Training tips for all distances

As your training progresses and you focus on your goal, it’s essential to begin contemplating your pathway to success. Here are some guidelines we’ve compiled to aid you in preparing for the big day. 

Walking or wheeling the 10K with the Purple Turtles 

Considering taking on a 10K walking challenge? It’s an admirable endeavour. Here’s a comprehensive look at what to keep in mind: 

• Distance: A 10K walk covers approximately 6.2 miles, providing a substantial yet achievable milestone to strive for. It’s a distance that offers a satisfying challenge without being overwhelmingly daunting. 
• Time: Typically, completing a 10K walk takes approximately 2 hours. However, it’s essential to emphasise that there’s no strict time limit for completing this distance. You can take as long as you need, allowing you to pace yourself according to your comfort, fitness level and ability. 
• Races: Many organised 10K events warmly welcome walkers alongside runners. These events embrace inclusivity, encouraging participants to enjoy the experience regardless of their walking pace. Whether you’re aiming to finish quickly or take your time to enjoy the journey, there’s a place for you in these races. 

To prepare effectively, consider following a structured training plan spanning around 10 weeks. Such a plan gradually increases your walking duration and intensity, helping you build endurance and confidence as you progress. Remember to prioritise rest and recovery, as these are crucial components of any successful training programme. 

Mastering the 10K Training Tips for Success 

Are you ready to conquer the 10K? Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced runner aiming for a personal record, mastering the 10K distance requires proper training and race day strategies. Here are some valuable tips to help you prepare for and excel in your next 10K race: 

Understanding the Distance 

The 10K, equivalent to 6.2 miles, is a popular choice among runners, offering a balanced challenge for both novices and regular runners.  

Beginner Training Tips 

Build Endurance: Gradually increase your long run distance and weekly mileage to prepare mentally and physically for the 10K challenge. Top tip: Remember, never increase mileage by more than 10 per cent in a week (and 3 to 5 percent if you’ve never run higher mileage before).  

Pick up the pace: Incorporating one or two speed work sessions into your weekly training plan will improve your overall pace and running efficiency. For more information on speed work and why it is beneficial, visit here. 

Weekly mileage: Keep your easy runs EASY. One of the biggest mistakes runners make when training for long distances for the first time is doing their easy and long runs too fast.  There are many reasons why this hurts your training—from increasing your risk of injury to depriving yourself of the recovery needed for optimal performance.

Rest and recovery: Without rest days, all you’ve done is break down your body without gaining any benefits. Taking a rest day allows your body to absorb the training, adapt to the stress, and grow stronger than before.

Stretching: Stretching keeps the muscles flexible, strong, and healthy, and we need that flexibility to maintain a range of motion in the joints. Stretching before and after you run will help loosen up the body and help decrease the chances of injury. For more information visit here. 

Experienced runner strategies 

Respect the Distance: Recognise the intensity of racing a 10K and mentally prepare yourself for the discomfort that comes with pushing your limits. 

Practice Race Pace: Dedicate specific training sessions to simulate race conditions and home in on your target pace. 

By integrating these training and racing tips into your preparation, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the 10K distance with confidence and achieve your personal best.  

Mastering half marathon pacing for optimal performance 

Pacing plays a critical role in achieving success in a half marathon. To begin, establish a target time, such as aiming for 1 hour and 40 minutes, which translates to an average pace of 4 minutes and 44 seconds per kilometre. It’s advisable to allow for a slight margin of variation, aiming for a pace range within 3 to 4 seconds on either side of your target time, to accommodate the inevitable fluctuations that may occur during the race. 

Break it down 

Break down the race into three distinct 7-kilometre segments, each presenting its unique set of challenges and opportunities. 

 Section one 

First 7 Kilometres: This marks the initial phase of the race, similar to a gentle warm-up. Often referred to as the ‘easy’ section, this is where you should feel light and agile, capable of maintaining your pace comfortably. However, it’s essential to remain vigilant and avoid the temptation to become complacent or overly ambitious. Stay focused on maintaining your desired pace, laying a solid foundation for the miles ahead. 

Section two 

Second 7 Kilometres: As you transition into the middle segment of the race, commonly known as the ‘meaty’ or ‘hard’ section, fatigue may begin to set in. Despite this, it’s crucial to persevere and strive to sustain your pace. Consider allowing yourself a slight leeway, increasing your speed by a modest 5 seconds per kilometre if you’ve been holding back. Reaching the 14-kilometre mark signifies the two-thirds mark of the race, serving as a psychological milestone. 

Section three 

Final 7 Kilometres: Entering the final stretch of the race, fatigue may intensify, particularly around the 15 – or 16-kilometre mark. Yet, this is where mental resilience becomes key. Remind yourself of how far you’ve come and remember the determination to maintain your form and composure. Embrace the challenge of the remaining distance, distributing your remaining energy strategically rather than reserving it all for a final sprint. Every step brings you closer to the finish line, a testament to your endurance and tenacity. 

 Approaching the home straight, with just 500 metres remaining, dig deep and use every ounce of strength and determination within you. This is your moment to shine, to push beyond your limits, and surge toward the finish line. As you cross the threshold of victory, enjoy the sense of accomplishment, knowing that every step was a testament to your dedication, preparation, and success. 

Purple Wave Tickets

Booking tickets for our event is a breeze; head over to the Students’ Union website. There, you have the flexibility to select the ticket that suits you. Should you decide to switch gears and embrace the role of a fundraiser, we’re delighted to accommodate the change by seamlessly transferring your ticket to a complimentary fundraising option.

• Buy tickets for Great Run 10k
• Buy your tickets for Great Run Half Marathon

Route maps

Find out more about the route maps and you’ll know exactly what to expect. 

• 10K Great Manchester Run route map
• Half Marathon Great Manchester Run route map.

Volunteering for Purple Wave events

We are looking for cheer point managers, general volunteers and cheerers, and people to help with set up and breakdown. All opportunities to volunteer can be seen and joined here.

Find out more