In 2013, I started training for my first marathon at age 51, as a beginning runner. Ten years later, I've run 22 marathons including five Boston Marathons, and three ultras. If I can do it then anyone can because I was not a runner. Go Andy.
I love this!!! Very encouraging! I started running at 41. I’ve done a couple half marathons and moving up to a marathon next year. Age is but a number right?! I love that running is for anyone.
My last long run before the actual marathon felt so much harder than the actual marathon. Crowds, fellow runners + taper are an incredible drug. You are going to do great in Valencia Andy!
It’s really comforting I imagine for a lot of beginner or intermediate runners (speaking from experience) pushing themselves out of their comfort zone to see that even elite level runners like Andy still feel the same nerves and trepidation - thank you for your honesty in all this Andy
I'm 37, and I'll be 38 next year when I do my first marathon. I got about 6 months before the marathon. I'm going to try to do 4:20 for my time. Great job, Andy! I'm proud of you 👏🏽
Hard to relate to your pace, but I can certainly relate to the distraction that is the maths! Inspiration for training and goal setting. Great result in Valencia mate, well done.
I run my first marathon this spring at age 44 and I feel your pain, I still remember those long runs. The only thing I can tell you is that, when you run those chunks at marathon pace you will doubt yourself if you can keep this pace up for the whole race. And the answer is absolutely yes, after the taper and with the excitement of the race itself, you will do it, and it will feel amazing, you won't believe how good you'll feel. Best of luck Andy, you've put in the work, now go there, enjoy the race and get your result. I think a 2:51:25 time is about right for your first one.
I’m 60 and getting back into marathons after heart surgery. I have loved watching your journey, Andy - and will hopefully get another one done next year after a long break!
I’m 42 and I only start running in January and now I’m about to start training for my first marathon in April, all thanks to the running channel community and your inspirational video. Well done Andy
This is inspiring. It’s tempting to think that because Andy was a truly world class runner that this should be easy for him, but it’s clear that he’s way outside his comfort zone, so full credit. I reckon Andy will do his best to get inside 3 hours at Valencia so I predict 2.58.50!
running my first marathon at 49 in Barcelona in March 2024 - I'm loving the learning process of finding out the science behind running to a specific distance and the benefits of proper strength and conditioning. Good luck for your marathon.
It seems crazy to me that you have the same nervousness as a beginner marathon runner... Looks like you are smashing the training though Andy! Can't wait for the celebration video for your celebration run!
Andy, You are going to complete that Valencia marathon! You are going to run the whole distance! You are ready! You are inspired and inspiring others! Go for it! Enjoy it! Love it! You are going to be so high when you complete it - it will be all worthwhile! My quick story - 58 years old - not a runners body - short legs and wide bodied guy. Currently 3 months into a Run to 10K program. I used to run all the time but just now getting back into it but slowly so as not to injure myself. Listening to my body, taking an extra day off when I need it. Warming up and cooling down properly. Loving it too - cannot wait to break that 10K barrier the used to be so easy when I was young. Patience and perseverance! Cannot wait to hear about your experience! Go get ‘em!!
Did my first at 50 and 7 years later I'm looking forward to my second in Manchester in April 2024. It's great to see you go through everything that I and many others went through (albeit at a faster pace!)
Way to go! I'm sticking with 5k maybe 10k races for now, but I totally want to try a marathon one day, maybe when our kid gives us more time by being in school! Oh and I think it'd be awesome for your first marathon to be around 2:58, good luck!
