If you’re starting an April marathon — or building towards autumn half-marathons — the smartest training decision you can make is to prioritise your feet. Small inefficiencies magnify over long miles; proactive podiatry helps you train consistently, avoid setbacks and run faster on the day.
Common issues runners face
- Plantar fasciitis/heel pain: The arch band becomes overloaded, causing morning or post-run pain.
- Achilles tendinopathy: Tight calves plus mileage spikes irritate the tendon.
- Shin splints: Often linked to training jumps, footwear mismatch or biomechanics.
- Black toenails/blisters: Shoe fit, moisture and downhill running play a role.
A West Hampstead podiatry game-plan
At The Wellness & Beauty Clinic in North London, podiatry sessions with our practitioner focus on:
- Gait assessment & load mapping
We identify over-pronation, cadence or stride-length issues and asymmetries that drive niggles. - Footwear and sock strategy
The right last, cushioning and rocker profile for your foot type and course; moisture-managing socks; lacing tweaks. - Orthotic support (if indicated)
To improve alignment and offload irritated structures when mileage climbs. - Strength & mobility homework
Calf and foot strength, big-toe mobility and hip stability — upstream fixes that protect the foot. - Race-day foot care plan
Nail-trim timing, lubrication or taping approach, shoe rotation and blister prevention.
Timelines that work
- Now → December: build volume sensibly; fix gait/footwear issues ahead of winter blocks.
- January → March: consolidate, fine-tune orthotics and set your race-day plan for April marathons.
- If you’re racing autumn half-marathons: apply the same approach over a shorter timeline, with earlier footwear checks and targeted strength.
Strong feet make consistent training possible — and consistent training makes personal bests possible.
Book your pre-race podiatry assessment in West Hampstead
