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

It happens to a lot of runners. You set your sights on a big race, log your miles and put your social life on hold, only to run into a roadblock in the last four to six weeks – that ‘monster month' when you're at your peak but still weeks away from

of hard work is enough, and now you deserve a rest. In fact, your body demands it – and what about the family, friends and social life?Just make sure it's a short rest, however, because you now have a tremendous opportunity that you shouldn't waste

’s not just physically demanding – it can also place a strain on your family life and social life. Even a schedule for a five-hour runner requires that you build up to training five times a week, with long runs of two to three hours on three weekends out

’m going to race and beat a PB), others a more social event (I’m going with some running chums to make event of it). Find which one suits you. – Tri-TaffiaParticipation is an underrated measure of success When you are nervous at the start line, just take a

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

You've probably had a busy start to the year. Not only do you have to fit training around your work commitments, family and social life, but you also have to decide what training to do, when, for how long and how hard. With so much to occupy your

– friends, or club runners. Many clubs do long runs at the weekend and they can be good fun socially. Vary your route - include interesting locations or beautiful scenery. Vary the terrain to include countryside, paths and trails as well as the road

1. Sleep well"In reality, trying to sleep well the night before a race never works," says triathlon coach Rick Kiddle (www.rickkiddle.com). "The best sleep will be the night before the night before. Many athletes can survive with little sleep

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