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Blog Post: Bugathon winners announced! - Week one

therunningbug — Mon, 20 May 2013 14:08:00 GMT

We’re delighted to announce the first winners of The Great Bugathon Giveaway!

25 lucky Bugs have won one of our very own bugdanas!

Whether you use this incredibly versatile bit of kit as a hairband, headband, wristband, mask, or a neckerchief, you’ll be able to stand out from the crowd and connect with your fellow Bugs!

Check below to see if you’ve won!

Bugdana winners!

1. chrisaylmer
40.65 miles

2. aghidau
18.8 miles

3. JPryer
17.29 miles

4. new body wanted
16.3 miles

5. Alien66
13.22 miles

6. keldoll
11.42 miles

7. aandyv8
8.66 miles

8. carolhaylett
8.41 miles

9. malakita
5 miles

10. tazzygirl
36.6 miles

11. Bathford Dixon
3.87 miles

12. Trink
41.12 miles

13. gavtris
2.89 miles

14. alex rob martin
0.99 miles

15. lehorse
34.19 miles

16. Martin Hopkinson
23.73 miles

17. pault49
25 miles

18. Paula Gibson
24.85 miles

19. daffy65
16.3 miles

20. Book ladybug
7.8 miles

21. James Daly
6.44 miles

22. Lisa Speedy Hunt
6 miles

23. fireblade1964
24.36 miles

24. swiftbyname
20 miles

25. nigeruns
15 miles

Congrats to all of the above!

If you haven’t been lucky this week, don’t worry – we have hundreds more top prizes to giveaway.

This week you have the chance to win a pair of the latest Brooks specialist running shoes – and if you win you’ll get to choose any pair in the Brooks range!

This means you’ll receive the perfect fit, style, and support, in line with your running needs!

And to qualify for the stunning star prize -- a running holiday in the Algarve – simply log 15 runs in total over the course of the competition. Please see terms and conditions.

Every time you go for a run, simply log your miles, add to the total – and win prizes!

Prizes will be sent out on completion of The Great Bugathon Giveaway competition.

More from The Running Bug

Running Discussion Forum	Running Injury Advice	Food, Nutrition & Weight Loss	Running Training Tips, Tools & Plans
Join the conversation in our buzzing forums. Over 100,000 runners are already talking!	Avoid running injuries by following our advice on how to prepare your body for running.	Running to lose weight? Get your diet right to shed pounds and enjoy running.	Training advice, free training tools and loads more training plans for runners.

New to the Running Bug?

We're the online community for runners with over 125,000 members! Join today - it's free and easy - and you'll get access to all our running events, training schedules and advice, shop, groups, blogs and forums.

You will also be able to share and communicate with the running community in bugmiles and the great debate.

JOIN THE RUNNING BUG HERE! It's free and takes just 30 seconds.

Blog Post: The Running Bug Ultimate Playlist

therunningbug — Thu, 16 May 2013 13:43:00 GMT

Last week, we asked you for your Ultimate Running Song on The Running Bug Facebook Page and received a fantastic response, with over 100 replies!

There were all kinds of songs from every genre imaginable, and we've taken as many as we could find and put them all on one playlist; The Running Bug Ultimate Playlist - enjoy!

More from The Running Bug

Running Discussion Forum	Running Injury Advice	Food, Nutrition & Weight Loss	Running Training Tips, Tools & Plans
Join the conversation in our buzzing forums. Over 100,000 runners are already talking!	Avoid running injuries by following our advice on how to prepare your body for running.	Running to lose weight? Get your diet right to shed pounds and enjoy running.	Training advice, free training tools and loads more training plans for runners.

New to the Running Bug?

We're the online community for runners with over 120,000 members! Join today - it's free and easy - and you'll get access to all our running events, training schedules and advice, shop, groups, blogs and forums.

You will also be able to share and communicate with the running community in bugmiles and the great debate.

JOIN THE RUNNING BUG HERE! It's free and takes just 30 seconds.

Blog Post: Bug of the Month: Maddie Moate

therunningbug — Thu, 02 May 2013 13:10:00 GMT

WELCOME to a brand new feature - Bug of the Month.

This new community feature will highlight one Bug's special achievements and give you a chance to find out a little bit more about them in our short questionaire.

To kick things off, we have chosen a special Bug you may have spotted on the forums this week. We certainly noticed the phenomenal response her London Marathon vlog received and we wanted to showcase not only her fantastic running achievements, but also her amazing video skills.

Her name is Maddie Moate, she runs for 40 minutes, two/three times a week and she has just completed her first Virgin London Marathon.

Take a look at her vlog - how to run the 2013 London Marathon! (a vlog from two sides)

We got in contact with Maddie to ask her about her running.

Tell us a little bit about yourself...

I am a YouTube digital presenter and wildlife enthusiast. I love to be creative, see the world and seek new experiences. This year I embarked on my first marathon and loved it! Think I've got the bug ;-)

1. What is your running nick name? e.g. Speedy Gonzales or Steve ‘The Snail’ Smith

Those who have seen my vlog may suggest, "T*ts and A**e', but I prefer, "The Vlogger Jogger".

2. How long have you been running and why did you start?

I've always jogged, but I started running seriously when I became the only family member to have not run a marathon.

3. What is the one thing you never run without?

House key. Such a nightmare if you forget that. (It has happened!)

4. You are coming to the end of an epic run, what song do you put on your iPod to get you across the finish line?

The Jurassic Park theme song by the one and only musical genius, John Williams.

5. What is your proudest running achievement?

Sharing a 30 second silence with 35,000 VLM runners as tribute for the victims of the Boston Marathon bombings.

6. You have been stranded on a desert island, what three items would you want with you and why?

A spade to make epic sandcastles, a camera and some chocolate covered pretzels (self explanatory)

7. Where is your favourite place to run and why?

I enjoy running past the Peace Pagoda in Battersea Park, my moment of calm in a very busy London.

8. You have just woken up from the best running dream, what happened?

I was being chased by Ryan Gosling. He caught me REALLY fast.

Have you checked out Maddie's London Marathon vlog? Has she tempted you to run the 2014 London Marathon or have you just discovered Ryan Gosling is dream cheating on you and have gone to run off the anger? Either way we hope you enjoyed our first Bug of the Month interview with Maddie.

Until next time...

Training for a marathon

Our marathon section will take you through everything you need to know to train for a marathon.

Running Bug forums

Opinions, discussions, advice and general chit chat all about all things running.

