Take it slow

If you’re used to doing an intense 45 minute workout, a 30 minute run might sound easy. “People can get so demotivated when they’re struggling three minutes in,” says Emma. “Don’t be so hard on yourself and break yourself in slowly.”

Both Emma and Georgie recommend starting with intervals. That means running for one minute then walking for one minute for a total of 15 minutes, and working yourself up so you’re out for 20 minutes. “As your running fitness starts to improve, you can increase the running intervals and shorten the walking ones,” says Georgie.

Listen carefully

Your workout playlist is essential regardless of the activity, but getting it right is even more important when running. In fact, Georgie actually recommends running without any music at all: “This might sound like hell on earth, but it’s really important to be able to hear how hard our feet are hitting the ground and how hard we are breathing. Try noticing how your body is responding and focusing on keeping your step and breathing light – you’ll be able to go further.”

If being alone with your own thoughts sounds too exposing right now, podcasts like the NHS Couch to 5k can help steer you along. If music really is your jam, Emma recommends finding a Spotify playlist that’s targeted to how fast you can go. “One ranging from 160-180bpm is roughly what you should aim for. Then you just need to make sure you’re running to the beat,” she says.

Running for beginners: 5 top tips to make your next run easier