the most daunting, so take a minute to check out our BIG Beginners’ Index before you bound out the door – it’s packed with get-started tips, motivational advice and an essential kit checklist too.Don’t be tempted to run as far as you can, as fast as you can

If you don't have a big race in your sights, it can be hard to stay focused. Challenge yourself, or join others with weekly, monthly or annual mileage targets. By setting yourself a mileage challenge you can combine the motivation of having a target

camps offer a busy schedule of organised runs, coaching and cross-training, such as yoga or pilates classes, and you'll have the benefit of expert coaching and individual advice, as well as a slew of fellow runners to keep you company. The RW spring

’s time to stir up your routine. When you do the same run, day after day, you’re seldom challenged and your motivation is bound to sag. Think of it this way: if you eat a tuna and salad sandwich four days in a row, you’ll probably notice how delicious a

Every running parent – elite or beginner, sprint or endurance – wants their child to grow up fit, healthy and active. And of course there will be a bias towards running as a means to that end. But kids being kids, it’s never going

cannot do that unless it has clarity. A day off from thinking about your training schedule can improve your performance the following week. I also believe in life balance, so a rest day allows you to spend time with family and friends."15. Mr motivator

training tips from the Runner's World Training forum - posted by runners just like you. There's advice for everyone: slow runners, speedsters, newbies, seasoned marathoners and more. (However, if you're a complete beginner, try our 50 Best Beginners Tips

-gone. With hundreds of clubs catering for the multifarious runners up and down the country, there's literally something for everyone, from beginner fun-runners to serious pace-setters. Indeed, it's possible to join a running club without ever racing, without being

I don’t have a training schedule for a goal race, I find it harder to motivate myself. But if I have a training plan, I’ll be out running on good days and bad days,” says Mike Collyer, of Newcastle.27. Be happy “A positive attitude means everything

. This philosophy is transferable to the rest of us: training with company can be just as beneficial in helping you to achieve your particular goals. A partner could encourage you to adopt more variety in your running and thereby foster greater motivation