The SimplyHealth Great North Run

What You Get:

Exclusive Medal And T-Shirt
Goodie-Filled Finisher’S Pack
Timing Chip For Accurate Results
Free Training And Advice
Security Of Closed Roads
Be Part Of The World’S Most Iconic Half Marathon

Top tips for event day success:

Last minute preparation

Get your kit ready the day before to avoid rushing around on the morning of the event and pack clothes appropriate for the potential weather conditions. Run in comfortable kit that you have worn during training. This includes everything from your running shoes and socks to your underwear and top. New kit may cause chafing, blisters or general discomfort.

Don't run on empty

No matter how nervous you feel before an event, don't run on empty. Toast and jam, cereal with milk or even a banana smoothie will fuel your efforts. Eat at least two hours before your event, to allow time for digestion.

Don't overdress

While you don't want to get cold and wet on the start line, avoid the temptation to overdress. Wear a bin liner over your running garb to keep rain off or a top layer that you can peel off and throw away once you warm up (perhaps buy some old gear from a charity shop).

Be lav savvy

Toilet queues are an occupational hazard for runners, so allow plenty of time for your pre-run visit to the loo. But once you've been, try to resist the urge to go again - it's most likely nerves (especially if you don't customarily need to go three times an hour!) The chances are you'll forget all about the urge once you've started running.

Organise your fans!

Try to have as many friends and family out there as possible on the day. Remember to get your name printed on the front of your t-shirt or vest - hearing your name called, even by a total stranger, is hugely motivating. All Great Run events feature your name on your timing chip which you attach to your top – you are more than just a number.

Stick to the familiar

You've probably heard the advice about never doing anything on race day that you haven't tried in training. (That's why you aren't going to set off on race day in a brand spanking new pair of trainers.... promise!) But the rule also applies to food and drink. If you've never eaten mini mars bars, orange segments or bananas on the run, then politely decline them from well-meaning spectators - you just don't know how your body might react.

Keep your head up

As you get tired, you may find that your head drops and you're looking at your feet. This not only tips your torso forward, making your running technique less efficient, it can also sap your spirit, because you aren't making eye contact with fellow runners or spectators. Keeping your head up gives you a much more confidence stance and sends a positive message to your subconscious mind. Once you are on the final few miles, pick out a runner and try to catch them up. Even if you don't manage it, it gives you something to focus on.

Enjoy yourself

Whether you are hell bent on achieving a new personal best time or simply making it to the finish line in one piece, try to enjoy the journey as well as the destination. You've put so much into preparing for this big day, so savour it and be proud of yourself.

Beyond the finish line

When you cross the finish line (and you will!), don't stop suddenly. Keep moving while your heart rate and breathing rate get back to normal. And remember to stretch out your muscles (unless they are very sore and tender, in which case it's best to leave stretching for another day). Eat and drink something within the first half hour of finishing and change into some warm dry clothes and footwear.