Runners who are working towards a charity event or challenge are more motivated accroding to new reserch carried out earlier this year. Christian Aid found that 60% of 18 – 34 year old runners said that they felt they were more likely to train harder and commit to a regular exercise routine if they have signed up to a runnng race for charity.

Many Charities reserve places at some of the more popular running events which are often difficult to get places for such as The London Marathon and The Great North Run. The great thing is that there are charity events and places for all distances and all abilities – everything from the Race 4 Life 5K which supports Cancer Research to 10Ks, 1/2 marathons and even the full 26.2 mile marathon. Running for charity is a brilliant way of securing your place at some of the best races in the country – although there is usually a minimum sposorship requirement to prevent freeloaders!

Many Charities will also provide you with moral support throughout your training and the race. Christian Aid provide runners of the Great North Run with training programmes, nutritional advice, fundraising tips and even a free foot massage after the run itself! – dont forget – the Great North Run is taking place on 20th of September and the closing day for entries is 1st July. This is a really popular race so it is important to book your place as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

Leggit.co.uk offer a range of training programmes which will get you to half marathon standard in a minimum of 12 weeks, if you’re thinking of taking part on an event such as The Great North Run, or a Half Marathon near you, take a look at our free training guides to help you get off on the right foot. Alternatively, use our events guide to find a running race near you.