Marathon Group Training Runs FAQs
FAQs:
I’ve signed up for the RunBrighton Marathon Group Runs, what happens next ?
On signing up, you will receive a confirmation email. Within this email will be your registration card as below, please cut this out, laminate it and bring with you to the runs so that we can scan you in on arrival, and we will have your details registered. Keep the card on you and at the end of the run we will need to scan you out.
This card will also entitle you to a permanent 20% discount on full price trainers and clothing at SweatShop on 16 / 17 Queens Road, Brighton BN1 3WA, just present it in-store.
You will also be sent a yellow RunBrighton Y Fumble armband, please wear this so that we can identify you as part of the group from other runners.
Each week you will receive an email directing with a link to the Runs Page on the RunBrighton website. In order to access this page you will be asked for:
Your Email (as you entered it on sign up)
Your Post Code
This will then give you access to the ‘Runs’ page and the weekly route.
What level do you cater for ?
We aim to cater for all levels, but you need to realistically be able to run comfortably, whatever your pace is, for 30 – 40 minutes.
What time do the runs start?
Promptly at 9am every Sunday. We suggest you arrive at 8.45 am, to allow time to be scanned it, any excess kit to be stored in the Saucony van, and meet everyone beforehand and gauge which pace group you wish to run with. There will be a warm up too.
Tell me about the routes?
The routes are repeated for 2 weeks, unless otherwise informed. Therefore there will be 2 separate routes each month. We will vary the terrain, so a variety between on and off road. We will incorporate parts of the Brighton Marathon route to familiarize yourself with it along with plenty of off road routes, variety is the spice.
What if I miss a run?
We repeat the route and the mileage each week to allow for anyone who has missed a run, not to miss out. Therefore just count the missed week as your drop down week. The mileage is increased by 2 miles every 2 weeks to accommodate everyone.
However please do listen to your body, all training plans allow for a drop down week each month so if you are feeling tired give yourself a break and run less or at a slower pace, or just rest.
Do I just need to do the Sunday runs?
No ! Not if you want to get comfortably round the route running. The essence of marathon training is routine i.e. regular running, hard work and rest ! You need to be training 3 / 4 times a week.
Which pace group do I join?
We will try to accommodate a variety of pace groups, led by our Ambassadors. There will be some flexibility, depending on numbers and what everyone’s requirements are. It may take some weeks before you really find the pace you are comfortable with, but better to be realistic and start at a lower pace, run consistently over the mileage than start off to fast and burn out. These runs are all about building your endurance and stabilizing a steady pace for you. If you feel you are running too quick, just pull back to the next group and visa versa.
Can I park nearby?
We aim to base the runs by car friendly spots, so that you will be able to park your car ie: Hove Park, SussexSport Centre in Falmer, the seafront, Adur Outdoor Activity Centre in Shoreham. We can see if there are any runners who live nearby to each other to encourage car sharing, save the planet and all.
I don’t drive?
All bases will also be accessible by buses or trains.
What if I am can I do with my belonging whilst I am running?
You will be able to store your excess kit / bags with our support vehicle which will manned at the start of the route.
What should I wear?
Before you start out on your marathon training, please do go to a specialist running shop and have your running gain analysis done, so you start off in the right trainers for you and this will prevent injuries in the long run, pardon the pun. You wouldn’t enter the Grand Prix without getting your tyres checked out would you? Ladies it is also worth investing in a sportive sports bra, leave the fancy ones for later.
Head to SweatShop on 16/17 Queens Road, Brighton, Brighton BN1 3WA and the offer the gait analysis service, just show your membership card for your 20% discount.
As we move forward into the English winter, best to wear a thin technical top as a base and then layer on top, these can be tied around your waist as you will soon heat up. We suggest you bring extra clothing to layer on after your run for warmth as your body temperature will soon cool down once you stop, extra clothing can always be stored in the support van.
I forgot my membership card?
We will have a full list of registered members each week, so we will be able to make a note of your attendance.
Will I need to bring water?
500 ml water bottles will be provided at end of the route. It is advisable to be responsible for your own hydration so that you get to know your requirements prior to Marathon day, a drinks belt is a good idea.
What about fuel drinks?
You will be able to try out our recognised sports drink Powerade, which will be available at various drinks stations throughout the Brighton Marathon, so you will be familiar with it before race day.
Should I bring some food?
Our nutritional bar sponsor Clif Bar will be providing post run fuel bars and on the longer runs you can try out the Clif Shot Blok gel cubes which will be available on race day too. Just make sure you have an adequate breakfast and allow enough time for it to digest.
What if I want to pull out early?
As the distances increase, we will loop the routes so there will be an option for you to drop out early if you wish. An Ambassador will always be on hand, and can call to the standby vehicle to alert them that you are heading back.
What if I want to increase the distance?
By all means you can just keep on running the extra distance you wish, just makes sure that you have told an Ambassador so that they are aware not to wait to scan you in at the end.