I’ve started running a year ago and health wise it changed everything and turned my life upside down. 🏃🏽♀️I’ll be running the Paris half marathon in March, sub 2 hours would be fantastic. Good luck Andy! 🎉
Fab report, Andy. I am really proud of your persistence and determination. As I lie here in my hospital bed recovering from my third arthroscopic operation in 17 years, you are an inspiration to me. You will smash your first marathon. Keep going, keep running and most importantly ,keep breathing ❤🎉
I’m 51 and I just started training for my first marathon. I can’t even believe I’m doing this. It’s because of people like you that motivate us with pure and honest content. Bravo. I wish you all the best in your upcoming marathon!! My prediction is 2:39:00 🤗🇨🇦
Wanting to train for my first Marathon, after a few halves it feels like time to graduate, but its a massive mental and physical jump/ challenge! The podcast and this channel give me so much motivation to go out and do it! Think you’ll smash a 2:59:59
All the very best Andy. I’m going to try my first marathon in Melbourne next year. I’m 52. I’ve run many half marathons but had to have spine surgery 5 months ago and I’ve had to be very patient with rehab. Walking has kept up my endurance, up to 25k. I’m now running again up to 10k and feeling very positive. Thanks for the inspiration and good luck in Valencia.
You've got this Andy! best of luck for Sunday. Such a good, honest account of the thoughts that creep in on a long run, even for an elite. I have my first Half Marathon in January, at 51 years of age, and constantly worry about my knees and other small aches and pains in the build up. Go for it, the TRC community will be cheering you on! you'll get 2:50:30 I reckon.
Well done Andy on your training, you will smash the marathon. Its my favourite distance, love training for them. Done 14 since I started C25K 10 years ago, aged 46. Managed to get under 4 hours in 2021.
Decided to run my first half marathon at 52 this year after only running 10km runs. Thanks to your channel have signed up for some trail half marathons and possibly tackling a marathon later next year. I’m inspired.
Great work Andy! You’ve got this. I ran my first (benchmark😅) marathon in 2023 the performance was not what I had hoped and I’m looking forward to smashing it in 2024.
Andy, that last big workout always kills me, too. What helps me mentally is knowing that I'm maximally fatigued and still pulled off the session. Come race day, I'll be tapered and fresh, and it won't be as grueling. Trust the training and you'll be fine!
I’m planning to do a sub 2h40 min Marathon next year in Manchester! I did a 2h44 in Rotterdam this year! So the challenge is on!! Good luck Andy and good luck this weekend!!!
The Running Channel keeps inspiring and motivating me for my runs. I've only been consistently running since the summer, and I'm currently training to run my first 10k. The longest I've gone so far is 7,6k, and each week I'm excited to see how much further I can go!
I'm training for my first half marathon in March! After so many ups and downs and injuries I'm so happy that I finally can run without fearing another injury and I've been really enjoying it! Good luck sunday!🍀
I have signed up for Chester 100 miler in April. Going to be hard training in winter months. TRC vids always keep me motivated to get out and put in the miles
Top work Andy, really incredible to see the journey and progression. You have absolutely got this and everyone is behind you. A marathon is an awesome experience I hope you get to enjoy it Finish time 2:54:34 come on Andy.
I’m also 40 and I’ve just started training for my first marathon, this video has got me right up for it, good luck with the marathon you’ll smash it! Top video!!
I really want to get back into running, but long and exhausting business trips and illness have prevented me from running for almost two months now. It's devastating. But now that the stress is gone, I will get back into it! A marathon is still way out of my league, so I applaud you for your commitment, Andy. I'm sure, you'll smash Valencia! So chuffed to see the video later on. You got this!
Hope it goes well tomorrow Andy. I am doing the Valencia as well tomorrow. Did my first Marathon aged 60, 18 months ago, this will be my third. Looking forward to a nice flat course! Have enjoyed listening to your Podcasts.
Andy, you are feeling awful now but it’s taper timeee - you will feel fresh at the start line and also the atmosphere is going to be crazy. You will have flashbacks to your track competition days. I can’t wait for the race video and will be tracking you and a couple of friends on the race day. I think you are gonna end up having one of the best running days of your life 🥳 have fun!
I'm 38 and currently training to run my wife's 1st half marathon with her. After 9 years together it's the first time our running enthusiasm has synchronised up! I think Andy has got this marathon in 02.58.33 👏👏👏 we're rooting for you!!
