This will be one for the history books…

For the first time ever, the adidas Manchester Marathon and London Marathon will take place on the same day – Sunday 27th April 2025 – creating the largest day of marathon running in the UK.

As both cities come together to champion the spirit of UK marathon running, some friendly North vs. South rivalry has been ignited along the way! We polled 3,500 people taking on a marathon this year, which revealed training secrets across the UK. While the nation was united on some fronts, fascinating differences also emerged – from food choices, music playlists and charitable efforts.

Find out more in the findings below!

FIRST TIME FEVER?

A greater proportion of Northerners (40%) will be tackling their first marathon this year, compared to 30% of Southerners.

WOMEN LEADING THE CHARGE?

The survey reflected a surge in female participation, with 43% of female participants making their marathon debut, compared to 30% of men. More Northern women (47%) will be taking on the challenge for the first time vs their Southern counterparts (37%).

A COMPETITIVE STREAK?

Our survey found that Southerners are more likely to enter a marathon for competitive reasons, such as hitting a PB, achieving a ranking or qualifying time or ‘beating’ a friend of family member! 31% of Southerners reported that they are running for competitive reasons, compared to 24% of Northerners who are more likely to take part for personal accomplishment and charity causes.

COME RAIN OR SHINE?

Living up to their reputation for resilience when it comes to the weather, Northerners are more likely to brave the elements when training for a marathon. Over half (52%) of Southerners will avoid training in heavy rain, compared to just 42% of Northerners.

DITCHING DRINKING?

85% of all survey respondents reported curbing their alcohol consumption. Notably, going tee-total is more prevalent among male runners (25%) than female runners (18%), and among Southerners (25%) compared to Northerners (20%).

A GENEROUS HEART?

Our survey shows that Northerners are nearly twice as likely to say charity fundraising is their top motivation for taking on a marathon!

A PIZZA PARTY?

Pizza took the top spot as the UK’s favourite treat meal during marathon training, with nearly half of respondents craving a slice after a hard training week. Southerners’ second choice was a burger and chips, whilst Northerners opt for Chinese food and curry in third place.

MUSICAL DIFFERENCES?

Music plays a vital role in keeping motivation high with Eminem, Sam Fender, Kendrick Lamar, Fred Again and Taylor Swift being among the top named go-to artists across the nation. But regional favourites emerge: Oasis reigns supreme in the North (6:1), while Southerners favour Chase & Status (4:7).

A RESTAURANT MEAL OR TAKEAWAY ON THE COUCH?

The research also revealed that Southerners are more likely to opt for a sit-down meal in a restaurant after the marathon (25% compared to 19.00% of Northerners) whereas in the North takeaway was king. A greater proportion of Northerners also reported looking forward to a bath after the marathon – often accompanied by a well-earned beverage!

 

So there you have it; a historic day that will unite the country with some classic British banter in the lead-up.

To find out why the adidas Manchester Marathon is the best marathon taking place on 27th April, check out our cheeky round-up here.

You’re welcome!