23/02/2026
Training for a marathon? Here’s what the research actually says:
📊 30–50% of runners training for a marathon will pick up an injury before race day.
📊 Most injuries happen in the last 6–8 weeks — when mileage peaks.
📊 The knee is the most common site (hello runner’s knee), followed by calf, Achilles and plantar fascia issues.
📊 Previous injury = your biggest risk factor.
And here’s the truth…
It’s usually not one dramatic moment.
It’s load creep.
Too much, too soon, too tired.
At Bode Clinic, we see it every single marathon block — especially from runners who ignore the early “niggles”.
✔️ Slight calf tightness
✔️ Mild knee ache after long runs
✔️ That foot pain that “warms up” after 2 miles
That’s not normal. That’s your body negotiating.
The runners who get to the start line strong aren’t the toughest.
They’re the ones who manage load, recover properly, and get ahead of issues early.
If you’re in a marathon block right now in Manchester or Salford, this is your reminder:
Don’t wait until you can’t run.