Would you like to know how fast you could run a 5k? My coaching clients often ask me how fast I think they could run various race distances. It's a very normal human trait for these runners to consider how fast they could potentially be with the right training.  It's also quite normal to be curious about what sort of race times you could achieve for standard race distances based on your average training paces. Though it's worth bearing in mind that there's a lot more to predicting race performance than your average easy run/jogging pace. Target 5k race time If however, you'd like to ach ..read more

Would you like to know how fast you could run a 10k? It's also quite normal to wonder how well you might perform at other race distances based on your average running pace in training. Though there's more to predicting race performance than your average pace for a leisurely trot around the block. Target race time If however, you'd like to achieve a specific target 10k race finish time. Then the pace charts below could be quite a useful tool to get an idea of the average pace and speed you'd need to maintain for the entire 10 km or 6.21371 miles. The charts below provide finishing times in 1 ..read more

I bought the Topo Ultraventure because I needed of a new pair of trail running shoes and because I wanted a more roomy toe box. I've had a few issues with other trail shoes, that just don't have the kind of space I like in a toe box. Specifically, my last pair of trail shoes - the Salomon Trailster became a bit annoying on downhill sections. Plus I now have 2 pairs of wide-fit road runners in my shoe rotation. Namely, the Brooks Ghost 12 & 13. So swapping back from them to the Trailster just magnified how tight the toe box is in the Trailster.  Topo Athletic are a relatively new sho ..read more

Why buy a GPS running watch? If you're new to running but you're hooked and really enjoy it. There may come a point where you want to understand more about your training. You may want to log your miles and possibly other metrics accurately. You may want to use your heart rate as a tool to train efficiently. Or you may be looking for a device that you can use to better pace yourself in races or your local park run. A GPS running watch can tick off all of the above and depending on your budget, how much of a tech-geek you are - there are plenty of options available that have a whole host of o ..read more

In this article I'm going to explain what Couch to 5k is and tease out whether it's a good choice for you. There's no question that this program is very popular and has worked wonders for getting millions of people active and fitter. However, in my opinion, couch to 5k does have some (potentially serious) draw backs. In fact, I've worked with many runners that started their running adventure with the couch to 5k program. Unfortunately, some of them got injured whilst doing it and were put off running for a while as a result. The main reason for the mishaps experienced by those runners I belie ..read more

Wondering just how much time until the start of the 2021 Great North Run? ... well wonder no more - the count down timer below shows you exactly how much (or how little) time you have left to get in your training. You're welcome. 190 Days :   22 Hours :   29 Minutes :   16 Seconds You missed out! Will you be ready? The Great North Run Half-Marathon The following information details everything you need to know about the largest half marathon in the world. 57,000 runners are scheduled to take part in the 2021 event. The 2021 Great North Run da ..read more

Would you like to know how fast you could run a half marathon? I'm quite often asked by runners how fast I think they could complete a half marathon. It's quite normal for people to consider the best performance that they're capable of.  It's also quite normal to wonder how well you might perform at other race distances based on your average running pace in training. Though there's more to predicting race performance than your average pace for a leisurely trot around the block. Target race time If however, you'd like to achieve a specific target half marathon finish time. Then the pace ..read more

Unless you live in the desert, you're going to experience rain from time to time. If like me, you live in the Northern Hemisphere or other temperate climate zone you may experience rain a lot of the time. In particular in Winter months. So, if you're training for a race, there will very likely be several occasions when you just have to suck-it-up and get out and run in the rain. Or risk missing valuable training time. With the right mindset and kit choices - running in the rain should not be a problem - and it can even be fun. There are different kinds of rainy weather though and dif ..read more

Fartlek runs can be a fun and versatile addition to any runner's training plan. In this article, I'm going to cover everything you need to know about this adaptable workout so that you can avoid the potential pitfalls and get the most out of each session. Table of Contents What are Fartlek runs? and why such a funny-sounding name? Who invented Fartlek? How do you do a Fartlek session? Don't overthink it - Just Play Run by feel  Work to rest ratio Where is a good place to run a Fartlek session?  How often should you do a Fartlek workout?  Are Fartlek Runs Suitable fo ..read more

Have you ever wondered how fast you could run a marathon? I'm quite often asked by runners how fast I think they could complete a marathon. It's quite normal for people to consider the best performance that they're capable of.  It's also quite normal to wonder how well you might perform at longer distance races based on your average running pace. Though there's more to predicting race performance than your average pace for a leisurely trot around the block. Target race time If however, you'd like to achieve a specific target marathon finish time. Then the pace charts below could be quit ..read more