great aid to motivation. The information you record is up to you, but normally includes training route, speed, distance, the weather and how you felt during and after the run. Some people also note what shoes they wore, their maximum heart-rate and how

You may have a will of iron and the self-belief of a firewalker, but you'll still have those odd days (or weeks, or months) when your motivation takes a walk.Is it because the marathon is now over, leaving you nothing to aim for? Is it that you

Q I have an identity crisis. As a keen runner for the last 20 years, I have recently retired, but now I just cannot find the motivation to train properly. I climb into my car rather than my running gear. When I do go out for a run, any uphill

with the motivation to train day in and day out so he can achieve the results he wants. And when things don't go the way they're supposed to, he knows that plans can, and must, be altered to suit new circumstances.Setting a goal is a process that must begin

’s World playlist – designed specifically for long runs and perfect for those training for a spring marathon.RUNNER'S WORLD Playlist no.4: Long Run MotivationThis mix is designed to keep you motivated and focused over a 90-minute run, using melodic tracks

, we really celebrated, jumping around – and wheezing – under the dark, wet sky.”Hays often thinks of that moment, especially during those inevitable times when his motivation begins to wane. He reminds himself that his two friends are expecting him

No matter how much preparation you’ve done beforehand, sometimes on race-day things just don’t go to plan. But for this week’s questioner, a disappointing performance has left her void of all motivation to continue – can you help her regain her

If you're a slower runner looking for motivation - or anyone looking for affirmation of life - RW columnist John 'The Penguin' Bingham is your man. We're proud to bring you this index of links to his columns.But first... the Penguin on

What's the plan for your next run? You may go as far and as fast (or slow) as the spirit moves you or time allows. That's fine, but structuring your workouts can add value. The right plan boosts motivation, helps build fitness while minimising

Training for a marathon is a daunting business – our free weekly marathon email is here to keep you informed, motivated and right on track.It runs from December to April, and its 16-week training schedule is aimed at April 26, 2009. Each email gives