Seasoned marathon runners give their best race day tips for first-timers
The IndependentSign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Get there early “Give yourself plenty of time to get to the start,” says Alice Ball, who is running her seventh marathon in London this year, “that includes enough time for one final trip to the portaloo before you have to be in your pen. “While you wait for the race to start you may want to nibble on some cereal or something similar to keep your energy up,” Gabb advises, knowing the long wait at the start line well. Pack warm clothes and flip flops When you go to collect your bag, “you will really need some warm clothes and comfy shoes like flip-flops to change into at the finish”, Gabb says. For London Marathon, Gabb says “miles 21 to 23 is the best place to stand because you will see the runners on both sides”.