Marathon training group

If you're training for a marathon then post every training session and share your tips. A great way to stay focused on your training schedule.

Blog Post: Enough Bugs to Overflow the Olympic Stadium!

therunningbug — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 14:50:00 GMT

Running Bugs everywhere, it’s time to celebrate yet another astonishing landmark! On the 8 of April, griffx76 became the 125,000th member of The Running Bug. Thanks for taking us to this landmark, griffx76, on behalf of the entire community!

This is something we’re all extremely proud of and YOU should be too, because without your contribution in the groups, forums, debates and on bugmiles, none of this would’ve been possible in the first place. The next 125,000 should take no time at all…

For some perspective on what it is we’ve accomplished, have a read of these fun facts below, sure to put a smile on any proud bug’s face:

125,000 people would fill up Stratford’s Olympic Stadium, with enough left over to fill Anfield in Merseyside too!
125,000 is the population of Norwich… Reckon they’d let us have it?
The world record for the highest free fall is 125,000 feet, by Felix Baumgartner, in October last year.
125,000 people holding hands in a line would reach from The London Eye to The Angel of the North in Newcastle. Shall we try it?
125,000 steps taken by the average adult would equal the same distance as the London to Brighton Challenge; 100km. Anyone taking part can dedicate a step for every Bug!

Finally for today, we wouldn’t have such a fantastic, responsive, encouraging community to enjoy without a few people at the centre of it all, starting conversations and debates, sharing their experiences and generally doing their bit for fellow Bugs. So below are The Running Bug’s most engaging members to date - why not see if you can make the list next time around?

Most engaging on the forums

1. Respect the stupidity
1490 replies

2. Westie
1451 replies

3. AdamT
1391 replies

4. Runaway nan
1081 replies

5. Johnnyg
686 replies

Most engaging on BugDebates

1. Emso
26 votes

2. Westie
25 votes

3. Shea
23 votes

4. Sharalou
22 votes

5. Djhughes2
21 votes

Top sharers on Facebook and Twitter

1. Mike7
72 shares

2. Phil T
64 shares

3. Cathymmc
49 shares

4. NBradley
42 shares

5. Mlyadc
42 shares

Congrats to all of the above!

Make sure to keep your eyes peeled, as you never know when the next landmark will come along and NEED to be celebrated!

Until then, thanks for the continued support – we appreciate it!

The Running Bug Team

More from The Running Bug

Running Discussion Forum	Running Injury Advice	Food, Nutrition & Weight Loss	Running Training Tips, Tools & Plans
Join the conversation in our buzzing forums. Over 100,000 runners are already talking!	Avoid running injuries by following our advice on how to prepare your body for running.	Running to lose weight? Get your diet right to shed pounds and enjoy running.	Training advice, free training tools and loads more training plans for runners.

New to the Running Bug?

You will also be able to share and communicate with the running community in bugmiles and the great debate.

JOIN THE RUNNING BUG HERE! It's free and takes just 30 seconds.

Blog Post: Stop The Press! The Running Bug Reaches 100,000 Miles Logged!

therunningbug — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 13:35:00 GMT

Bugs everywhere, it’s time to party! February 15^th will go down in history as the day The Running Bug reached 100,000 miles logged! That really is an incredible achievement, especially considering we had no idea what kind of reaction this community would give Bugmiles when we launched it around four and a half months ago!

Don't stop now! Keep logging and get us to the next landmark.

But lo and behold, the reaction has been beyond fantastic – there really aren’t enough superlatives to do justice to how much of a success this idea has been!

The Bug to get us over the big 100,000 mile mark was lynsk, also known as Paul, who logged our 100,000^th mile at 01:02 AM on February 15^th with a five mile run in 44m 49s which he described as a “5 mile effort before night shift”. Thanks lynsk!

Here's evidence of the moment bugmiles hit the big 100,000 miles:

But remember, this was a team effort, with bugs up and down the country making contributions – and every mile counts! So, from all of us at The Running Bug, a massive thank you to all of you Bugmilers out there!

Just before you leave us to go and log some more miles, here are some cool Bugmiles tidbits to interest you:

Top loggers

Most engaging

Congrats to all of the above, let’s keep logging those miles and spurring each other on to try and keep breaking these records all the time!

Keep your eyes on The Running Bug, as we’re always working on improving the site, including some sexy new features coming soon to Bugmiles!

So until next time, happy running and happy logging!

The Running Bug Team.

Don't stop now! Keep logging and get us to the next landmark.

More from The Running Bug

Running Discussion Forum	Running Injury Advice	Food, Nutrition & Weight Loss	Running Training Tips, Tools & Plans
Join the conversation in our buzzing forums. Over 100,000 runners are already talking!	Avoid running injuries by following our advice on how to prepare your body for running.	Running to lose weight? Get your diet right to shed pounds and enjoy running.	Training advice, free training tools and loads more training plans for runners.

New to the Running Bug?

You will also be able to share and communicate with the running community in bugmiles and the great debate.

JOIN THE RUNNING BUG HERE! It's free and takes just 30 seconds.

Blog Post: 5 Ways To Love Autumn Running

The Running Bug — Wed, 17 Oct 2012 10:49:00 GMT

If you've got a place in the London Marathon you’ll be thinking about marathon training. Or maybe it’s your time to get in shape for Christmas? Or perhaps you are a beginner runner who wants to move on to the next level?

Whatever your reason for running now, this week we celebrate Autumn – the weather, the colours, the Sunday Roasts – and of course – the running!

“It was one of those perfect English autumnal days which occur more frequently in memory than in life,” said, P.D. James. Okay, this is probably true, but let’s make the most of those perfect days! A bright, cool, crisp Autumn day is dream-like for runners. And as outdoor types we can really appreciate the colours of the changing season as the leaves take on gold, red and yellow hues
Club runners and racers turn their minds to cross-country. Don’t think this is the exclusive realm of the elites. Cross country will get you super-fit as you take on the challenge of training on the hills and off-road running. New to it? See popular Bug blogger Kim Ingleby’s top tips for cross country.
Eat well: a Sunday roast and a glass of red wine after a long Autumn run – can you beat it? For some post-run meals, check out Go Faster Food Author, Kate Percy’s Autum recipes.
If you do get the blues when the days get shorter, go for a morning run as early morning light is most effective in suppressing melatonin.
An article in Psychology Today discusses the energy of our changing seasons. “Autumn’s associated element is metal – from which we gather strength and endurance, sturdiness,” says the author. The perfect time then to build an aerobic base in preparation for your Spring marathon.

