ROAD TO THE LONDON MARATHON: TRAINING AND THE RIGHT KIT

Running the London Marathon has never been high on my list of things to do. I would always go and watch it to support friends who were running in it and I always joke that I could run it without training wearing gold spandex!

So, when I was given the opportunity to take part I could hardly turn it down! On the 24th of December I received an email asking if I would like to run the London Marathon and because of all that I had said above, it would have been a bad decision to say no plus I would spend the rest of my days thinking what if.

With the paperwork all filled out and signed I hit submit, a confirmation email popped-up in my inbox. I was feeling pretty good and a little smug knowing that I had a bit of time to get training. Then another email popped into my inbox stating that I had automatically gained a place in the London Half Marathon…without thinking I quickly accepted my place then realised I therefore only had 8 weeks to get my arse in shape to run 13 miles! Bear in mind the longest run I had ever been on was 4K in about 30mins.

Amazingly I am not even 8 weeks into my training and it’s looking good; I managed 16.50 miles in 2hrs 56mins which I am pretty pleased with. Especially as I have the London Half Marathon this Sunday 4th March, and it certainly fills me with confidence to know I can run further than 13 miles.

The fact that I am not usually a runner means I needed to find the right kit to take me through training to the big day. Anyone who knows me knows how much I love New Balance and with them being the original running sneaker it would be silly for me to look anywhere else.

For footwear I went with the Fresh Foam 1080v8. The eighth iteration of the Fresh Foam 1080 for men uses data-driven input to deliver premium underfoot support and grip. The signature Fresh Foam midsole technology provides advanced cushioning mile after mile.

When it comes to base layers I was thinking about comfort but above all warmth. So, I went with the Seasonless Short Sleeve and the NB Heat Tight with a zip up pocket on one side and an open top pocket on the other; perfect for storing my phone with easy access when I need it. I then layered on a pair of 7 Inch Shift Shorts and the NB Heat Half Zip long sleeve top to finish off my look. Enabling me to keep nice and warm not fret the frost on my runs.

With all my kit and training I feel pretty ready for the half marathon, I will keep you updated on my Instagram stories on the day and with a write up on here a few days after. Catch you on the other side!

KIT LIST

Running Sneakers: NB Fresh Foam 1080v8

Long Sleeve Top: NB Heat Half Zip

Running Tight: NB Heat Tight

Short Sleeve Base Layer: NB Seasonless Short Sleeve

Short: NB 7 Inch Shift Short

Socks: Stance

Activity Tracking: Garmin Vivosport