They say you never forget your first marathon, and I'll certainly never forget mine - the London Marathon 2018. It was 28 degrees, despite us having trained in snow, sleet, and hail; the crowds came out in their thousands; and I completed a distance that 24 hours prior, I wasn't entirely convinced I'd be able to finish.

For a first timer, I got so many things right that day: I'd prepared my body for the distance by ticking off nearly every training run, I'd tested my kit again, and again, and again in training to ensure nothing chafed or caused discomfort, and I had an unforgettably good playlist. But one thing I didn't quite nail? My fuelling.

As a woman who grew up in the Special K diet generation, constantly being told to shrink ourselves and eat less, I'd convinced myself that I didn't "need" as many gels as sports dietitians recommended and that I'd be A-okay just powering through.

And sure, I made it to the end in one piece, but two carb gels for a 4-hour marathon did teach me a very simple life lesson: if you're doing endurance sport, where you're depleting your body's energy stores, you need to be returning that energy in real time. Or you'll end up like me at mile 20 of my first one: tackling the dreaded wall with all my might and clinging on for dear life.

As more and more people globally get into running, I've made it my mission to spread the fuelling message and importance of giving your body what it needs far and wide. Which is why, below, I've deep dived into my all-time favourite fuelling brands and gels, with helpful insights from Dr Jamie Pugh, Scientific Advisor at Puresport and Co-founder of ExoAnalytics.

Ready to fuel your best runs yet? Keep scrolling.

What is a running gel?

Let's start at the beginning, for those of you who've heard the term bandied around but aren't familiar with what a gel actually is. According to Dr Pugh, "Carbohydrate gels are a concentrated source of simple, easy-to-digest sugars (like glucose, maltodextrin, or fructose) made up into sachets in a gel-like texture."

If you're running, cycling, or doing endurance sports for 45 minutes or more, their purpose is simple: to supply fast-acting carbs that, once consumed, are rapidly absorbed and converted into usable energy.

"Many gels have as much carbohydrate as an entire bottle of sports drink - helping you to fuel without needing to carry lots of extra weight or drink too much fluid," he goes on.

Why do we need gels?

As I touched on in my intro, because when we workout for long periods of time (think 45 minutes or more), our body starts to rely on carbohydrate (glycogen) stores to fuel our mileage. "However, stored carbohydrate is limited and can begin to run low within 60-120 minutes of sustained effort," Dr Pugh explains. "As this happens, blood glucose levels can fall, muscles have less readily available fuel, and exercise starts to feel harder - often described by runners as ‘hitting the wall’."

That's where gels come in - a simple and convenient way to boost your carbohydrate stores and energy levels, providing an immediate energy source for your muscles.

Are gels science-backed?

In a nutshell - yes, and extensively. One landmark review by sports nutrition researcher Asker Jeukendrup concluded that carbohydrate intake during endurance exercise both improves performance and delays fatigue, especially in events lasting longer than an hour, and there's been plenty of research proving the same sentiment since.

"Research has shown again and again that taking on carbohydrates during exercise helps us maintain pace, makes it feel easier to run at the same pace, delays fatigue, and improves performance," Dr Pugh concludes.

Are gels essential?

According to Dr Pugh, they’re not strictly “necessary” for short efforts, but become increasingly important as duration and intensity rise. "Some of the first research ever looking at carbohydrate and long-distance running took place over 100 years ago at the Boston Marathon, where it was shown that consuming sources of simple sugars during the race helped runners maintain their blood glucose levels," he goes on.

If you'd rather opt for more natural sources of energy, like bagels or bananas, make sure you try it in training - each fuel type has it limitations. "Whole-food options like bananas or energy bars contain fibre and solid food parts that are slower to digest, especially during exercise," Dr Pugh. "Sports drinks, on the other hand, require larger volumes of fluid to deliver the same amount of carbohydrate. These factors can make these options more likely to cause digestive issues like bloating and stomach fullness."

Gels, on the other hand, aim to avoid these issues by "delivering a high amount of carbohydrate in a small, concentrated format that’s easier to tolerate." Speaking from personal experience, they're also super practical - easy to carry, lightweight, and simple to open when you're mid run.

As a general rule of thumb, aim for 30–60g carbs an hour.

How many should I take and when?

There is a lot of advice on how many gels to take. Some of the world’s fastest athletes will take anywhere up to 4 or 5 gels an hour (over 100g of carbohydrate every 60 minutes). However, for most people, this amount is unnecessary and can increase the risk of digestive issues rather than improve performance. For the majority of people, 60-90 g per hour provides all of the performance benefits. If you are new to taking gels, 60g per hour, one gel every 30 minutes, is a simple, easy-to-follow strategy that has been shown to be very well tolerated.

The key is to start early and be consistent, rather than waiting until you feel fatigued.

