↓↓ Have you hit the wall in training? What are your tips for getting through a tough session? Let us know in the comments down below! And don’t forget to give Sarah a like to cheer her on! ↓↓
First time i went beyond a half I planned for 16 and ended up doing an extra lap of the course to make 18miles. The last 1.5m was the worst running experience ive had. I always thought the wall was pain but its a mental switch thats relentlessly saying 'stop running' + quads feel like they no longer work. Happened again on a 21 mile run with about 1 mile to go. Very hot day and i just watched my HR creep up for the last 45mins then 1 mile out had the same mental talk 'you need to stop'. I always run fasted and hadnt ever drank during a run. Ive since done a couple of 20 milers- drinking throughout and theyve been fine. Ive just done the 'sweat test' and now know i need to be drinking around 600mls per hour during the marathon. Belfast marathon on the 4th of October will be my first!
Definitely, I've never run an official race but I always wanted to run a marathon and I tried 4 times and every time I burnt out around 30 Km in. But one day the stars aligned and everything went well and I managed with a time of 3 hours 44. Nutrition was super important for me! Now training for my first official race, the Great North Run in a few weeks
I'm up to 20 miles and I had been training earlier in the year with an experienced marathon runner but we are on different plans now, so we don't do long runs together. I was struggling big time. So what I've done is line up friends to join me on parts of the long runs or some off road hill sessions. So this weekend I'll do 13km on my own and my mate will join me for 22km. Easier to break down mentally for me.
I hit the wall today. I regret forcing myself to run according to schedule in the name of consistency. I should be running my first marathon on 17 October. I'm not sure if I can run beyond 25km due to my failure to run beyond that distance in my last 2 attempts. My knees aren't cooperating. I think i have overused my muscles. I'll be taking a one week break. One of my ways of staying motivated is visiting this channel. Keep up the good work Sarah.
Absolutely love these ones and the channel, again, since it’s so positive and real. There’s just some good vibes. I love exploring my neighbourhood, but love that my local coffee shop is 3km from home. Was a great halfway point when starting!
I've just realized that everyone is training for marathons, and here I am trying to get myself to run a 10 K without stopping! We're all in different stages, just keep pushing through!
The journey to the marathon is the hardest part - long runs, slow runs, fast runs, cross training... the list rolls on. All this, and likely on your own - and as you rightly say, real life does get in the way. The marathon itself though... much different. The atmosphere, the spirit of the event, the knowledge you WORKED for this... and the finish line. BEST feeling ever is when you cross that line. Loving this series, Sarah. Kepp going!
I've started running 5k again after a hiatus of 8 years, and it's tough going, but I'm aiming to do my first 10k run this month! You've got this, Sarah!
Way to go Sarah. I hit a wall in my Marathon training in week 10. I really thought that I would just do the half instead. My husband convinced me that I would be disappointed in myself and has been super supportive. I found my groove again and am feeling more confident. Fortunately I ran a marathon last year and know that I am capable.
Well done Sarah, I can totally relate. I’m a full time emergency services shift worker and parent/carer to disabled 18 year old and this is my first marathon too. I definitely have to switch things around to make it work. Keep up the good work and the video series which I’m loving. Love the new crane inspired kit too 😍
I appreciate how real you guys are with your training! Some people are like “oh I love marathon training, my long runs are amazing “! I like how you say they suck if they suck!! Lol Thank you for being real!!
Sarah, you are such an inspiration! Why don’t you “treat yourself” by getting out in the countryside for your long run? Drive/go by train…get outta town! Eat at a new restaurant when you are done. I find that I don’t need my beats on when I run in the country. The sound of birds or no sound at all is so refreshing! I’m cheering you on from Nebraska!!!!
My first marathon was six years ago and I swore I'd never run one again. All these years later I 'accidentally' secured a place in the London ballot, so following your progress with great empathy! Trust the process, you're doing amazingly.
I'm also training for my first marathon in October and it's so lovely to just see someone else going through the highs and lows! It's all normal and you'll come out stronger for it at the end!
This level of training is simply next level isn't it (super understatement)? You're certainly correct in saying that it takes over your life for that period!! Anything less won't even cut it! And then I must say, holding a camera and talking into it while taking on this insanely difficult training is something else altogether!!! I couldn't even imagine the sort of challenge that is!!! And then of course, the beginning of pretty much anything is the most difficult. So the first time going for a marathon needs no explanation!! Great work and good luck!!
Training for Amsterdam as well, and the feeling of “my legs shouldn’t be hurting this much” is so recognisable! An easy run suddenly becomes hard because the legs are still tired from the last one. I’m realising more and more that the prep is at least as much mental as it is physical. The fact that running on tired legs in the actual marathon will just feel familiar will make all the difference!
Very cool trainers! Sure you will smash it. Long run tip .. the first 75% of a long run is about nourishing your body, the final 25% is about nourishing your brain/psyche. Find treats for your brain .. some sweets, a playlist of particularly inspirational songs, maybe set your phone to read out texts and ask friends & family to text you at about the time you'll be getting towards the end of your run etc.
