Each week I will be posting the Friday Fartlek Run Sessions, most that you can do in under 60 minutes to enhance your running. Fartlek is a Swedish term that is often used by runners and it means speed-play. See the previous post about training intensity to know how hard to work. If you are working directly with Coach Ray he will in most cases prescribe either a Pace Zone or Heart Rate Zone to work within if you are training with these tools.
Starting running is challenging for everyone, and that’s completely normal. Discover why the first week often feels the hardest, how your body adapts to training, and why consistency matters more than motivation. Learn how trusting the process can help you build confidence, fitness and a lifelong love of running.
View More Why the First Week of Running Feels So Hard (And Why That’s Completely Normal)
Worried you’re losing fitness during your marathon taper? You’re not alone. Learn why reducing your training before race day helps your body recover, absorb months of hard work, and arrive at the start line feeling fresh, confident, and ready to perform at your best.
View More Tapering Isn’t Losing Fitness: Trust the Process Before Your Marathon
Many people believe they’re “not runners,” but every runner starts somewhere. Discover why the biggest barrier to running isn’t fitness—it’s mindset. Learn how taking that first step can build confidence, create lasting habits, and help you become the runner you never thought you could be.
View More “I’m Not a Runner.” The Four Words That Stop Thousands of People Before They Even Start
Jess Bray’s Wellington Half Marathon wasn’t built on perfect preparation. After battling a hip injury and racing in miserable conditions, she produced a smart, resilient performance to finish in 1:25:12, claim 1st U20 female and 6th overall. Discover the lessons every runner can take from her inspiring race debrief.
View More From Hip Injury to 1:25:12: Jess Bray’s Wellington Half Marathon Debrief
Marathon success isn’t built on one incredible workout—it’s built through weeks and months of consistent training. Learn why avoiding hero workouts, trusting your training plan, and showing up regularly will help you stay healthy, build endurance, and give yourself the best chance of achieving your marathon goals.
View More Consistency Beats Hero Workouts
Not all 5K training plans are created equal. Discover the essential features every effective programme should include, from structured progression and purposeful workouts to recovery and flexibility. Learn how to choose a plan that fits your lifestyle and gives you the best chance of achieving your running goals.
View More What Makes a Great 5K Training Plan?
Your weekly long run is the foundation of successful half marathon training. Discover why it’s so important, how it builds endurance and confidence, and why running it at the right pace prepares your body and mind for 21.1km more effectively than simply running faster or further.
View More The Purpose Of The Weekly Long Run
Running for 30 minutes continuously may be all you need to begin half marathon training. Discover why you don’t need to be able to run 21.1km before you start, how structured training builds endurance safely, and why consistency is the key to successfully preparing for your first half marathon.
View More Why 30 Minutes Of Running Is Enough To Begin Half Marathon Training
Good running form can make a big difference during the final kilometres of a marathon. Learn how efficient technique, better posture, and simple form cues help you conserve energy, reduce fatigue, and give yourself the best chance of finishing your marathon feeling stronger and more confident.
View More Don’t Ignore Running Form: Good Technique Helps You Finish Strong
The final 5 kilometres of a half marathon reveal how well you’ve trained, paced, fuelled, and prepared. Learn why strong finishes are built long before race day and discover practical strategies to help you maintain your pace, stay mentally focused, and finish your next half marathon with confidence.
View More The Last 5K Doesn’t Care How Good You Felt Early