5 best running gels, tested by a Health Editor and 11x Marathon Runner

If there's one person to persuade the masses that secondhand sportswear is cool, it's Harry Styles. The musician's longtime collaborator, Harry Lambert, styled him in a notable amount of vintage workout gear sourced from eBay for his recent Runner's World cover shoot, and it has me more convinced than ever that preloved is the way to go if you want to be the best-dressed (and most eco-conscious) person at the gym.

Any excuse to shout about shopping secondhand and sustainable living, I welcome with open arms. I'd say my screen time is 90% Vinted. The Business of Fashion recently reported that UK consumers spent as much as £4.8 billion on secondhand items online in 2025, so I'm not the only one.

But while scouring resale platforms has become commonplace for many of us, particularly when it comes to designer and high-ticket purchases, the athleisure world has yet to completely catch up. Understandably, some people don't love the idea of wearing race day kit someone else has sweated in. But I'm here to tell you that a hot wash and a good detergent can make anything good as new.

Lambert's choice to source secondhand led to some truly distinctive and dopamine-inducing looks, but it also proved that you don't need to turn to fast fashion brands for your workout. Good exercise clothes are made to last - and I often find that vintage pieces look much cooler too.

Retro printed tees, vintage trainer silhouettes, and even trends like capri leggings prove that the activewear world has a penchant for old school looks, and what better way to channel that than with genuine vintage purchases. Not to mention, opting for secondhand can save you a lot of money on items that don't come cheap when you shop new.

I've put my daily scrolling time to good use and found some of the best secondhand sportswear pieces available right now - and you can trust they will not only perform, but get plenty more life in your collection. From running sunglasses, gym layers, and workout leggings to running trainers and Pilates clothes, there's no end to what can be found secondhand.

Secondhand sportswear: Quick shopping links

• Sign of the Times: Shop elevated designer picks
• Depop: Browse affordable secondhand gear
• eBay: Bid on stylish y2k workout clothes
• Vinted: Find preloved bargains

Shop secondhand sportswear

Secondhand leggings

Secondhand tops

Secondhand sports bras

Secondhand shorts

Secondhand workout set

Secondhand jackets

Secondhand joggers

Secondhand trainers

Secondhand sunglasses

Perhaps one of the more unexpected trends to come out of recent years has been the rise in hiking gear for everyday wear, particularly in the world of footwear. But the beauty of the best trail running shoes, in particular, extends far beyond their looks—they're also highly technical designs that will support you on uneven terrains for running, hiking, and more.

They're not just for athletes, either. I regularly turn to my pair of trail running shoes for things like festivals, camping, lengthy walks on bumpy ground, and they're ideal for runners who like to go off-piste too. Combining style with substance, they tick countless boxes.

However, there are several things to know before investing in your next pair of trail running shoes, according to the experts. Charlotte Fisher, a British ultra-runner who has been selected as one of Snap Fitness’s Grassroots to Greatness athletes, has shared some of her favourite trail running shoes that she relies on for her races and training. Widely seen as one of the UK’s rising talents in ultra-trail running, it's safe to say she knows exactly what makes for a reliable pair of trail shoes.

It also pays to be aware of how running on uneven surfaces can impact your foot and leg health. Gabrielle Conroy, Podiatrist at Pure Sports Medicine, focused on sports-related lower leg disorders, has shared exactly why investing in specially designed trail shoes is important, as well as the key design features to look out for when shopping.

Plus, I've sought recommendations from runners on the Marie Claire UK team, and included my own favourite pair of trail shoes below. From hiking boots for all terrains to lightweight designs to style with running sunglasses throughout spring and summer, these tried and tested pairs are running accessories you'll thank yourself for investing in.

Best trail running shoes: Quick shopping links

• Best for summer: £220 at Hoka
• Best for winter: £170 at Hoka
• Best hybrid: £170 at Merrell
• Most comfortable: £150 at On
• Best everyday: £185 at Salomon
• Best lightweight: £150 at Merrell

Why is it important to wear trail running shoes?

"Trails can consist of a wide range of surfaces that are often uneven and can include tree roots or loose impediments. Therefore, trail running shoes are designed with greater grip and deeper lugs, whereas standard running shoes prioritise cushioning and weight saving," explains Conroy.

"It is important that the shoes have tougher soles and a protective toe cap to protect from debris on the ground. Due to this, they are typically heavier than traditional running shoes.

"While it is recommended that the athlete completes a gait analysis before choosing any running shoes, this is even more critical for trail shoes as trails often include steep inclines or declines where ill-fitting shoes are more likely to result in foot abrasions or blisters," Conroy says.

What should someone look out for when shopping? 

"A solid sole, good grip and traction, firmer heel counter and a comfortable toe box are probably the most important factors to consider," says Conroy. "However, when selecting trail shoes, it is worth considering the kind of trails that will be encountered and whether a waterproof / Gore-Tex shoe would be beneficial."