Hey Sarah! Well done training!! I’m a brand new runner with goals of running a marathon in my future, watching you is like looking into the future. Good luck!! I look forward to seeing you cross the finish line!
Hi Sarah! So good to see your training going well….you are much faster than me and seem to be doing great! I haven’t run a marathon in “real” life because of COVID ( just a couple of virtual ones)…I did run an ultra just before COVID….I’m training for the Paris marathon on October 17th…. I sympathise with the struggles to fit in training….I’ve also had a lot of problems with sciatica so that hasn’t been helping….working full time certainly doesn’t make it easy for sure.. For my long runs I listen to podcasts and music and I love trying to change my routes….including bits on trails ……I love the long runs the best ! Best of luck with the rest of your training ! Emma
Well done so far Sarah. I’m a little bit ahead of you on my training plan, (I went with the Garmin HR one) as I’m doing the London marathon (the virtual one) My long run is now 3 hours, in which I cover about 24km with a little bit of walking up hills. My main worry is that I’ll need to do almost another 2.5-3 hours to complete the 26.2 miles and I don’t feel prepared for that. Just hope that adrenaline and a promise of a week off after, will keep me going on the day. For my long runs I listen to music and pick a large circular route so that at the mid point I’m furthest away from home and have no choice but to keep going, part of my route is through Epping Forest, so quite pleasant.
Your long runs during training are typically slower than your target marathon race pace, in which case you should be able to finish faster than simply projecting your training run time out to 42k. In my case, it's about a difference of 20-25 seconds/km Good luck with the rest of your training 😊
Training for a marathon alone is not easy, but finding someone with similar goals is hard too and it can make scheduling a bit tricky. For motivation, I used to pat myself on the back of the shoulder every mile of a long run and for the marathons I ran. Now I train with my girlfriend on the bicycle motivating me with David Goggins catch phrases. Good luck!
I’ve recently picked up running after a 9 year break. These videos have been supper motivating, and I appreciate the words of encouragement that each member of The Running Chanel team gives as they present. Thanks guys!
Thanks for your video(s)! I’m a *complete* newbie runner. I’ve been running for 2 and a half months, in prep for a 10K charity run. My big goal is to run a marathon eventually. I’m certainly in it for the long haul! Your videos have helped me no end at the beginning of my crazy running journey, so thank you 😊
I'm so proud of everything you're doing, putting your training online. I'm also training for my first marathon and my god, it takes over your life. I find singing along to songs helps when I'm running and struggling. You're doing so well and I'm so impressed by the progress you've made since I saw you in your very first video. It encourages me to keep going as well.
I trained for my first marathon back in 2017, after deciding to make it a bucket list event. I'd always been a runner, and had completed a bunch of HM in the years prior, but it certainly is a step up. Within a couple of months though, I was completely absorbed in the training, the fitness, the meal plans. Then, once I did my first, running completely took over my life, and now I've run eight, with many more on the horizon. Keep going Sarah, you will love the finished product once you hit that finish line.
You can do it! I only trained for 8 weeks for my first marathon, after starting running 2/3 months earlier. You won’t DNF in Amsterdam if you skip a session when you’re not up for it. Take it easy and enjoy it as much as you can.
Marathon training is hard. I've done 1 Marathon in my life with Marathon #2 coming up quick in NYC with a half marathon the following weekend in Washington DC. Cheers Sarah, great work.
After running 3 half marathon, I decided to run my first marathon in November 2021. This series definitely gives me the motivation I need, since I am having the same issues. Try to smile while you are running, it helps much. Good Luck Sarah!
Good running! Training's really tough, particularly the hard sessions, which I find I get anxious about. But after the session, and at the end of the whole block it's really satisfying to look back. Keep going, you'll smash Amsterdam- and it's your first marathon, guaranteed PB.
Training for your 1st marathon Sarah is daunting for everyone,my best advice is get the training in early morning so it doesn't dominate your whole day mentally..the reward when you cross that finish line is incredible (I'm 6 marathons in now after saying never again 😃),you're doing great keep it up... currently training for the NYC marathon but as the travel ban is still in place it looks like I'll be pivoting to Amsterdam 🏃...
Great to follow your marathon training, I am planning to do the same schedule as you. Looked realy hard the 2 times 5km 😤🥵 but you did IT 👊🏽💪🏼 I started training for my first marathon before Corona started, realy hope I can finaly run my first October in Rotterdam 🙏🏼 Good luck with your schedule, you CAN do it 👟👟
You keep turning up and getting it done. That's the key. At some points it does sound like you'd rather be doing anything else but running lol but I'm sure a bit of positive self talk will see you through. Keep up the great work 👍🏻🏃♂️
This is possibly the most honest marathon training video I've ever seen. Training for a marathon is often miserable and that's not shown in most RUclips videos by professional athletes who just tell you what sessions to put in. You never see them in a miserable rut sitting on a park bench close to tears questioning why they're doing this to themselves (personal experience). The upside of it was that I managed to explore all the little paths on the edge of my city, found new forests I didn't know existed, new nature reserves and added variety for years to come giving me so many new favourite scenic runs.
