The Road To Rob Burrows Leeds Marathon With Matthew Tebb: Race Week

This Sunday, more than 10,000 people will be at Headingley Stadium ready to embark on the first ever Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon. Amongst those people will be experienced Marathon runner, Matthew Tebb. We’ve been supporting Matthew on his journey to the marathon as he looks to raise as much money as possible for the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Appeal and the MND Association.

With just two days to go until the marathon, we caught up with Matthew on his journey so far…

It’s the week of the marathon, how are you feeling?

I’m feeling really good and fresh now after tapering off my training schedule over the past couple of weeks. Now my focus is on the marathon and making sure I’m fueled up and ready for the big day.

You’ve been using some of our products, we’d love to know, which have helped aid you through to this part of the training the most?

The cold compression roller and the deep massaging bar have been great for my calves and quads, and I feel like I have seen a massive improvement in my recovery because of it.

Is there a particular reason why you choose the Rob Burrow Marathon as a race to partake in?

I’m passionate about running and fitness in general and I always have some form of challenge lined up – but this marathon in particular is close to my heart. The work that the Motor Neurone Disease Association do and the fact that this honours rugby legend Rob Burrow – somebody who I have looked up to from a young age – means that this is more than just another fitness challenge to me. Raising money for an amazing cause and changing lives through the building of the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease is a legacy that will live on and on, and that’s what really sets this apart from other marathons.

When it comes to Marathon preparation, being mentally prepared is just as important as being physically ready. How have you mentally prepared for this race?

The long runs on your own are a mental battle, especially as I also train throughout the week so it can be really testing. When the body is already fatigued it can be a bit of a slog, but I just remember the goal in mind and the amazing cause and reason why I’m doing this to push myself and keep motivated. Each time I finish a run I feel a sense of accomplishment and have peace of mind that with a fueled, rested body I should be ok (hopefully!).

You’ve run other marathons in the past, what has been your favourite and why?

Easily the London marathon! I remember making a playlist and trying to time upbeat songs for when I thought I would be getting to a point where I may “hit the wall” but the atmosphere was so brilliant I didn’t listen to any music all of the way around.

What would you say to a first time marathon runner who’s hitting the streets of Leeds on Sunday?

Don’t put too much pressure on yourself, fuel up in the next couple of days, and try to enjoy it as much as possible. When crossing the finish line on the Headingley pitch it will all be worth it and it’s an unbeatable feeling.