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

when you should be easing off: a three-week taper will leave you in the best possible shape to run the race you want, and enjoy it.Marathon strides: Five next stepsSchedules and more; your complete training partner – our Big Marathon Index

Run 8 mins, walk 2 mins. Do 3 times Fri Rest Sat Rest Sun 5K Race! On race day: You will probably find that you can run at least 20 minutes before you need a break, but whatever your plan, start slowly, and don’t wait until you are exhausted

4 | Week 5 | Week 6 | Week 7 | Week 8 | Week 9 | Week 10 | Week 11 | Week 12 | Week 13 | Week 14 | Week 15 | Week 16The best feeling in the world - two weeks post-race:Week 17 | Week 18

easy, incorporating 6 x 20-40 seconds faster-paced running Wed Rest Thu 20-25 mins easy Fri Rest Sat 15 mins easy or rest Sun 5K Race!

-scratching scenarios:I blew up The end of the race is in sight, but you feel as if you’re running through porridge and scything through the field backwards. Were you a little over-enthusiastic at the start? Without fail, every race has a group of runners who speed off

of your training, the marathon is going to be a real struggle. If you want to race or you have other commitments on Sundays, try to rearrange your week so you still complete the long run.If you couldn’t run as fast as the schedules suggested: At this stage

If you’ve been training for weeks, you’ll want to make the last workout before your race count. Studies indicate the best way to prepare for a race is to reduce the volume of your running (mileage) while maintaining the intensity. These four

is that you'll never have to think about what to do on a particular day. You get up, your session is there; you do it. Perfect.You may have seen these Runner's World programmes on the Race for Life website already:The beginners' six-week plan, based on a run

into the training routine. As the weeks and months go by the intensity will increase over all six schedules – but thankfully so will your fitness.On each day we tell you how far to run and give a rough estimate of the time it should take. If you run at the suggested