B-RACE YOURSELF

The best way to keep yourself motivated is to sign up to a race and work yourself up to the distance. Here’s our pick of the best…

THE COLOR RUN, VARIOUS LOCATIONS DISTANCE: 5K

Billed as “the happiest 5k on the planet”, entrants are showered with bursts of bright dye and even foam. Races take place nationwide and cost £25. Find out about your nearest event at Thecolorrun.co.uk.

THE GREAT MANCHESTER RUN, MANCHESTER DISTANCE: 10K

There’s a real party atmosphere to this mid-distance race, which attracts a stream of locals eager to offer refreshments and plenty of music en route. The next event is on 28 May and costs £38 to enter. Visit Greatrun.org.

GREAT NORTH RUN, NEWCASTLE DISTANCE: HALF MARATHON

The largest race of this distance in the world, it takes in the beautiful scenery of the North East through Newcastle and South Shields. This year’s takes place on 10 September and costs £54 to enter. Go to Greatrun.org.

VIRGIN MONEY LONDON MARATHON, LONDON DISTANCE: FULL MARATHON

The ballot opens for next year’s event shortly after the 2017 race. There is huge demand to run this iconic route, so keep an eye out for announcements at Virginmoneylondonmarathon.com if you want to nab one of the 50,000 places.