13th October 2023
By Sarah Howey
Across Yorkshire runners of all ages are following exercise plans, preparing their sports kits, and limbering up for a major running event taking place this weekend.
Hundreds of runners will take to the streets of York and surrounding areas this Sunday, 15 October for the Yorkshire Marathon.
It is an extra special event this year with the marathon celebrating its tenth anniversary. A decade on from the first race the marathon has attracted more than 90,000 participants and more than £7.5 million has been raised for charity.
We spoke to Dr Abbie Brooks, a GP partner at Priory Medical Group in York and finisher of the London Marathon 2023, about how runners can get ready for the big event.
The Yorkshire Marathon has a route starting and finishing at the main University of York campus in Heslington, passing some of the city’s major landmarks and sights including the majestical York Minster and picturesque River Ouse.
The event attracts runners of all abilities, from seasoned distance runners aiming for a personal best, to those who simply enjoy getting active, see it as a way to raise money for charity, or simply as a reason to get fit. Abbie and her colleagues have taken part in the corporate relay in the past, a great way to feel part of the run – without the long distance.
Everyone who takes part in the event has started somewhere, whether it is a solo jog or taking part in regular organised runs. One thing remains the same for everyone – preparation is key.
Abbie’s top tips for Race Day
Make sure that all your kit is tried and tested – remember to wear running shoes that are comfortable. Save those new shoes for another day. Dress for the weather.
Don’t try any new foods on race day – whilst it’s always good to eat carbohydrates in the run-up to race day, whether pasta or porridge, it is wise to avoid new foods that you might be unfamiliar with. The last thing you need is an upset tummy along the route! Keep fuelled as you run, you will have a tried and tested snack/gels/drink regime sorted ahead of race day.
Stay hydrated – different runs require different levels of hydration, but you should always hydrate prior to a run, no matter the length. Having a small drink every 20 minutes whilst you’re running will ensure you remain hydrated and once your run is complete replenishing your fluid levels can aid recovery. There will be regular drink stations around the course.
Enjoy the day – relax into it and enjoy the race. Hitting your targets makes all the time you spent training really worth it. Whether it’s your first marathon or you’ve done 26 of them, there is nothing like that post-marathon glow!