If you’re preparing to run your first marathon, you’ve come to the right place. A marathon is a huge milestone for any runner, and the training requires real commitment. This starter pack is designed to help get you started and hit the ground running.

Progress feels even better when you can see it. Track your runs and watch the marathon goal get closer each week. Marathon training involves a lot of mileage (you'll be running a lot!), so investing in a smart watch can benefit your training. A running watch gives you valuable insights like heart rate, cadence, recovery data, and more, that can guide your training and help you get the most out of every session.

Runna’s plans sync automatically to your device or watch of choice whether it’s an Apple Watch, Coros, Garmin, Suunto, or Fitbit.

If you’re using your phone, a running belt will keep your keys and phone secure and your hands free so you can focus on your running. A running belt (or vest) can also be used to store your nutrition (gels, chews, snacks etc).

We recommend having a few items of the following kit essentials for marathon training. Dress for comfort and confidence. Feeling good in your gear gives you that extra motivational push to get out of the door.

For your first marathon, the most important type of running shoe to have is an everyday mileage shoe. This will be what you'll reach for when getting out for all your long runs and easy-paced runs – they should be durable, supportive and cushioned.

You’ll be pounding the pavements a lot in this shoe, so make sure it’s one that suits your running form. We recommend purchasing your running shoes from a trusted running shop that will be able to professionally fit your shoes.

With the high amount of mileage involved in marathon training, we highly recommend having at least two pairs of running shoes to alternate between.

The New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 is one of the Runna team's favorite everyday running shoes. The plush cushioning offers a comfortable, supportive feel that is perfect for daily miles and recovery runs after harder workouts.

The Triumph is another top pick amongst the Runna team. It’s ultra-cushioned, durable and supportive on the joints, making it a great option for an everyday marathon shoe that will support you on every step of your long runs.

The On Cloudmonster Hyper is built for high mileage training with responsive foam and a forward-rolling rocker design that propels you forward throughout the miles. It is secure and stable for long runs.

Never had a running shoe rotation before? We’ve got you covered. Signing up for a marathon is a great excuse to invest in that other new pair of running trainers you've been eyeing up. Rotating shoes gives your muscles and joints a break from repeating the same stress, which lowers injury risk during marathon training. It also means the cushioning will last longer and perform better.

We recommend trying a tempo running shoe as the second shoe in your rotation. Tempo running shoes are designed to be lighter underfoot and feel responsive when you run at faster speeds. You can use these running shoes for your shorter, quicker runs or interval sessions.

Alternatively, if you prefer to keep it chilled in your training runs, try alternating with a second everyday running shoe that works for you.

Entering your first marathon is a big deal. Do you want the buzz of a big-city race or a scenic course in cooler weather? Picking the right marathon means thinking about location, elevation (hills!), temperature and terrain, as all these factors will shape your experience.

With Races by Runna, you can filter by location, date, temperature, elevation (and more) to find the perfect event for your first 26.2 miles. You'll then be able to join an in-app community of runners doing the same marathon, so you can get the extra motivation you need on tap.

The best way to stay accountable is to hit 'sign up'. It might feel daunting, but entering makes your goal real. Your training becomes more than just running, it's now a countdown to something huge. On race day, you’ll experience an electric atmosphere, the finish-line buzz, and get the lifetime bragging rights that come with being a marathoner.

How often should I run? What mileage do I need to do? Knowing where to start with your training for your first marathon is a challenge to say the least. Stay on track with running sessions personalised for your starting ability, that are built around your schedule. Runna’s marathon plans take the guesswork out of your training, so you can just run.

A marathon plan crafts a balance of varied sessions that keep your training fresh, fun and effective. Here’s a quick breakdown of the main types of running you’ll see.

Easy runs are gentle, conversational-paced runs that build your aerobic fitness and make clocking the miles become a habit in your life. At the start of your marathon journey, the easiest mistake you can make is running these too quickly! Slow down, these gentle miles are all about time on your feet that builds endurance and leg strength sustainably.

Don’t worry, you won't be jumping straight into 20+ mile long runs! The distance of your first long runs at the start of your marathon training will depend on your previous running experience. Start with distances that feel comfortable and try to go a little further each week. Your weekly long run is also a great opportunity to practice your fueling and hydration strategy to keep your engine ticking over for those miles.

Depending on what level you are starting your marathon journey from, faster running is something you can try once you feel comfortable. Even if you aren’t going after a set marathon time and just aiming to cross the finish line, speed work makes you a stronger runner and improves running form. You can start by trying running at a speed slightly faster than your usual pace for 3-5 minutes and taking a walking rest in between.

Our Ultimate Marathon Training Guide dives into marathon training in more detail. Ready to start? Tell us a little about yourself and your marathon goal here, and we'll build a personalised plan just for you.

We also dive into how you can nail the training basics in this Runna TV episode!

Running on a treadmill at home or in the gym offers simplicity and accessibility for new runners. During the winter months, the treadmill offers a welcome break from cold or wet conditions and it also has a reduced impact on your joints, compared to running on harder surfaces like tarmac. This can be beneficial when clocking up the mileage during marathon training. Runna's record on treadmill feature allows you to easily track treadmill runs.

It takes a huge amount of consistency and dedication to get to the finish line of your first marathon. Staying accountable is a challenge, but remember why you started and let your reason power your progress!

Staying motivated is so much easier when you’re not doing it alone. Search for nearby run clubs on Strava, social media, or even ask in your local running shop. Finding a friendly community ready to cheer you on can help ch

You can also connect with other runners doing the same marathon as you through the Runna app, where people share tips, gear advice and motivation to keep you going.

Marathon training can sometimes feel like it’s taking over your life, so why not make it social? Bringing friends or family along on your long runs can give you the boost you need.

The best part is, they don’t even have to run beside you. They could join you on a bike, cheer you on along the route, or meet you at the finish for a well-deserved post-run treat together. Turning training into a social experience makes it feel less like a chore and a lot more fun.

Committing to your first marathon is something to be hugely proud of. A pacing strategy will help you stay strong through all 26.2 miles.

On the day, Runna provides you with pacing cues to help keep you on track, all the way to the finish line.

Completing your first marathon is a major running milestone. Runna makes your marathon training easy, effective and enjoyable so you can get to the finish line feeling confident.