Tell us the reasons you love running at this time of year in our comments box below – or add your comments about your Autumn run to the fantastic new share box when you log your miles in bugmiles.

The Share box allows you to share your comments and your bugmiles with all your friends on Facebook and Twitter. Simply add your comment, click one, or both options, authorize the app, and see your Running Bug activity appear.

And, when you have your say in the Great Debate, use the Share box to spread the word on Facebook and Twitter and help heat things up with some lively discussion!

More from The Running Bug

How to Move from Walking to Running	Hill Training Explained	Cross Country and Off Road Injury Prevention Tips	Base Training for Runners Explained
If walking is no longer pushing you, maybe it's time to start some running.	Running coach Fiona Bugler explains hill training, what the benefits are and how to do it.	Kim Ingleby's five top tips to avoid injury when running off road.	Base training is the foundation of any running schedule, and is particularly relevant to marathon runners.

New to the Running Bug?

We're the online community for runners with over 100,000 members! Join today - it's free and easy - and you'll get access to all our running events, training schedules and advice, shop, groups, blogs and forums.

You will also be able to share and communicate with the running community in bugmiles and the great debate.

JOIN THE RUNNING BUG HERE! It's free and takes just 30 seconds.

Blog Post: 10 Ways to Be A Runner – And Still Look Great!

The Running Bug — Wed, 10 Oct 2012 09:01:00 GMT

This week at the Running Bug, dating is on our minds. We’ve just launched The Running Bug Dating site. If you do find love, why not try out a big city marathon? We’ve got a run down of the Five Most Romantic Cities For a Marathon. Whether single or with a lover, the 10 tips below will keep you looking gorgeous whilst you’re on the run!

We know running is great for your sex life, we know why running makes you sexy and we love running! This week we’ve got Six Reasons Why It’s Great To Date A Runner. But like everything in life, balance is key. If you over-train, mess up your eating and get stressed trying to fit it all in, then running can make you look a bit emaciated, drawn, tired – and frankly not that sexy!

Here are 10 top tips from the Running Bug team on how to stay looking good and push on with your training.

1. Sleep deprived…? Don’t let it go over three nights. If you do lose sleep for three nights, invest in a good concealer for the eyes. Avoid training too late at night as you’ll be buzzing and find it hard to wind down. Still sruggling to sleep? Try lavender drops on the pillow and a special protein/carb hot chocolate drink like SIS Nocte.

2. Drink lots of water and stay hydrated. Water and water-rich food is great for dehydrated tired skin, and for giving you a healthier glow.

3. Prepare for early starts. Last week, Ryan Tubridy covering for Chris Evans on BBC Radio 2’s Breakfast Show, talked about the incredible hunger pangs following early morning starts. The more tired you are, the hungrier you will feel. After an early morning run, keep control of hunger pangs through the day by drinking a protein/carb drink immediately after your run, and filling up on slow release carbs, like oats, for breakfast.

4. Going on a date? If you’ve got a great body from running flaunt it! You don’t need to wear your cool-down tracky bottoms and a fleece all the time. Dress to impress!

5. On the run. Choose compression gear for hiding lumps and bumps – or for showing off your best bits. There's no excuse to not look good in running gear, with most brands co-ordinating colour and style with functionality and technology.

6. Train to tone. Try hill reps for a tight bottom and add in some running-specific resistance work and cross training for a strong running body, that looks good, too.

7. Don’t forget to rest. Read popular blogger, The Reluctant Runner’s take on Rest Days.

8. Invest in a good moisturizer. Make sure it has SPF 15 for all-year-round protection. It’s good for both guys and gals – and keeps the haggard look at bay.

9. Start dating! Don’t be shy, get online and find a whole host of running singles looking for love at The Running Bug Dating. Knowing there’s a prospect of love is a great motivator to go shopping for new gear, keep on top of your personal grooming – and look the best you can!

10. Don’t over-treat. Don’t rely on running alone to keep you slim. You can get into the habit of over-eating and over-treating just because you’re running. It can take an hour to burn off 500 calories, and just two minutes to eat that – so take care with post-run treats. And get the balance right. This week ultramarathoner, Jon Mackintosh’s wonders if the combination of a low calorie intake and high mileage may have had a negative impact on his metabolism.

More from The Running Bug

The 5 Most Romantic Marathon Cities	6 Reasons Why Running is Great for Your Sex Life	6 Reasons Why it's Great to Date a Runner	Running Makes You Sexy!
Marry romance with running and take a city-break with a marathon thrown in.	Here's something you might not have expected as a result of your running regime - improved bedroom Olympics!	Here are some reasons why it’s great to date a fellow runner.	Sex appeal could be a major motivator to up the weekly mileage!

New to the Running Bug?

You will also be able to share and communicate with the running community in bugmiles and the great debate.

JOIN THE RUNNING BUG HERE! It's free and takes just 30 seconds.

Blog Post: The Big City Race Month: 10 Tips for a Big Race Weekend

The Running Bug — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 16:10:00 GMT

Editor Fiona Bugler is just back from The Berlin Marathon. Below are 10 tips for anyone taking part in a Big City Race this Autumn.

October is a great month for a Big City Race. In the UK we’ve got marathons in Liverpool, and Leicester, and abroad there are events in Dublin, Frankfurt, Gothenberg and of course come November, there’s the New York Marathon.

It’s not just marathons, other popular runs include the Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon, and the Bupa Great South Run (10 miles) – plus a whole host of other half marathons (Windsor, Oxford, the Great Eastern). One common theme for all of these big races is that they will raise huge amounts of cash for charity.

If you haven’t got into London on the ballot, you can still enter by doing your bit for charity. Check out the Running Bug’s Guide to Running For Charity. And on the subject of the ballot, why not get involved in this week’s Great Debate – The Ballot System for the London Marathon Should be Changed to Make it Fairer – you decide, are you for or against?

If you do get into London, you’ll find that running a big city race is different to turning up at your local fun run. Here’s ways to make the most of your big weekend of running.

