Now for the hard part. With a record 60,000 entrants potentially taking part on Sunday, September 13, here are one veteran plodder’s 10 tips aimed at first-time participants. They include valuable warm-up races along the way.
1. Don't delay.....
You have secured your place with the September 13 race still months away. But the journey to successfully completing the 13.1m course begins now. Don't wait for the clocks to change in March. | JPIMedia Photo: Tim Richardson
2. But don't panic
You don't have to be able to run a half marathon just yet. But nor should you restrict your training to the cozy comforts of a gymnasium treadmill. There's no substitute for the road. | jpimedia Resell Photo: Tim Richardson
3. Find a running mate
Uncomfortable at taking those first steps outside on your own? Why not ask a more experienced runner to train with you and spur you on? We are generally an amenable lot and remember our own nervous beginnings. | JPIMedia Photo: Sunderland Echo
4. Shop around
Running in a race is different to on your own or in pairs. Why not, particularly if you've put some graft in already, test yourself with a 5k or 10k race at Dalton Park retail centre, Murton, on Sunday, March 1? Go to www.runnation.co.uk/ | JPIMedia Photo: JPIMedia