A podiatrist’s tips for marathon training

A podiatrist’s tips for marathon training

A podiatrist’s tips for marathon training and long-distance running

Lots of the team at Active Life Podiatry are keen runners, with many of them taking part in marathons and distance running.

With so much conflicting information available, we’ve asked the podiatrist’s to share their top tips on the best ways to safely train for marathon and long-distance running.

Make sure you focus on strength training

People under estimate this, but keeping your core strong can protect your body from injury. Aside from running, we’d recommend you incorporate some forms of strength training into your weekly exercise regime. This can include weight training or more gentle types of core focused training like Pilates and yoga will help too.

Don’t run every day

Four to five runs a week is enough and rest days are important. Running everyday doesn’t give your body a chance to recover and you increase the risk of injury.

Do gradually increase your training

Sudden increases in running distances and speed are one of the main causes of injury. Try to include two longer runs in your weekly running schedule and the shorter ones will set your pace for the longer ones.

Don’t use moisturiser to soften your feet

This might seem like a strange point, but this can lead to more blistering of your feet. Not only will this be painful and uncomfortable, but it will likely pause your training and progress which can be frustrating.

See your podiatrist

It’s important to understand your unique running style and get tailored tips with gait analysis. It’s often not something people think about, but understanding your personal styles and works can not only help you perform better, but can also help you avoid injuring yourself.

Active Life have invested in high-tech specialist equipment and combined with their expert knowledge and technology can provide useful advice on your personal running style and how to improve.

Active Life have invested in high-tech specialist equipment and combined with their expert knowledge and technology can provide useful advice on your personal running style and how to improve.

#TakeSteps to look after your feet

Active Life have invested in high-tech specialist equipment and combined with their expert knowledge and technology can provide useful advice on your personal running style and how to improve.

Introducing John Durkin

Introducing John Durkin

Meet Active Life Podiatry’s Founder and Principal Podiatrist

Clinic owner John Durkin founded the podiatry practice in Lillie Road, Fulham, in 1991 before moving the practice to its current location in Parsons Green in 2020.

John is a biomechanics specialist, treating sportsmen and women and helping them to perform better with bespoke orthoses. He has previously worked on international rugby players from teams including Harlequins, London Wasps and Rosylyn Park RFC.

A keen sportsman himself, being physically able and active is important to John and this drives him to want to help others get back on their feet. John regularly speaks at industry and educational events, as well as continuing his own education. And, more recently including undertaking the FA coaching certificate for his role as Manager at his daughter’s football team, Teddington Athletic.

John also has a busy family life and enjoys spending time with his wife, four children and dog Ozzy.

We get to know John a little better….

Why did you become a podiatrist?

I’ve always been passionate about helping people and I knew I wanted to work in a healthcare capacity. I liked the practical side of the job too and as soon as I started all those years ago I immediately knew this was the job for me.

What do you do at ALP?

I cover all aspects of podiatry from routine to MSK to complex biomechanics cases. When I’m not in clinic, I’m busy running the day-to-day at ALP, supporting the team and speaking or attending industry events.

What do you love most about your job?

There are so many things I love about my job, but the most rewarding thing has to be when a patient comes in with pain – sometimes a new pain, sometimes pain they’ve been battling with for a long time and I’m able to help them get back to normality and mobility. I’m such an active person myself and I really understand the impact and freedom that being able, fit and mobile can have on a person’s life.

What are your top 3 career highlights?

  • Working with professional rugby players
  • Earning my Master’s degree
  • Moving to our new location in Parsons Green

What are you most excited about for ALP in the future?

We’ve got so many great things coming up including offering new treatments, new equipment and we even make our own orthotics on site. I’m excited about so much it’s hard to narrow it down but I’d say my top two would be to continue to grow our business and employ excited, enthusiastic podiatrists to work in our team.

What is one thing people don’t know about you?

I’ve actually had plantar fasciitis twice! The first time was playing football in my teens and not being aware of the signs it got a lot worse. By the time I went to a podiatrist it was black and blue!

The second time I got it was a running injury which started in my knee (ACL), but luckily by then I knew the signs to look out for and was able to treat it quickly with orthoses and dry needling. I’m pleased to say it hasn’t returned since.

Unfortunately, it isn’t unusual for people with certain foot and leg biomechanics (for example a stiffness in ankles and calf muscles, but I can really empathise with my patients having experienced it first-hand so it feels really rewarding to be able to help them for good.

Think John or one of the team can help you? View our services or head over to the booking page to book your appointment today.

We are here to help you to #TakeSteps

  • To an active recovery following injury
  • To active, healthy feet for your family
  • To a personal best
  • To an Active Life