5 ways to get your feet marathon-ready

Big race on the horizon? Here’s 5 ways to get your feet marathon-ready

If you have signed up to run a marathon this year, your training will have surely begun (If not then you had better hop to it), and your feet will be feeling the effects of training to complete 26.2 miles.

Blisters, black toenails and arch problems are just a few issues runners experience that are, well, a pain in the foot. The first rule of marathon training is don’t do too much too soon. But the second is to take care of your tootsies, so we have come up with 5 ways to get your feet marathon-ready.

Buy the right running shoes

You will be spending a lot of time in your running shoes over the next few months, so it is very important to make sure you have a pair that you love and that love your feet.

We all have different foot shapes; you may have flat feet or high arches and it is important to find a shoe that has been designed for your foot shape to prevent any injuries.

Running socks

Though it is tempting to throw on an old pair of socks and run out of the door, a pair of running socks could be on one of the best investments for your running journey.

One hundred per cent cotton socks absorb moisture and can cause blisters, so buy proper running socks that wick away moisture to prevent blisters from becoming a nagging pain.

The Sweaty Betty Blister run socks are a good all-round choice, they have a blister-resistant double layer, are breathable and have anti-slip grippers to stop your feet from moving around in your shoe too much.

£12, sweatybetty.com

Blister treatment

Blisters are a runner’s nemesis. Those unassuming bubbles of clear fluid can be enough to stop you in your tracks and halt your marathon training.

They are caused by friction, excessive moisture and shoes that are too small but even if you have the perfect shoes and socks, those pesky little blighters can still appear. Try not to burst the blister, as it is a natural barrier against infection. Popping or piercing it could create a much bigger problem.

Compeed Blister Plasters Extreme have extra cushioning to protect against rubbing, provide instant relief and stay in place for several days.

£6.49 for 5 plasters, boots.com

Pedicure

Runner’s feet need extra care, but it doesn’t take much to look after them and give them some relief, and a simple at home pedicure is all you need. So try this:

1 Get a bowl of warm water and fill it with a foot soak.

2 Buff your feet before putting them in the water.

3 Put your feet in and chill out for a few minutes.

4 Use a foot scrub and rinse off before wrapping your feet in a fluffy towel.

5 Cut your nails with nail clippers and file them down to keep them from cutting through your running socks.

6 Use a moisture-rich foot butter and admire your polished feet.

Foot massage

Massaging your feet is a quick and easy way to relieve any pain after a run. Wooden foot massagers are cheap and offer quick, soothing comfort for throbbing, tired feet.