Dan Bell – 4:00:40 to 3:37:37 Manchester marathon

I met Dan a few years ago when he bought a kettlebell from me, and he then booked in for a Runner’s MOT. From his MOT progress, he wanted some more targeted training together, and then moved into training for the Manchester marathon.

Dan had done two previous marathons, but with a busy career and family life, he was honest that it would be a challenge at times. We found a balance of lower than typical mileage, but good quality runs throughout the plan.

By doing this, Dan was able to get the vast majority of runs done, and with a little guidance on long run pacing, managed to put in some very good runs over the final weeks, including a PB of 5 minutes at the Wymondham 20.

With a progressive strategy planned for Manchester, Dan took to the streets and put in a stellar performance, finishing in 3:37:37. Not only was it Dan’s first sub 4 hour marathon, it was a huge 23-minute PB.

Dan’s high energy and willingness to ask questions to better understand and act upon the guidance given made it a great partnership that was fun and rewarding in equal measure.