Welcome to The Running Bug's unofficial guide to the Virgin London Marathon 2012. Here you'll find event details, training guides and groups, discussion and news leading up to the world's greatest marathon.

Are you running in the London Marathon this year? Will you be watching? Are you an old hand and have run it before? Come and share your experience with the other Running Bug members now at the London Marathon Experience.

If you're hoping to run the Virgin London Marathon 2012 then the bad news is the ballot has closed; the good news is that there are still places available through a number of charities. Visit our Virgin London Marathon 2012 charity places page for more information

About the Virgin London Marathon 2012

Everything you need to know about the Virgin London Marathon 2012:

• When is the Virgin London Marathon 2012? 

• Map of the London Marathon Route
   
• Information for Runners and Spectators at the London Marathon
   
• London Marathon History
   
• Running for Charity

London Marathon Training Schedules & Advice

Running a marathon is a test of endurance and it takes time and commitment to prepare your body to run the 26.2 miles. If you're running the marathon then we have lots of information that will help you prepare for the race so you can achieve your goals, whether that be beating your personal best or simply getting round the course.

• London Marathon training schedule page to get training schedules, advice from the pros, join our training group and more.
   
• London Marathon Nutrition Guide - what to eat and when: Not sure what to eat and drink during training for a marthon and for the big day itself? See  our nutrition guide for everything you need to know.
   
• Taper Time for a Marathon: Confused about taper time? We explain everything you need to know about tapering for a marathon.
   
• Marathon Motivation: Finding training for the London Marathon tough? Follow our tips to keep motivated for marathon training.

London Marathon Community

Sharing your goals and experiences are a big part of running the London Marathon.

• The Training Forum: Discuss your training, share tips, talk about where to stay and upload your pictures in the Marathon forum.
   
• Marathon training group: Set your training goals, share tips, discuss training. Make the most of the marathon.
  
  
• Virgin London Marathon 2012 Virgin Blog: Running Bug blogger Sarah Lees is running the London Marathon for the first time next year. Follow her ups and downs as she prepares for the big day.