The Runner's World Personal Best Awards aim to recognise and reward the products and services that have helped make your running so enjoyable and enriching.This year, a carefully-selected expert panel will decide the winners in the following six

It’s not something I usually have a problem with - I just reach into the drawer, pull out the closest bit of clobber and bound out the door – but oh, how times have changed (and the weather, and people's opinions of running in 'apple catchers

Dr Robert D’Ambrosia, co-author of Prevention and Treatment of Running Injuries, who subscribes to the tight-hamstring-weak-quadriceps theory. "The knee is a hit taker," says Gary Gray, a physiotherapist who advocates a more holistic perspective

cords keep it tight when it's not full, and there are loads of pockets including two on the stowable hip belt. The padded back gives great ventilation and our tester found it really stable and comfortable, even running with a laptop and a day's clothing

When it comes to protecting her assets, a female runner should leave nothing to chance. Wearing the right sports bra is just as important as running in the right pair of shoes, and it’s just as individual too – the model that works for your friend

poke your chin out when swimming, biking or running. And you do this because you’ve got a super tight thoracic spine, which is great at bending forward, but can’t reverse and bend backward. You’ll cheat spectacularly by either bending your back

uphill, but running uphill all the time isn't really an option! I've seen two physios and a sports doctor, and all have suggested various abdominal/core strength exercises. They think it's perhaps a tight psoas or abdominal muscle, and have tried manually

of many common running-related ailments from the comfort of your home. Massage is an excellent way of easing slight aches and loosening tight muscles. The Togu Body Roll (£12.99) lets you do it yourself, as you can roll it over tender thighs and sore

race. "Consistency and knowing what works for you is key," he says.BAD HABIT: You never stretch It’s hard to squeeze in runs some days, never mind stretching. But tight muscles can contribute to shin splints, plantar fasciitis and muscle pulls, which

don’t warm up and get yourself ready to run, you’re bound to feel sluggish. Your muscles will be tight, your lungs will be struggling to keep up with the demands you’re putting on them, and, by and large, you’ll feel terrible. And feeling bad