"Running makes me feel empowered!"

Radio presenter and podcast host Jenni Falconer talks about her love of running, overcoming injury and coming back stronger than ever

- By Joanna Ebsworth

For many people, the idea of running the London Marathon even once is the stuff of bucket-list dreams. But when radio presenter and podcast host Jenni Falconer takes to its starting line on April 23, it will, in fact, be her ninth time completing the gruelling 26.2-mile race – and she couldn’t be more excited.

‘It’s possibly the most iconic, most incredible race ever,’ the 47-year-old says of the famous event. ‘It’s got an electricity about it, even if you’ve done it several times before. The camaraderie amongst the runners is very special, and the noise from the crowds is so amazing – it’s almost like a blazing cacophony that carries you along. There’s something very special about getting past Big Ben in the final stretch. You’ve got maybe a kilometre to go – and it’s the longest kilometre in the world – but once you turn the corner at Buckingham Palace and see the finish line, you give it your all. Even if you hate every minute of the run, you’ll be overwhelmed with pride when you cross the finish line. I just love it.’

Unbelievable atmosphere and sense of achievement aside, Falconer’s anticipation for this year’s event is higher than ever following her injury-riddled journey to the start line. Whilst training for last year’s London Marathon, held on October 2, the mum-of-one tore her IT band in August and was subsequently diagnosed with gluteal tendinopathy, a painful type of tendon disorder that causes tendon tissue to break down. As a result, she was forced to stop running for four whole months.

Rest and recovery