Best for autumn/winter

"Through autumn and winter, when the trails are wet, muddy and unpredictable, I rely on the Hoka Mafate 5. They give me the stability and grip I need to stay confident on technical terrain." - Charlotte Fisher, ultra-runner

With more cushioning and protection than other models, the Mafate 5 are ideal for difficult conditions. The Rocker Integrity Technology maintains control and protects from trail debris with an optional ankle gaiter, and the springy foam inside the shoe absorbs impact that trails might throw at you.

Best for spring/summer

"In spring and summer, when the trails dry out, and you can pick up the pace, I switch to the Hoka Tecton X3. They’re incredibly comfortable and feel fast over long distances." - Charlotte Fisher, ultra-runner

Carbon-plated for propulsion on trails, these Hoka shoes boast a seriously technical design. With winglets for stability, two layers of PEBA (the brand's lightest, most resilient compound) in the midsole, a Vibram® Megagrip outsole for better traction, and a dynamic vamp with plenty of room for feet to move. Best of all, they're extremely lightweight but will keep your feet well-padded on rocky paths thanks to the durable upper.

Best hybrid

"I did a 10-mile hybrid hike/run the first time I wore these shoes, and they felt as comfortable as the pair I’ve been wearing for over three months. There was a snug fit all the way to my heel so my feet didn’t slip around, but still enough room to wiggle my toes. The tongue also stays securely in place.

"The incredible Vibram Megagrip sole kept my footing confidently secure over rocks, roots, and wet ground, but I love that the pair still weighs less than my usual road running shoes—even with an integrated rock plate at the front to protect your toes on tricky terrain.

"Trail shoes can sometimes look functional, but I've happily worn the Agility Peak 6 for brunches in the city post-run after leaving the trails. I felt that the Peak 6 has less bounce and shock absorption when running down hills, but it’s a true trail runner that you can wear out and about after your adventure. Top tip: I’d recommend going up a half size to accommodate cushioned running socks. The toe box is on the narrower side, but felt spot on for my thin feet." - Lauren Scott, Senior Audience Development Manager

Best everyday

I don't own a huge amount of practical footwear, so my pair of Salomons comes with me everywhere when I need something reliable and weather-appropriate. Most recently, I wore them to battle against the snow in Iceland, and they worked a treat on icy paths and while walking through the national park. They fit perfectly true to size, and I love that they're fastened with a pull cord for easy wear and removal. Although not designed with technical features for hardcore trail runners, they're a brilliant option for more casual trail hikers.

The current model has been updated from a trail running shoe to be more city-appropriate, but that doesn't mean they don't still perform brilliantly on rocky terrain. I've worn these for hikes and jogs on bumpy surfaces, and they have held up perfectly, absorbing shock and providing enough cushioning underfoot. Best of all, they're waterproof—meaning mud, rain, and snow are no match. They're also sleek enough to wear casually, making them the ideal everyday trail shoe to have on hand when you need them.

Best lightweight

"These are my go-to hiking shoes. They have a very strong grip, waterproof material, and breathability—not to mention they're seriously comfortable. They're surprisingly light, while still offering good arch support in-shoe. If you're someone who doesn't like seriously chunky or heavy boots or likes travelling lightly, I'd go for these. Similarly, if you're prone to injury, they're ideal—they're light so won't cause you to overpronate or overcompensate, while also offering advanced support and functionality." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

Most comfortable

On is renowned for its footwear, so it comes as no surprise that the Cloudsurfer Trail 2 ticks almost every box for what makes a good trail runner. They're designed for shorter runs on non-technical terrains, meaning they're ideal for those who do regular local running stints. The brand's CloudTec Phase™ cushioning system is engineered for trail runs, so these are seriously comfortable. Plus, the Missiongrip™ rubber outsole offers the grip and traction you need for rocky paths.

The breathable and abrasion-resistant upper means they can withstand some wear and tear caused on the trail, whilst the padded lining will keep rubbing at bay. They're also seriously secure thanks to the shape, and who can resist this gorgeous spring pink hue?

Spring is in the air, and for some of us, this can mean only one thing: it's marathon season. Everywhere we look, people are hill-sprinting, fartleking and carb-loading their way to 26.2 glory - and as training plans draw to a close, we're all hoping we've done enough, come race day.

While no trainer will deny that putting in the hard miles is central to training for a big race, there's another, often overlooked aspect of a well-balanced program that might just make or break race day: strength training.

"Running itself is excellent for cardiovascular fitness, but it does relatively little to maintain muscle mass or strength," explains personal trainer at Ultimate Performance, Emily Schofield. "That’s why strength training is so important if you love running. It provides the stimulus your body needs to preserve muscle and build strength, which running alone simply doesn’t offer. If you want to get quicker, stronger, fitter and faster while out running, then incorporating strength training into your routine is one of the best things you can add to your training programme."

