I never thought I’d be the kind of mum training for a marathon. Between school runs, packed lunches and trying (and failing) to drink a hot cup of tea, fitting in training has been a juggle. But with race day fast approaching, I’ve realised something important—it’s not just about getting the miles in, it’s about staying injury-free.
And that’s easier said than done. Research shows 42% of Brits have suffered exercise-related injuries, and I completely understand why. Since I started training, I’ve had tight calves, the odd knee twinge and one slightly worrying ankle wobble. When your body’s already busy being “mum” all day, marathon training really pushes it to the limit.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that rest days are just as important as run days. I used to feel guilty taking time off, but now I see it as essential. On recovery days, I’ve been using Deep Heat Heat Rub to ease tight muscles, especially in my legs after longer runs. It’s become part of my evening routine—quick application, then feet up (if I’m lucky!).
I’ve also started incorporating strength training, even if it’s just 10 minutes while the kids are occupied. It’s helped with stability and taken some pressure off my knees. And before I head out, I’ve been using Deep Heat Muscle Massage Roll-on to warm up my muscles—it’s quick, mess-free and easy to use when you’re rushing out the door.
Warm-ups and cool-downs have become non-negotiable too. I used to skip them, but now I take a few minutes to do dynamic stretches before a run. Afterwards, if anything feels sore or inflamed, I reach for Deep Freeze Cold Spray. It gives instant cooling relief—especially on those days when my legs feel like they’ve done more than they signed up for.
One thing I’ve really had to learn (the hard way) is not to ignore small aches. As mums, we’re so used to pushing through, but running on an injury just makes things worse. Now, if something feels off, I deal with it early—whether that’s rest, stretching or using something like Deep Freeze Glide-on Gel to soothe the area.
Pharmacist, Noel Wicks, and advisor to Breathe Right nasal strips – drug-free, flexible, adhesive bands designed to help people breathe better – says: “Breathing is a huge, often overlooked part of running performance. Yet, it’s such a critical part of how well you run. If your airflow is restricted or inefficient, your body works much harder to deliver oxygen to the muscles, which can impact stamina and how quickly you recover.”
Breathing itself requires energy, so the easier you make breathing, the better. When breathing becomes harder, your body has to divert energy away from the muscles in your legs and towards the muscles used for breathing. This can lead to fatigue and, if you’re drained, then your running form can be compromised, which can also result in injury.
Sleep and recovery are still tricky—because, well, kids—but I’ve noticed a huge difference when I do manage a good night’s rest. My body feels stronger, my runs feel easier, and I’m less likely to pick up niggles.
As race day gets closer, I’m also learning to slow things down. The taper period felt strange at first—surely I should be running more?—but it’s about letting your body recover so you feel your best on the day.
I’ve also been focusing on the little things. Breathing better, running smarter, and even making sure I’ve got the right kit. Small changes really do add up.
Training for a marathon as a mum is all about balance. Some days I feel unstoppable; other days, I’m squeezing in a short run between everything else life throws at me. But every step counts.
And if I can make it to that start line feeling strong, healthy and (hopefully) injury-free—with a little help from Deep Heat and Deep Freeze along the way—that already feels like a huge achievement.