Your marathon prediction in another video was 2:49:43 so I'll say 2:45. Good luck!! Looking forward to hearing more about your experience as it approaches. Hoping to do my first next year 🤞
2:56:05, but faster if you end up using the ambulance! Good luck, Andy - I think that we're all impressed by your bravery in taking this on so publicly. X
Great work, you guys have helped to inspire an anti-runner into running. I started the couch to 5k 7 weeks ago and have now got the park run bug doing my first run in 35 minutes and my third run in under 29 minutes. Keep up the inspirational work guys! You'll do the marathon In 2 hours and 57 minutes! Best of Luck
Andy, we are all cheering you on. Super proud of your achievements, best of luck with Valencia this weekend. I'm thinking you'll get 2:53 something. I've loved watching your training and discussions about family, work and life/running balance as I have the same trouble! I have just starting training for April's Manchester marathon, it's my first one. I've never run more than 22km so I too feel that my biggest hurdle will be questioning whether or not I can run that far, the doubt you talked about.
Good luck Andy! I’m also running my first marathon at age 45 in Singapore on 3 Dec. The heat and humidity is brutal and honestly I’m quite nervous despite 14 months of training. I’ll surely need to “chunk it” and “run the mile I’m in” to get through race day!
Good luck in your first marathon Andy. Don't be too focused on time and enjoy every km. Thanks for the video, nice to to be able to relate with your struggle in spite of your impressive speed!
Thank you to everyone at the Running Channel for being my invisible running partner whilst training for my first marathon at London next year. You guys have constantly kept me on the straight and narrow during training, and your podcast, videos and website have been a constant source of encouragement and motivation. Top work!!
This series is such a great motivator for my own running journey. Training for my first half marathon after starting my running journey less than a year ago, I find it amazing to see how even the best runners such as Andy fight their way through their struggles. Really hope you have an amazing marathon Andy; and I’m sure you’ll be able to push yourself to a sub 2:50:00 finish time.
Brilliant video as always Andy. Thank you for your honesty and for sharing your pain and uncertainties. So human and so relatable. I've only been running for around 10 yrs and am just about to start marathon training for my 4th London marathon at 65 yrs of age. I never believe I will be able to do it and the training hurts and never gets any easier. But you put all the hard work in now so the race itself will go like a dream. You'll love it! Good luck
Currently patiently waiting for January to start training for my first marathon in may, in Ottawa, Canada. I reckon Andy is going to end his marathon at 2:50! Good luck, can’t wait to see your race video!
I am no training like 5 month with the runna app and I am noticing a massive change in my pace. I’m really looking forward for my upcoming marathon training with the app. Good luck on Sunday. Greeting from Germany
You’ve got this! I’ve only ran a couple half marathons and I can’t even imagine running the distance for a full marathon. Maybe one day I’ll be brave enough 😅
Well done Andy ,long run training is pretty tough,but you’ll feel the benefits come marathon day. I’ve run three marathons this year,and still find the training harder than race day. Keep up the good work,but most importantly enjoy your Valencia marathon day.🎉😅🏃♂️👍
I’m 52 and training for my first marathon (York) I’ve done plenty of half’s but this is a real step up for me. I just want to be able to say: I’ve ran a marathon! We can do it!!!!