Not content to just take our word for it? The science stacks up, too. This 2024 meta-analysis, published in the journal Sports Medicine, shows strength training to be effective in improving running economy (by which we mean how efficiently you use oxygen at race pace). Further studies (such as this one, published in The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research) also reveal that strength training for runners improves performance and reduces the risk of injury - something no runner wants to contend with, this close to the marathon.

But all strength training is not created equal when it comes to pavement pounding - so, if you're keen to focus your sessions for maximum running benefit, keep scrolling. In the meantime, we have a mine of running-related content for your perusal: check out our guides to running advice for beginners, how to run a mile without stopping and how to run faster, as well as everything you need to know about AI running coaching apps, here.

Strength training for runners is key to improving performance and reducing injury - these are the moves to try today

What is strength training for runners?

While lots in the fitness world is complicated - especially when it comes to training for a marathon (or indeed, any other run), we're pleased to inform you that strength training for runners really couldn't be simpler. Essentially, you're working to build the very muscles you'll need when you lace up those trainers, from larger global ones such as glutes and hamstrings right through to the smaller (but no less important) stabilising muscles in the feet, calves and core.

"Strength training for runners refers to specific resistance exercises designed to improve, support and strengthen the muscles and tendons used when running," explains personal trainer and running expert Emma Bord. "It is one of the most powerful tools to help you run faster, reduce the risk of injuries and make you feel strong as you increase distance and/or intensity."

What are the benefits of strength training for runners?

We've touched on some of the benefits of strength training for runners above, but let's dig into the detail.

1. It improves running performance

This is the one that's likely to appeal to you most, but it's far from the only benefit to focus on. Where once running and strength were seen as mutually exclusive, the fact is that the stronger you are, the better you will run: the end.

"There is a temptation to plan your week around short runs, long runs, and interval training to increase your running speed and stamina, but I would recommend incorporating two strength sessions a week into your regimen," advises Schofield. "Strength training can support improvements in your running by helping you sustain faster paces for longer. Stronger muscles – particularly in your legs and core - contribute to better control of your stride patterns and more consistent running mechanics, particularly when you’re tired."

2. It increases running economy

As well as improving stride and pace, strength training boosts what we term running 'economy'; that is, how efficiently our bodies work when we're running. Just like any other machine, the more efficient we are, the better.

"A stronger body uses less energy at a given pace, meaning you can run faster or longer with the same amount of effort," explains Lillie Bleasdale, founder and head coach at leading online female running coaching collective PASSA. "More power equals better efficiency, which boosts overall performance."

3. It reduces our risk of injury

The world is full of people who tell us running is bad for our joints, and while it's true that it is a high-impact activity that stresses our joints, the stronger we are, the less likely this is to be a problem.

"Running is a repetitive and high-impact activity, with each step putting force through the body," notes Bleasdale. "Known as ground reaction force, the amount of force that goes through the body when our foot hits that pavement is often too much for three times our bodyweight - and without adequate strength, that load is absorbed inefficiently. This, in turn, can lead to increased injury risk.

"Strength training helps runners to better absorb and produce force, maintain good form when fatigued, and reduce strain on joints and our more passive structures (such as tendons and ligaments). In short, we're making the body more resilient to running, and reducing our injury risk."

4. It helps preserve muscle mass

As noted previously, while running is an excellent form of exercise, alone, it won't help us to build muscle mass or strength - something that starts to decline for women in our early 30s.

"In addition, strength training helps maintain muscle," agrees Schofield. "Running alone doesn’t provide enough stimulus to preserve muscle mass, so without it, many runners find they lose strength and muscle tone over time."

6 best strength training moves for runners, according to top coaches

1. Glute bridges

What? Lie on your back with knees bent and feet hip-width apart. Press your hips and bottom up as far as you can, then hold and squeeze the glutes at the top before lowering slowly.

Why? "The glutes are one of the primary engines for running, responsible for hip extension and forward propulsion," says personal trainer Caroline Idiens. "When they are underactive, runners often compensate with the lower back or hamstrings, which can lead to injury. Activating and strengthening the glutes helps to stabilise the pelvis and improve stride power."

How long for? Three sets of 12 to 15 repetitions.

2. Romanian deadlifts

What? A classic strength training move, the Romanian deadlift is a staple in most weight regimes. To do them, stand with your shoulders back and chest lifted, holding a pair of dumbbells in front of your thighs. Keeping a slight bend in the knees, hinge at the hips and lower the weights down the front of your legs while keeping the back flat. When your chest is parallel to the floor, and you feel a stretch in the hamstrings, drive through the hips to return to standing.

Why? "The hamstrings act both to control the lower leg and help decelerate the stride when running," says Idiens. "Strengthening the hamstrings improves posterior chain power, protecting against common running injuries such as hamstring strains and knee issues. In addition, hamstring strength improves posture and supports the lower spine."

How long for? Three sets of eight to 10 repetitions.

