The fastest races are run with even splits: world records reveal that, statistically, fast, steady speed yields the best performances. Yet some races demand a tactical rather than  time-trial approach, where occasional and well-timed bursts of speed

in are comfortably worn in – the same goes for your vest, shorts and socks. Eat a familiar breakfast that you know you can run on, and if you’re not sure about how early to eat it, do your experimenting well before race day (most runners need two to three hours). Out

'll find Runner's World's finest marathon schedules. You'll also find advice on making the most of your training sessions, tips for overcoming obstacles, and success stories from Runner's World readers who hit their targets.The links below are all part

.Linked to this page we have schedules, solutions to get the best out of your training, and answers to the questions you ask the most. (Non-subscribers to Runner's World magazine can only view our 8-week schedules. Subscribe here for rapid access to the rest

Standfirst: Author: Steve SmythePics:Issue date: Jul-Sep01Keywords: uan106--The half-marathon is Britain’s most popular race distance, usually representing around 10 of the top 20 races in Runner’s World’s Races of the Year. The event requires a

Leading the field: Paula RadcliffeThe Athens Olympic Marathon in 2004 was meant to be Paula Radcliffe's race. Since her marathon debut in London in 2002 the British world record holder had never been defeated over the distance. Certainly the Kenyans

The 5K is a perfect distance for the beginner looking to run their first race. But, given that it’s halfway between middle and long distance, it’s also a notoriously difficult distance for the experienced runner to master. Whichever camp you fall

and infection after the race. You may also be feeling disorientated – or even depressed – in the come-down after achieving such a significant running goal.Unfortunately, there’s no formula for calculating how long your body will take to recover – this will vary

, too. Elite Secret # 3: Pace The WorkoutGoing out too fast in both training and racing is the undoing of many talented runners, says Dave Saker, middle-distance coach at the University of Bath. "Marilyn Okoro, who I used to train, did a 56-second first

, while men can take on events like the Cancer Research UK Run for Moore and Everyman Keep Your Eye on the Ball races. Charity races are a friendly, inclusive introduction to running – and will leave you feeling very proud both of your progress as a runner