Ready yourself for your first marathon with these training tips

Event

By Sarah Bristow

Budding runner? Then you’ll feel right at home in Queensland, a place where running is celebrated year-through. The state is heaving with marathons - we host endurance events from top to toe for runners of all abilities, and all ages. Not to mention we boast the unique opportunity to merge training and travel in one - picture yourself pounding the pavement under the sky rises of the Gold Coast Marathon, along the idyllic coastline of the Runaway Noosa Marathon and between two UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Wet Tropics Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef) in Cairns. But ahead of your first marathon, all 42.195 kilometres of it, there are a few things you may want to consider - prepare yourself for your debut with these first marathon training tips.

Pick your target

Great Barrier Reef Marathon Festival | First marathon training tips

Here in Queensland we aren’t just rich in diversity when it comes to landscapes, but in events, especially in terms of sport. There’s something for everyone among the array of endurance offerings held in these parts.

Not quite sure you’re up to the challenge of running the 42.195 kilometres that make up a marathon? No matter. At each event you’ll find a smattering of options mingling alongside the main race - there’s often a 5km run/walk, 10km races and a half marathon It’s also important to look into the race conditions themselves - before you book, do your research about the route. You may find you’re better suited to the uber flat conditions of the Gold Coast Marathon than the steep inclines of the Townsville Running Festival. Looking for even more of a challenge? If you’re no stranger to endurance, give a triathlon a whirl (like the Cairns IRONMAN) or take to the waterways with an ocean swim.

Cement your goals

Running by Brisbane River | first marathon training tips — Photo by @imlee_

Preparation is key to any competition, and a marathon is much the same. The more training you can do before you embark on your debut, the better. Arguably the most important of any first marathon training tips is to make some goals for your time ahead. First things first, book yourself into your race of choice, not forgetting to sort your flights and accommodation at the same time. Once your dates are confirmed, grab your diary and begin to plan your weeks ahead, making goals for motivation - you’ll want at least six months to train for any race as a general rule. You can also utilise the series of entry-level endurance events held throughout the state as a chance to put your fitness to the test.

Mix things up

Running Noosa National Park | first marathon training tips — Photo by @meandmytravelbugs

Variety truly is the spice of life, especially when it comes to running routes. Why not use your training time to get out and explore the breadth of trails and tracks that wind their way around the Sunshine State? Partner your jogs with some stunning visual inspiration by taking your training on tour - running somewhere new will keep your mind busy and entertaining while you focus on your fitness. There are plenty of national parks, hiking routes, beachfront esplanades and quiet country roads that will prove perfect fodder for your marathon preparation - picture yourself making your way along the calm waterways of Noosa Foreshore, through the luscious foliage of Cairns & Great Barrier Reef, and up and down the rolling hills of the Scenic Rim.

Keep track

Embracing the use of a tracking app to keep your training (and growth) in check is another valuable first marathon training tip. These handy little creations can measure both your distance, speed, and heart rate (among more) keeping you in-tune with your ongoing improvements and urging you on in the months ahead, especially when you find yourself lacking motivation. Apps like Map My Run, Strava and the Nike Running App act as a personal digital coach, assisting in recording, and analysing your results each run, as well as comparing with others in your network.

Create a support network

Don’t underestimate the power of a strong support network - you’ll find motivation for your first marathon far easier to maintain if you’re surrounded by ongoing encouragement. Gather friends and family who enjoy a run (or even who have competed in a marathon before) and make your running goals a team effort. Past competitors can also provide invaluable advice and support in times of need. Another benefit you’ll find to a strong support network is accountability - once you make your goals, they’ll see that you stick to it.

Reward yourself

Nudey Beach, Fitzroy Island | first marathon training tips

After all that hard work you deserve some rest and respite. Merge your marathon goals with a chance to see a new side of Queensland, combining your running journey with a holiday. Maybe a mini-break midway through training will prove the perfect breather from months and months of hard work, or celebrate your completion of the race itself, with a post-competition exploration of the surrounding region.

Made your way to a marathon held among Tropical North Queensland? Take the opportunity to dive the Great Barrier Reef, or island-hop through the Whitsundays. On the Sunshine Coast for the big day? Meander the surrounding Hinterland and the Glass House Mountains, or kayak your way through the iconic Noosa Everglades.

Prep for the big day

Gold Coast Airport Marathon | first marathon training tips

You’ve made it to the final hurdle - now to keep calm and stay focused ahead for the race ahead. Before you begin your run, pack a bag with a few things it can be helpful to have on hand. Think headphones, running clothes, a hat, a first aid kit (with gels, band-aids and bandages), shoes, spare socks, and a foam roller. And don’t forget to print and read your race pack for information on where to collect your bib and when, how to get to and from the race.