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A woman running the London Marathon for the RNLI smiles at the camera with her arms in the air. There are other people running alongside her and in the background.

London Marathon training and fundraising resources

From advice for getting the most out of your running training to guidance for setting up and boosting your fundraising, here you’ll find everything you need for your London Marathon journey with the RNLI. Make sure you keep coming back to this page over the next few months for the latest tips and updates!

Fundraising Guide

The fundraising guide is packed with useful information, from quick and easy ideas for raising money to guidance for creating your online fundraising page. Read through the guide online via the link below, or download a PDF version of the guide directly to your device.
A woman running the marathon for the RNLI smiles at the camera with her hands in the air. There are other runners in the background.

Everything you need for your marathon journey

At the bottom of this page, you’ll find more resources to help you plan and prepare for your marathon. Learn what kit you need and how to structure your running schedule with our training guides, spread the word about your fundraising with posters and social media post templates, and download sponsorship forms so that you can rally support from your crew.

A man smiling as he runs the London Marathon for the RNLI. He is wearing a bright orange RNLI running vest and carrying a water bottle. There are other runners in the background.

RNLI Runners Facebook group

Chatting to other people who are running for the RNLI is a great way to stay motivated – and even make new friends.

Whether you’re looking for some training advice or have your own tip or story to share, join the RNLI Runners Facebook group. 

 

Marathon training videos

Discover a series of videos to help you get ready for your marathon, which cover how to form a training plan, finding the right kit, your final marathon checklist, and more.

A big thank you to Stuart and Steve for giving up their time to share their training tips and advice. We’d also like to thank Running Free for helping to create these films.

In our first video, Steve Rookes, who has run several London Marathons for the RNLI, and Stuart Offer, a sports therapist, will get you started with your training. 

Whether you’re an absolute beginner or an experienced runner, you need to make sure you are preparing properly for the big event. In this video, we talk about forming a training plan, choosing the right running equipment, and give you a few tips and tricks to improve your preparations. 

The race is on 21 April 2024, so aim for 6 miles or 60 minutes running by Christmas. When training morning or evening, pick well-lit routes. Wearing bright and colourful training clothing is important all year round and focus on layering. 

In this video, we discuss how to step up your training. How do you build up core strength? How do you get the right nutrition for your run? And what kit should you be using?

In the third video of the series, we talk about how to stay safe when out running and keeping well during your training. There’s advice on cold weather running, tips on the best gear to wear in the colder months, more nutritional advice to get your teeth into, and advice on minimising injury to yourself.

Meet the Experts event – hosted by London Marathon events.

In the fourth video of the series, we talk about how to get organised for your marathon run. Have you planned how to get to and from your race? Taking part in any 10ks or half marathons in prep if you can? And what about nutrition on the day? This video will talk you through all you need to know to get organised for your race.

If you’re taking on the virtual race, be sure to plan your route and if you can run parts of it ahead of the day. Get your friends and family involved to help you during your run and at the end! 

London Marathon Expo – hosted by London Marathon Events. 

In the fifth video of the series, we look at some of the final things to consider before the big race. With your marathon fast approaching, we discuss training plans, how to cope with the highs and lows of the race, and how you can speak with other runners to share your worries before the big race. 

Remember the 6-week rule! 

Taking on the virtual? Try to break up your route and be sure to plan your start time, what you need to bring with you or have ready at the finish, and where your supporters will be.

In the sixth and final video of the series, we give you some tips on how to make the most of the big run. We have tips on mentality, what to do if you fall ill or injured, and how to really embrace the marathon atmosphere. Relax ahead of the race and take some time to reflect on your achievements!

The London Marathon Expo is on Wednesday 17 to Saturday 20 April 2024 - hosted by London Marathon Events.

Got any questions?

Get in touch with the RNLI Marathon Events Team at [email protected]
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