That’s a great effort and thanks for taking the viewers along (also thanks to Sarah!) I think on a flat course like Valencia you will be able to dip under 3 hours - my prediction 2 hours 58 minutes 32 seconds
Good man Andy well done. I'm starting marathon training next week for my first marathon in April , at 67 I know it's a challenge but with hard work and determination I'm sure I'll do it. Good luck in Valencia big guy 👍👍👍👍
I've started using Runna and it's change my life! I'm so much more motivated now. I'm using it to train for London next year which will be my first ever marathon :D
I'm currently training for my first marathon in April 2024. I've only done half marathon race in May 2023, but I'm super excited to go through the training which starts on Christmas day this year. It's exciting to see you, Andy, running your first marathon this weekend. It has been a great journey to witness your trainings for this goal. My prediction is 2:51:47! Good luck with the race, and enjoy the atmosphere! To be honest, whatever the time you hit, the most incredible thing you've just done after the finish line is that you've actually ran the longest distance of 26.2miles! Go go!!:)
Very relatable about the worries of distance, niggles, the fuelling and the general unknowns. Race day is all in the head, but all the best on what will be an epic day. My simple advice: 1. Make sure you give yourself enough time for a decent poo on race morning. Over the years I’ve moved my larger carb heavy meal to lunchtime pre-race day to give body more time to digest and egest in the morning! 2. Hydration - lesson learnt in this run 3. Do NOT go off too fast. Watches can be really helpful here as they objectively pin you to your pace. Others will fly off, let them go. 4. Race day is all in your head. Chunk it, use mantras, keep certain things up your sleeve for when you need them. You will need them, so save them til the time comes when it’s the boost you need. 5. Enjoy it, take in the weather, the sky, everyone cheering for you. Pain = struggle x resistance (plagiarising someone here, don’t know who!) so reduce your own struggle by celebrating the little wins and that will reduce the pain 6. Stay in the rep your in. Focus on that km/chunking session, tick it off, then move to the next one. 7. Celebrate what you have done. It is a huge achievement, doing the training and getting to the start line and doing the thing. It’s not a small feat, so enjoy it! I predict it’s a 2:53:35. All the best.
Loving the advise yous have been giving. I am at my start point of running and I want to do a marathon next year at36. Studying all your videos for advise and ways to help me keep it up
In 2013, I started training for my first marathon at age 51, as a beginning runner. Ten years later, I've run 22 marathons including five Boston Marathons, and three ultras. If I can do it then anyone can because I was not a runner. Go Andy.
That's so amazing! Such stories are so inspiring for someone just taking up running at 40+ 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
@@Snubbur Thank you. Along the way, I lost 85 lbs (39 kilos).
Amazing!! 🎉🎉🎉
@@runningchannel Cheers :-)
I love this!!! Very encouraging! I started running at 41. I’ve done a couple half marathons and moving up to a marathon next year. Age is but a number right?! I love that running is for anyone.
My last long run before the actual marathon felt so much harder than the actual marathon. Crowds, fellow runners + taper are an incredible drug. You are going to do great in Valencia Andy!
It’s really comforting I imagine for a lot of beginner or intermediate runners (speaking from experience) pushing themselves out of their comfort zone to see that even elite level runners like Andy still feel the same nerves and trepidation - thank you for your honesty in all this Andy
I'm 37, and I'll be 38 next year when I do my first marathon. I got about 6 months before the marathon. I'm going to try to do 4:20 for my time. Great job, Andy! I'm proud of you 👏🏽
My prediction for Andy's marathon is 2:49:25. You've got this Andy, great effort! :)
Hard to relate to your pace, but I can certainly relate to the distraction that is the maths! Inspiration for training and goal setting. Great result in Valencia mate, well done.
his slow pace is faster than my fast pace
I run my first marathon this spring at age 44 and I feel your pain, I still remember those long runs. The only thing I can tell you is that, when you run those chunks at marathon pace you will doubt yourself if you can keep this pace up for the whole race.
And the answer is absolutely yes, after the taper and with the excitement of the race itself, you will do it, and it will feel amazing, you won't believe how good you'll feel.
Best of luck Andy, you've put in the work, now go there, enjoy the race and get your result. I think a 2:51:25 time is about right for your first one.
Amazing! Thanks for the great advice 😁
I'm so proud of you Andy! I've just hit 40 and you've inspired me to train for my first age grade marathon 😊
I’m 60 and getting back into marathons after heart surgery. I have loved watching your journey, Andy - and will hopefully get another one done next year after a long break!
Wishing you the best of luck! (from a fellow runner with heart “issues”).
I had open heart surgery at 19 years - now 28 and training for my first ultra! We can do it!