3. Calf raises

What? Exactly what they say on the tin: stand with feet parallel, slightly apart. Slowly and with control, raise the heels off the ground, ensuring you don't roll the ankles. Slowly lower back down and repeat.

Why? "Calf raises target the lower legs, which take a lot of the impact when running," says Bord. "These exercises will help strengthen this area, supporting the Achilles tendon, which can tighten up as well as help improve running bounce and efficiency."

How long for? Three sets of 10 reps will leave you begging for mercy.

4. Split squats

What? Step one foot forward and the other back into a split stance. Lower the back knee toward the floor while keeping the chest upright and front knee tracking over the toes. Push through the front heel to return to standing.

Why? "Strong quadriceps are essential for shock absorption and knee stability when running, particularly during downhill sections or those later stages of a marathon when fatigue begins to affect your form," notes Idiens. "Split squats build unilateral strength and help correct muscle imbalances between legs."

How long for? Three sets of 10 to 12 repetitions per leg.

5. Dead bugs

What? Lie supine with your knees in tabletop and arms extended above your head. Slowly extend opposite arm and leg, keeping the lower back in contact with the floor and core engaged. Return to the centre and repeat on the other side.

Why? "Simple strengthening work helps maintain your posture and your stability, especially as you get tired," says Schofield. "A strong core allows you to hold your form more effectively, which improves efficiency and reduces the likelihood of compensatory movements that can lead to injury. Dead bugs are a great exercise for deep core control and stability."

How long for? Three sets of 12 reps (six on each side).

6. Chest press

What? Another standard strength exercise, the chest press will work the arms, chest and shoulders. Lying on the floor (or a gym bench) with knees bent and a dumbbell in each hand, lift the dumbbells above your chest and slowly release back down, concentrating on using muscle over momentum.

Why? "As counterintuitive as it might initially seem, I would also include some upper body pushing and pulling exercises, such as chest presses and rows," advises Schofield. "While they’re not directly responsible for propulsion, they contribute to overall balance and stability, which supports good running mechanics."

How long for? Three sets of 10 reps.

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I’ll never forget the night a friend called me boring for choosing to leave a party early. We were in sixth form, and I had a running session early the next morning. I remember being mortified that my hobby placed me so far outside the social scene. Looking back now, that’s laughable, considering that Saturday morning run clubs have, in many cases, replaced bars and clubs as the place to be seen.

Yes, running really has hit the mainstream, largely driven by the way Gen Z has adopted it online. According to a 2026 report by SportsShoes, 43% of 18-28-year-olds want to run more frequently this year, whilst energy gels, carbon-plated shoes and hydration vests - formerly the prerogative of elite athletes - have all had the it-girl treatment. The result? A transformation of running from a niche, slightly nerdy fitness activity into an entire lifestyle aesthetic that identifies us in friendships, dating pools and on social media.

Thus far, this latest running boom has been driven by the roads. Some 1.33 million people have applied for the London Marathon in 2027, the largest proportion of whom are Gen Z women. But with gorpcore, a growing aesthetic, and global interest in nervous system regulation driving more of us towards off-grid adventures and digital disconnection, does running have an off-road future?

The data suggests so. While there are still five road runners for every one trail runner, participation has grown by over 230% in the last decade. Female participation, in particular, is on the up. In 1997, women made up just 13% of trail runners. Today, that number sits at 46%.

As the leader of a (mostly) road-based run club, I’m increasingly hearing from members keen to try trail running. But that interest comes with questions: are they fit enough to take on the elevation, what kit do they need, and do they need to train differently? What if they fall and twist their ankle? Where do you actually trail run when you live in a city?

These are all things I’ve asked myself, too. Over the last year, I’ve fallen in love with hiking, but memories of brutal hill sessions from my track days have put me off turning my treks into jogs.

So, with the help of trail runners and coaches, I decided to put both to the test. Over 30 days, I tried trail running alongside road running to find out whether going off-road really does improve your fitness more than sticking to the pavement.

If you're thinking about trail running yourself, be sure to check out our guides to the best trail running shoes, running sunglasses and hydration vests - all of which will come in handy for your long runs. It's also worth reading our running tips for beginners and taking note of the best strength training moves to protect your body from injury.

As a Road Running Fanatic, I Introduced Trail Running to My Routine for 30 Days - And Saw Transformations in My Mind and Body

What is trail running?

Trail running usually makes us think of mountainous landscapes and jaw-dropping scenery, but as former GB ultra runner, coach and Merrell Ambassador Harry Jones points out, trail running can actually be done anywhere you stray off the beaten path. “There’s no strict definition as such,” he says. “But if you’re heading off in nature, leaving the predictability of the roads and getting at least a little dusty, if not muddy, you’re probably doing it right.”

Personal trainer and Altra ambassador, James Wauchope, agrees. “Trail running is simply running off-road, usually through natural environments like woods, forests or coastal trails,” he says.

