Great Run

Based on the original great north run, running events based in the UK

Respect the challenge - Our guide to a fit, happ and healthy Bupa Great Run

After the race

Don’t let yourself get cold by standing around after you have finished. Make sure you keep moving, especially if you feel dizzy, and have something to drink. Collect your bag as soon as you can and change into warm, dry clothing – foil blankets won’t stop you from getting cold. Then go to wherever you have arranged to meet your friends and family.

Follow the advice in this leaflet about eating and drinking after the race. If you haven’t drunk enough or eaten anything, you can feel faint even over half an hour after finishing a race. If this happens, have something to eat and drink, but don’t drink too much.

Fit to competeHydrationEating
IllnessAfter the RaceTop Tips

Are you prepared for your distance

To take part in your event without risking your health, you need to be able to comfortably run the distance. This means you should feel you could run a bit more at the end of the race. As a guide, during the weeks before your race aim to have run:

  • 7 to 8km continuously if taking part in a 10km run
  • 8 miles continuously if taking part in a 10 mile run
  • 11 miles continuously if taking part in a half marathon

If you can’t manage this distance, you may not be able to complete the event safely and probably won’t enjoy it. Please do not run this time.