Here is what I did before and during the race.

I finished the Larnaca marathon, running barefoot, with barely any training. I crossed the finish line limping, came 4th from last, but my heart was fluttering with joy, the joy of success, striking through that challenge!!

The number one thing you need is consistency with as little as 20 minutes, twice a week, unlike how many people think; that long hours most days of the week is the only way to build strength.