I distinctly remember the words “never again” being the first thing to come out of my mouth as I crossed the finish line at the Yorkshire Marathon many years ago. It was the first time I had covered the distance and my legs were shot. But here I am—currently training for marathon number 14.
It’s funny how we can be so certain in the moment. But over the years, I’ve learned one thing for sure: marathon training requires a plan. And trust me, I’ve tried a few! In fact, I’ve experimented with a range of training methods—from traditional coaches to running on my own—but nothing has been quite as effective as the Runna app.
Why I Chose Runna for My Marathon Training
Recently, I became an ambassador for Runna, and I can honestly say that it’s completely transformed the way I approach training. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of creating your own training schedule or didn’t know where to start, Runna offers an incredibly intuitive and personalised solution.
The app helps you build a tailored marathon plan that fits into your lifestyle, whether you’re working around a busy job or trying to train while juggling family life. If you’re a runner aiming to increase your pace for a 5K or you’re getting ready to take on your first marathon, Runna has you covered. It’s user-friendly, integrates seamlessly with my Garmin watch, and ensures that each training session is varied and engaging.
How Runna Works: Personalised Plans for Every Runner
After completing a ‘maintenance’ plan with Runna, I knew it was perfect for my next marathon goal: finishing comfortably, even with hills. I haven’t checked the course elevation yet, but I’m treating it as training for my upcoming ultra marathon.
Finishing strong is my top priority, and Runna gives me the structure I need to make sure that happens.
Switching from maintenance mode to marathon training in the app was incredibly simple. After entering my comfortable 5K time and selecting my preferred training days, I had a personalised marathon plan ready to go within minutes. What I really appreciate about Runna is the ability to customise my schedule. Being able to choose the days I run makes it much easier to plan my workouts around other commitments,
Effortless Plan Switching: Tailor Your Training to Your Life
Runna’s flexibility is perfect for busy runners. Whether you’re working, caring for family, or training for multiple events, the app lets you plan your runs around your life. You can easily switch between training phases, whether building endurance for a marathon or tuning up for a shorter race
he app’s strength training routines complement my marathon training perfectly. I added a plan to prevent injuries and boost performance. These routines are tailored to my fitness level and adjustable each week, ensuring I’m training for both distance and strength—crucial for longer races, especially hilly ones.
The Importance of Strength Training for Marathoners
Marathon training isn’t just about running—it’s about building overall strength and fitness. While running is my focus, adding strength training has been vital. Runna makes it easy to incorporate strength workouts, improving both my performance and injury prevention.
Strength training helps build muscle, improve running form, and boost endurance. Over time, I’ve noticed significant improvements in my posture, stride, and overall speed.
More importantly, strength training has reduced the risk of injuries from running’s repetitive motion. For marathoners, a solid strength routine prepares you for race day challenges, like hills and long stretches. Runna’s tailored strength plan helps me build the strength needed to meet my marathon goals.
What’s great about Runna’s strength training plan is how well it complements my running schedule. The app provides a structured yet adaptable routine, meaning I can focus on building strength without compromising my running progress. It’s made me feel more confident and ready to tackle any race with a solid foundation of strength, both physically and mentally.
Runna’s Marathon-Specific Features: Why It works for me
Beyond the customisation of training plans, another reason I’m so passionate about Runna is its structured approach to marathon training. The app outlines each training session, and you can track your progress along the way. I love the daily push notifications that remind me of upcoming sessions. These small reminders help me stay accountable, especially when life gets busy or when my motivation wanes.
Previously, I tried working with a traditional coach, but the structure just didn’t fit me. While the coaching process was helpful, it often felt rigid, with little room for flexibility. With Runna, the plans are structured yet adaptable—which is exactly what I need to build consistency.
In my experience, consistency is the key to marathon success. And Runna keeps me on track without feeling like I’m burning out.
Why Runna is perfect for first-time marathoners
If you’re someone who’s new to marathon training, I highly recommend giving Runna a try. Training for a marathon is overwhelming at first, but the app takes all the guesswork out of it. Whether it’s creating the perfect plan for beginners or offering expert advice, Runna provides everything you need to get started. Plus, as you build experience, the app adjusts your plan based on your progress.
The best part? Runna offers flexibility for marathoners of all levels, whether you’re running your first 5K or your 10th marathon. The plans evolve as you do, helping you progress with confidence.
Ready to Try Runna? Here’s my discount code
If you’re ready to elevate your marathon training and take the guesswork out of your routine, there’s no better time to try Runna. For just £15.99 per month, you get a personalised plan that syncs seamlessly with your lifestyle, helping you build the perfect foundation for race day.
Use my discount code ‘RWR2’ to get 2 weeks free on Runna! You can test it out and see how it fits into your training, and I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as I do. From beginners to seasoned marathoners, Runna is designed to help you succeed. I can’t wait for you to experience how it transforms your training.
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