race. - Evaluate your fitness levels; you need to know where you are before you can progress, so sit down, and honestly assess your fitness levels. - Select a training plan. Trying to prepare for a marathon without a training plan is like trying to find a new town, without map. To successfully set off on this journey towards marathon success, you need to follow a structured training plan that is right for your fitness levels. - Get the right gear. Quite simply to start with you need basic shorts and t-shirt (and for the ladies a fitted sports bra). But as you progress with the training you will undoubtedly want to get clothing that won't chafe, and will suit the season you're training in. However, you should really invest in a pair of trainers that suit your running style. There are many running shops which can assess your 'gait' and give advice on the correct shoes. - What should you eat, and drink whilst training? Correct nutrition and hydration are vital to ensure that your body is capable of doing the longer runs. Paying close attention to your diet is essential. To get you thinking as a runner, you need to be consuming plenty of 'slow- release' carbohydrate to provide energy, so a meal of pasta would be ideal. Don't neglect your fluid intake, because your requirements will increase both for storing fuel in your muscles and because you will lose more through sweating. - How much training do I need to do? Up to a point, the more training you do the better. However it is vital that you allow for rest and recovery too. Your training plan should comprise a careful blend of long runs, recovery sessions, and faster-paced training as you build up your marathon specific endurance. For more information on training plans visit: http://www.realbuzz.com/shop/category/pdfs/ - How long will the race take me? That all depends on you, your fitness levels, your injuries, and your speed. It can take runners from anything from 2 1/2 to 7 1/2 hours to finish the race. Remember that most races nowadays have timing chips, so you can ensure you measure your timing successfully.

So can I really do it? The answer to that question is YES! After all, over 600,000 finishers have completed the London Marathon. Progressing from non-runner to marathon finisher is always a real success story, and one that is genuinely achievable by following a correctly structured training plan that will help you towards your marathon goal. Preparing for, and completing a marathon is a great accomplishment and a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding experience. And, as well as achieving your goal, there is the great spin-off benefit too: improved health and fitness. So, if you are thinking of taking the plunge, then do it - realbuzz.com guarantee that it will be the experience of a lifetime.