Turn it into a romantic Bridget Jones-style mini break Not got a partner? Then check out our new dating site for running singles, coming live to you this week!
Plan your weekend so you're not too tired If you have to go to an Expo, don’t ‘shop til you drop’ and make sure you plan your trips well, getting lost in a new city can lead to extra miles of walking you won’t need before the race.
Staying in a hotel – water watch? Bring your own bottled water so you’re not tempted to pay 10 Euros for a bottle you desperately grab from the mini-bar!
Find a hotel with a spa (if budget allows). A nice relaxing sauna and steam before and after the race does wonders for relaxation (before) and DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) (after).
Protect your assets! Flying? Wear your trainers and watch – just in case your luggage gets lost en-route.
Pack gels and snacks Check Fiona’s pre-marathon checklist for more ideas.
Sightseeing Before or after the race, it can be exhausting. It might be cheesy, but jump on a city tour double decker bus – and save your legs.
Pay your Charity Quick Cough up immediately after the race, and if you have time send out some thank you emails and cards to those who’ve donated.
Try out your T-shirt If you've been give a top from your charity, try to wear it before the race to check for chaffing.
Your medal Yes you can wear it when you go out at night and your post race T-shirt, trainers and Garmin, too. If you’re feeling proud, why not show it off? Plus, wearing the gear means you can then talk running and splits to other runners freely!

It might also help to check out this week's latest article, 7 Common Mistakes Runners Make (And How to Fix Them. And, if you do find love on our new dating site or, if you have already have a lover who you just want to impress, why not try these Autumn Recipes for a healthy, wholesome and running friendly dinner!

Would you wear your medal when you go out after the race? Any other tips, add your comments below?

More from The Running Bug

The Great City Race: Can you Beat the Bug	How to Improve Race Times	The NYRR's Very Bad Idea	5 Key Reasons Why Your Should Race
Fiona reports back on the Great City Race...	If you're struggling to improve your Personal Best then these tips will help you go faster than ever.	Late last week the New York Road Runners announced a new and, in my opinion, bad policy.	Why racing yourself fit is a great way to be a better runner.

New to the Running Bug?

You will also be able to share and communicate with the running community in bugmiles and the great debate.

JOIN THE RUNNING BUG HERE! It's free and takes just 30 seconds.

Blog Post: Running To Lose Weight: 5 top tips!

The Running Bug — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 11:08:00 GMT

This week our Editor, Fiona Bugler, has some top tips on how to run to lose weight – and we want to tell you about a fantastic Polar GPS device we’ve got on offer for the top member of our running family…

There are thousands of reasons to run (we listed 10 Reasons To Run in this blog), but for many of us the number one thing that gets us out the door is to lose or to maintain a certain weight.

One of the big trouble spots when you’re trying to drop a dress size is the belly. That familiar tight waistband is usually the first sign that you might need to take some action, and get fit! This week we've got 5 Top Running and Diet Tips to Trim Your Waist.

If you’re trying to lose weight, make sure that you do the following:

Run regularly and be consistent and follow these tips to fit running into your lifestyle.
Joining a group of like-minded runners, like the Running Bug’s Run Yourself Slim Group. It’s also great to join a running club or find a running buddy who will help you stick at it.
Run intervals for super calorie burning in a short space of time.
Get the whole family running and active. Make it your life! Check out the Busy Mum’s Guide To Running.
Eat Right. Man (or woman) cannot lose weight by exercise alone. Follow a well-planned diet for runners. And make sure you eat breakfast every day!

We know there’s more to running than being the best way to lose weight. In this week’s Great Debate 71 per cent of you agreed with our statement, Running Isn’t Sexy Enough To Motivate Youngsters. Getting the family fit and creating our own Olympic legacy is something we can all do.

This month we want to reward the Running Bug member who adds the most comments of support and encouragement to the fastest growing section of our site, bugmiles – a place where you can log your runs and chat with fellow runners. We’ve got a fantastic, super slim and stylish, Polar RC3, with fully integrated GPS and heart rate monitor, worth £249.50 to give away to the person who comments the most…

Finally, if you’re in Berlin this week join our Editor, Fiona Bugler on the Running Bug Forum. She’s hoping to run sub 3.15 and is catching a very early flight on Saturday morning!

More from The Running Bug

7 Reasons Why Runners Stay Slim	Top 3 Ways to Boost Weight Loss	Food, Nutrition & Weight Loss	8 Ways to Stop Cheating on Your Diet
Here's seven reasons why running makes it easy for you to keep on top of your weight.	Running is a great way to lose weight and the lighter you are the more efficient runner you become.	Running to lose weight? Get your diet right to shed pounds and enjoy running.	One of the reasons dieters 'cheat' is that they're often so strict with themselves that they end up feeling deprived.

New to the Running Bug?

JOIN THE RUNNING BUG HERE! It's free and takes just 30 seconds.

Blog Post: This Running Bug Is Spreading...

The Running Bug — Tue, 18 Sep 2012 09:42:00 GMT

This week we celebrate hitting 100,000 members and some of you share your experience of the Great North Run.

Yes, we want to say it again, we’ve hit 100,000 members, that’s a full Wembley stadium, plus 10,000 outside wanting to get in. The good news is, you’re all welcome at the Running Bug and we’ve got room for you to join in the fun: to run, share, and support each other!

This week we’d like to say a big ‘Well Done’ to all of the 40,000 runners who took part in Sunday’s Great North Run. We put together an article last week listing some Kit Bag Essentials for the big day. If you’re doing a half marathon, check it out.

Bugmiles our ‘social training’ site continues to go from strength to strength. Today we’re at 7,800 miles, and the target of going round the globe is coming tantalizing close (that’s a cool 24,901.5 miles). If you’re wondering why it’s good to record what you do, check out our article, Five reasons To Keep A Training Log

The key to running injury-free is to avoid yo-yo running, says new blogger and physio, Sammy Margo. Like yo-yo dieting, stop-start running is the thing that causes knee problems, and it’s consistency that matters. So keep logging those miles.

Finally, last week we asked you to let us know how you got on at The Great North Run (#GNR #greatrun).

Here are some of your stories and comments from the big day:

Kerry Carter (kcarter)

“I ran my first GNR this year for the Brain Research Trust (picture left). My mum was diagnosed with a brain tumour three years ago so I thought it was my way of doing my bit. It was the hardest but most exciting and rewarding thing I've ever done. The crowds got me round and I finished in 2.55. I was doing well until 10 miles, then had to walk. Thanks to Julie, a lady who I hadn’t met before, but who kept me going for that last.”

Carla Pole

“This was my first half marathon and first ever Great North Run. I chose to raise money for the Alzheimers’ Society because my grandad has vascular dementia. The race is indescribable – to see so many people of all different ages and abilities running for different causes is amazing. It takes your breath away, especially when people run in memory of their children and friends. Running 13.1 miles was worth the aches and pains the next day (and no doubt the days to follow). Oh, and I finished in 2:23:45 – not bad for a first-timer!”