I’m 42 and I only start running in January and now I’m about to start training for my first marathon in April, all thanks to the running channel community and your inspirational video. Well done Andy
This is inspiring. It’s tempting to think that because Andy was a truly world class runner that this should be easy for him, but it’s clear that he’s way outside his comfort zone, so full credit. I reckon Andy will do his best to get inside 3 hours at Valencia so I predict 2.58.50!
running my first marathon at 49 in Barcelona in March 2024 - I'm loving the learning process of finding out the science behind running to a specific distance and the benefits of proper strength and conditioning. Good luck for your marathon.
It seems crazy to me that you have the same nervousness as a beginner marathon runner... Looks like you are smashing the training though Andy! Can't wait for the celebration video for your celebration run!
Well, technically he is a beginner marathon runner :P He's just not a beginner runner.
Just dropped 2 mins off my 5K then ran a significant 10K PB and now just about to start training for Manchester Marathon. Love the Runna app!
Congrats on making training happen! 🎉 I have 7 kids so I know how hard it is to balance training-work-family. You’re smashing it! 🎉
Andy,
You are going to complete that Valencia marathon!
You are going to run the whole distance!
You are ready!
You are inspired and inspiring others!
Go for it! Enjoy it! Love it!
You are going to be so high when you complete it - it will be all worthwhile!
My quick story - 58 years old - not a runners body - short legs and wide bodied guy. Currently 3 months into a Run to 10K program. I used to run all the time but just now getting back into it but slowly so as not to injure myself. Listening to my body, taking an extra day off when I need it. Warming up and cooling down properly. Loving it too - cannot wait to break that 10K barrier the used to be so easy when I was young. Patience and perseverance!
Cannot wait to hear about your experience! Go get ‘em!!
Training for my first marathon at 54 so I understand being anxious. Trust in the training. You've got this! My prediction for Valencia is 2:46:15.
Did my first at 50 and 7 years later I'm looking forward to my second in Manchester in April 2024. It's great to see you go through everything that I and many others went through (albeit at a faster pace!)
Way to go! I'm sticking with 5k maybe 10k races for now, but I totally want to try a marathon one day, maybe when our kid gives us more time by being in school!
Oh and I think it'd be awesome for your first marathon to be around 2:58, good luck!
Training for my half marathon in May 2024. Going for a sub 1:30 half! Good luck Andy! You're gonna crush it!
Its great to see the honesty around your training, really enjoyed the journey and good luck for Valencia you will smash it
Andy Valencia finish time 03:00.46. Good luck
Go Andy Go! Reckon that you'll go 2:54:31 - sending all of the positive vibes your way!
I’ve started running a year ago and health wise it changed everything and turned my life upside down. 🏃🏽♀️I’ll be running the Paris half marathon in March, sub 2 hours would be fantastic. Good luck Andy! 🎉
Fab report, Andy. I am really proud of your persistence and determination. As I lie here in my hospital bed recovering from my third arthroscopic operation in 17 years, you are an inspiration to me. You will smash your first marathon. Keep going, keep running and most importantly ,keep breathing ❤🎉
I am training for my first marathon - London Marathon next year. I have loved watching your journey Andy and I know you will smash it.
I’m 51 and I just started training for my first marathon. I can’t even believe I’m doing this. It’s because of people like you that motivate us with pure and honest content. Bravo. I wish you all the best in your upcoming marathon!! My prediction is 2:39:00 🤗🇨🇦
I'm 51 also Sherry and completed my first marathon late last year. Good luck
Love the honesty shown during this process.
Wanting to train for my first Marathon, after a few halves it feels like time to graduate, but its a massive mental and physical jump/ challenge! The podcast and this channel give me so much motivation to go out and do it! Think you’ll smash a 2:59:59
All the very best Andy. I’m going to try my first marathon in Melbourne next year. I’m 52. I’ve run many half marathons but had to have spine surgery 5 months ago and I’ve had to be very patient with rehab. Walking has kept up my endurance, up to 25k. I’m now running again up to 10k and feeling very positive. Thanks for the inspiration and good luck in Valencia.
