Haringey
Running and kebabs: how to prepare for your first ever marathon
Latoya shares all on her training and how GoodGym is helping
March 19, 2024
Featuring
This April, GoodGymer Latoya Stephens will be doing the London Marathon, taking on 26 miles for the first time. Latoya talks us through her decision to enter, the role GoodGym has played and how training has been going so far.
How long have you been coming to GoodGym and what keeps you coming back?
I joined GoodGym in 2018 and became fully active in 2019. I’ve always attended GoodGym Haringey as that’s my closest one. I find it motivating to do things for others and it is such a supportive community. I’d definitely not be so motivated if it wasn’t for my GoodGym buddies spurring me on - they make running much more fun.
Why did you decide you wanted to do the London Marathon?
The opportunity came up through Black Girls Do Run, an amazing group who inspire, encourage and motivate black women to run. I was on the waiting list and then managed to get a space. I need a target and something to work towards otherwise I find it hard to get motivated. Knowing I’d have at least 13 weeks training I can’t give excuses!
How has training been going?
I got the place in December and started my training but working in retail it was really busy over Christmas which was tough. After the busy period I had to get going and training is my main focus now - I have sometimes been training on a treadmill as I don’t like the cold and rain. I recently did the BabaBoom kebab chase with GoodGymers to do some outside running.
That sounds interesting - what is it?
The BabaBoom kebab chase happens one Sunday a month where you run from one of their stores to another covering 10 miles in total, and you get a kebab afterwards! I heard about it from Southwark area activator Sam.
What influence has GoodGym played in your decision?
Just being a part of the running community and the encouragement you receive, it is a really supportive group. Haringey area activator Euclides and everyone are always motivating me. Euclides was particularly supportive of me before the Big Half when I was panicking at the start line, and helped me to start!
GoodGym is an all ability group and will help you - whether you want to walk or run.
How have you been using GoodGym group sessions as part of your training?
GoodGym helps get me out of the house and exercising on the road. I recently went to a starter session on a Sunday and was backmarking with a new GoodGymer who was new to running, just being out was really good!
What tips or advice would you give to anyone considering signing up for a marathon?
Well, training for a marathon is like having a new born baby. I’m tired all the time and fitting it around your work and social life is challenging. So firstly, you need to make sure you have the time to commit to the training.
Latoya’s other top tips are:
Planning - you really need to plan your time to fit in the training. I’m using my calendar more than ever before!
Treadmills - are a good option for winter training, it is better than missing runs due to the cold.
Fuelling - find what fuelling works and experiment as early as possible. I’ve found that salt tablets don’t work for me but science in sport gels do.
Other types of training - gym training is really important, especially hips for me.
Be prepared - go to the toilet before your training sessions, runners trot is real!
Lastly, making myself and my health a priority. I’m seeing a difference in my body, I can stretch better and it has made my health better. Having a target means I will keep looking after myself.
On behalf of the GoodGym community we wish Latoya all the best with the training and will be rooting for you all the way. Go Latoya! To donate please click here.