Bonodog (right)

“My quest to run the GNR began in November 2011 when I was diagnosed with diabetes, I set myself some goals and this was one of them and allowed me to raise funds for Marie Curie Cancer care too. It took over 20 minutes to get across the start line because of the huge numbers running. The run itself was exhausting but the camaraderie of the other runners urging each other on and the wonderful spectators 'high-fiving' us and giving us jelly beans and biscuits kept me going.”

William Clooney

"What an awesome experience. My initial feelings of anxiousness soon disappeared as I was swept along with the atmosphere and the enormous crowd lining the complete route. It was my first serious run in 30 years and I was pleased to finish in 2hrs 27 mins 50 secs. I'm already registering for next year and adjusting my training to knock that 27 mins off."

TELL US YOUR GREAT NORTH RUN STORY AND DROP IN YOUR PICTURES IN THE COMMENTS BOX BELOW... AND LOOK OUT FOR OUR GREAT NORTH RUN SLIDESHOW – EVERY PICTURE TELLS A STORY – COMING TOMORROW!

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Running Wrecks Your Knees: How to Tick Off a Runner	World Record Attempt - 345 miles in 4 Days	The Beast: Foam Roller	Top 3 Inspirational Moments from London 2012
Why the hell do people that don’t run, people that have never run, dislike it so damn much?!	After over a year of planning and preparation there is now less than a week to go before my World Record attempt begins.	Want your work colleagues to think you’re a serious athlete who knows a thing or two about self-myofascial-release? Take a foam roller into work with you.	As the athletes head home and Great Britain returns to ‘normal’. Take a moment to reflect on the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’.

New to the Running Bug?

JOIN THE RUNNING BUG HERE! It's free and takes just 30 seconds.

Blog Post: The Running Bug Says 'Share Your Greatness'

The Running Bug — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 09:43:00 GMT

The Running Bug is all about sharing your greatness. We like swapping stories and finding ways to motivate and be motivated – and of course we’re about going out there and running! Last week we launched bugmiles and already we’ve accumulated 3,500 miles – that’s the same distance as between London and New York! Log every mile you run and shout about it on the Running Bug – it takes less than 10 seconds to do.

There really is no excuse not to run, and being overweight shouldn’t be a stopper. Earlier in the week we published six reasons why you can still run when you’re trying to shift the pounds. Responding to this article, Karen, Wendy, and Vicky shared their success on our facebook page – between them they’ve lost 11 stone from running!

Whatever your weight, cross training will help protect your body from the rigours of running training. And in last week’s Great Debate 96 per cent of you argued that it’s a critical part of a runner’s weekly schedule. The Running Bug personal trainer, Matt Shore, agrees and as it’s shopping month, he’s gone out and selected seven cross training gadgets to help enhance your running.

Are you running the Great North Run this weekend? There are some nervous newbies chatting on the forum about this fantastic event. Bug member, Martin Jordan 1967, has reminded us why it’s going to be fun: “Ran it last year, great race, brilliant atmosphere and a fabulous experience with 40,000+ participants all shouting oggy oggy oggy!” he says.

Later in the week we’ll help you pack your bag for the big day, with a list of some essentials for the half marathoner’s kit bag. If you are running the Great North Run, please do send us your pictures and 140 words to tell us about your race experience (why you did it; the highs and the lows). Email us here on Monday and share your great moments with the Running Bug Community.

2012 has been an amazing summer for sport with The Olympics, The Paralympics and Andy Murray’s win at the US Open. This week one of our super bloggers, Kim Ingleby, has selected her Top 3 Inspirational Moments from the Olympics and Paralympics.

Add your comments below – how were you inspired this summer? And can you inspire us with your own great moments?

Share Your Greatness Now – tell us what you've been up to in our Comments box below!

More from The Running Bug

Can You Beat the Bug?	Doing An Autumn Marathon?	10 Good Reasons to Run	Time to Get the Family Fit
Fiona reports back on the Great City Race...	Training for an Autumn marathon or taking on your first 10k – we’ve got plenty of inspiration to help you get your trainers on.	Fiona Bugler, Editor of the Running Bug loves to run. This week she tells you why…	This month at the Running Bug we focus on getting your family fit – and shopping for Autumn running.

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Blog Post: Time to Get the Family Fit

The Running Bug — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 10:08:00 GMT

This month at the Running Bug we focus on getting your family fit – and shopping for Autumn running.

Long summer days and holidays can lead to bad habits, but you don’t have to be going back to school to start afresh. If you have put on a few pounds, first check out our article on clever ways to run and diet to shift the pounds quick. September is also a great month to take a fresh look at your goals, and before you start on a new running plan, it makes sense to prepare your body and avoid injury, here’s 10 ways to do exactly that.

For many runners, getting re-focused means re-evaluating our whole lifestyle – and that of our families.

WHY YOU NEED TO GET YOUR FAMILY FIT!

Recent research has predicted that if we carry on the way we are two thirds of all children will be overweight by 2050. And with this comes an increased risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and psychological problems.
Being overweight is one of the key reasons why one in 10 seven-year-old girls are showing early signs of puberty. The extra fat tissue encourages young bodies to produce hormones that bring on sexual changes (i.e. breast tissue is formed early).
We’ve become so sedentary that government exercise guidelines have been dumbed down to accommodate a society slowing down to a grinding halt.

TAKE SOME ACTION!

Instill the values of the Olympics. Not only did we see young torchbearers and volunteers actively involved, but we created some new role models for our kids to look up to.
Take part now in events, like Sport Relief Mile (www.sportrelief.com).
If you’re a race organizer why not consider adding a 1k or 3k for the kids.
Great campaigns: Check out the Fitness Industry Association’s More Active and Spogo campaigns.They’ve got some great initiatives and simple messages (such as being active three times a week) to help get us fit!

We love running but recognize the value of cross training for a holistic approach to health and fitness. And later this week we’ll be checking out cross training gadgets guaranteed to assist in getting you fit for running and burning fat fast – we hope you find this useful!

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Maximise your weight loss gains and shift the pounds quickly by following these clever running, exercise and dieting tips.	Just started out or a seasoned runner? Here are 10 ways to keep injury at bay.	As more race organisers ban headphones in the name of safety we ask if it’s a step too far – should we be allowed to listen while we run?	I wanted to put my spin on what makes a goal a goal and how we set ourselves up to achieve in different ways.

