Where should I run?
Ideally, we would all run in scenic or interesting surroundings so parks and open countryside are good places to run, and they generally avoid traffic too. Soft, even surfaces are best. If you’re running in built up areas, tarmac road surfaces are better than concrete footpaths but traffic is a problem so you should wear something that makes you highly visible and run facing oncoming traffic. As suggested in Session One in the Learning Zone, get a map of the locality in which you’ll be running. You may be surprised at the number of footpaths there are near you and you can use these to link up longer routes as your training progresses.
It’s a good idea to plan circular routes unless you can be taken to the end of a linear one so that you can run home. If you’re a beginner, a flat(ish) route is ideal. You can introduce hills (following your training plans) as you progress.
Finally, remember that if you’re running in the dark, some routes may not be suitable for the lone runner. Quiet, poorly-lit footpaths may have to be kept for a Saturday morning.
Ironically, and contrary to popular belief, large cities area usually better serviced with open spaces, parks, canal towpaths and playing fields etc whilst rural locations sometimes present difficulties with regard to access and poorly maintained footpaths. If you drive to a running location, don’t forget to take a set of clean, dry clothes for the journey home.
Other FAQs in this category (Great2Run) :
- Some of the G2R assessments seem awfully repetitive! Why is this?
- I’m several weeks into my programme but the computer now says it can’t find my data file!
- What if I can run the programme but not save data?
- What if the DVD doesn’t work at all in my computer?
- My computer has crashed. Can I still use the DVD?
- What if my disk doesn’t load automatically?
- Do I need to be a computer expert to do this course?
- I’m experiencing pain at the back of my leg just above my heel. What might this be?
- I’ve just been for my first run and my throat and lungs caused me more discomfort than my legs. What’s going on?
- Do I need any equipment other than shoes and clothes?
- Can I use the training plans again for a new event and distance?
- What if 20 weeks isn’t long enough for me to prepare for my event?
- How on earth am I supposed to find the time to do all of this training (and learning!)?
- How far should I run?
- How fast should I run?
- What happens if I become injured?
- What happens if I can’t keep up with my training plan?
- Should I have a running buddy?
- Should I join a club?
- When is the best time to train?
- What should I wear to run in?
- Is it necessary to get medical clearance before I start my training?
- Can anyone do the Great2Run BTEC First Certificate in Sport?
- How come the programme is free of charge?
- How will I know if I’ve passed?
- What happens if I fail the course?
- Do I have to sit in front of the computer all the time?
- Do I have to do the sessions in the Learning Zone in order?
- What if I miss a session in the Learning Zone?
- Do I have to send work to the College?
- How do the assessments work?
- What happens if there’s something I don’t understand?
- What sort of time commitment will I have to make to do the learning?
- When can I start?
- Will I have to go to the College to enrol?
- I’ve never done any distance learning before. Is it difficult?
« all FAQs
Registry Tool
Download the Registry Tool. This utility helps you backup and restore your Great2Run data. Read this FAQ for more information.