Every good marathon-training plan should ‘taper’ during the final two or three weeks. That means you run less and rest more. For some people, the idea of backing off on their training just before the big race seems counter-intuitive. "So many

. Mentally review your race plan.Position yourself appropriately at the start according to your projected pace, and remind yourself to start gently! You'll be glad you did when later in the race you're able to pass all those runners who started too fast.

for you, review it every five miles or more often, keep on top of energy levels and enjoy the challenge.On the next page: Move on from negative marathon experiences, control race-day nerves and more.

always enjoy your post-race refreshments at a pavement café with your feet up and a literary classic on the table.Website www.pim.czSlovakiaOrganisers of the Kosice Peace Marathon reckon their race is the longest-standing marathon in the world – it’s been

 the fact that rest is a vital component in any schedule. Yes, there has to be some training in which you get used to running while tired, but do this too often and you could break down.4. Race other distancesRaces are more fun than training and you can

and infection after the race. You may also be feeling disorientated – or even depressed – in the come-down after achieving such a significant running goal.Unfortunately, there’s no formula for calculating how long your body will take to recover – this will vary

and infection after the race. You may also be feeling disorientated – or even depressed – in the come-down after achieving such a significant running goal.Unfortunately, there’s no formula for calculating how long your body will take to recover – this will vary

at the London Marathon (2:46, 2:43, 2:46, 2:43 [his quickest in last 20 years] and 2:47). Over the years, he estimates he's run about 2,000 races.Read the whole forum debateQ. Most marathon schedules are based on past performances but my opinion is that you

. Enter races, but run them as long runs or as part of your long run. As long as you run at training pace, it’ll teach you to run in a race environment, practice taking drinks and getting used to standing on a start line.Q. I try to do speed work, but I

legend Liz McColgan, who has set up a new elite training facility in her home town of Carnoustie, Scotland. "When you're tired, the first thing to go is your form – when I was gearing up for big races I'd almost focus more on this than my running