If you’re taking on a virtual marathon, there are a few things to consider...

We recommend that you start planning your day as soon as possible, so we’ve put together 10 top tips to help you on your 26.2-mile journey.

Whether you’re a marathon veteran or a 26.2-mile first-timer, please check out the advice below to ensure you’re well prepared for Marathon Day.

1. Plan your route

Make sure your route is safe and at least 26.2 miles in length! There are a several things to consider to ensure you have the best possible experience on the big day.

You could ask someone to drop you 26.2 miles from home and then make your way back. Or you might prefer to take on a loop course so you can ask family and friends to organise drinks stations and cheer points to keep you going.

You should also consider the terrain you’ll take on – do you like to run on the streets, your local park, or will you take on some trails? If you really want to push yourself, you could throw in some challenging hills too!

2. Choose your time

You have a 24-hour window to complete your 26.2-mile challenge – from 00:00 to 23:59:59 BST. If you’re outside the UK on the day, please use the world clock to make sure you’re taking on your marathon during the correct time window.

3. Plan your kit

Make sure you have a kit option ready for every eventuality, wherever you are in the world, but especially if you’re in the UK! And don’t forget to try out all your kit in training beforehand.

4. Run, jog or walk

Have you decided yet whether you will run, jog or walk your 26.2 miles? Remember you can do a combination of all three! You can also take breaks any time you like – as long you complete your 26.2 miles within the time limit.

5. Invite your supporters

Ask your family and friends to support you as you take on your 26.2-mile challenge. You may know people who can run, jog or walk some of your route with you. Others may like to cheer you on or provide refreshments. You could even line up 26 friends to each run a mile with you on the day!

6. Invite a running buddy

You may like to go one further than inviting supporters – a family member or friend could enter the virtual marathon and earn their own medal with you too!  

7. Get your nutrition strategy right

Start thinking now about your fuelling strategies and any kit that you’ll carry with you, such as a water bottle or bottle belt.

8. Nominate an emergency contact

Ask a friend or family member to be your emergency contact during the event. Write their details on the back of your bib number (once you’ve received it) and let them know the route you plan to take and your rough pacing plan.

9. Get your devices ready

We recommend tracking your 26.2-mile challenge on two separate devices. It’s also advisable to have a spare battery pack, just in case. Make sure you investigate the best options for you as soon as possible.

10. Download the Official App

The Official TCS London Marathon App will be available to download from the App Store and Google Play in the run-up to the event. Make sure that you test it ahead of Marathon Day, so that you’re ready to use it to track your 26.2-mile challenge.

Finally – whatever you do, make sure you enjoy it!