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12 Months to Marathon

12 Months to Marathon

Written by: John
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Hi, I'm John Hill. I host 12 Months to Marathon—the running podcast for people over 35 with marathon dreams. Whether you are looking for a personal best or want to run a marathon, my story and regular tips should help you get there.

I didn't run my first marathon until I was 36. I ran my first sub-3 marathon at the age of 45. If I can do it, so can you!

For even more daily tips, make sure to follow me on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/12monthstomarathon/

Thanks for listening.


© 2026 12 Months to Marathon
Running & Jogging
Episodes
  • Episode 95 – The Record-Breaking 2026 London Marathon Review
    May 14 2026

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    Episode 95 – The Record-Breaking 2026 London Marathon Review

    In this episode, I break down one of the greatest marathon days in history — the incredible 2026 London Marathon.

    We dive into:

    • Sabastian Sawe’s historic 1:59:30 marathon
    • Two men going sub-2 in the same race
    • Jacob Kiplimo breaking the world record and still finishing third
    • Tigst Assefa’s women-only world record
    • The astonishing pacing statistics behind the performances
    • Why Sawe’s second half marathon was faster than the current American half marathon record
    • The role of super shoes, skepticism and elite performance
    • What everyday runners can learn from the greatest marathon ever run

    I also reflect on my own recent half marathon, booking Newport Marathon for next spring, and why performances like this should challenge all of us to rethink what’s possible — not just in running, but in life.

    This is a deep dive into marathon running, mindset, human potential and the culture around elite sport.

    If you’re an over-35 runner chasing your own marathon dreams, this one’s for you.

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    15 mins
  • Episode 94 - Dawn Deaville - Post Natal Struggles to First Marathon
    May 7 2026

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    In this episode, I’m joined by Dawn Deaville, who recently completed her first marathon at Manchester Marathon after working with me inside the coaching programme.

    Dawn shares how running helped her rebuild herself after having three children in five years, struggling mentally after her third child, and feeling like parts of herself had disappeared.

    We talk about:

    • Starting with a run around the block
    • Using running for mental health
    • Finding time as a mum of three
    • Building from 10K to half marathons
    • Overcoming race anxiety
    • Training for a first marathon
    • Managing fatigue, family life and recovery
    • Why Manchester Marathon changed her confidence
    • What she learned from the whole journey

    This is a brilliant listen for any over 35 runner, especially mums who feel like they’ve lost a bit of themselves and want to start doing something for them again.

    Dawn’s story is a reminder that you don’t need to have it all figured out. Start small, keep showing up, and see where it takes you.

    Follow me on Instagram: @12monthstomarathon
    Join my free running community for over 35s via the link in my bio.

    Support the show

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    41 mins
  • Episode 93 - Scott Couldrey - Mini Stroke to First Marathon at Age 42
    Apr 30 2026

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    Episode 93 – Scott Couldrey: From Weight Loss to First Marathon

    In this episode of the 12 Months to Marathon Podcast, I’m joined by Scott Couldrey, who recently completed his first marathon at the Brighton Marathon after working with me inside the coaching programme.

    Scott shares his journey from feeling overweight, unfit, and self-conscious, to losing three stone, rebuilding his confidence, overcoming a mini stroke/TIA, and eventually standing on the start line of his first marathon at age 42.

    We talk about:

    • Starting to run again after years away
    • Losing weight through running
    • Using running to support mental health
    • Training after a mini stroke
    • Preparing for a first marathon over 40
    • The reality of marathon training with work and family
    • Why sleep, recovery, and structure matter
    • What Brighton Marathon felt like on the day
    • The mental battle in the final miles

    This is a great listen if you’re an over-35 runner, a first-time marathoner, or someone who feels like they’ve left it too late to start.

    Scott’s story is a reminder that you don’t need to be perfect. You just need to start, keep going, and build from where you are.

    Follow me on Instagram: @12monthstomarathon
    Join my free running community for over 35s via the link in my bio.

    Support the show

    Show More Show Less
    41 mins
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