The final countdown to a running race

Preparing for your big run

As the weeks tick closer to your first running race, it's important to follow a set of running guidelines on how best to prepare for it. Here, we offer our top tips on how you can get into gear for the start of a race, gradually increasing your running and also looking to book things like suitable accommodation.

Stick to your training plan and don’t increase your weekly mileage by more than 5-10% a week.
Focus on the long run. Make sure that you increase it by a mile or two each week.
Don’t panic. If you don’t feel you have done enough training focus on quality and not quantity mileage.
Make sure that you taper your running correctly. The last week means plenty of rest and not much running!
Wrap up warm. Keep your muscles warm while you train in the cold weather.
Don’t train if you get a cold or feel an injury developing.
If you feel a twinge book an appointment with a sports physio and have it checked out. Leave nothing to chance.
Book your overnight accommodation if you haven’t done it already and be thinking about where you are going to eat the night before the big day and on race morning.
Start to think about what you’re going to pack. Check that your kit is in good shape and that nothing is going to need replacing just prior to the event. If it is then do it as far in advance as possible.
Remember that you must not run the race in brand new kit. This includes your shoes as well as your running top, which must be washed before you run in it!