It’s this variability in terrain which gives trail running its identity and its challenge. “On a trail, your gait changes with every step to accommodate the various terrains of rocks, roots, grass and natural shifts in elevation,” says Dr Suzanne Hackenmiller, Chief Medical Advisor at AllTrails. “It’s more dynamic and reactionary than road running, which is typically linear and rhythmic.”

That’s why Wauchope says beginners have to learn to switch their mindset when moving from road to trail. “Trail running is less about pace and more about the experience,” he says. “It’s about moving through nature, enjoying the scenery and adapting to the terrain as you go.”

What are the benefits of trail running vs road running?

First of all, let’s be clear. This isn’t a battle of the disciplines, and there’s room for both in your programme. In fact, research shows all forms of running to be highly effective in building cardiovascular fitness and protecting bone density. But with such different terrains and environments, trail running and road running do challenge the body differently. So what can we gain from one over the other?

1. Speed vs stability

If your focus is on pace and PBs, then you’ll find it simpler to track your progress on the road. “The consistent surface makes it easier to follow a structured programme and train for speed,” says Wauchope.

Out on the trails, however, he says that your functional strength is put to the test. “Your feet, ankles and stabilising muscles have to work harder to adapt to uneven ground, which can help improve balance, coordination and lower-body strength.”

Dr Hackenmiller agrees. “Trails require much higher proprioception, which is your brain’s "GPS" for limb placement,” she says, citing a 2023 study which found trail running to offer greater benefit for balance and stability compared to road running, due to the increased brain-to-muscle connection.

2. Rhythm vs adaptation

The predictability of the road’s surface makes it almost metronomic, explains Dr Hackenmiller, who says that “road runners are masters of holding a rhythmic pace for miles.”

But whilst your cardio fitness will translate over to the trails, the strength and skill to adapt to changing terrain will be new. “Your speed will vary based on roughness, severity of hills and conditions,” says Jones, “but the challenge comes from other areas. Jumping over the occasional obstacle, getting up that hill and flying down the descent means each run can become a mini adventure. You’ll find a few more muscles get sore, but each time you’ll get stronger, and it will get easier.”

Trail runner and head of social and environmental impact at AllTrails, Pitt Grewe, agrees, adding that the mental demands of trail running add a further challenge. “You’re exposed to a multisensory experience that makes you much more aware of what’s happening under your feet,” he says. “This adds to the complexity of it and means that the way you move on a trail is different and more deliberate.”

3. Urban vs nature

There are also differences in the way that road and trail running environments may affect us psychologically. “Both road and trail running get you outside and moving, so that's a win either way,” says Dr Hackenmiller. But, she says, the nature-rich surroundings more commonly found in trail running do have some added benefits for our wellbeing.

“Studies have found that spending time in nature can significantly reduce our cortisol levels and symptoms of mental fatigue,” says Dr Hackenmiller, who adds that natural environments also provide a boost for our immune system. “Trees produce phytoncides, which are airborne essential oils,” she says. “These have been shown to lower stress hormones and increase our white blood cell activity.”

Who is trail running best for?

Whether you’ll enjoy trail running really comes down to your personality and goals. Whilst there are still plenty of opportunities for racing and performance tracking, Wauchope says most are drawn to it for the experience, adventure and connection to nature.

“There’s less pressure to run fast and more emphasis on enjoying the process and natural environment,” he says. “It’s really for those looking to build strength, endurance, resilience and improve mental wellbeing.”

Jones agrees, emphasising the mental health benefits he finds on the trails. “I never truly get a mental reset from the roads with all the cars and bikes passing by,” he says. But on the trails, where it’s often quieter, he’ll pull out his headphones, listen to birds sing and the breeze through the trees. “It’s a reminder that the world is bigger than the stresses of the day-to-day,” he explains. “Exploring a new trail, footpath, or hill can help bring back a sense of wonder for everything life can be.”

Of course, accessibility still plays a role. For people living in cities, trails aren’t always right on the doorstep, which can make road running the more convenient option. But, as Wauchope points out, “even local parks, woodland paths or weekend trips into nature can be a great way to introduce trail running gradually.”

How to get better at trail running: 11 tips from a seasoned expert

Before we dive into my month of trail running, I asked Jones, Grewe, Wauchope and Dr Hackenmiller for their top tips to support all of us making our off-road debut.

1. Ease into the intensity

"I often use the first quarter of a mile to walk and warm up the legs,” says Grewe.

2. Build volume up gradually

“Two times a week is a great starting point,” says Grewe, who says that switching off from a fixation on distance is an important step to improvement and injury prevention. "The terrain and conditions will impact how far you go. Focus on the time spent out on the trails rather than the distance covered."

3. You don’t have to run up every hill

“Even experienced trail runners will hike steep climbs to conserve energy,” says Wauchope.

