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With the TCS London Marathon 2026 simply across the nook, I can’t assist however assume again to the occasions I ran what’s arguably probably the most in-demand marathon on the planet. I did it twice in seven months, in October 2022 and April the 12 months after.
Since then, I turned down alternatives to do it once more, which I’m positive will shock folks, provided that over a million folks entered the poll final 12 months to run the London Marathon in 2026. It’s not that I don’t prefer it – I really like the course, however there are different races to expertise, which is what I did.
When the town runs with you
That stated, I miss the London Marathon. Of all the large races I’ve accomplished over time, this one has the very best ambiance, with folks cheering you on at nearly each nook. I ran the Paris Marathon a few years in the past and was shocked to see hardly anybody in sections of the race.
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The London Marathon goes exhausting, with each borough placing on an enormous show for runners. Sure, most metropolis marathons have leisure en route, however in London, nearly each pub could have audio system dealing with the road and pumping out music, to not point out the nice folks of London, who shall be supporting you with claps, indicators, sweets, fruits, water; you identify it.
(Image credit score: Loredana Sangiuliano/Anadolu Agency by way of Getty Images)
As such, my first recommendation for London Marathon newcomers is to ditch private audio gadgets. Running headphones aren’t outright banned from the race, but it’s one of those courses where listening to music will rob you of one of the most important aspects of the race, the aforementioned atmosphere.
Not to mention, there is a new section this year called “Woodland Way,” which will “provide participants with a moment of connection to the natural world as they pass through mile 10, along Salter Road.” Veterans’ Corner is another new addition to the course, positioned at mile 23, a dedicated space to celebrate the UK’s armed forces community.
With your head down and ears preoccupied with music, you will miss all the new and old bits, which would be a shame.
Run the race, not the clock
I wouldn’t worry about running a PB, either, although the London Marathon isn’t a slow course as such. I’m sure most people wear a running watch – I sure did on both occasions – but given how much stuff is going on, I would certainly prioritise the experience over fast running.
If you feel ready, you can go for it, though, as the runners thin out significantly after the first few miles. Plus, people start in blocks, so there isn’t a massive congestion at the beginning of the race, either, and the course is pretty wide all throughout.
(Image credit: Bonnie Britain/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
In terms of motivation, most runners will hit the wall sooner or later on the course, but that’s where the crowd’s support comes into play yet again. In my recap of the 2022 London Marathon, I mentioned that having your name somewhere will automatically make people cheer you on more. If you’re happy to put on a costume, that’s even better.
I wouldn’t worry about carrying a running backpack/water bladder either. There are 15 water stations along the course, of which four will have Lucozade Sport drinks (at mile 7, 15, 21 and 23) and some will also have Lucozade Sport Gels (at Mile 13 and 19). Of course, if you have your fuelling strategy all figured out, and it involves bags and bladders, go for it.
Flat doesn’t mean easy
The London Marathon course is pretty flat, which I’m sure most runners appreciate. There are a few ramps to traverse, but nothing too demanding. It certainly isn’t as hilly as the Loch Ness Marathon, though I love that race for its ups and downs (and beautiful views). That said, it’s tarmac all the way, so your legs will be pretty knackered by the finish line.
You don’t necessarily need the fastest running shoes, but I would suggest lightweight max-cushion or tempo trainers with a bit of oomph, such as Puma Deviate Nitro 3, ASICS Megablast, Adidas EVO SL, Nike Zoom Fly 6, Saucony Endorphin series, or something along those lines.
The weather could be interchangeable, and especially at the beginning of the race, when you’re waiting in the pens, you will feel the chill. You can bring an old sweater or jacket with you, as bins outside the pens collect these items, which are then donated.
Very important, though, is not to try to throw them from a mile away, because volunteers will have to pick them up from the ground, and that isn’t nice.
Be the runner people cheer for
This leads me to my last piece of advice: say thank you to marshals, volunteers, and people you interact with during the race. Many of them are there for free to help and support you, and for that, they deserve at least a thank you. Slow down and put your used paper cups in the bins after emptying them, and don’t throw them at people who are trying to keep the bin area tidy.
Without them, the London Marathon would be a very different experience, and not in a good way, so appreciate the support as it goes a long way. The London Marathon is for everyone, and if you are lucky enough to race it in 2026 – or any year – make an effort to be the best marathoner you could be. It will make the whole race much more pleasant for everyone.
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