Whether you're thinking about running for the first time or you're an experienced runner looking for the best tips, pass that finish line with inspirational advice from British distance runner Liz Yelling.
- When exercising wear what you feel comfortable in. It also needs to be practical. It's not sensible to go out running in your jeans because they're going to restrict your movement. They're going to make you feel really rigid and you won't feel very good when you're running. Price wise, there are some really affordable clothes out there and you can find something that will suit you and the sport you choose to do.
- Be gentle on yourself and start off with a realistic activity programme. It might just be walking to start with or doing some team sports. It doesn't have to be running. There are so many things out there and it's about getting out in the fresh air.
- Being healthy is also about doing some sort of activity. Do something you enjoy and don't force it. People think 'I've got to run to lose weight.' They sprint to the end of the road and they're huffing and puffing. Then they think 'That's it, I knew I couldn't do it.' That's because they've taken on too much too soon.
- It's about being aware of what you put inside your body. Most people don't know that what they're eating is bad for them. You need to learn about what foods are good for you and what foods are bad for you. You could go on a cooking course and learn how to cook.
- Take your time. Don't be too hard on yourself. If you decide you want to start running, a walk/run programme is probably the best place to start. Do small loops around your local area so you don't run somewhere and find you can't get back again. Just do some short laps initially until you feel your fitness improving. Then it's about reducing the time you walk and trying to increase the length of time you run.
- Stay hydrated and make sure that you're eating the right foods. Have some carbohydrates two or three hours before you go out for your run. Starving yourself isn't going to fuel you properly for running. Run at a pace that's comfortable for you. If you feel that your breathing is getting difficult then back off. It doesn't have to hurt if you're just running for fun. It's about being realistic and gentle.
- It's not about comparing yourself to everyone else. It's about being the best that you can be. So many people are afraid of failing, they never try anything. Failing can be great because you learn about yourself. It makes you feel alive when you achieve things. Just have a go, get out there and do something!
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