Coaching is not just about the running...successful race day prep is key.

So next weekend is one of the bigest weekends in the UK marathon calendar this year...London Marathon and Manchester Marathon on the same day!!

Three of my athletes are running London Marathon and for two of them it is their first ever marathon. I'm sure they won't mind me saying, it's not all been plain sailing over our 16 week plan (four blocks of four weeks). Two of my athletes have suffered with injuries along the way, but they have both listened to the advice given; taken appropriate rest; we've re-jigged their training plans accordingly... and now all my athletes are in their final week of taper, excited to tackle the 26.2 mile challenge next Sunday. I can't wait to 'follow their dots' on the tracker on the day and I know that they will all stand on that start line, knowing they've 'given it their all' during the last four months.

Having suffered with an injury (needing surgery) myself, I have been unable to use my GFA place this year, meaning it's the first London Marathon I've missed for 12 years! But it has been so rewarding to share my experience and knowledge of marathon running with other athletes...not just through coaching, but giving lots of tips for race day itself. London Marathon (as with any other major event like this) needs lots of preparation to ensure that the logisitics leading up to, and on the day itself are all carefully considered. Visiting the Expo to collect your race number; arranging accommodation; negotiating the London underground, and making arrangements for all your supporters...for first time London Marathoners it can be overwhelming so careful race-day prep is essential.

Have you ever run a mass participation event? The Great North Run, a major marathon, a big city half marathon? If not, it's really worth giving it a go during your running career. The support along the route, the atmosphere, the music and the camaraderie amongst competitors is amazing and it's well worth giving it a go...just to experience it.

If you ever do get lucky enough to get a place in London Marathon, between us, we have run the event 18 times so head over to our Race Day Guide to read our useful tips and advice for the big day.