Getty Images Off-road running might summon up dark memories of being sent round the school field in the cold. But there’s much more to going off-road. Springing along a forest trail is easier on your body than Tarmac, and the world beyond road

, March 14)Quiet roads, regular drinks stations and a choice of distances makes the Mad March 20 perfect spring-marathon preparation. With smooth tarmac to race on and a difference of just 82ft between the highest and lowest points of the race, it's a

through the beautiful Kent countryside, the Harvel 5 covers tarmac, woodland, rocky slopes and all the mud a keen cross-country competitor could wish for. Tired finishers will be revived by the beer, burgers and ice creams on sale at the finish, plus