'I take training seriously but Ramadan is more important'

"Some people think I shouldn't [fast while training], especially now, because I've got a competition coming up, they think I should focus on training for now and then maybe fast. But I'm used to it. It became my routine. I am grateful for that advice but I just get on with everything."

"It's a little bit hard. I take my job seriously, but Ramadan is the most important for me. It makes me focus as well. It makes me understand who I am and what I could do."

"Mahamed has based himself in the town of Ifrane in Morocco's Atlas Mountains as he builds towards April's race. The location allows him to train safely under the floodlights of the track at night, alongside other Muslims currently observing the Islamic holy month of Ramadan by not eating or drinking during daylight hours."

Mahamed Mahamed, a 28-year-old British distance runner ranked fourth on the UK all-time marathon list, is preparing for the London Marathon while observing Ramadan. Based in Ifrane, Morocco's Atlas Mountains, he trains at altitude using nighttime floodlights to accommodate fasting during daylight hours. Despite receiving advice to postpone fasting during his competitive training block, Mahamed maintains his religious commitment as part of his routine. His training schedule extends into early morning hours, with sessions beginning around 4pm, followed by breaking his fast, attending mosque, and completing additional training. He sleeps briefly before waking at 4am for more food and rest. Mahamed views Ramadan as spiritually important and believes it enhances his focus and self-understanding.

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