Get Marathon Ready with DCU (2026)
Whether you’re taking on your very first 26.2 miles through the streets of Dublin or aiming to beat your personal best, Dublin City University is here to help you cross that finish line feeling strong, confident, and prepared.
Following the success of last year’s event, DCU in the Community and DCU’s School of Health & Human Performance are bringing back ‘Get Marathon Ready with DCU’, taking place over two evenings on DCU’s Glasnevin campus on the 7th and 28th of September.
Across two evenings, including six seminars, our leading sports scientists and practitioners will break down everything you need to know about fueling, strength training, injury prevention, pacing, and hitting peak condition mentally and physically on race day. Delivered in easy understandable and usable language - accessible for all levels.
Whether you're running with a local club or pounding the pavements solo, join us on campus for expert insights, practical advice, and a chance to meet fellow runners over tea, coffee, sandwiches and cake.
Why Attend?
Expert Insights: Learn directly from DCU’s sports scientists in nutrition, sports science, and strength & conditioning.
Practical Advice: Simple, actionable tips you can apply immediately apply to your training, race tapering and race days.
Community Spirit: Connect with runners from across Dublin, and beyond, who are sharing the same training journey.
Event Schedule:
Session 1: Foundations & Training
Getting into the heavy training requires the right setup. This evening focuses on getting your fueling, strength, and pacing strategy locked in.
Date: Monday, 7th September
Time: 5:55 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: DCU Glasnevin Campus
5:55 - 6:15pm: Arrival, Registration & Refreshments (Tea, coffee, sandwiches & cakes)
6:15 - 6:40pm: Nutrition Strategies to Optimise Performance, with Laura McManus
6:40 - 7:05pm: Microdosing Strength Training for Performance (and Injury Reduction!), with Eddie McGuinness
7:05 - 7:30pm: Data & Feel: Pacing the Marathon, with Simon Devenney
Session 2: Race Mindset & Tapering
As race days approaches, It’s time to reduce your mileage and prepare your body and mind. Learn how to navigate the taper, stay injury-free, and execute your best race.
Date: Monday, 28th September
Time: 5:55 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: DCU Glasnevin Campus
5:55 - 6:15pm: Arrival, Registration & Refreshments (Tea, coffee, sandwiches & cakes)
6:15 - 6:40pm: Strength & Conditioning Approaching Race Day, with David Nolan
6:40 - 7:05pm: Strategies for Reducing Injuries and Enhancing Recovery, with Aoife Burke
7:05 - 7:30pm: Taper Time: How to Peak for Race Day, with Sarah Meegan
Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended to secure your spot!