responded to a request placed by us on the forums earlier this year. We wanted beginner runners who were willing to take on a massive challenge – to get from virtually nothing to 26.2 miles in time for the 2004 Flora London Marathon.Over the coming months

chances of injury.—Rob Spedding, RW Staff Writer

When you set out as a runner, you’ll find that you have many more questions than answers. Am I too slow? How do I get faster? What can I do to stop it hurting? How long will it take before I get better? And there will definitely be times when you think you’ll never find t...

. Everything became easier when I started running with other people in my office. I was running more regularly, I made progress more quickly because I was training with people who were better than me and it was more fun. Rob SpeddingYears Running 7Fast running

I'd been running at before."For beginners, Maffetone's method helps provide an excellent introduction to running. For experienced runners, used to speedwork and tempo runs, heart-rate base training can be very frustrating. You'll want to run faster

to an average of 83 and a maximum of 111 - the two-for-one sausages offer was pretty exciting. "I'm amazed by your shopping heart rates," says Dunbar. "I'd expect them to be higher, you must enjoy it more than most people."—Rob SpeddingAs well as keeping you

own personal trainer and coach sitting on your wrist. We’ll guide you through the key features of some of the best monitors on the market from simple, budget models ideal for beginners, right through to the most advanced, all-singing, all-dancing, PC

.Contact 0161 419 2500; www.adidas.com/ukBest For BeginnersNike Air Perseus – £60Why it's the best There are a number of great all-rounders out there that offer a combination of stability and cushioning to make them an excellent first shoe. Models like