You've got this Andy! best of luck for Sunday. Such a good, honest account of the thoughts that creep in on a long run, even for an elite. I have my first Half Marathon in January, at 51 years of age, and constantly worry about my knees and other small aches and pains in the build up. Go for it, the TRC community will be cheering you on! you'll get 2:50:30 I reckon.
Well done Andy on your training, you will smash the marathon. Its my favourite distance, love training for them. Done 14 since I started C25K 10 years ago, aged 46. Managed to get under 4 hours in 2021.
Decided to run my first half marathon at 52 this year after only running 10km runs. Thanks to your channel have signed up for some trail half marathons and possibly tackling a marathon later next year. I’m inspired.
Great work Andy! You’ve got this.
I ran my first (benchmark😅) marathon in 2023 the performance was not what I had hoped and I’m looking forward to smashing it in 2024.
Andy, that last big workout always kills me, too. What helps me mentally is knowing that I'm maximally fatigued and still pulled off the session. Come race day, I'll be tapered and fresh, and it won't be as grueling. Trust the training and you'll be fine!
I’m planning to do a sub 2h40 min Marathon next year in Manchester! I did a 2h44 in Rotterdam this year! So the challenge is on!! Good luck Andy and good luck this weekend!!!
Great effort, Andy. You’ve got this. You’ll be carried along by your fellow runners and the spectators on race day. Have a good ‘un!
The Running Channel keeps inspiring and motivating me for my runs. I've only been consistently running since the summer, and I'm currently training to run my first 10k. The longest I've gone so far is 7,6k, and each week I'm excited to see how much further I can go!
It's comforting to hear you are scared even with all your experience. I swing between I can't do it to it will be a blast.
I'm training for my first half marathon in March! After so many ups and downs and injuries I'm so happy that I finally can run without fearing another injury and I've been really enjoying it!
Good luck sunday!🍀
I have signed up for Chester 100 miler in April. Going to be hard training in winter months. TRC vids always keep me motivated to get out and put in the miles
Did my first ever half marathon today and your story is so relatable and inspiring. Great work!
Congrats. The first one is so special.
Top work Andy, really incredible to see the journey and progression. You have absolutely got this and everyone is behind you. A marathon is an awesome experience I hope you get to enjoy it
Finish time 2:54:34 come on Andy.
I’m also 40 and I’ve just started training for my first marathon, this video has got me right up for it, good luck with the marathon you’ll smash it! Top video!!
I really want to get back into running, but long and exhausting business trips and illness have prevented me from running for almost two months now. It's devastating. But now that the stress is gone, I will get back into it! A marathon is still way out of my league, so I applaud you for your commitment, Andy. I'm sure, you'll smash Valencia! So chuffed to see the video later on. You got this!
Hope it goes well tomorrow Andy. I am doing the Valencia as well tomorrow. Did my first Marathon aged 60, 18 months ago, this will be my third. Looking forward to a nice flat course! Have enjoyed listening to your Podcasts.
Andy, you are feeling awful now but it’s taper timeee - you will feel fresh at the start line and also the atmosphere is going to be crazy. You will have flashbacks to your track competition days. I can’t wait for the race video and will be tracking you and a couple of friends on the race day. I think you are gonna end up having one of the best running days of your life 🥳 have fun!
You've got this Andy! All 634k TRC subscribers will be rooting for you! My time prediction is 2hr 43 min.
I'm 38 and currently training to run my wife's 1st half marathon with her. After 9 years together it's the first time our running enthusiasm has synchronised up!
I think Andy has got this marathon in 02.58.33 👏👏👏 we're rooting for you!!
Your marathon prediction in another video was 2:49:43 so I'll say 2:45. Good luck!! Looking forward to hearing more about your experience as it approaches. Hoping to do my first next year 🤞
2:56:05, but faster if you end up using the ambulance!
Good luck, Andy - I think that we're all impressed by your bravery in taking this on so publicly. X
incredibly honest video...representing how we all feel at the end of a 32k - not to mention filming all the way through it! Well done!
