, how and why to stretch have left him more confused than ever. Can you help him out with some no-nonsense advice?"I am new to running and am just waiting to recover from my knee pain (having overdone it early on). I have read some articles online about

. Be prepared for a fair stretch of uphill running, though locals claim the course presents nothing too arduous for the 10K first-timer. Rotary Shakespeare Marathon (and Half-Marathon) (Warwickshire, April 27) Enjoy a dose of Olde England in this predominantly

A spell away from the water's edge, Bewl 15Closing SoonHurry, you won't be able to enter these races for much longer...Bewl 15 (Surrey, July 1) An off-road circuit round south-east England’s largest stretch of open water, with a few tough hills

by far-reaching views over the south-east countryside. Stretches through woodland provide welcome respite from the summer sun, but don’t underestimate the stamina and endurance required for the gruelling hills.Not ready for the full marathon distance

, bananas and fruitcake – provide runners with much-needed sustenance, while the prospect of free homemade stew for all finishers is a certified heart-warmer on the more exposed stretches. -->London Peace Run 5K (Greenwich Park, September 9) With its lush

- flock to the 'Pearl of the South' each year, eager to stretch their legs over what is billed as one of the fastest half-marathon (and marathon) courses in the world. But while quick times are most definitely there for the chasing, there's plenty to enjoy

) Get the estuary breeze behind you for this fast, flat figure-of-eight course and you’re sure to enjoy its PB potential.Henley Half-Marathon (Oxfordshire, October 14) Beautiful countryside, riverside stretches and just one hill of note make this a

or lower body exercises, alternating from one day to the next. They don’t take long, but have real benefits."Stretch regularly"I think that when you get older, stretching becomes more important. Running makes your body stronger, so you need to stretch just

regular stretching has proven benefits for runners too. Pilates and yoga will not only enhance your flexibility and range of motion, but can also improve your balance, co-ordination skills and kinaesthetic awareness (your ability to react to the space

, November 10) Canal locks and bridges comprise the only inclines in this otherwise flat, point-to-point race along the towpaths of the river Lee.-->Filling Up Fast…Luton Marathon, December 2Luton Marathon (Bedfordshire, December 2) This three-lap course