I’m training for my first marathon and it’s encouraging to see I’m not the only one in pain with my legs and training with some runs that really suck and are more challenging than others. Thanks for keeping it real Sarah!
most people never run marathons,and they go on and have happy lives,lol,honestly if it becomes a chore then it's your life don't do it. i go out and somedays i.ll go farther and some days not as far ,just going out and running is whats great being outside in fresh air is whats important,i feel, i know people who run races and a couple do marathons, but whatever feels right to you ,will make you satisfied .Sarah,s videos are always fun to watch because she seems like you know her or someone like her ,i wish her the best in marathon training, in everyday life today and always, i.ll root for her!!!✌️🌻☘️✅
Sarah, you are the one inspiring so many others!! I will never do a marathon (have do desire after doing 2 Halfs) but following your journey has given me such much motivation for up measly upcoming 5Ks and committing to the training and leaning into every aspect of them. I love your openness and enthusiasm. Can't wait to see you cross the finish in Amsterdam!
3 года назад+10
My tip for long runs: forget music, podcasts, running buddies and everything else - just run and enjoy!
Currently training for my 3rd half at the end of this month. I've increased my training significantly since the previous two so hopefully it'll pay off. Good luck in your marathon Sarah! 👍🏻
You're doing so well Sarah! 😊 Marathon training is such a head game. My most recent marathon was in April. It wasn't my best effort, and things got pretty ugly at the end and I swore never again! But the little voice is already there...nagging at me to pick another marathon and get back to training.
Love these videos Sarah, you're doing so well! I'm training for my 3rd marathon and feeling exactly the same to be honest. Marathon training takes over your life! It will all be worth it on the big day. You've got this!
I love how real this series is, so many people will be having the same worries and seeing others doing the same helps. I’ve got 5 weeks until Manchester and did 20 solo miles yesterday, so tough mentally at times and I really struggled towards the end. We’ll get there though!
Keep up the great work! Smile knowing that there are thousands of Running Channel fans out here cheering you on. I have found that having a friend along on a mentally tough run makes it so much easier and help me break through that wall.
You're doing a great job of showing the highs and lows ofmarathon training, for me gruelling is the best description, Keep up the great work,,,,,You got this
You can do it! I've never followed a training plan, just head out the door to run. Can only imagine what it would be like to have to do a specific workout and dreading it or not wanting to do it. Love that you are sharing your journey with us!
You got this!!! Great job turning your mind around (chunking the run into pieces and rattling on mantras)! My favorite mantra, which I saw in Deena Kastor's book, is "how beautiful to be the creator of your own momentum." It makes me smile and feel like part of nature every time I think it.
Excellent video Sarah, very honest about how you are feeling but don't fret there are thousands of us all at the same stage right now. That Mizuno kit looks awesome.
Sarah, we are with you! I’m running my marathon 10/31 and I’ve hit a wall skipped 2 days of training but put my big girl pants on and ran this morning felt so refreshed only walked once in my 5mi that’s huge for me!!! You guys rock keep running 🏃🏻♀️
Well done, Sarah. With family living not far from Amsterdam, am very envious of you heading over there in October. Took up running 5 years ago - at age 68!, and am up to entering 10k's now, but a Marathon is not yet on my target list! Am very impressed with your Marathon training regime. Keep up the good work. And very much looking forward to the Running Channel video of the actual event. Thanks, Richard
One trick I've often used is to visualise myself crossing the finish line, arms aloft celebrating! That helps make me feel that the current pain, slump, whatever I'm going through will be worth it in the end.
Well done Sarah! The training is tough. Focus on (trying!) to enjoy all the little victories and make sure you have plenty of small treats along the way.
You are such a real person Sarah .. it's so nice to be able to relate to you ... From Sunny SA ... I'm also a solo runner as I live in the middle of nowhere.. a country farm ... Thankyou for being such an inspiration to me
It’s somehow encouraging seeing all the struggles of a fellow runner on their journey; using this as motivation for my session today. Thanks Sarah and all the best for your training block and marathon goal!
Really appreciate the honesty. I am doing my first marathon too in my late 50s so finding the variety of the plan tough but enjoyable on the whole. Let’s do this - yes we can!!!
I liked hearing how you break your run down into little 15 min chunks. I was putting off my run today until I watched your video. Great work. Keep going 🤗
Hi Sarah, I’m doing the Swiss City Marathon on the 31st October and I’m 9weeks into my training and yes it gets hard especially for us lone wolf runners lol, I have found that doing a timed run with other runners once a week or 2 really helps to see how much your fitness has come on and help motivate you! Keep up the good work🙌🏻
Thanks for the inspiration, i'm also training for my first marathon and seeing someone else finding it hard is helpful... i'm normal. Don't quit! Keep running and you'll get to that finish line!