Great work, you guys have helped to inspire an anti-runner into running. I started the couch to 5k 7 weeks ago and have now got the park run bug doing my first run in 35 minutes and my third run in under 29 minutes. Keep up the inspirational work guys! You'll do the marathon In 2 hours and 57 minutes! Best of Luck
I am training for my third marathon, April 2024. I have yet to run more than 14 miles. Third time te charm. You are doing excellent.
Good luck Andy! I'm watching. Hope to see some footage of you.
Great work. I am aiming to do a half marathon pb next April 2024. Thanks for your inspiration. I think your finish time will be 2:24:24 in Valencia.
2:48:52 ;) Salt tablets and hydration can help with avoiding cramping and hitting the wall!
Andy, we are all cheering you on. Super proud of your achievements, best of luck with Valencia this weekend. I'm thinking you'll get 2:53 something. I've loved watching your training and discussions about family, work and life/running balance as I have the same trouble!
I have just starting training for April's Manchester marathon, it's my first one. I've never run more than 22km so I too feel that my biggest hurdle will be questioning whether or not I can run that far, the doubt you talked about.
Good luck Andy! I’m also running my first marathon at age 45 in Singapore on 3 Dec. The heat and humidity is brutal and honestly I’m quite nervous despite 14 months of training. I’ll surely need to “chunk it” and “run the mile I’m in” to get through race day!
Best of luck Andy, really enjoyed your journey and remember the pain of the long runs at 48
Good luck in your first marathon Andy. Don't be too focused on time and enjoy every km. Thanks for the video, nice to to be able to relate with your struggle in spite of your impressive speed!
You've got this. It's hard work doing the training but it pays off on race day.
Good luck this weekend Andy! Rooting for you from the US!
Way to dig deep-Great job Andy!!! You are ready for your marathon for sure!
You totally got this, Andy. we have total faith in you.
Thank you to everyone at the Running Channel for being my invisible running partner whilst training for my first marathon at London next year. You guys have constantly kept me on the straight and narrow during training, and your podcast, videos and website have been a constant source of encouragement and motivation. Top work!!
This series is such a great motivator for my own running journey. Training for my first half marathon after starting my running journey less than a year ago, I find it amazing to see how even the best runners such as Andy fight their way through their struggles. Really hope you have an amazing marathon Andy; and I’m sure you’ll be able to push yourself to a sub 2:50:00 finish time.
Brilliant video as always Andy. Thank you for your honesty and for sharing your pain and uncertainties. So human and so relatable. I've only been running for around 10 yrs and am just about to start marathon training for my 4th London marathon at 65 yrs of age. I never believe I will be able to do it and the training hurts and never gets any easier. But you put all the hard work in now so the race itself will go like a dream. You'll love it! Good luck
still quite new to running, raining for my first half-marathon next year using Runna and loving it so far!
Not gonna lie. It’s kind of amazing to see you struggling with distances I SLOWLY pound out.
You're doing brilliant Andy, you've managed to persuade me to run another Marathon next year. My last one was 8 years ago.
Looking forward to it. 👍
Good luck Andy! Predicting around 2:45!
I’m hoping to give my first marathon a go next year so love watching all the videos for top tips!
Currently patiently waiting for January to start training for my first marathon in may, in Ottawa, Canada. I reckon Andy is going to end his marathon at 2:50! Good luck, can’t wait to see your race video!
started off late, but better now than never. Your videos always motivates me to get out there to finish off my milage !
2:49 finish time in Valencia! You got this Andy!!!
Good luck Andy!
You are getting me so excited to start my own marathon training in January!
I think your finish time will be 2:49:58.
Running Valencia marathon tomorrow which is my first on the road and since breaking my pelvis last year. Good luck and hope you smash 3 hours!
Great work Andy. I've never dared to tackle anything further than a half marathon.
2:59.23 just pip the 3 hour mark. So inspiring to see, well done.
Training for a sub 4:30 marathon next week, just finished my last long run Sunday 19.25 miles plus cool down.
