I've ticked most of the 'must-do' boxes in my 20 years of running, from 5Ks to marathons, a multi-day event and even a night run. But I've never raced a mile, attempted cross-country or donned fancy dress. Nor have I run a European city marathon

boost your fitness - even if most of your races are on asphalt.  SANDAn expanse of golden sand between sparkling sea and sweeping dunes is enough to inspire anyone to fling off their shoes and break into a canter - but beach running can be tough

.Subscribers can find out more about Sam Murphy's barefoot journey, minimalist shoes and the essential getting-started barefoot facts in the full article. Not a magazine subscriber? Subscribe online now to make a significant saving on the newsstand price. Discover