Hey, girlies! With the Great North Run just around the corner on Sunday, 8th September, it’s time to get serious about your race day prep. If you’re gearing up for your first half marathon, I’m here to give you my Great North Run tips for beginners. Having run this race twice now, I’ve picked up a few essential insights that I wish someone had shared with me when I was starting out. If you’re a total beginner, don’t worry—I’ve got you!
Essential gear for your first half marathon
Let’s be real: cute workout gear is motivating, but it’s also super important to be comfortable. Investing in a good pair of running shoes is crucial—your feet will thank you after all those miles! Head to a specialized running store where experts can fit you for shoes based on your gait and running style. It may feel like a splurge, but trust me, it’s worth every penny. Don’t forget a supportive sports bra and breathable clothes. Comfort is key, especially when you’re out there for an extended period. Chafing is NOT the vibe, so opt for moisture-wicking fabrics that move with you.
For a deeper dive into choosing the right footwear, check out my Beginners guide to running shoes. You’ll find tips on what to look for in shoes, including arch support, cushioning, and fit.
Build your mileage safely for a successful half marathon
It can be tempting to go full speed ahead and run long distances right away, but trust me, slow and steady wins this race. Start with short runs, maybe 2-3 times a week, and gradually increase your distance. A lot of people use the 10% rule, which means you only add 10% more distance each week. This helps your body adjust and prevents injury. Remember, it’s fine to walk before you run!
Make sure to listen to your body. If you’re feeling fatigued or sore, don’t hesitate to take a rest day or scale back your mileage. Cross-training—like cycling or swimming—can also help improve your overall fitness without the added impact on your joints.
Check out Runna if you need a good plan to keep you in check!
Proper nutrition and hydration for race day
What you eat can make a big difference in how you feel during your runs. Carbs are your besties when it comes to energy, so don’t shy away from the pasta, especially the night before long runs. For more on nutrition, check out my fuel your run post!
Hydration is key too, so drink plenty of water throughout the day. If you’re running for over an hour, consider bringing an energy gel or a small snack to keep your energy up.
Familiarise yourself with the Great North Run route
The Great North Run is famous for its atmosphere and the amazing views as you cross the Tyne Bridge, but it’s good to know what you’re in for. The first half of the course has some gentle inclines, and the last mile is downhill (yay!), but there are some tougher spots in between. If you live locally, try to do a practice run or two on parts of the route, or check out a map online to visualise it.
Knowing what to expect can ease some race-day nerves. Familiarizing yourself with the elevation changes can help you pace yourself better on the day of the race. For instance, knowing when to conserve your energy for the tough sections will make a big difference.
Train with others for race day confidence
If you’re used to running solo, it can be a bit overwhelming to suddenly be surrounded by thousands of other runners. Warning: It will be very busy! The vibe at the Great North Run is super supportive, but it’s worth practising in a local parkrun or joining a running group to get used to the crowd.
Running with others not only helps you get used to the busy environment but also keeps you motivated and accountable. Plus, the social aspect of training with friends can make those long runs much more enjoyable.
Mental strategies for half marathon
Running is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. There will be moments during your training (and on race day) when you want to quit. When that happens, remind yourself why you started. I like to break down the race into smaller sections and focus on getting through each one, rather than thinking about the entire distance.
When in doubt, a good playlist can be your best friend—choose songs that will push you through the toughest miles! If music isn’t your thing, consider using mental tricks like counting steps, focusing on your breathing, or visualizing your finish line.
Race day essentials you can’t forget!
On the day of the race, there are a few things you won’t want to forget. Bring a lightweight jacket or old hoodie you can toss aside before the race starts (it’s usually cool in the morning). Pack a small bag with essentials like snacks, a water bottle, and extra safety pins for your race number.
And don’t forget to charge your watch, phone, and headphones the night before! It might also be helpful to have a small first aid kit with blister plasters, just in case.
Enjoy the experience of the Great North Run
The Great North Run is such a special event, and the energy from the crowd is unreal. Take it all in! High-five the kids cheering you on, soak up the views as you cross the Tyne, and enjoy the music and support from other runners. The finish line might feel like the best part, but the whole journey is something you’ll never forget.
For me, the highlight of last year’s race was catching the Red Arrows perform overhead just as I was heading down the finishing straight! These moments are what make the experience so memorable.
Things to Do Post-Race in Newcastle
After you’ve crossed the finish line, don’t rush off! Newcastle is a vibrant city with so much to explore. Here are some fun things to do post-race:
- 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.
Essential post-race recovery tips
You did it, girl! Now it’s time to recover. Keep moving after you cross the finish line—walking helps prevent your muscles from stiffening up. Grab a snack or a drink from the finish area to refuel, and stretch when you get home. A hot bath or a gentle massage can also do wonders for sore muscles.
Consider incorporating gentle yoga or stretching into your post-race routine to help with recovery. Remember, rest is just as important as training!
You’ve got this, Great North Run runners
Running the Great North Run is an amazing achievement, and if I can do it you can too. Remember, every runner was a beginner once, and no matter how long it takes you to finish, crossing that finish line is something to be incredibly proud of. So, who’s ready to run? Let’s do 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
