10 Tips for Running Your First Marathon

The journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step. How do you begin yours?

Completing a marathon can be a deeply fulfilling experience, especially if it is your first. Unlike the tragic, romanticism of the famous Greek messenger, Pheidippides who died soon after making the critical announcement after running without stopping from Athens to Marathon, running 42.195km is a relatively safe activity. Friends, students and acquaintances have asked me about running a marathon. Here are 10 tips for getting your much-anticipated finisher t-shirt and medal.

1) Sign up for a race (such as the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon)

2) Start training in a systematic way for at least 4-6 months

3) Train with other runners for inspiration and motivation

4) Train regularly with a heart-rate monitor to measure your pace

5) Train at your aerobic heart-rate zone (jogging pace)

6) Do at least one 10km and 21km race before your marathon

7) Run and walk up to 28-32 kilometres at least once every 3-4 weeks

8) Practise drinking a cup of water/sports drinks every 2-2.5km

9) Practise running in similar run-gear (attire and shoes) for the marathon, a few times beforehand

10)If in doubt, engage a run-coach (as the learning can be priceless)

The SAFRA Singapore Bay Run and Army Half Marathon, and Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon will take place in 16 August and 6 December, respectively. Consider them as one of your attempts!