- Feel Good
- 12th Aug 2026
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- 0 minute
The Great North Run 1-month countdown is on – what I’ve learnt whilst training so far
After years of watching from the sidelines with FOMO, it somehow feels like yesterday that I clicked “apply” for my first-ever Great North Run, and now we’re officially just one month away. Safe to say, the nerves are kicking in.
It’s one of the biggest events in the North East. Thousands flock to Newcastle from across the nation, the Red Arrows fly over, and millions of pounds are raised for charity, all in that North East spirit we know and love.
This year I’m running for Guide Dogs (yes, in a dog mascot costume, so if we could all collectively manifest a cool, rainy September morning, I’d really appreciate it).
Now, I’m definitely not a running expert. But training for 13.1 miles has taught me a lot already, and if you’re taking on your first Great North Run too, here are a few things I’ve learnt along the way.
DON’T GIVE UP IF YOU DON’T GET A BALLOT PLACE
Missing out on the first ballot can feel disappointing, but don’t let it stop you. There are charity places available, and many amazing organisations are still looking for runners. I managed to secure my place through Guide Dogs, which made saying yes to running in a giant dog costume slightly easier! Keep an eye out too, as there are often additional opportunities to enter in January after the initial September intake.
GIVE YOURSELF PLENTY OF TIME TO TRAIN
If you’re new to running a half marathon (like me), the biggest piece of advice I can give is don’t leave training until the last minute.
Starting with Couch to 5K was the confidence boost I needed before gradually increasing my distance each week. Having plenty of time means you don’t feel pressured to make huge jumps, and your body has a chance to adapt properly.
SLOW REALLY IS FAST
I used to think every run had to be quicker than the last. Turns out… absolutely not.
Most training runs should actually feel comfortable. I even use my Apple Watch to keep an eye on my heart rate because if I’m breathing too hard, I’m probably going too fast. Saving your energy now means you’ll have plenty left for race day.
MAKE SURE TO STRETCH. SERIOUSLY.
I’ll admit it – after finishing a run, the last thing I wanted to do was spend another 10 minutes stretching while lying on the floor in a sweaty heap.
Then my knee started hurting.
After seeing a physio, I discovered one leg was much stronger than the other, which was affecting my running. Since adding strength work, mobility and proper stretching before and after every run, I’ve noticed a huge difference. Just 10-15 minutes of stretches makes a real difference, and you’ll notice how tight your legs actually are. A resistance band is worth getting to help with stretches too.
I’d recommend buying a foam roller too; run it along your hamstrings, quads, and calves, and it’s the best feeling of relief. Also run it across your back and shoulders. My back cracks every time – it’s unreal!
Want more advice? This Newcastle physio reveals tips to get race ready
BREATHING MAKES MORE DIFFERENCE THAN YOU THINK
One of the biggest lessons has been learning what an “easy pace” actually feels like.
The best tip I was given? Run at a pace where you could still hold a conversation. When I’m out on my own, I sometimes quietly sing along to my playlist (don’t judge…). If I can get through a few lines without gasping for breath, I know I’m running at the right pace.
Running with a friend can help too. Not only does chatting make the miles fly by, but the distraction often means you naturally keep a steady pace without constantly thinking about how far you’ve got left.
RACE DAY IS COMPLETELY DIFFERENT
Every experienced runner keeps telling me the same thing: don’t compare race day to training.
The crowds, the music, the atmosphere and thousands of people cheering you on create an adrenaline rush that doesn’t exist on your Sunday morning training run. Whenever I start worrying about the distance, I remind myself that the North East spirit will carry me through those final miles.
APPS REALLY DO HELP
Downloading Strava and Runna has been surprisingly motivating. You can programme them to talk you through your runs, let you know when you’re halfway (honestly, the best motivation when you’re wondering if you can keep going), and take the guesswork out of training.
Watching the miles add up, earning little badges and seeing your progress week after week gives you a dopamine boost you didn’t know you needed. Plus, you can follow your friends, cheer each other on and celebrate milestones together, which creates a real sense of community and keeps you motivated to lace up your trainers.
A GOOD PLAYLIST IS A GAME CHANGER
I’ve realised I naturally run to the beat of whatever I’m listening to.
Whether it’s upbeat pop, dance classics or guilty pleasures, having a playlist that you enjoy can completely change a run. Some songs make the miles disappear.
INVEST IN THE RIGHT KIT
You don’t need every gadget under the sun, but a decent pair of running shoes makes a huge difference to your muscles and joints.
One purchase I didn’t expect to love quite so much? A running vest. No more juggling my phone and keys or worrying about things falling out of my pockets. It makes long runs so much more comfortable (although I did learn the hard way to double-check the phone pocket was zipped!).
Here’s what I’m currently wearing:
REMEMBER WHY YOU’RE DOING IT
When training gets tough, I remind myself this isn’t just about crossing a finish line or chasing a personal best. For me, it’s about raising money for Guide Dogs and supporting an incredible cause that changes people’s lives every single day.
So, if your pace slows, you need to walk for a minute, or you don’t hit the time you hoped for, don’t be hard on yourself.
The Great North Run isn’t just about running 13.1 miles. It’s about the atmosphere, the community, the people lining the streets, and doing something you never thought you could.
Most importantly? Enjoy every single minute. Because crossing that finish line is something you’ll remember forever.
DISCLAIMER: Always seek advice from a qualified professional; all these opinions are my own due to my own fitness experience.
Rachael Ellis
Head of Content
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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