10 training tips from four-time winner Pat Carroll

Words: Pat Carroll

1. Make it an enjoyable experience

Lock in a realistic goal that takes into consideration your current fitness level and time-frame to prepare. Sure you will be tested at times during your campaign however ideally the majority of the time it should feel like a natural journey with a realistic goal.

2. Set a realistic training program

Make sure this is suitable for you, your fitness level and age. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach.

3. Get buy in from your partner, friends and family

Make sure your loved ones are aware of your goals and training regimen. This will help with the support factor and accountability.

4. Purchase a Polar watch

This will allow you to run at a manageable pace in training as well as aid with measuring a course that you can use as a Time Trial.

5. Look Good Feel Good

Make sure you have comfortable clothes and shoes that you like. When you look good, you feel good too.

Applying Pat Carroll's 10 tips to your Gold Coast Marathon training will make you feel like this on race day

6. Find someone to train with

Ideally you will train with people of a similar ability. A running group is a great option – success breeds success.

7. Run somewhere enjoyable

Train in an area that you like, even if it means jumping in the car and driving for 20 minutes to get there.

8. Run in the morning

Enjoy banking your k’s first thing and move on with the rest of your day. Afternoon or evening training lends to the possibility that your run may not happen following a long and busy day.

9. Lock in the same day for training

The majority of us are creatures of habit who thrive on having a set routine. Have set days that you train; three to four times a week at the same time. Consistency is the key.

10. Be prepared for wet or cold weather

Have a plan so you stick to your training. Get wet-weather clothes or gear for when it’s cold so you can still train.

About Pat Carroll

Pat is a four-time winner of the Gold Coast Marathon (1983, 1984, 1988 & 1997) and an event ambassador. He is the Australian half marathon all-comers record holder (1:01:11) and three-time Commonwealth Games Australian marathon representative. The retired athlete resides in Brisbane where he operates his business Pat Carroll Online and Onland. Pat offers people of all ages and abilities specialised training programs across all distances.

patcarroll.com.au