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Blog Post: 10 Good Reasons to Run

The Running Bug — Tue, 28 Aug 2012 15:53:00 GMT

Fiona Bugler, Editor of the Running Bug loves to run. This week she tells you why…

Lots of people ask me: ‘Why...? Why do you run?’ More often than not the person asking the question will then answer for me: ‘you’re addicted’; ‘you’re running away from something’; ‘you’re mad’; ‘you’re obsessed’. My response: I’m not addicted, but I am dedicated; I’m not running away from anything but I am running towards being fitter and faster; yes, I’m a little bit mad and I’m very focused, and okay, I might be partially obsessed (if there’s such a thing as partial obsession). Need any more reasons…here’s 10!

I like to feel fit. Running gives me energy, it means I have stamina at work and at play and I like the feeling of fitness running through my veins.
It keeps me slim. I can pretty much eat what I want, and stay a size 8. And being a size 8 means shopping for clothes is easy – there’s no tucking in or squeezing, I can just stick on a pair of jeans and I’m done.
It relieves stress and gives me time to think and plan, write lists in my head and it gives me time out on my own. It’s meditation on the move.
…But it’s also sociable – speed sessions, running buddies, races and running clubs have all brought me good friends and good times.
It gives me something to do at the weekend! And a race in the morning means there’s less hedonism the night before. Running races across the country and abroad is a great way to travel.
I can give something back and gain something, too. Check out our charity listings and find out who you can raise money for.
It gets you outside. We’re not made to be sat on our bums inside our boxes, 24/7. I love fresh air, and getting outside to enjoy being by the seafront or on the Downs, or in the parks of London. It clears the cobwebs.
It’s easy to do and costs nothing! Aside from some essential gear, running is free.
A fit mother is a good a role model for my two children.
It makes me feel ageless. And according to investigators at UT Southwestern Medical Center and The Cooper being physically fit during your 30s, 40s, and 50s not only helps extend lifespan, but it also increases the chances of ageing healthily and free from chronic illness.

If you love running but don’t think you have time to fit it in, check out our new article this week, 10 Tips for Fitting Running into a Busy Schedule and if you’ve just started and want to take on 10k, we’ve got your top questions about the distance answered here.

The Running Bug office is still buzzing from the Olympics and looking forward to the Paralympics, which kicks off tomorrow. In this week’s Great Debate, we ask you if the Olympic Legacy Will Be Lasting And Real? Join in the discussion.

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Blog Post: Doing an Autumn Marathon?

The Running Bug — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 09:28:00 GMT

Whether you’re training for an Autumn marathon or taking on your first 10k – this week on the Running Bug we’ve got plenty of inspiration to help you get your trainers on and get out the door (if you can drag yourself away from your screen that is!)

Are you training for an Autumn marathon? If you’re on target with your schedule, now’s the time when the mileage starts to increase, the long runs get longer and you may be feeling tired from training. This is a good thing; it’s what the build up to a marathon is supposed to feel like! Training tired will stand you in good stead come the Autumn. The Running Bug Editor, Fiona Bugler is taking on Berlin, and has just three to four weeks of hard training before tapering. Whilst her friends are floating around in flip flops drinking chilled glasses of Rose she’s ruddy-cheeked and racing her heart out on The South Coast. Although those who are running 26.2 miles might try to convince you otherwise, we’re well aware that there is more to running than the marathon! And in this week’s Great Debate, we’re interested to find out if you think the marathon is the ultimate challenge, the gold standard that every recreational runner should try to reach – or if you’re marathon weary?

Whether you’re getting in shape for a marathon or a summer 5k, running reaps rewards from feeling better about yourself to a healthier sex life – arguably both manifested because of one running’s aesthetically pleasing pluses, it keeps you slim. Ever wondered why? Here are seven reasons.

We’re looking forward to the Paralympics, which will hit our screens this very soon but it’s amazing how quick the Olympic Spirit and Team GB’s successes can be forgotten, as one tweeter quipped, ‘It’s back to moaning about the tubes etc…’ Take action now, don’t let the moment go, grab the spirit and create your own personal legacy with these five inspirational tips.

Coming later in the week we’ll show you how to fit in your favourite sport when you’re living a busy life whether your tied to a desk, a family or multi-tasking madness. And if you’re taking on the challenge of your first 10k, we’ve got some top training and racing tips to help get you round.

This week we’re also revamping our Reviews pages, with a round up of all the latest gear and product news.

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Blog Post: It’s All Over Now…. Or Is It?

The Running Bug — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 08:19:00 GMT

London 2012 was a triumph! Team GB brought in an amazing 65 medals, 29 of them gold, our best tally since 1908. We’ll remember the summer of 2012 as a time when the nation got behind the Games: the North/South divide faded; friendly volunteers in purple and orange remained positive for two weeks; a fantastic stadium hosted happy times with no trouble and deafening cheers… and of course, there was Super Saturday!

Sunday’s closing ceremony wrapped up the feel-good Olympics with a cool Britannia theme, and this week’s news is still of the smiling from ear-to-ear variety.

Yet the stoic athletics coach, Charles Van Commenee, won’t be taken off course by the euphoria. The Dutch coach promised he’d stand down if he didn’t reach his target of eight medals in the athletics. Is he being too hard on himself? Four of the six medals won were Gold – the best gold-rush since Moscow, in 1980 – and Mo and Jessica’s performances on 'Super Saturday' will be imprinted on a generation’s sporting memory. What do you think? Let us know in this week's Great Debate.

One thing’s for sure, the last two weeks has inspired us in our own endeavours. The Running Bug Editor, Fiona ran extra miles at the weekend and the Bug office is alive with training talk. If you’ve been inspired by the Olympics to take up running you’ve come to the right place, here at the Running Bug, the UK's fastest growing community of runners. The events in the stadium last week are where we saw the rewards were reaped, but the road to success can result in hazards. Get behind the scenes and find out what you need to know in our article revealing five horrible facts they don’t tell you about running.

Have you just started training but find you’re feeling famished? Don’t despair, we’ve got five Nutrition Tips that will help you fill up, without piling on the pounds.

This Olympics really has inspired a generation and later in the week keep an eye out for some great tips on how you can be inspired, as well as some shape-up ideas to get you fit and fast – NOW!

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Blog Post: Well Done Mo!!

The Running Bug — Mon, 06 Aug 2012 13:18:00 GMT

The Running Bug Editor Fiona Bugler recalls the weekend’s extra-ordinary events at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

What a weekend! Could we have ever expected anything so fantastic from the London 2012 Olympic Games – we got medals, outstanding performances, smiles, tears and what an atmosphere? Athletes living their dreams, achieving their goals, and a nation rocketed out of the doldrums of a damp summer and a double dip recession.

