26.2 miles is a walk, too. Most people can build up to it with a few weeks of steady walking, and time on your feet matters far more than speed.
At a glance
- Do it in one day, or spread it over a month.
- Build your longest walk by 1 to 2 miles a week.
- Wear shoes you have already walked in.
- There is no cut-off time on a Running Mad challenge.
Two ways to do it
- In one day: a long, planned walk with breaks. At an easy 3 miles an hour that is roughly 8 to 9 hours of walking, so plan a route with toilets, water and places to stop.
- Over a month: about 6.5 miles a week, which is less than a mile a day. Log each walk and watch the total add up.
Building up for one day
- Start from the longest walk you can do comfortably now.
- Add 1 to 2 miles to your longest walk each week, with shorter, easy walks in between.
- Do your longest walk (around 16 to 20 miles) two to three weeks before the big day.
- Ease off in the final week so your legs feel fresh.
Look after your feet
- Wear trainers or walking shoes you have already done long walks in.
- Use moisture-wicking socks and treat hot spots straight away, before they become blisters.
- Trim toenails a few days before, not the night before.
Food and water
On walks over a couple of hours, eat a little every hour and drink to thirst. Something easy such as a banana, a sandwich or a cereal bar works well.
This is general guidance, not medical advice. If you have a health condition, are new to exercise or are pregnant, check with your GP before you start.
Your medal
Pick a full marathon challenge, choose walking as your activity, and log your miles as you go.
