This manual for beginners and improvers covers all aspects of the training required in the "run up" to the marathon. Both authors share the the running wisdom they have learned along the way, using their contrasting experience to offer a rounded manual. Liz McColgan is the experts expert whilst Cathy Shipton is truly "one of us" - a total beginner, starting from scratch and going on to complete her marathon. This comprehensive guide covers all areas of running and marathon preparation including: running shoes and sports clothing; diet - what to eat when you're training your body; how it works when you run avoiding injury; how to warm up and warm down; fitness - work out how fit you really to ensure you set the right training schedule for your ability; week by week training schedule; and be prepared! - how running will effect your life. Liz Mc Colgan is the most famous marathon runner in the UK and Cathy Shipton is television's much loved Nurse Duffy in "Casualty".