You are doing amazing Sarah! All of the training is not always easy, but when you see that you start improving, the feeling of that is incredible. Just keep putting in the work and you will get there. The race itself is completely different, all the people cheering you on and the atmosphere is just amazing. And when it gets tough, you can think back on when you had a tough training session and you got through it. Just enjoy the race and cherish the feeling when you cross the finish line. It is one of the best feelings ever! Keep it up!
Hi Sarah, you and your channel motivated me to start running again. I know it’s an older video but I still enjoy watching your road to your first marathon. 💪🏻
I love your video’s Sarah! Showing the ups and downs of training! That smile at the end when you were on the trail is a good reminder of why we all run!
Fair play to you Sarah, I remember the loneliness of marathon training. Podcasts were my friend and I played comedy shows because laughter can be a great lift when you need it during the long runs.
Keep up the good work Sarah! The Amsterdam Marathon will also be my very first marathon and I recognise myself in many of the things you say: thinking about running all the time, trying to squeeze in session on busy days, tough training and feeling amazing and strong! See you at the finish line!
Loving theses videos new to running and currently training for a half marathon next year ultimate goal is to run a full marathon one day! Theses videos really help keep me motivated!!
Loving your positivity Sarah! I'm currently in the taper for the Brighton Marathon on the 12th September after 18 weeks of training. I've got through the tough sessions by reminding myself that not every run is going to be a good one and the chances are that the next will be much better. Keep up the good work!
I've been injured for over a year and am about to start couch to 5k again to get me started then building to a half marathon in March and an Ultra in June (I know it's madness) but setting some challenging goals will hopefully help me. I love watching the running channel and Sarah your honesty about the impact this has on your daily life is brilliant - you keep going - you got this x
Hi Sarah. I just finished my first marathon 2 weeks ago so I know what you are going through. I found midweek runs the hardest, trying to fit in with work. Keep plugging away - you will doubts, but you will get there. I managed to do it with losing a whole due to illness in the middle of the training. Thanks for the videos - it's really great to part of your journey.
I absolutely love to follow your journey to your first marathon. The main thing about a training plan is to be ready to modify it throughout the journey. That's the first thing I learn with my coach. Whether it be running, cycling, swimming, or anything else, you've got to have an eraser and pen nearby to make some changes along the way! You are doing an absolute kick ass job! Let's go Sarah!!!
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↓↓ Have you hit the wall in training? What are your tips for getting through a tough session? Let us know in the comments down below! And don’t forget to give Sarah a like to cheer her on! ↓↓
First time i went beyond a half I planned for 16 and ended up doing an extra lap of the course to make 18miles. The last 1.5m was the worst running experience ive had. I always thought the wall was pain but its a mental switch thats relentlessly saying 'stop running' + quads feel like they no longer work. Happened again on a 21 mile run with about 1 mile to go. Very hot day and i just watched my HR creep up for the last 45mins then 1 mile out had the same mental talk 'you need to stop'. I always run fasted and hadnt ever drank during a run. Ive since done a couple of 20 milers- drinking throughout and theyve been fine. Ive just done the 'sweat test' and now know i need to be drinking around 600mls per hour during the marathon. Belfast marathon on the 4th of October will be my first!
Definitely, I've never run an official race but I always wanted to run a marathon and I tried 4 times and every time I burnt out around 30 Km in. But one day the stars aligned and everything went well and I managed with a time of 3 hours 44. Nutrition was super important for me!
Now training for my first official race, the Great North Run in a few weeks
I'm up to 20 miles and I had been training earlier in the year with an experienced marathon runner but we are on different plans now, so we don't do long runs together. I was struggling big time. So what I've done is line up friends to join me on parts of the long runs or some off road hill sessions. So this weekend I'll do 13km on my own and my mate will join me for 22km. Easier to break down mentally for me.
I hit the wall today. I regret forcing myself to run according to schedule in the name of consistency. I should be running my first marathon on 17 October. I'm not sure if I can run beyond 25km due to my failure to run beyond that distance in my last 2 attempts. My knees aren't cooperating. I think i have overused my muscles. I'll be taking a one week break. One of my ways of staying motivated is visiting this channel. Keep up the good work Sarah.
Absolutely love these ones and the channel, again, since it’s so positive and real. There’s just some good vibes.
I love exploring my neighbourhood, but love that my local coffee shop is 3km from home. Was a great halfway point when starting!
I've just realized that everyone is training for marathons, and here I am trying to get myself to run a 10 K without stopping! We're all in different stages, just keep pushing through!
All the same! Just enjoying being out doors, sweating and feeling great afterwards!
Not everyone, not everyone...
You're 3 years ahead of me - my first 10k is in 3 months and my first marathon won't even go live for booking for 4 months.
I love how real Sarah is about training. It is quite reassuring that life does happen so it's ok if you have to adjust the schedule for life.
The journey to the marathon is the hardest part - long runs, slow runs, fast runs, cross training... the list rolls on. All this, and likely on your own - and as you rightly say, real life does get in the way. The marathon itself though... much different. The atmosphere, the spirit of the event, the knowledge you WORKED for this... and the finish line. BEST feeling ever is when you cross that line. Loving this series, Sarah. Kepp going!
