7 tips to run the classic Marathon of Athens

The Classic Marathon of Athens is approaching and as an athlete who was involved in mid distances and specialized in track and field, I decided to give some tips which can help potential athletes.

1. Before the marathon reduce the amount of fat and proteins in your diet several days in advance, so that the carbohydrates consist the major part of your diet.
2. Remember to restore the glycogen and liquid supplies during practice and races. Be careful in order to avoid dehydration during a race.
3. The runners who consume painkillers, as aspirin before the race are more likely to quit due to disorders in gastrointestinal tract. To avoid feeling terribly, face the cramps and the last minute pains with meditational yoga by a physiotherapist.
4. Keep a pace when you run.
5. Wear comfortable shoes which you have already tried in previous races.
6. Wear comfortable clothes.
7. The day of the race start your day with a breakfast rich in carbohydrates.

Good luck!

Fotini Bitrou

*Fotini Bitrou is a fitness specialist (graduated from Athens university) and owner of the Koyros Gym in Aigina which has been working since 1997. She founded in 2004 the track and field team of Aigina (Ο.Α. ΚΟURΟΣ AIGINA), in which she had been a president for 5 years. She was involved for 12 consecutive years in track and field (800m-1.500 m.) and was a champion of the Greek National Team.