Twenty-six year-old Jessica Ennis, put pressure, the demands of advertisers and the British public to one side, finishing her seven events with the grand finale: a win in the 800m, a win she said was easier to achieve with the support of the 80,000 home-crowd.

Then there was Mo’s 10,000m Gold medal win. Beating the best in the world, Mo teased us until the final lap when he seemed to glide past Ehiopia’s Tariku Bekele, drawn to the winning line in 27.30.42, by the roars of the crowd. He was closely followed by his US training partner, Galen Rupp, surely elevating the status of their shared super-coach, Alberto Salazar.

My running friend told me this morning she had watched the recording of the final lap of Mo’s victory four times, yesterday, ‘it’s just so inspiring’ she said. And as we ran on the Downs some walkers shouted to us, ‘Looking good girls, just like Jessica’. We agreed this Olympics, with the feel-good factor, the emotion, the rewards and the celebration has given us a lift, and we ran 17 instead of our planned 15 miles! Did the weekend’s events inspire you? Check out our poll and let us know.

In 2008 at Beijing, Mo failed to reach the final of the 5,000m, cementing his desire to win Gold in 2012. It wasn’t an easy ride, and an iron and magnesium deficiency saw him collapse at the 2010 World Cross Country Championships in January. In the summer of 2010, I had the pleasure to interview Mo and he told me about his 120-mile training week, including three key sessions, for example fartlek/hills/track, on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday “I work hard in every session and try to get everything out of myself,” he said.

“Races can be more enjoyable than the training, as all the weeks and months of hard work are done,” he said. And you can guarantee that it cannot have been more enjoyable than last night! We think Mo is now one of the UK’s greatest athletes – vote for your favourite here.

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Blog Post: Have You Got Olympic Fever?

The Running Bug — Thu, 02 Aug 2012 12:11:00 GMT

How inspired are you feeling? Have you got Olympic fever?

This week on the Running Bug forums there’s a lot of chat about the Games, including some of you talking about your pride following Danny Boyle’s spectacular opening ceremony. ‘I even shed a little tear when I was watching the ceremony!’ said, LGray. And Midgie Thompson admits, ‘I’m glued to the TV watching more than is good for work at the moment!!’

Today’s tally of medals is ten: two gold, four silver and four bronze. Okay we’ve got a bit of a way to go to catch current leaders, China with their grand total of 30 medals! But still, there have been some great moments already.

And of course, being the Olympics, with the highs, come the lows – and the dramas: banned Chinese, South Korean and Indonesian badminton players tactically playing to lose; accusations of doping after 16 year-old Chinese Swimmer, Ye Shiwen won Gold; and some tweet complaints that Kasaksthan’s Alexander Vinokourov, formerly banned for drugs shouldn’t be allowed a medal (especially when our podium-hopeful, Mark Cavendish came a disappointing 29^th, to his first).

But for us runners, the best is yet to come, with the athletics kicking off next week. Highlights will include Mo Farah’s attempt to win Gold in the 5000m, and Usain Bolt and Yohan Blake’s battle, potentially the fastest race in history. What surprises do you think we may have in store? Add your comments, below!

Every athlete taking part in the Olympics has been focused on their training for years, putting all their energy into preparing for this epic event. And any of you who have taken part in a big race will have a little more understanding of why we should hold these sports’ people in high regard. But we haven’t forgotten your valiant efforts and we’d like to applaud, forumites, Westie, Shawy, Mutley, Maryke, Nickrunner, Stevemon and 'The Captain' who represented the Running Bug at The T24 Thunder Run. The relay event took place over 24 hours – you can read about the teams’ highs and lows in Stevemon’s blog.

Also on the Running Bug this week…

As anyone who’s taken part in a big event will know, there’s no age limit to running. Who hasn’t been overtaken by a nifty 60-something? Find out how to make the most of the decade you’re in from 20s up to 60-plus. With the energy of the Olympics and today’s full moon, we decided it’s time to talk sex! Find out how running can help you in the bedroom. As mentioned above, the Olympics always courts controversy, join in our Great Debate. This week we ask if you’re for or against this statement: Athletes with a history of drug cheating should be banned from picking up medals in the Olympics.

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Blog Post: Sports Products: Do You Believe the Hype?

The Running Bug — Wed, 25 Jul 2012 11:08:00 GMT

This week The Running Bug Editor Fiona Bugler ponders last week’s Panorama revelations about advertisers claims around sports products. Rather than ‘don’t believe the hype’ she suggests we do believe it, and make the most of the feel-good factor that it adds to the hard slog of training to keep fit, get fast and look good!

Last week’s Panaroma show on claims about sports drinks and the hype around running shoes, created a bit of a stir on Twitter #bbcpanorama – and in the ‘real’ world, too. Even before the show was aired, Merrell, makers of ‘barefoot’ and transitional shoes, called the Running Bug to give us their side of the argument, and explained that Merrell educate consumers about the shoes they sell. Dr. Sally Parsonage, lecturer in Sports Nutrition at the University of Westminster, issued a pre-programme press release confirming what the show was to reveal: “There is a huge credibility gap between what many athletes, and some coaches, believe about the efficacy of products and what rigorous scientific evidence actually shows,” she said.

The reality is, the show didn’t reveal anything earth shattering. Most serious runners know that the drinks containing the equivalent of 8 teaspoons of sugar are really only beneficial if you are training for more than two hours and that the trainers you wear, can’t replace the training you do. But still advertisers will continue to try to persuade and cajole us to buy their products – and we will continue to buy them. And why not?

Panorama followed the long-term work of an independent team of researchers from Oxford and the BMJ and revealed that the advertisers are cherry picking from studies to sell their products – and we’re lapping it up.

An academic study, like hard training is dry and boring – often reveals what most of us know, there is no magic wand that, once waved, will turn you into a super athlete, make you super slim, or for that matter rich and sexy too! And yet as Professor Domhnall Macauley, ex-editor of the British Journal of Sports Medicine, told Panorama all athletes are looking for the magic ingredient to make them perform better. If you think it’ll give you the edge, you’re going to try it, especially if you’ve got nothing to lose.

Okay, so drinking a certain sports drink may not really make you ‘Faster, Stronger, For Longer’, and yes pronation is something most of us do, but does the placebo effect make the long run and the drudgery of training feel better? Sally Parsonage explains: “If athletes are told a highly persuasive story about the possible performance-enhancing effects of a product, they are very likely to perform better just because they believe it will work, even when they are actually given a totally inert substance.”

