Most top track middle-distance runners tend to reach their peak between their fourth and seventh race of the season, and track world records are more likely to be set in July than May. For them, the best way of training is to race the distance

Snowdonia Marathon: a 900ft climb over four miles"You can run London, Paris, New York every year - but to feel you have really 'run' a marathon, try Snowdonia. When you finish, you know you have run a proper 26.2 mile race. Best in the World

No looking back!Welcome to the Runner's World race-week index. Whether you've been training for this all year, or you've just entered tomorrow's race after a drunken bet last night, we're here to do you proud.Frankly, the final week is a time

sneaky spurt of speed mid-race, whatever your paceAsk other runners...RW readers are some of the most supportive people in the world when it comes to training and racing. Whether you have a question about a specific race, a 'can I do it' question, or a

L1310K: Great event all round" Absolutely fantastic atmosphere - have never known any event like it. Even the church choirs come outside to sing during it!." Catherine Bernal, on the Hastings Half.This year saw a number of races make some impressive

Lochaber Marathon: fast, flat and with some great scenery too "Superbly organised, beautiful countryside and a great atmosphere. Looking forward to next year!" Harriet Cameron, on the Windsor Half.If you don’t mind slowing yourself down a little

Flora London Half-Marathon, Silverstone, MarchA fast course on the famous motor racing circuit and a new race that promises to get bigger and better.2 Capital City Challenge 10K, Edinburgh, SeptemberThree and a half thousand runners took on an impressive

that builds you up in realistic increments to the date of your race (allowing for one or two easier weeks at the end). If you can use a schedule from RUNNER’S WORLD, a good book, or an accredited coach at your local club, that’s ideal. It will be a tried

by the crowds and the runners.2 Nike 10K, London, SeptemberWith so many new runners out for a great day, this really is as much a friendly ‘social gathering’ as a full-on race.3 Bupa Great North Run, Newcastle, SeptemberIt’s the world’s biggest half-marathon, so

this year, in a bid to welcome runners from around Europe to discover the charms of the cobbled town and its surrounding hills. To encourage as many entrants as possible, entry fees are being paid by the race’s main sponsor, Maxima supermarkets – all you