All the right moves: how to run your first race

What’s next?

• If you’re ready for a fresh target, you might want to try and run the same distance more quickly. This means gradually establishing a faster pace on your 40-minute training runs.
• Or, you might fancy running further. This means sticking to your original pace, but pushing your running duration up to 50 minutes, then 55, then the full hour and even beyond.
• Don’t become obsessed with times and distances. There’s nothing more tedious than a runner rattling off the minutiae of his or her training sessions.
• The longer you run, the more tired you will be and the more likely you are to compromise your form. When you’re tired, efficient technique is essential. If you feel you’re running sloppily, then walk, have a breather and re-establish good form.
• A five-mile or ten-kilometre run (6.2 miles) is ideal as a follow-up challenge. But only find a race to enter when you’re confident that you can run steadily for an hour. Remember, your motivation is to get fit and have fun.

How to find your first race

If you feel inspired by the marathon, you should think about taking part in a local race.

The ‘Race for Life’ five-kilometre women-only runs take place each summer around Britain. Funds raised go to the Imperial Cancer Research Fund. For more information, click on www.raceforlife.co.uk.

For details about other runs all over the country, go to the directories at www.realrunner.com.

Good luck!