1. Set realistic goals
Lock in realistic goals that are current to your fitness level and time-frame to prepare.
2. 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.
3. Put your goals on the fridge
This is to remind yourself and everyone in your house of the end goal and what you want to achieve so you have a visual, it stays top of mind and acts as a countdown to the event.
4. Get a running kit
Make sure you have comfortable clothes and shoes that you like. When you look good, you feel good too.
5. Find someone to train with
This will help you stay motivated and will mean you are less likely to forgo your training.
Applying Pat Carroll’s 10 tips to your Gold Coast Marathon training will make you feel like this on race day
6. 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.
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
Get it out of the way so you can get on with the rest of your day. Afternoon or evening training tends not to happen after a long and busy day.
9. Lock in the same day for training
Have set days that you train; three to four times a week at the same time.
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.
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