, and arranged an emergency contact for you all to ring if the plan goes awry.Race-day kit list Vest or shirt with race number pinned to it Race-day shoes with ChampionChip properly taped to it; socks Shorts and/or tights to run in Optional light gloves, gilet

socks on at least one long run before a competitive race to allow you to get used to the feel of them.Seek advice from a specialist running store about the best ones to buy. Ensure your socks are supportive without being too tight. Good luck and enjoy

.RunRunning shoes Running/bike socksExtrasSunglassesHat (optional)Sunscreen (optional)Food (energy bars/energy gels to give you a boost if your reserves run low during the race)Water bottlesPostrace outfit: You may be modest and prefer not to strut around in your

in are comfortably worn in – the same goes for your vest, shorts and socks. Eat a familiar breakfast that you know you can run on, and if you’re not sure about how early to eat it, do your experimenting well before race day (most runners need two to three hours). Out

© Getty Images If 26.2 miles just isn't enough, an ultra could be the race for you. Races longer than a marathon, ultras range from 30 miles to hundreds of miles and take place in hundreds of beautiful locations from Sussex to the Sahara

(){window.open("/ultimatescheds-whysubscribe", "Friend", "width=400,height=525,scrollbars=no,toolbars=no,lmenubars=no,location=no");}find out more - or see our basic marathon schedules.The Schedules Which schedule should you choose? By each schedule, we list suggested10K and half-marathon race

Do you fly through transition with practised ease or are you a fumbler, juggling your gels as you struggle to find your second sock?One thing that's sure to help you slash seconds off your race time is a smooth and fast transition from swim to bike

.Kit listDon’t let missing kit ruin your race – here’s what you need to take with youRace number4 safety pins (plus spares)Race T-shirt or vestShorts and/or tightsSocksRace shoesWarm-up shoes if differentWarm-up long-sleeve, tights, jacket and thin gloves

registered at the Marathon Exhibition.) Include: Comfortable, roomy trainers Fresh socks A towel Warm trousers and top A jacket Post-race food (though you’ll get free sandwiches and snacks after the race)Emergency money. You may want to wear the comfy

Before The MarathonYou have no appetite at breakfast You need to take in 400-600 pre-race calories to replace what your body has burnt since you last ate. Because the marathon starts at 9.30am, some runners find they need to eat at 5.30am; others