Whether you’re feeling excited, nervous (or both!), we want you to arrive on that start line feeling strong. Runna have put together top tips to help you avoid common first-timer mistakes for a smooth build up. Access your exclusive two week free trial today with the code MANCHESTERMARATHON.
If your legs ever feel heavy before you’ve even started, you might be running your easy days too fast. First-time marathon runners often feel they “should” be running quicker – but easy really does mean easy!
Slowing down on your easy runs helps you recover quicker, build aerobic endurance, and actually makes long distances feel easier over time.
💡 With personalised pacing insights, your adidas Manchester Marathon plan keeps your easy days enjoyable so you can hit your harder sessions with quality.
Building up gradually is the secret to staying strong. It’s tempting to jump straight into high mileage, but your body adapts best with slow, steady progress.
Follow the golden rule: increase weekly mileage by no more than 10%. Small, consistent steps build the strength and confidence you’ll need.
Your personalised plan is tailored to your current fitness, removing all the guesswork and helping you build endurance sustainably.
Marathon training is about more than just miles. Strength work helps keep your body stable, resilient and ready for the miles ahead, especially for your first time.
Runna seamlessly includes simple, runner-specific strength sessions to help you stay injury-free and feel strong from the first mile to the finish line.
First-timer nerves? Totally normal, but you don’t need to train alone! With Runna, you’ll feel guided, supported and confident all the way to Manchester’s iconic finish.
Start making real progress: get two weeks free of your personalised plan. Click here or use code MANCHESTERMARATHON26.