Runners on a seaside promenade at sunrise during a road race

Marathon running, from first steps to the finish line

Training plans, practical tips and Liverpool's long marathon history, for runners who want to finish strong and enjoy the day.

Start with the basicsRead the blog

RunLiverpoolMarathon.co.uk is an independent running blog for anyone who dreams of running a marathon, or who has already signed up and is wondering what comes next. You will find practical, down-to-earth advice on training plans, long runs, nutrition and hydration, running shoes and the mental side of running 26.2 miles.

We also look back at the long history of marathon running in Liverpool. The city's first marathon was held in 1927 and finished at Anfield, and since then Liverpool has hosted races under different names and organisers, drawing runners from all over the world to its streets and waterfront.

Not sure where to begin? Start with our overview of marathon running, find out whether you can run a marathon without training, or browse the blog for the latest posts. This site is not a race organiser and does not sell entries; for race details, always check the official organiser's website.

Where to start

Group of women running together on a seafront path at sunset

Marathon running

What a marathon involves, where the distance comes from and the building blocks of training.

Blurred field of marathon runners in motion on a sunny road

Marathon running tips

Half marathon advice, race types, pacing and race-week habits for first-timers.

Runners' legs and trainers on a city road during a marathon

Liverpool marathon

From Sam Ferris and the 1927 race to Anfield to the modern city marathon and charity running.

Latest from the blog

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Running in Liverpool

You don't need a race to enjoy running in Liverpool. The Otterspool Promenade along the Mersey is flat and scenic, Sefton Park and Newsham Park are great for loops, and the Trans Pennine Trail heads out of the city for longer runs. Visiting for a race weekend? Our guide to Liverpool sightseeing has ideas for the days around it.

Legs of several runners crossing a zebra crossing in step

Train smart, stay healthy

Most running injuries come from doing too much, too soon. Build up gradually, take rest days seriously and test your shoes, kit and fuel on long runs before race day. Our articles give general advice only: if you have a health condition or an injury, talk to your GP or a physiotherapist before you start training.

Runner stretching his legs on a stadium track before training