Grewe agrees. " You’ve got to get comfortable with power hiking parts of the run. It doesn’t mean you have to go slow, but in certain moments, it’s not efficient to be in a running trot.”

4. Try different routes

“It’s easy to get stuck in your standard routes, but trying different terrain is an important part of trail running,” says Grewe. “The joy of trails is that there are tons of them and they’re all different.”

5. Pack plenty of fuel

Grewe reminds us that, unlike road running, you won't always be near a shop to pick up water or a snack when energy dips. “Get used to carrying your water and fuel for safety reasons," he says. That could be a running vest, belt, or shorts with plenty of pockets.

6. Incorporate regular strength and mobility

“The strain on the body from the elevation makes strength training very important,” says Grewe, who adds that mobility is also key. "There are lots of complex movements on a trail, whether that’s navigating around trees, rocks or logs, so mobilising your body becomes even more important.”

7. Choose the right shoes

“Rolled ankles are very common in trail running, as are trips and falls. We all have them,” says Grewe, who adds that wearing the right footwear can be game-changing for stability.

"You're looking for good grip, enough room for your toes and a lower drop to improve comfort, stability and confidence on uneven ground,” says Wauchope.

8. Study your route beforehand

Unlike the road, where surfaces are predictable, knowing what you're facing beforehand is important in trail running.

“I’m looking at the elevation profiles, the mileage, whether it’s well-carved, rocky or scrambly,” says Grewe, who also recommends telling someone where you're going in case you lose signal on route.

9. Enjoy your surroundings

The immersion in nature is one of the best parts of trail running. Which is why Grewe says you don't want to miss it by keeping your head down and ears plugged into headphones the whole time.

"Give yourself permission to stop for 30 seconds to smell a flower or enjoy a view," he says. "That way you get the full enjoyment out of the experience.”

I Spent One Month Comparing Trail Running To Road Running - Here's How My Fitness Changed

Weeks one and two

I should start by saying that I hate hills. And we’re not just talking a little bit. I’m the kind of road runner who will actively avoid even the slightest incline and complain about the smallest lifts in elevation.

So that was what made me most nervous about switching my well-trodden paving stones for the unpredictability of the dirt. At the same time, I had this weird sense of imposter syndrome on behalf of my local paths. For some reason, I felt like they weren’t ‘traily’ enough because they aren’t mountainous or particularly rugged.

But after speaking to the experts, I put my pride aside and got on with the job. Because the inclusion of woodlands, with their tree roots and ditches, combined with the flinty paths around the edge of farmers' fields, do count as trail running.

For the first couple of weeks, I ran in my road running shoes, hesitant to invest in anything more technical at the very start of my journey. On the flatter paths, I didn’t find this too much of an issue, though there were a number of twisted ankle scares early on. But when things got very hilly or undulating, it was noticeable how much I slipped on the descents, and I made a mental note to buy some trail running shoes before the month was out.

When it came to my fitness, my cardiovascular system largely stood up to the task. Instead, it was my legs and core that bore the brunt of the new stimulus. On my first real hill - a steep but short incline - I came close to walking as my quads began to scream. I also found my torso rocking more than usual as I navigated bumps in the path, and I’d often notice more soreness in my abs the day after a trail route.

But despite the added effort, I quickly fell in love with trail running, mostly because of how it made my mind feel. As the experts had suggested, I left my headphones at home from day one. Without the honking horns or revving engines to drown out, I discovered how peaceful and mindful it is to run without being plugged into something. Out in nature, especially first thing in the morning, I was repeatedly stunned by how beautiful my local surroundings are. The combination of birdsong with the rise of the spring sunlight turning clouds pink over crop fields regularly had paused to take it in (there’s a whole album in my camera roll to prove it).

Weeks three and four

After two weeks of my new routine - usually one to two trail runs and one road run a week - I could start to make real comparisons between the two. The most obvious one was the difference in pace. On the road, I can comfortably know when I’m feeling good and have a strong sense of when I’m tired. But on the trail, with mud, hills and fallen trees to face, all that went out the window. Sometimes, I really liked that. I found it more interesting, and runs usually passed more quickly because I was distracted by navigating the terrain.

Other days, though, I liked the rhythm of the road and being able to push the speed or try for a new PB. It made me realise that I wouldn’t give up this side of running entirely, and also that training speed in my legs is important - something I couldn’t do on the trails alone.

My quad, core and ankle strength have transformed over the month of trail running, though, to a visible degree. I can actually see the muscles in my quads popping when I flex them, and I feel much more stable in my movement - something which noticeably benefitted my road running, too.

Undoubtedly, wearing the right shoes helps enormously - both for trail running and hiking. On a slippery slope, a road running trainer will let you down immediately and can be quite off-putting. But switch to the grippy sole of a Salomon or Merrell shoe, and all of a sudden you realise that you’re way more capable than you thought.

