The London Marathon was due to be held on April 26 before it was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

One of the marathon's official coaches, Martin Yelling, explains ways to stay physically fit and mentally positive despite the disappointment.

It's natural to feel a bit disappointed - people that were planning on doing it were hugely excited.

They were going to raise a lot of money for really important charities and have a really amazing day, so it's quite natural to feel a bit deflated ... but it's absolutely the right decision given the context of where we are.

Perspective is really important. The marathon will always be there next year and you'll have your day.

Martin Yelling, Official marathon coach

Why not challenge yourself in a different way? The rearranged October 4 date is a little way off, but setting and completing a more immediate goal may help you to boost motivation.

What you find sometimes when you set yourself a challenge like that, something immediate. That also triggers something in you that says 'well, I want to keep this going, actually I can keep this going - I want to keep this motivated'.

Now could also be the time to reflect on the reason you were running the marathon in the first place - to help others - which may help you get your trainers back on.

Martin Yelling, Official marathon coach

Use your running as a tool to boost both mental and physical wellbeing, getting some time outside and to yourself in these current times can be invaluable.

Physical exercise can also help provide a sense of rhythm and normality in times of uncertainty.

If you don't feel like getting your trainers on one day, don't pressure yourself to do so - don't feel bad for not going out.

Martin Yelling, Official marathon coach

It's up to you, but the marathon's organisers recommend that those who were signed up to run in 2020 should aim to run on October 4.

Martin Yelling, Official marathon coach

It is important not to leap back into something too quickly and risk injuring yourself.

Gradually layer personal fitness and adapt training to continuing public health rules, including working out at home and going on solo runs.

If you were following a training plan back in January, February, March, just pick that up and put it into July, August, September, leading into October.

Martin Yelling, Official marathon coach

It's hard to give generic advice because every runner is different, but the principles of getting yourself ready for a marathon stay the same.

You may need to juggle your regular routine when re-building a structured training plan, but the key thing is to not be over-ambitious - know yourself.

You may find running at a particular time of day suits you, depending on how you respond to the heat, but remember to always stay hydrated.

Martin Yelling, Official marathon coach

A number of 'negotiations' will have to take place and childcare schedules may have to be adjusted - consider running in the mornings if you can bear to get up.

Martin Yelling, Official marathon coach

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London Marathon blues: How to stay motivated despite the event being postponed - ITV News