Preparing for a marathon involves four key areas:
First, (the obvious one) runners must train for their race. The training plan is all about being able to get yourself to the finish line as best you can. Knowing your body and respecting your limits.
Secondly, recovery! Listen to your body and avoid overtraining, as pushing too hard can lead to injury or burnout. Balancing rest and recovery with training is essential for peak performance.
Thirdly, feeling comfortable in your gear - from having shoes that feel good on you, to knowing which bits chafe. It is important to minimise discomfort. Visit your local running stores and don't be shy to ask questions.
Fourth, understanding your fueling needs. How many calories you should be eating during your race - where are the fueling and hydration stations and how much do I need to carry with me. Proper fueling is the key to a successful marathon and practicing fueling during your trainings is the way to get it right on the big day. Check out our fuel calculator if you are still not sure how many gels or XACT ENERGY bars you'll need.