It’s been a few months since the London Marathon 2025 ballot closed, nd the highly anticipated outcome has landed in our inboxes. As I scrolled through Instagram to congratulate those lucky enough to secure a spot, I couldn’t help but feel the annual pang of ‘not this time.’

What are the odds this time around?

So, what are the odds this time around? This year, a staggering 840,318 individuals entered the ballot, all vying for about 17,500 spots. That means a 1 in 48 chance of making it. If I keep applying, maybe I’ll score a ballot place before I hit the big 6-0!

For some, a rejection might bring relief, but for the fortunate who secured a spot—congratulations! Savor this hard-earned opportunity and embrace every moment of your marathon journey.

Feeling Overwhelmed? Here’s What to Do Next!

Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Many entrants, caught up in the excitement, entered the ballot on a whim. Now that you have secured a place, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Running a marathon is not just about physical endurance; it’s also a mental journey that will challenge and transform you. Embrace the adventure ahead!

Essential Tips for Your London Marathon Preparation

  • Start slowly and build your endurance: Ease into it. Building endurance takes time. Start with a comfortable pace and distance, gradually increasing as your fitness improves.
  • Invest in quality gear: While you don’t need top-of-the-line gear, invest in quality running shoes that match your feet and running style to prevent injuries.
  • Create a solid training plan: Planning is crucial. There are excellent marathon training plans available for beginners. Runna offers personalised London Marathon training plans and a supportive community to get you race-ready. Trust me, the community is a godsend when training! Plus, you can try it free for two weeks using code RWR2 for expert guidance on your marathon journey.

Missed Out on the Ballot? Other Options for 2025

If you didn’t secure a place, don’t worry! The London Marathon website lists charities offering spots for the event. These charities usually have a minimum fundraising commitment, and some even hold their own ballot for entries!

If the fundraising commitment doesn’t fit your plans, keep in mind there are other spring marathons to explore. Manchester and Brighton host events in April, while Edinburgh holds its marathon in May.

No matter where you run, a marathon is always 26.2 miles, and your determination will shine through. Whether it’s your first or fiftieth, keep up the great work!