Run4Wales has shared some tips for those taking part in the Newport Marathon Festival to help keep pace.

Double Olympic marathon runner and race director for Run4Wales, Steve Brace, emphasised the importance of pacing: beginning too quickly can lead to flagging energy in the second half of the marathon.

Participants are advised to find a rhythm based on training run speeds, opting for a comfortable pace at which they can still maintain a conversation.

Mr Brace encourages honesty and realism in setting achievable goals.

Runners should note their race splits on their hands, the pace required for each mile, and using a running watch can facilitate adjustments based on these splits.

Mr Brace advises runners to begin timing from their personal start line, rather than the firing of the starting gun.

Participants may find reassurance in running with a race pacer, potentially relieving anxiety about time checking.

While training with partners is beneficial, Mr Brace warns against running the race with a companion as fluctuations in stride pattern can occur if one runner waits for another, possibly inducing injuries.

Should runners genuinely struggle or experience pain, Mr Brace recommends heeding their bodies over finishing the race.

The Newport Marathon is renowned for its flat course, often enabling runners to achieve a personal best.

If energy allows, runners may wish to pick up their pace towards the end but should be careful to avoid cramp and maintain controlled breathing.