Thank you Tony!
I've started running 5k again after a hiatus of 8 years, and it's tough going, but I'm aiming to do my first 10k run this month! You've got this, Sarah!
Way to go Sarah. I hit a wall in my Marathon training in week 10. I really thought that I would just do the half instead. My husband convinced me that I would be disappointed in myself and has been super supportive. I found my groove again and am feeling more confident. Fortunately I ran a marathon last year and know that I am capable.
It is tough but you can do it! Let us know how you get on!
Well done Sarah, I can totally relate. I’m a full time emergency services shift worker and parent/carer to disabled 18 year old and this is my first marathon too. I definitely have to switch things around to make it work. Keep up the good work and the video series which I’m loving. Love the new crane inspired kit too 😍
Thanks Karen! Good luck with your training too 😊
I appreciate how real you guys are with your training! Some people are like “oh I love marathon training, my long runs are amazing “! I like how you say they suck if they suck!! Lol
Thank you for being real!!
Thanks for watching Kelly!
Sarah, you are such an inspiration! Why don’t you “treat yourself” by getting out in the countryside for your long run? Drive/go by train…get outta town! Eat at a new restaurant when you are done. I find that I don’t need my beats on when I run in the country. The sound of birds or no sound at all is so refreshing! I’m cheering you on from Nebraska!!!!
My first marathon was six years ago and I swore I'd never run one again. All these years later I 'accidentally' secured a place in the London ballot, so following your progress with great empathy! Trust the process, you're doing amazingly.
I'm also training for my first marathon in October and it's so lovely to just see someone else going through the highs and lows! It's all normal and you'll come out stronger for it at the end!
This level of training is simply next level isn't it (super understatement)? You're certainly correct in saying that it takes over your life for that period!! Anything less won't even cut it!
And then I must say, holding a camera and talking into it while taking on this insanely difficult training is something else altogether!!! I couldn't even imagine the sort of challenge that is!!!
And then of course, the beginning of pretty much anything is the most difficult. So the first time going for a marathon needs no explanation!!
Great work and good luck!!
Training for Amsterdam as well, and the feeling of “my legs shouldn’t be hurting this much” is so recognisable! An easy run suddenly becomes hard because the legs are still tired from the last one.
I’m realising more and more that the prep is at least as much mental as it is physical. The fact that running on tired legs in the actual marathon will just feel familiar will make all the difference!
Learning how to run with tired and hurting legs is an essential marathon skill that needs to be trained. Embrace it. :)
Very cool trainers! Sure you will smash it. Long run tip .. the first 75% of a long run is about nourishing your body, the final 25% is about nourishing your brain/psyche. Find treats for your brain .. some sweets, a playlist of particularly inspirational songs, maybe set your phone to read out texts and ask friends & family to text you at about the time you'll be getting towards the end of your run etc.
Thanks for the tips!
Hey Sarah! Well done training!! I’m a brand new runner with goals of running a marathon in my future, watching you is like looking into the future. Good luck!! I look forward to seeing you cross the finish line!
Awesome! Thank you! Good luck with the running!
I’m on the same journey as a new runner! Looking towards to Oslo Marathon 25/26 maybe 🥰
Love this series, Sarah! You are such a fun and inspiring person to watch. Cheering for you from the States!
Hi Sarah! So good to see your training going well….you are much faster than me and seem to be doing great!
I haven’t run a marathon in “real” life because of COVID ( just a couple of virtual ones)…I did run an ultra just before COVID….I’m training for the Paris marathon on October 17th…. I sympathise with the struggles to fit in training….I’ve also had a lot of problems with sciatica so that hasn’t been helping….working full time certainly doesn’t make it easy for sure..
For my long runs I listen to podcasts and music and I love trying to change my routes….including bits on trails ……I love the long runs the best !
Best of luck with the rest of your training ! Emma
Well done so far Sarah. I’m a little bit ahead of you on my training plan, (I went with the Garmin HR one) as I’m doing the London marathon (the virtual one) My long run is now 3 hours, in which I cover about 24km with a little bit of walking up hills. My main worry is that I’ll need to do almost another 2.5-3 hours to complete the 26.2 miles and I don’t feel prepared for that. Just hope that adrenaline and a promise of a week off after, will keep me going on the day. For my long runs I listen to music and pick a large circular route so that at the mid point I’m furthest away from home and have no choice but to keep going, part of my route is through Epping Forest, so quite pleasant.
Well done Karen! All the best for marathon day - just make sure you're fuelling well we're sure you'll smash it!
Your long runs during training are typically slower than your target marathon race pace, in which case you should be able to finish faster than simply projecting your training run time out to 42k. In my case, it's about a difference of 20-25 seconds/km
Good luck with the rest of your training 😊
Training for a marathon alone is not easy, but finding someone with similar goals is hard too and it can make scheduling a bit tricky. For motivation, I used to pat myself on the back of the shoulder every mile of a long run and for the marathons I ran. Now I train with my girlfriend on the bicycle motivating me with David Goggins catch phrases. Good luck!
