Training

Prepare for Marathon Day

Irish Life Dublin Marathon – Sunday, October 25th

Every year, the Irish Life Dublin Marathon brings together thousands of runners of all abilities, including many who are taking on the 26.1-mile challenge for the first time.

At Dublin Marathon Group, we are committed to supporting runners all the way through their training journey to ensure they have an enjoyable racing experience on marathon day.

How We Support Your Training:

Official Irish Life Dublin Marathon Training Plan
Ongoing tips and support from Official Dublin Marathon Group Coach Emmett Dunleavy
Irish Life Dublin Race Series, a series of events designed to help you build confidence on the road to marathon day
Question boxes, motivational quotes and more via our official Instagram page.

See 2026 Training Plan Here Get the Latest Training Support at our Instagram Here

Reach Your Potential with Our Official Coach

Emmett Dunleavy, Official Dublin Marathon Group Coach

As part of our continued commitment to supporting runners on their marathon journey, Emmett Dunleavy will be our Official Dublin Marathon Group Coach for 2026.

Emmett has been immersed in athletics since the age of 10. Since 2014, he has run a coaching business called Perfect Pacing, and has also coached at various athletics clubs, and supported many Irish international athletes.

In the build-up to the 2026 Irish Life Dublin Marathon, he’ll provide expert coaching, training content and practical advice to support runners of all experience levels as they prepare for race day.

Dunleavy: “Taking on a marathon is a huge personal challenge, whether you’re aiming to complete your first race or chasing a new personal best. I’m looking forward to supporting participants throughout their training with practical advice, guidance and encouragement in the lead-up to race day.”

Race Day Tips from the Official Dublin Marathon Group Coach Emmett Dunleavy

Next up on the road to Marathon Day – Irish Life Dublin Half Marathon, Sunday, 20th September.

1 – Pre-Race Nutrition

A small carb load the night before is useful. Especially for athletes likely to be racing for over 2 hours. On race morning, have the same light carbohydrate breakfast you’ve been practicing with, before all long runs. Stick with what’s familiar.

2 – Trust Your Training

The hard work is done by race week. You won’t get fitter in the final days. Focus on reducing the training load and saving the big effort for race day.

3 – Staying Strong in the Final Miles

Break the remaining distance into small, achievable targets, next landmark, next water station, next mile marker. Remind yourself you’ve already proven fitness with the 10-mile.