There's less than a month to go to the big event! I hope your training is going well. The weather has decided to turn to crap so it's going to take some motivation to keep going in these next few weeks but don't slack off the training now because your so close! Now is about the time you should be doing your longest runs before the big day.

If you haven't got to that yet make sure you don't leave it to the week before as you want to be resting your body then. Make sure you have it planned for the next week or two. During your long run is the perfect time to practice using carb gels (if your planning to use them during the race). You want to get good at taking them whilst on your run and get your body used to taking in carbs whilst moving. It's also a good time to figure out what time during the race you want to take them. Personally I like to take one at around 35-40min in but I know people who prefer to take them an hour in the race. I also know people who don't bother with them at all so it's important to test out what works for you.

I have definitely stepped up my training in the last couple of weeks by doing a few longer runs and with speed sessions. I normally don't feel sore or stiff after running but I have been lately, and as strange as it may sound I love that feeling. I know if my body is a bit sore I've worked hard and pushed myself. In saying that it is still very important to have rest and easy days so I always split up my hard or steady run days with an easy day in between.

Good luck with your long run!