information to be useful for runners who simply fancy giving heart-rate monitoring a go. It has a simple stopwatch – start, stop and no lap function – but you can keep a check on your current heart rate, your maximum and your average

stores for tired muscles, and research has also shown that drinking it one to two hours before training can also boost recovery. The whey protein in Recovermax combats cortisol, which can be produced during hard training and which can slow recovery

Garmin are soon to release their new and sexiest-yet speed-and-distance-monitor in the UK. With just a handful of 405s in the country before its release date (end of April) RW was lucky enough to put one through its paces. Fans of the reliable 305

to at least 10mph (even if you’re not a fast runner, you’ll need this for sprint intervals), and a decent warranty length.Home models have certainly come on since the last time RW looked at them, two years ago. For a reasonable outlay of £1,000- £2

’t expect any audio feedback – the Nike+ SportBand is a completely sound-free model. One of our testers suggests wearing the watch facing inward on your wrist for improved usability but this comes down to personal choice, since another member of the RW team

as accurate an investment.Polar RS200SD - £155The RS200SD is easier to set up and use than Polar's more expensive monitors. In theory, you can lace the footpod on to your shoe, head out for a run and expect 97 per cent accuracy. Most runners, though

to the skin. Despite looking stiff, the jacket was light, warm and wind-resistant. The three layers worked well together to offer ample protection – and at less than £30 for the entire system, Crane Sports’ kit is amazing value for money. Contact www.aldi-stores

, load it with tunes and run.The best players for runners are those that use Flash memory, as these have no moving parts so songs won't skip. The days when Flash players only had room for an album's worth of music are long gone, and players are available

The 2007 Personal Best Awards marked a new venture for Runner’s World but one that was long overdue – an annual celebration of all the best things in running. Our aim when founding the Awards was to recognise and reward the products and services

) Fancy a super-flat 10 miler along the seafront? Then join the other 180 RW members in this scenic race--Stockport 10: A great course over a classic distanceThe Month AheadStockport 10, Greater Manchester, Dec 12 The Stockport 10 was one of the first