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Top Tips for Marathon Training
Whether you’re taking part in a marathon later this year or hoping to secure a ballot to race in 2027, there’s no denying that training is a massive part of preparing for a marathon. Combining cardio with strength training develops endurance, power, mobility and stability, creating a well-rounded training programme that supports both marathon performance and overall health.
So, in order to help with your preparation, we’ve picked the top three best strength exercises for runners to incorporate into your training regime for maximum results.
Glute Bridges
Often neglected in traditional marathon training routines, glute exercises for runners are essential for strengthening the glutes and hip stabilisers. These muscles help to stabilise the pelvis, control knee alignment, and generate power with every stride, helping runners maintain good form and maintain endurance over long distances.
Strengthening your glutes ahead of race day can also reduce the risk of injuries such as runner’s knee and lower back strain.
We recommend that all runners incorporate a variation of glute bridges, such as single-leg, weighted and resistance band glute bridges, in their marathon training plans to further increase strength and aid muscle activation.
Squats
Squats are essential exercises for strengthening glutes, hamstrings and quads, giving runners the power and stability needed to maintain an efficient stride over long distances. By increasing strength in these key muscles, runners can reduce the impact on their knees and joints, improve running efficiency, and better withstand the physical demands of marathon training.
Incorporating squat variations, such as Bulgarian split squats, goblet squats and jump squats in your marathon training plan can further increase muscle strength, improve stability and enhance endurance.
Planks
Targeting your core strength through planks is a great way to improve posture, stability and endurance when running.
Of course, you also can’t forget about your rest days! Recovery allows your body to repair muscle tissue, replenish energy stores and adapt to your training load. Aim for at least one or two rest or active recovery days each week.
Successful marathon training combines endurance running with effective strength training for runners. Adding exercises like glute bridges, squats and planks to your routine can help you run stronger, improve endurance and stay one step ahead of common running injuries. Pair that with proper recovery, stick to your training plan and you'll give yourself the best chance of feeling strong, confident and ready to smash race day!