I’ve recently picked up running after a 9 year break. These videos have been supper motivating, and I appreciate the words of encouragement that each member of The Running Chanel team gives as they present. Thanks guys!
Thanks for your video(s)! I’m a *complete* newbie runner. I’ve been running for 2 and a half months, in prep for a 10K charity run. My big goal is to run a marathon eventually. I’m certainly in it for the long haul! Your videos have helped me no end at the beginning of my crazy running journey, so thank you 😊
That is awesome! Thanks for sharing!
I'm so proud of everything you're doing, putting your training online. I'm also training for my first marathon and my god, it takes over your life. I find singing along to songs helps when I'm running and struggling. You're doing so well and I'm so impressed by the progress you've made since I saw you in your very first video. It encourages me to keep going as well.
Thanks for keeping training real! It's not always glamorous...
I trained for my first marathon back in 2017, after deciding to make it a bucket list event. I'd always been a runner, and had completed a bunch of HM in the years prior, but it certainly is a step up. Within a couple of months though, I was completely absorbed in the training, the fitness, the meal plans. Then, once I did my first, running completely took over my life, and now I've run eight, with many more on the horizon. Keep going Sarah, you will love the finished product once you hit that finish line.
You can do it! I only trained for 8 weeks for my first marathon, after starting running 2/3 months earlier. You won’t DNF in Amsterdam if you skip a session when you’re not up for it. Take it easy and enjoy it as much as you can.
Marathon training is hard. I've done 1 Marathon in my life with Marathon #2 coming up quick in NYC with a half marathon the following weekend in Washington DC. Cheers Sarah, great work.
Good stuff! Go Daniel!
Pain is only temporary, glory is forever !! Keep up the training Sarah 👍
After running 3 half marathon, I decided to run my first marathon in November 2021.
This series definitely gives me the motivation I need, since I am having the same issues. Try to smile while you are running, it helps much. Good Luck Sarah!
Thank you Erkan!
I'm loving these videos. It's brutally honest but so informative.
Good running! Training's really tough, particularly the hard sessions, which I find I get anxious about. But after the session, and at the end of the whole block it's really satisfying to look back. Keep going, you'll smash Amsterdam- and it's your first marathon, guaranteed PB.
Thanks for reassuring us that life does get in the way and that training is a mental battle that we’re not facing alone!!!
Training for your 1st marathon Sarah is daunting for everyone,my best advice is get the training in early morning so it doesn't dominate your whole day mentally..the reward when you cross that finish line is incredible (I'm 6 marathons in now after saying never again 😃),you're doing great keep it up... currently training for the NYC marathon but as the travel ban is still in place it looks like I'll be pivoting to Amsterdam 🏃...
Thanks for the top tip Alan!
Great to follow your marathon training, I am planning to do the same schedule as you. Looked realy hard the 2 times 5km 😤🥵 but you did IT 👊🏽💪🏼 I started training for my first marathon before Corona started, realy hope I can finaly run my first October in Rotterdam 🙏🏼 Good luck with your schedule, you CAN do it 👟👟
Thank you Esther!
You keep turning up and getting it done. That's the key. At some points it does sound like you'd rather be doing anything else but running lol but I'm sure a bit of positive self talk will see you through. Keep up the great work 👍🏻🏃♂️
Keep on keeping, rest and recovery is super important... when in doubt a runners best friend is improvising 😉 you're slaying it
Right there with you! Amsterdam will also be my first, after training for two others that got cancelled… third time a charm?? 🍀
Fingers crossed Selena! Good luck with your training 😊
This is possibly the most honest marathon training video I've ever seen. Training for a marathon is often miserable and that's not shown in most RUclips videos by professional athletes who just tell you what sessions to put in. You never see them in a miserable rut sitting on a park bench close to tears questioning why they're doing this to themselves (personal experience). The upside of it was that I managed to explore all the little paths on the edge of my city, found new forests I didn't know existed, new nature reserves and added variety for years to come giving me so many new favourite scenic runs.
I'm in the same position. Never done a marathon before and I'm doing London. No idea what marathon pace is so I'm winging it 🙂
I’m training for my first marathon and it’s encouraging to see I’m not the only one in pain with my legs and training with some runs that really suck and are more challenging than others. Thanks for keeping it real Sarah!
most people never run marathons,and they go on and have happy lives,lol,honestly if it becomes a chore then it's your life don't do it. i go out and somedays i.ll go farther and some days not as far ,just going out and running is whats great being outside in fresh air is whats important,i feel, i know people who run races and a couple do marathons, but whatever feels right to you ,will make you satisfied .Sarah,s videos are always fun to watch because she seems like you know her or someone like her ,i wish her the best in marathon training, in everyday life today and always, i.ll root for her!!!✌️🌻☘️✅
Thanks so much Harold!
