Marathon training is a rollercoaster of early mornings, long miles, and a serious love-hate relationship with your running shoes. But what’s it really like to prep for 42.2 kilometers of pavement-pounding? We caught up with digital creator and Polar Ambassador Nathalie Lennon as she gears up for her first-ever marathon (no pressure!). From her go-to pre-run breakfast to her toughest workouts, she spills all in this rapid-fire Q&A. Spoiler alert: she has strong feelings about upper body workouts.
What’s your next marathon?
My next marathon, will be my first ever! This will be the Westport Marathon which takes place in the West of Ireland, County Mayo, along ‘the Wild Atlantic way. This is one of the most scenic routes in Ireland & a slightly queiter marathon compared to that of our capital in Dublin.
How many days a week do you run?
Ideally 4, some weeks 3.
Describe marathon training in three words.
Resilience, Discipline & Consistency!
What is your favorite workout?
I love full body strength workouts in the gym which combine supersets & tri-sets. It keeps things interesting! But depending on the mood, I also love interval sprints.
And your least favorite/toughest workout?
Upper body workouts, I just get bored so easily!
Group runs or solo runs?
Solo if there’s a goal involved!
Your favorite person to run with
My partner Max, when I can keep up with him.
Your proudest moment in running?
Getting a half marathon personal best in December, 1 hour 43. I was told years ago after a hip injury that I might never run longer than 5kms again, and to prove that wrong AND get a PB was a really proud moment.
What’s your pre-long run breakfast?
A bagel with peanut butter, banana & honey.
Have you planned your post-marathon meal?
I do love a good Hawaiian Pizza!
Your favorite place to run?
In the forestry’s near home, in Wicklow, Ireland.
Do you have any pump-up songs? Which ones?
I have such a varied taste in music! Either Sunshine (My Girl) the Wuki mix, Sippin’ Yak by Cloonee or Dog Days Are Over, Florence & the Machine.
How many running shoes do you own now?
Oh my goodness… Maybe 20?!
Nathatlie's Favorite Gear
Polar Vantage M3
Smart Multi-Sport Watch
Polar Vantage M3 is a smart multi-sport watch for multi-sport athletes that’s compact yet powerful, stylish yet strong, and designed to bring extraordinary training, sleep and recovery tools into everyday life.
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