The London Marathon is nearing, if you’ve applied there’s no backing down now…expect for me as I got drunk and ruined my chances of running this year. You’re probably freaking the f out about a hundred and one different aspects of the race, but fear not because we have ALL the answers. When I say all, I mean all. Poo will be mentioned. Periods too. No shame guys, we’re all human and if you’re set to race then this is probably the ultimate guide for you.
When is the London Marathon?
You should already know this – and by know I mean have it written in big red letters in your diary. It’s on April 23rd. That’s a Sunday, which I’m quite conflicted about as surly you need a day to recover before you go back to work on Monday? Who can walk after the London Marathon?!
How can I apply to race?
To enter you have to go the Virgin Marathon page, which you can find here - you can enter by ballot or by charity.
When are the London Marathon ballot results?
If you were successful, you should have already received yours – the ballot results are released on October 10th.
Can you defer your place?
You can, I am living proof of this. If you’re unable to run due to illness or injury you can defer your entry for 2018.
Can you defer your London Marathon charity place?
This depends on the charity – but I’m running for Shelter and they have been kind enough to allow me to defer.
Can anyone enter the marathon?
OF COURSE GUYS. You have to be 18 or over, though
Is running the marathon in fancy dress the worst idea ever?
Ye….maybe not. This guy ran the marathon dressed as a hot dog and he set a wold record so you know GO FOR IT.
Can you track the runners?
Oui oui, there is a digital spectator guide for your phone to help you follow your friends running. All you have to do is search their surname, running number and see when they cross thew timing points – those are placed at 5km intervals.
Do the runners get paid?
This is the first I’ve heard of this…so i’m gonna hazard a guess and say NO
Can I run the marathon without training?
I mean you can…but I wouldn’t advise it.
How much does it cost to do the London Marathon?
Again this depends if you’re running for charity or not. Most charities ask for a fee of £100 + to run for them, but obviously it all goes to charity. If you're successful with the ballot, you have to pay £50 by the 14th November, if you didn't already pay upon entering.
What celebrities have done the marathon?
Well well well let’s take a look down memory lane shall we. Natalie Dormer (Game Of Thrones) ran in 2014,Oliver Proudlock ran it in 2016 in a speedy 03.04 - that is MENTAL. Henry Holland ran it back in 2015. Greg James has had a go. Basically tons of celebs have done it and they are super speedy.
What time does the London Marathon start?
There are three starts. The elite wheelchair race starts at 8.55am, followed by the elite women at 9.15, the elite men at 10 and then everyone else (you and me). You’ll find out which start time you’re in by March.
Does the London marathon have hills?
Luckily for all you runners the course is pretty flat. Praise the lords. It starts with a nice gentle downhill and only climbs a few feet in a couple of parts.
Can I drink the night before running a marathon?
I mean, you can, but we wouldn’t recommend it. Maybe have a glass of vino to clam your nerves but don’t go on a night out to The Nest.
What should I eat the night before the London Marathon?
C.A.R.B.S get on that pizza, pasta hype and carb-load. Basically anything high in carbs is going to give you the energy you need to get round the 26.2 miles.
What should I eat for breakfast before running?
Never ever try something new for breakfast before running. Now is not the time to start eating protein pancakes if you’ve never had them before. Maybe try experimenting with your breakfast for a couple of runs beforehand. You need to be up early enough to eat something small so it digests - oatmeal is a great source of energy, add in a banana and a coffee and you’re good to go. Or a bagel if you’re more into that.
How early do I realistically need to be up?
We touched on this above, but it depends on how quickly you digest your food. We’d say you need about three hours to digest that oaty breakfast - so sorry but you probably need to be up by 5/6ish.
What’s the average time to do the marathon in?
7 hours and 34 minutes? Nope, more like 4 hours, 6 minutes and 8 seconds. However if you’re between the ages of 20-29 then it’s a speedy 3 hours, 44 minutes and 47 seconds. FANTASTIC.
How much water should I drink before running?
Runner’s World advises you drink up to 16 ounces one to two hours before your run. Then you need to stop, or else you’re going to need a wee the whole way round. Then they suggest drinking another four to eight ounces right before you start.
Can you run the London Marathon while on your period?
I mean this is totally up to you. Of course you can run - and everyone's different, you might not feel great if it's the first few days of your period (hiya cramps). But if you’ve secured a place you might need to just go with the flow…sorry.
What if I get ‘runner’s trots’ while running?
Firstly, horrible name. Basically it means ‘if you get the shits while running’. Have no fear there, there are apparently toilets every 2 miles, so you can go to the toilet.
Can you walk the London Marathon?
Of course you can - it will take you a verrrrrrry long time though, which leads us onto the next question.
Will my toenails fall off when running?
If you’re training for the marathon you should know by now that you might experience some toenail problems along the way. To avoid any pain or toenails falling off, stick them down with plasters - and apparently getting a Gel manicure adds an extra layer of protection. Any excuse.
What are the best spots to watch the runners?
According to the internet - the start line is a great place, but can be too busy. The ‘Cutty Sark’ is just after mile 6 and is apparently also a great place. If you want to spot your friend running, go to the Greenwich Foot Tunnel to the Isle of Dogs, at the 17-mile point. Or head to Canary Wharf to watch, where runners double back on themselves.
Will my nipples bleed while running a marathon?
It has been known that chaffing and blisters can occur when running long distances…it’s called jogger’s nipple and we’re terrified of it. So yes, in short - your nipples may bleed. Sorry. we suggest you invest in some nipple guards so they don’t rub, or if you’re skinny just use plasters.
Like this? You might also be interested in…
From 5k To Full Marathon: Where The F To Start With Marathon Training
Feeling Guilty Because You Didn’t Run Marathon? Here’s Some More Runs To Sign Up For
**Follow Alyss on Instagram @alyssbowen **
This article originally appeared on The Debrief.