We have deliberately not written down a training schedule.. We have attempted to list some basic principles and to give you some ideas. A schedule will give you something to aim at, may help you get out of the door and may stop you doing too much too soon. Some people thrive on rigid schedules; some never make them, most have some kind of schedule but are flexible about following it.

You may want to write out your own schedule, using the ideas here and elsewhere, possibly based on a schedule taken from a book or magazine.

Adapt any schedule to your circumstances, and be prepared to alter it in the light of experience.

If you have an experienced and sympathetic runner to coach you, so much the better.

Last updated on May 4, 2007 by David Ardley