Sarah, you are the one inspiring so many others!! I will never do a marathon (have do desire after doing 2 Halfs) but following your journey has given me such much motivation for up measly upcoming 5Ks and committing to the training and leaning into every aspect of them. I love your openness and enthusiasm. Can't wait to see you cross the finish in Amsterdam!
My tip for long runs: forget music, podcasts, running buddies and everything else - just run and enjoy!
Thank you for the tip Miika! 😊
That's what I do for all my running - just me and the road (and my watch)
Sarah is so relatable with her honesty about the struggle of real life and mind games.
Currently training for my 3rd half at the end of this month. I've increased my training significantly since the previous two so hopefully it'll pay off. Good luck in your marathon Sarah! 👍🏻
You're doing so well Sarah! 😊 Marathon training is such a head game.
My most recent marathon was in April. It wasn't my best effort, and things got pretty ugly at the end and I swore never again! But the little voice is already there...nagging at me to pick another marathon and get back to training.
Love these videos Sarah, you're doing so well! I'm training for my 3rd marathon and feeling exactly the same to be honest. Marathon training takes over your life! It will all be worth it on the big day. You've got this!
Beginner runner here - so good to see your honest feedback on starting a training plan for the first time properly… it’s so hard!
Always good to see both the ups and downs other people experience so you know you are not suffering alone. Keep going. You'll do amazing.
I love how real this series is, so many people will be having the same worries and seeing others doing the same helps. I’ve got 5 weeks until Manchester and did 20 solo miles yesterday, so tough mentally at times and I really struggled towards the end. We’ll get there though!
Keep up the great work! Smile knowing that there are thousands of Running Channel fans out here cheering you on. I have found that having a friend along on a mentally tough run makes it so much easier and help me break through that wall.
You're doing a great job of showing the highs and lows ofmarathon training, for me gruelling is the best description, Keep up the great work,,,,,You got this
I love Sarah's videos. She has such a great outlook. Glad to know I am not the only one struggling with training currently.
You can do it! I've never followed a training plan, just head out the door to run. Can only imagine what it would be like to have to do a specific workout and dreading it or not wanting to do it. Love that you are sharing your journey with us!
so much info on training for first marathon I really appreciate you running/training and teaching all at once. thank you for all you’ve thought me
You got this!!! Great job turning your mind around (chunking the run into pieces and rattling on mantras)! My favorite mantra, which I saw in Deena Kastor's book, is "how beautiful to be the creator of your own momentum." It makes me smile and feel like part of nature every time I think it.
It's great hearing about your training runs and things to consider while training. Love The Running Channel!
Thanks for watching Craig!
Excellent video Sarah, very honest about how you are feeling but don't fret there are thousands of us all at the same stage right now.
That Mizuno kit looks awesome.
I haven't yet done a marathon but Sarah's journey throughout these videos has gotten me excited and inspired to change that soon! 😁
I’m loving this series. It’s incredibly motivational and Sarah keeps it so authentic.
Thanks for the kind words CJ!
Sarah, we are with you! I’m running my marathon 10/31 and I’ve hit a wall skipped 2 days of training but put my big girl pants on and ran this morning felt so refreshed only walked once in my 5mi that’s huge for me!!! You guys rock keep running 🏃🏻♀️
Well done, Sarah. With family living not far from Amsterdam, am very envious of you heading over there in October. Took up running 5 years ago - at age 68!, and am up to entering 10k's now, but a Marathon is not yet on my target list! Am very impressed with your Marathon training regime. Keep up the good work. And very much looking forward to the Running Channel video of the actual event. Thanks, Richard
Beaver done a marathon. I’m watching this with an itch to do one. Please keep going, we’re all behind you.
I’m back into half marathon training after some injury time off. Your updates keep on making me think of going one further - thanks Sarah!
Great to hear Jay! Good luck with your half marathon training :-)
One trick I've often used is to visualise myself crossing the finish line, arms aloft celebrating! That helps make me feel that the current pain, slump, whatever I'm going through will be worth it in the end.
Ah this is a great tip, Lee! Thank you 😊
Well done Sarah! The training is tough. Focus on (trying!) to enjoy all the little victories and make sure you have plenty of small treats along the way.
You are such a real person Sarah .. it's so nice to be able to relate to you ... From Sunny SA ... I'm also a solo runner as I live in the middle of nowhere.. a country farm ... Thankyou for being such an inspiration to me
Thank you Sarah! All the best with your training. It was great to see the range of emotions that can be experienced on a run.
Yes! Thank you!
Love The Running Channel! Keep the awesome videos coming. You've got this Sarah!
Thanks so much!! 😊
It’s somehow encouraging seeing all the struggles of a fellow runner on their journey; using this as motivation for my session today. Thanks Sarah and all the best for your training block and marathon goal!
Love the look of those shoes. Motivation for long runs is tricky, but definitely going on trails is good and exploring new roads/ paths.
Really appreciate the honesty. I am doing my first marathon too in my late 50s so finding the variety of the plan tough but enjoyable on the whole.