As the show revealed, top cyclist Graham Orbee fuelled with jam sandwiches and water, a group of US soldiers found no difference in the shoes they wore and performance, and dehydration isn’t a disease (we get thirsty, we drink).

But we live in a world of quick fixes, and a desire for instant results. How many cyclists are going to follow Graham Orbee’s training schedule following the show? My guess is not many, but there’ll certainly be some converts to jam sandwiches.

Does it really matter? Are we being conned or are we simply just trying to give ourselves a bit more purpose (faster, stronger, longer) and make the whole thing of putting one foot in front of the other a bit more sexy? Did you watch the show? What do you think?

The Great Debate

Following on from the Panorama programme, we want to know what you think. Do you find sports drinks help improve your running performance? Are they an essential part of your running kit or is it all hype? Tell us what you think.

Also on the Running Bug this week…

New Blogger, personal trainer and writer Kristoph Thompson looks at the connection between weight loss and running and gives the top three ways to boost your weight loss.

Parit was invited by O2 to attend the Nike Fuel Fest to celebrate the launch of the Nike+ FuelBand. Check out his review of the FuelBand. This cool little device sits around your wrist and quietly tracks your activity. It measures calories burnt, amount of steps and tells you the current time. But is it worth the money?

Finally, find out how sports reporter, Natalie Pinkham, Coronation Street actor, Oliver Mellor, Sky Sports anchor Sarah-Jane Mee and 5 time Paralympic gold medal winner, Noel Thatcher did at the Great City Race in Celebs on the Run.

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Blog Post: The Great City Race: Can You Beat the Bug?

The Running Bug — Wed, 18 Jul 2012 14:17:00 GMT

Fiona reports back on the Great City Race...

“There was something strangely exhilarating about standing in the pouring rain (and wind) on the start line of the Great City Race, at the heart of London’s financial centre. For 20 minutes or so we stood, in good spirits and puddles. I even managed one of those, ‘it’s great to be alive’ moments as I took it all in. The Olympic rings on the sky scraper ahead, cloudy skies, City boys raring to go, race starter and heroic explorer, Sir Ranaulf Fiennes with his umbrella, and that feeling of excitement mixed with anxiety as we waited to fly off the start line of this corporate-dominated 5k race.

“And fly we did. Starting just three rows back from the fast boys, I was carried along on a sea of testosterone for the first 1k. The Standard Chartered Great City Race puts bankers against brokers, and is a healthy arena for City firms to battle it out – with 6,500 runners pounding the pavements of gold!

“For me it was a battle with my fitness and a determination to run under 20 minutes, a benchmark for me at the start of my marathon training. I was encouraged by the suited and booted who stood outside bars and encouraged us (did I really hear someone say ‘there’s a fine filly’ or did I imagine it?).

“I’m pleased to say, I managed 19.55 with some retching and a little bit of a tussle with Runner’s World editor, Andy Dixon (20 minutes).

“The race was won by Phil Wicks in a fantastic time of 14.54 and the women’s winner was Emily Wicks in 16.55. A good night out, and the race run for a worthy cause, raising money for the charity Seeing Is Believing. Find out more about the race here.”

COMING UP

This week on the Running Bug we’re getting into the Olympic spirit. The torch will go past our office on 26 July. To feel inspired we’re all trying hard to up our nutrition game and biscuits are banned for the Olympics. (Running Coach and editor Fiona promises to force-feed the team fruit). Last week we looked at What Olympians Like to Eat, and in part two we’re talking to Dr. Ricardo Da Costa about eating for sport and fitness. As a final installment for Ultra month, we have great pleasure in interviewing the legendary Zola Budd, who’s just done her first ultra, the epic Comrades. And although the summer’s not been sizzling, we think we can turn up the heat with our feature, 10 Reasons Why Running’s Good for Your Sex Life!

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Blog Post: Let's Talk Shop

The Running Bug — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 16:09:00 GMT

Unless you live in a cave, you cannot have failed to notice that summer is just not happening this year! But Running Bug users are getting heated in the Great Debate, and this week we’re also talking about the rain, as us Brits do love to do….

The Great Debate has got off to a great start. The most popular discussion is regarding the issue of ‘Race Entry Fees: Are They Too Expensive?’ Not surprisingly, the majority of us think they are, but there are some impassioned responses from our Race Directors to balance the argument. Snuffles contacted Bug Editor, Fiona on facebook saying, “it makes my blood boil. We work so hard.” And she’s given an interesting insight into what it costs to put a race together.

This week we ask you, Are Running Shoes Value For Money? (and at the time of writing, it seems most of you think they are).

NEW THIS WEEK

The rain! Do we runners talk weather more than others as most of us expose ourselves to the elements at least three times a week? Editor Fiona runs on the South Downs, high up on the cliffs, and is often exposed to the extremes of our great British climate – and she loves it! And running in the rain, in the summer, is just good fun – she’s not alone in this view, check out our forum discussion here. And look out for our forthcoming article offering top tips for running in the rain.

Weight loss is probably the nation’s next favourite topic of conversation. Even our Running Bug members who burn thousands of calories running have to deal with diet issues. Our top three diets for runner’s article, posted a couple of weeks ago has already had over 16,000 views. And this week we’ve got some great tips on how to learn from Olympians if you’re after optimum nutrition, it’s not all supplements, and green drinks, some of it’s just good common sense.

Food is never far from an ultra runner’s mind. Read how first time ultra marathoner, Sarah Stables got on when she took on a 100-mile race. Jelly babies, sandwiches and energy drinks were very welcome!

Speaking of energy drinks, the Running Bug has teamed up with For Goodness Shakes to give away a FREE sample of their Nectar Liquid Energy Fuel Concentrate. Claim your FREE sachet here.

Fiona’s been trying out a variety of hydration drinks, it might be rainy but it’s still hot and humid and with a taxing Berlin Marathon schedule she needs to stay on top form – she’ll be reporting back to you soon.

Finally, this week we launch our Shop, where you can pick up all the latest running gear and get some great deals, in just one click.

COMING UP

Parit’s been checking out Merrell shoes, and we’ve all enjoyed getting stuck into 9-Bars in our coffee break. Keep an eye on our reviews section to hear how we got on. Fiona’s putting herself back on the race line again, and is taking part in The Standard Chartered Great City Race, a 5k Race supporting the Charity, Seeing Is Believing, run around the Square Mile – you can read how she gets on next week.

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