So you've conquered the half marathon, you can do a 5K in your sleep and have 10Ks for breakfast; now it's time for your next big challenge, the full marathon. It has been estimated that only 1% of people in the UK have actually completed a marathon, it's no mean feat.

we have created this guide to help you prepare for your first marathon!

A full marathon is 26.2 miles which is the equivalent to 42.2 kilometers. This may seem like a strange number, but it originated in 1908 as that is the exact distance between Windsor Castle and the Royal Box in White City Stadium and that is the route the Royal Family wanted the Olympic Marathon to follow.

When it comes to training for a marathon, there are a few different ways that you can train and get yourself prepared. You can choose from running plans that span between 16 - 20 weeks. You want to make sure that you are giving yourself and your body enough time to prepare, so that you can build up your mileage without running the risk of injuring yourself. Most marathon training plans will have you going on runs between three to five times a week and you can supplement your running with another form of low intensity training such yoga, pilates or swimming. And don't forget about the most important days, your rest days. You will be scheduled some complete rest days which will help your body successfully recover from all the work you have been putting in.

For your very first marathon, you shouldn't worry about your finish time is, just that you're able to cross the finish line.You will find plenty of plans out there that all focus on a 'sub ...' time training plan, but try to focus on those beginner plans.

Websites like Runner's World, Nike and Cancer Research UK all have different versions of training plans. It's worth taking a look at different plans to see what fits your lifestyle.

As well as the actual running and working out part of the training, to really get the most out of your body you need to make sure you're also fuelling yourself correctly. Lots of water, whole foods and protein. Carbs are a great source of energy and can be ideal before a run, but just be aware you don't eat too much or eat something too heavy and end up feeling sick.

This is difficult as a marathon is so much longer than a 5K, 10K or half. There are more things that could go wrong due to the distance you would be running. If you do want a time to aim for, look at the pace of your previous runs and you can use that as a guide of the pace you want throughout the big race, but remember a marathon is a long distance to don't be too hard on yourself if your pace drops, you need to walk at some points or you need a break at others.

The main goal for your first marathon is to complete it in one piece and to be proud of yourself!

Running a marathon is one of the most exclusive clubs you can be a part of. It is a huge achievement that has taken time, dedication and commitment. It may feel out of reach at times, but remember - as long as you're training well, resting up and fueling your body there is no reason you shouldn't be able to run a marathon once you put your mind to it.

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