In these odd times, whether you did it every day or have never even downloaded Couch To 5K, running is an easy way to exercise when gyms are shut and the government still allows us the chance to work out in the open air. But even with the proliferation of great fitness apps out there that can help you start, sometimes you need someone to tell you how to do the basics right. With running clubs a little harder to join at the moment, we spoke to some of the country’s biggest running gurus about how to up your next jog, sprint or unofficial marathon.

Cory Wharton-Malcolm, Nike Running club head coach UK/EMEA and founder of TrackMafia

First and foremost, as ridiculous as it sounds, think smile, think happiness, think joy, think of enjoyment and – my favourite – think that you’re loving it. Why? When you smile, when you think those happy thoughts, you’ll find you relax. 

After you’ve relaxed a little you’ll find that the tension in your shoulders has subsided slightly.

Work on keeping your arms bent at the elbow at a nice 90-degree angle, concentrating on driving the elbow back behind you, as you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how much this helps with pushing you onward towards your destination.