Event Description

Perhaps the most challenging event on the running calendar is the marathon. 27 miles of gruelling road between the start and finish. It takes a great deal of training to be fit enough to run in a full marathon, but the correct clothing used during training can play a big role in the difference between success or failure.

* The Shoes

Firstly, perhaps the most important element of all is of course the shoe. Anyone training for the marathon must have the correct footwear which has been tried and tested by the individual in practice. Speaking to someone in the know at a sports shop can confirm the choice of shoe the person should be wearing, but it is also important that they feel right to the individual. A shoe should be the perfect fit and feel just like an extension of the runner. It is often a good idea for the serious runner to have more than one pair of shoes in any one season. From there the runner can alternate between each pair over different runs, ensuring that each pair have properly reformed and dried from the previous outing. It is also essential that the shoes have been well run-in before attempting marathon runs, runners should never go out on marathon day with a fresh pair of shoes.

* Clothing

As always running clothing should be comfortable, light and suitable for the temperatures outside. In warm conditions specialist lightweight shorts and tops should be suitable alone. Some people choose to run in lycra fabrics which work well to cut down on any unwanted air resistance, though they are not be everybody’s liking. As ever thick socks specifically designed for runs should be worn in order to avoid chafing and blisters on the feet.

In colder conditions a second layer is often required in order to keep the body at optimum temperature. This could be anything from a long sleeve jogging top to a windbreaker jacket. For the legs two pairs of shorts, one under length lycra material and one pair of standard shorts, are often preferred to jogging bottoms, which would generate more air resistance. Running tights can also be used. It is important to retain heat and to keep the head and fingers warm by wearing a light weight cap and mittens. Insulated underwear can also be worn to offer extra comfort. It is especially important to keep the body warm prior to the race starting and continually moving and stretching before the race would go a long way to achieving this. Even a large coat before the race which can be quickly shredded and passed to a family