Getty Images Off-road running might summon up dark memories of being sent round the school field in the cold. But there’s much more to going off-road. Springing along a forest trail is easier on your body than Tarmac, and the world beyond road

loosely) was that if I kept my heart rate in a reasonable zone and took regular walking breaks, I’d be alright.Confident of my plan, I set off. The first five minutes of running were okay, but I was happy to take my first walk. The road had begun to wind

are softer on your legs than the road, thus serving as a handy ‘off-road’ alternative. I've never understood how anyone can claim to get bored on the treadmill. When I'm on it, I’m 100 per cent focused on keeping going at the pace I'm going at, so boredom

of it as the time you won’t waste by watching TV. As for finding places to run, anywhere that’s safe for walking is also fine for running. Off-road routes (parks, bike paths, playing fields) are better than busy streets, and soft surfaces (grass and dirt) are better

weekly runs, you should focus on increasing the amount you can run at one time until you build to at least the race distance, or the equivalent amount of time spent running."I encourage runners, particularly beginners, to focus on time and effort, rather

off your foot-plant, leading to sore muscles and injuries. Whenever possible, choose tarmac roads over concrete (concrete is harder), and always run against oncoming traffic. This makes you more visible to the driver (especially if you’re wearing light

for another pair and you run mainly off-road, buy trail shoes, which have a gusseted tongue (meaning the seams are sealed to eliminate any gaps).  This keeps pebbles and other trail debris out of the shoe.13. Watch Your Form...Running is a natural movement, so

.And although it's just you and the road, in no way is racing a lonely endeavour. In fact, the camaraderie you feel during a race – especially a first race – can be poignant. It's been known to reduce confirmed stoics to tears.Another reason to race is that it

Running has the power to change your life. It will make you fitter, healthier and happier. Here's ten tips to help you get (and stay) on track to a brighter future.1. Start by walkingWhether you're fresh off the couch or coming from another sport

by watching TV. As for finding places to run, anywhere that’s safe for walking is also fine for running. Off-road routes (parks, bike paths, playing fields) are better than busy streets, and soft surfaces (grass and dirt) are better than paved ones, but any