Marathon run, with a cold.

[Emoire]

Hi,
My sister is running the London Marathon on Sunday and has worked so hard for this, doing all the training etc. She feels as though she has the beginnings of a cold coming on and is wondering if there is any advice from you runners out there as to how this should effect her race plan and whether there are any ideas on how to minimise the effects this will have on her performance? Many thanks in advance x

[lcg]

vicks first defence...asap! x

[Canary42]

Simple answer: Don't, it could damage her health.

[lcg]

btw...love your pluck dilled fattypus! x

[joggerjayne]

Okay, first, she's going to have to do really light training this week. That shouldn't be a problem, cos she should be doing short distances this week in any case.

Next, if she's congested on the day of the race, it will make her head feel like it's throbbing. She ought to load up with a decongestant containing a painkiller.

She will also end up breathing more through her mouth, which will make her mouth dry, so she should look out for every possible watering stop along the way ... but don't drink at all of them, or you'll end up needing the loo. Do lots of "rinse and spits". I know it's a bit gross, but needs must, and all that.

A cold could also make her sweat more than usual, so maybe towelling wristbands would help, so she can keep wiping.

[Oneeyedvic]

If it is purely in her nose, then she will be fine to run. If it is in her chest, DO NOT RUN under any circumstances. I know how difficult it will be as I will also be there (touch wood).

I managed to get an injury to my calf just over a week ago and so haven't been running this week (kept up with my cardio by cycling). tomorrow is D Day for me, where I will run a couple of miles and decide whether I will be able to run on Sunday.

good luck if she does

[Emoire]

Thanks to everyone who answered, much appreciated. I shall pass on all your advice. Good luck to those also running!

[Eljohnno]

Just tell tell her to go for it ! - after all it's not as if it's manflu !