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Expert Running Pacing Advice from Paul Addicott - A Man Who Has Paced 82 Races!

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This week, we get some expert pacing advice from someone who has helped thousands of people achieve their running goals.

Paul Addicott has paced for 82 running events. Mostly marathons. And so he has learnt a lot about how to run these type of events to achieve your target time.

In this article, Paul tells us:

  • Why he loves pacing so much

  • How to get into pacing if you’re interested

  • His top pacing, kit and nutrition tips

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JamesRunsFar: Hi Paul. Thanks so much for taking the time to talk with me. First, could you give us an overview of your running background, please

Paul Addicott: I've always been active, but it was only in 2009 I decided to start running for running sake.

I ran 2 half marathons in 2005/6 just as a means to test fitness. In 2009, I tried again, after being less active, and it was a wake up call. I really struggled during and after the event.

At that point I decided to start running and have never looked back.

Paul Addicott has paced for 82 running events, helping lots of people achieve their target times.

Paul Addicott has paced for 82 running events, helping lots of people achieve their target times.

JRF: How did you end up getting into pacing?

PA: I paced for the first time in 2013 after being approached by Xempo and asked to pace Royal Parks.

I hadn't really considered it before this, and at the time I thought it a privilege to pace and wanted to pace as fast as possible.

I managed to get a spot with Runners World at the London Marathon in 2014, and paced the run/ walk group 5:14.

That was the best experience ever, and when I really found the love of running.

JRF: Do you prefer racing or pacing?

PA: Pacing all day long!

I spent 5 years chasing PBs and with injury I fell out of love with running. Now I help many achieve PB every time I run.

Although I still want to work for a sub 3.

JRF: Why do you love pacing?

PA: I love the social aspect of running.

To be with someone throughout their journey and to see them work hard and achieve their goals.

Such wonderful emotions, and I love that a little motivation, and support with a consistent pace, can go a long way.

JRF: How many events have you paced for?

PA: 82 and counting.

Paul has quite the collection of medals from the marathons which he’s paced and ran at. His favourite race is the London Marathon, because it is his home race, it was the first one he ran, where he has his PB and it was the first one he paced.

Paul has quite the collection of medals from the marathons which he’s paced and ran at. His favourite race is the London Marathon, because it is his home race, it was the first one he ran, where he has his PB and it was the first one he paced.

JRF: What’s your favourite race to pace at?

PA: Always London Marathon.

There have been lots of special events, and running majors all over the world, but London holds a special place in my heart.

It was my first marathon, my PB marathon, my home marathon and first marathon I paced.

I have paced it 6 times so far and will pace every year they let me. Regardless of whether I have my own place or not. I want to pace it.

JRF: What’s your favourite distance to pace for?

PA: The marathon, because of the journey and emotions you go through with everyone running with you.

JRF: What is your dream race to pace or run, if money wasn’t a problem?

PA: I would carry on doing as I'm doing.

On 3rd November I am pacing the New York Marathon which is my dream race to pace.

It’s cost me a lot, and each race I have paced costs so much in terms of travel and accommodation. But I do it because I love it.

I would love to pace Tokyo, and many more races in the USA. But I haven't even tried with many as I just cant afford the constant travel.

JRF: Would you ever pace for an ultra marathon or a very difficult mountain trail race?

PA: I would love to pace Comrades. Most events like this don’t have pacers.

Paul has travelled the world as part of pacing for marathons. But he would love to be a part of the Comrades event in South Africa

Paul has travelled the world as part of pacing for marathons. But he would love to be a part of the Comrades event in South Africa

JRF: What are your top tips for someone who wants to get into pacing, but doesn’t know where to start?

PA: Ask around and get yourself out there.

Going direct to the organisers is the best way to start. And look for local and smaller races to build up experience.

Take a look at this blog for more tips on how to get into pacing.

JRF: What are your top tips for runners who you pace for? Especially those who are very new?

PA: Stay calm, be confident, don’t go off too fast, and have lots of fun.

I wrote this blog for people who often asked the question ‘how do you get your pace right?’

JRF: What kit and nutrition do you use and recommend?

PA: I recommend training and trialling to find what works for you.

Don’t try anything new on race day.

I like using Cliff Shot blocks, and my go-to-shoe at the moment is the Brooks Levitate.

Please note that if you buy anything using these links I will make a tiny amount of money. But it will not cost you any more than usual. For a full explanation of how I use affiliate links, please click here.

JRF: What’s up next for you?

PA: I'm currently sat in the airport to go to New York Marathon.

JRF: Where can people follow you?

PA:

JRF: Thanks so much for taking the time to give us such great advice and insight on pacing.

I hope the New York Marathon goes well. And I look forward to following your journey!

Paul is very active in describing his journey on his Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts, as well as on his website - www.pickupthepacepaul.com

Paul is very active in describing his journey on his Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts, as well as on his website - www.pickupthepacepaul.com

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