I am no training like 5 month with the runna app and I am noticing a massive change in my pace. I’m really looking forward for my upcoming marathon training with the app.
Good luck on Sunday. Greeting from Germany
You’ve got this! I’ve only ran a couple half marathons and I can’t even imagine running the distance for a full marathon. Maybe one day I’ll be brave enough 😅
You got it!. Good luck.
Great job Andy you are an inspiration to us all.
Well done Andy ,long run training is pretty tough,but you’ll feel the benefits come marathon day. I’ve run three marathons this year,and still find the training harder than race day. Keep up the good work,but most importantly enjoy your Valencia marathon day.🎉😅🏃♂️👍
So proud of you Andy! You will smash your marathon. Believe in your training
Well done, Andy. My prediction for your finish time in Valencia is 02:52:30. Looking forward to it with much inspiration. Good luck!
Yes!! I love the Runna app! Use it every time I want to set a new goal!
Loved watching this, lots of familiar landmarks from my local area! Good luck for Sunday 🍀
I’m 52 and training for my first marathon (York) I’ve done plenty of half’s but this is a real step up for me. I just want to be able to say: I’ve ran a marathon! We can do it!!!!
That’s a great effort and thanks for taking the viewers along (also thanks to Sarah!) I think on a flat course like Valencia you will be able to dip under 3 hours - my prediction 2 hours 58 minutes 32 seconds
Good man Andy well done.
I'm starting marathon training next week for my first marathon in April , at 67 I know it's a challenge but with hard work and determination I'm sure I'll do it.
Good luck in Valencia big guy 👍👍👍👍
I've started using Runna and it's change my life! I'm so much more motivated now. I'm using it to train for London next year which will be my first ever marathon :D
You've got this, Andy! Best of luck in Valencia!
You crushed it, Andy! Nice job in the race today!
Congratulations on banking your long run! Miles in the legs now. Best of luck to you for race day💪💪💪😊
Another great video. I’m registered for my third MK Marathon in May 24 and hoping to finally break 4 hours.
I think Andy will run around 02:48:00. 👍🏻
I'm currently training for my first marathon in April 2024. I've only done half marathon race in May 2023, but I'm super excited to go through the training which starts on Christmas day this year. It's exciting to see you, Andy, running your first marathon this weekend. It has been a great journey to witness your trainings for this goal. My prediction is 2:51:47! Good luck with the race, and enjoy the atmosphere! To be honest, whatever the time you hit, the most incredible thing you've just done after the finish line is that you've actually ran the longest distance of 26.2miles! Go go!!:)
Great effort Andy. My prediction is 2:50:30 - Enjoy Valencia, it has some amazing street art!
Very relatable about the worries of distance, niggles, the fuelling and the general unknowns. Race day is all in the head, but all the best on what will be an epic day.
My simple advice:
1. Make sure you give yourself enough time for a decent poo on race morning. Over the years I’ve moved my larger carb heavy meal to lunchtime pre-race day to give body more time to digest and egest in the morning!
2. Hydration - lesson learnt in this run
3. Do NOT go off too fast. Watches can be really helpful here as they objectively pin you to your pace. Others will fly off, let them go.
4. Race day is all in your head. Chunk it, use mantras, keep certain things up your sleeve for when you need them. You will need them, so save them til the time comes when it’s the boost you need.
5. Enjoy it, take in the weather, the sky, everyone cheering for you. Pain = struggle x resistance (plagiarising someone here, don’t know who!) so reduce your own struggle by celebrating the little wins and that will reduce the pain
6. Stay in the rep your in. Focus on that km/chunking session, tick it off, then move to the next one.
7. Celebrate what you have done. It is a huge achievement, doing the training and getting to the start line and doing the thing. It’s not a small feat, so enjoy it!
I predict it’s a 2:53:35. All the best.
Loving the advise yous have been giving. I am at my start point of running and I want to do a marathon next year at36. Studying all your videos for advise and ways to help me keep it up