Hey girlies, can you believe the Great North Run is almost here? On Sunday 8th September, thousands of runners will be lining up in Newcastle for the world’s biggest half marathon. If you’re one of them and it’s your very first half marathon, then this post is for you. I’ve run the Great North Run twice now, and I’ve picked up so many useful little tips that I wish someone had told me the first time around. So if you’re feeling nervous or not sure where to start, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
Essential gear for your first half marathon
Let’s be honest, cute kit is motivating, but comfort is everything when you’re running 13.1 miles. The number one investment? Proper running shoes. Seriously, your feet will thank you. Pop into a specialist running shop and get fitted, because the right shoes can make all the difference.
Don’t forget a decent sports bra, breathable kit, and fabrics that help prevent chafing. Moisture-wicking clothes will save you on race day. Trust me, chafing is not the vibe.
Want more help with shoes? Check out my Beginners guide to running shoes for everything you need to know before buying.
Build your mileage gradually
I know it’s tempting to go all-in, but slow and steady really is the way to go. The 10% rule is a good guide, meaning you only add around 10% extra distance each week. That way your body adapts safely, and you avoid injuries.
Mix in cross-training like swimming or cycling to boost your fitness without pounding your joints. And don’t forget rest days. Recovery is training too.
Fuel your body right
Carbs are your friend when you’re running longer distances, so don’t be shy with the pasta, rice, or bread. The night before the Great North Run is carb-loading central.
Stay hydrated throughout the week, not just on race morning. And if you’ll be out there for over an hour (which most of us will), energy gels or small snacks can give you the boost you need mid-run.
👉 Want more details? Here’s my fuel your run guide.
Familiarise yourself with the Great North Run route
The atmosphere at this race is unreal, especially crossing the Tyne Bridge with the crowds cheering you on. But a little course knowledge goes a long way. Expect some steady inclines in the first half, a few tougher stretches in the middle, and then a glorious downhill finish.
If you can’t practise on the course, no worries – just have a look at the route online and familiarise yourself with where the tougher bits are. Knowing when to hold back and when you can push will really help.
Train with others for race day confidence
The Great North Run is busy. Like, thousands-of-runners busy. If you’ve only ever run solo, it can feel a bit overwhelming. To get used to the buzz, why not try a parkrun or join a local running group? Running with others is brilliant for motivation too and honestly, it makes training so much more fun.
Master your mindset
Running is such a mental game. There will be moments you’ll want to quit, and that’s totally normal. My trick is to break the race into chunks – don’t think of the whole 13.1 miles, just get through the next mile or the next landmark.
Music helps too, so build yourself a playlist of songs that fire you up. If music isn’t your thing, focus on your breathing, count steps, or picture yourself powering down that final straight to the finish.
Race day essentials
Here’s what you don’t want to forget:
- A throwaway hoodie or jacket for the start (mornings can be chilly).
- Race bib and Safety pins.
- Fully charged watch, headphones and phone.
- Blister plasters just in case.
Pack your kit bag the night before, because trust me, no one wants to be scrambling around at 6am.
Soak up the atmosphere
This race is honestly magic. High-five the kids along the route, enjoy the bands and when you see the Tyne Bridge and later the Red Arrows flying overhead, you’ll know why the Great North Run is so special.
Things to Do Post-Race in Newcastle
Don’t dash off once you’ve finished – Newcastle is buzzing on race weekend. Treat yourself to a big meal on the Quayside, wander over the Millennium Bridge, or celebrate with a drink in one of the city’s cosy pubs. If you’ve got energy left, a bit of shopping at Eldon Square or even a post-race spa trip is a fab way to round off the weekend.
- Enjoy a Well-Deserved Meal: Treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of Newcastle’s many restaurants. Whether you’re craving Italian, Indian, or classic British pub food, there’s something for everyone. Consider heading to The Quayside, where you can find a variety of eateries with stunning views of the River Tyne.
- Explore the Culture: If you have the energy, take a stroll along the Quayside to admire the iconic Tyne Bridgeand Gateshead Millennium Bridge. Check out The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art or The Sage Gateshead for some cultural immersion.
- Visit the Local Pubs: Celebrate your achievement with a drink at one of Newcastle’s local pubs. The Forth and The Tyne Bar are popular spots with a friendly atmosphere where you can share your race stories with fellow runners.
- Shopping Therapy: If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, head to Eldon Square or The Gate for a range of shops, from high-street favorites to unique boutiques.
- Relax at a Spa: Treat yourself to some post-race pampering at one of Newcastle’s spas. A soothing massage can do wonders for your tired muscles, helping you recover after all that hard work.
Recovery tips
You’ve crossed the finish line – yay! Now it’s all about looking after your body. Keep walking once you’ve finished, refuel with a snack, and when you get home, stretch or take a hot bath. Gentle yoga or a sports massage can help you bounce back quicker too.
You’ve got this, Great North Run runners
Running the Great North Run is an incredible achievement, and if you’re lining up for the first time, you should already be proud of yourself. Whether you run, jog, or walk sections, that finish line feeling is unbeatable. You’ve totally got this!
Get Race-Ready with Runna
I’ve been using Runna to help me get race-ready for events like the Great North Run. If you want to give it a try, you can get a 2-week free trial with the code RWR2