Let’s do this - yes we can!!!
Thanks Grev! Good luck with your marathon training too :-)
I liked hearing how you break your run down into little 15 min chunks. I was putting off my run today until I watched your video. Great work. Keep going 🤗
Hi Sarah, I’m doing the Swiss City Marathon on the 31st October and I’m 9weeks into my training and yes it gets hard especially for us lone wolf runners lol, I have found that doing a timed run with other runners once a week or 2 really helps to see how much your fitness has come on and help motivate you! Keep up the good work🙌🏻
Thanks for the tips, Ken 😊
Thanks for the inspiration, i'm also training for my first marathon and seeing someone else finding it hard is helpful... i'm normal. Don't quit! Keep running and you'll get to that finish line!
Best of luck with the continued training Sarah! Very inspiring for us newer runners!
I'll start the Training for my first marathon after recovering from "small" surgery. Thanks for being an inspiration for me.
You are doing amazing Sarah! All of the training is not always easy, but when you see that you start improving, the feeling of that is incredible. Just keep putting in the work and you will get there. The race itself is completely different, all the people cheering you on and the atmosphere is just amazing. And when it gets tough, you can think back on when you had a tough training session and you got through it. Just enjoy the race and cherish the feeling when you cross the finish line. It is one of the best feelings ever! Keep it up!
Hi Sarah, you and your channel motivated me to start running again. I know it’s an older video but I still enjoy watching your road to your first marathon. 💪🏻
I love your video’s Sarah! Showing the ups and downs of training! That smile at the end when you were on the trail is a good reminder of why we all run!
Your effort is really inspiring, Sarah! 🙏🏻 I'm training for my first 10k in a few weeks and your videos are great help. Go for it!
You’re doing amazing Sarah! It’s super tough but so worth the rewards, you got this!
Well done Sarah! Good luck with your few more weeks of training!
Fair play to you Sarah, I remember the loneliness of marathon training. Podcasts were my friend and I played comedy shows because laughter can be a great lift when you need it during the long runs.
Love how you went through all the levels of emotions one feels during hard training. You ended the week on such a high note…well done🥰
Thanks Lisa :-)
Keep up the good work Sarah! The Amsterdam Marathon will also be my very first marathon and I recognise myself in many of the things you say: thinking about running all the time, trying to squeeze in session on busy days, tough training and feeling amazing and strong! See you at the finish line!
Thank you Yvette! Good luck with the rest of your training 😊
Also been training for my first marathon! Been following this mini series from the start! Go Sarah! Good luck! You got this 👍
Well done Sarah, great to see your progress 👏 👍. Catching up on videos
Loving theses videos new to running and currently training for a half marathon next year ultimate goal is to run a full marathon one day! Theses videos really help keep me motivated!!
You are such an inspiration Sarah, I haven't run a marathon yet but it's on the agenda. You go girl !!!!!
Thanks Anita :-)
Thank you, Sarah! Love watching your videos. I might -almost- be ready to commit to training for a longer race eek!
Loving your positivity Sarah! I'm currently in the taper for the Brighton Marathon on the 12th September after 18 weeks of training. I've got through the tough sessions by reminding myself that not every run is going to be a good one and the chances are that the next will be much better. Keep up the good work!
I've been injured for over a year and am about to start couch to 5k again to get me started then building to a half marathon in March and an Ultra in June (I know it's madness) but setting some challenging goals will hopefully help me. I love watching the running channel and Sarah your honesty about the impact this has on your daily life is brilliant - you keep going - you got this x
You are smashing it Sarah. So looking forward to seeing you cross the finish line.
You’re killing it! I find that the weeks leading up to the halfway point are always the worst and then it’s just a countdown from there :)
Thanks for the tip, Gina, hoping it will get easier soon 😊
I love watching your progress! I’m training for my first ever marathon too, and you make me feel like I’m not in this alone! You got this!!
Thank you! You too!
Hi Sarah. I just finished my first marathon 2 weeks ago so I know what you are going through. I found midweek runs the hardest, trying to fit in with work. Keep plugging away - you will doubts, but you will get there. I managed to do it with losing a whole due to illness in the middle of the training. Thanks for the videos - it's really great to part of your journey.
Thanks for sharing Dom, glad you are enjoying them!
Running trails with scenery and listening to audiobooks definitely help shorten the long runs for me!
This is so good to see someone who loves to run sometimes not loving it! The reality of training for a big race! Keep going Sarah you’re smashing it!
I absolutely love to follow your journey to your first marathon. The main thing about a training plan is to be ready to modify it throughout the journey. That's the first thing I learn with my coach. Whether it be running, cycling, swimming, or anything else, you've got to have an eraser and pen nearby to make some changes along the way!
You are doing an absolute kick ass job! Let's go Sarah!!!
Thank you Ariel 😊
You're doing great Sarah! Choosing scenic routes with soft surfaces for your long runs makes it easy for the mind and for your legs as well
I love your honesty about your training journey Sarah! Keep sharing cause it's inspiring me! Good luck!