In short, my month of comparison has led me to conclude that neither road nor trail running is ‘harder’. They’re just different. I don’t think we should be so quick to define ourselves as one or the other, and doing both could actually have overall fitness benefits that improve our goals in both disciplines. The strength, stability and mindfulness I’ve found on the trails make me show up stronger and calmer on the road, whilst the speed I have from the latter helps me to cover ground nimbly on the trails.

To me, trail running deserves its time to boom, and I have no doubt that we’ll see more and more of us taking our runs off-grid in the next year. Be warned, though - you might catch the bug and find yourself googling fell races and ultramarathons sooner than you think…

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There's one thing that this year's most stylish runners have in common—a running bandana. Yes, they work wonders for covering up sweaty hair, keeping the sun off your scalp, and preventing flyaways that could get in the way during a distance session, but they also add some colour and pattern to otherwise plain running gear.

Whether you're planning race day outfits or just getting ready for a gentle jog, feeling comfortable and confident in your kit can make all the difference when it comes to an effective workout. Not to mention, running accessories are essential for making your run as smooth as possible. Despite being both small and affordable, a bandana ticks all of these boxes.

It also offers the opportunity to refresh your holy grail sports bras, workout tops, and running leggings without investing in a whole new wardrobe. Paired with some statement running socks and a running belt, you've got a reliable but stylish running outfit to see you through any distance.

Running bandanas: Quick shopping links

• Most affordable: £2.46 at Amazon
• Best breathable: £6.90 at Amazon
• Best silk: £40 at Free People
• Sweat-wicking: £9.97 at Amazon
• Best technical design: £23 at Amazon
• Best cotton: £5.90 at Amazon

Most affordable

Most runners are sporting some variation on the classic paisley bandana, which is not only affordable, but comes in countless colourways to match your preference (or colour co-ordinate with your outfits). Made from a lightweight weave, it won't feel heavy or hot on your head whilst you run. Not to mention, it can be tied countless different ways to keep your hair off your face.

Best breathable

If you don't want the faff of tying and re-tying your bandana for each run, this style is ready to slip straight on. Plus, it's made from a very lightweight and breathable mesh that will prevent overheating and allow your head to get some air. This means it can also be worn under helmets for cycling, or even under a cap if you're looking to prevent any chafing.

Best silk

If your hair gets knotted, tangled, or matted during your runs, a silk bandana could be exactly what you need. Silk helps to keep frizz at bay, and wearing a bandana will keep your hair in place even on longer runs. Just be careful when it comes to washing—hand wash for best results and to avoid ruining the fabric.

Best sweat-wicking

If you like the look of traditional bandanas but want something that can easily wick sweat, this pack of three does just that. They're extremely stretchy and are designed to absorb two times more sweat than normal headbands. The width can be adjusted as desired, so you can switch between a full head bandana style and a thin hairband when you prefer.

Best technical design

Hit two activewear trends in one with this gorpcore-inspired mesh bandana that's made with moisture-wicking fabric that dries quickly in all conditions. Designed to be worn on hikes, runs, and bike rides, it's a versatile option that won't weigh you down or hold onto rain or sweat. It's also extremely easy to pack away when you don't need it, so it can be easily taken off mid-run if you decide to.

Best cotton

Made from 100% cotton, this bandana offers brilliant breathability for your runs. At 55x55cm, there's plenty of room to tie it in several different ways to your preference. Plus, the precision-sewn stitching means it's designed to withstand physical activity and won't start fraying after a couple of wears.

Last month, wearing head-to-toe blue, gels strapped to my waist and star clips in my hair, I ran the 130th Boston Marathon. It was the race of a lifetime; as an eleven-time marathoner, it was everything I could have dreamed of and more. Everything fell into place, and I came away with a shiny new five-minute personal best despite a significant elevation of nearly 1000 metres.

But let’s rewind a little, before I share more of my Boston story - because I’ve been a runner for most of my adult life. It helps me process, unwind, and never fails to boost my mood - it’s changed my life, shaped who I am, and made me lifelong best friends, along the way.

So you can imagine my devastation when, in December 2024, I broke my fifth metatarsal. The doctor’s instructions were clear - rest, ice, and elevation, and no running for a minimum of three months. I quietly started my rebuild - think hours (and hours, and hours) on the indoor bike, more calf raises than I care to count, and plenty of seated resistance band exercises, too. By April, I’d run my first half-marathon. And by December, I was on the start line of the Valencia Marathon, grateful beyond measure to be back doing what I love.

On paper, it’d been a perfect training block and I felt really confident. But the race was the only marathon I’ve run that I haven’t enjoyed. I got a pretty debilitating stitch from around mile six, which escalated into a full abdominal tear. Despite finishing with a PB, I left with more questions than I started with.

Had it been a strength issue? A fuelling error? Or was I simply not cut out for the distance after so much time off? That’s why, when Pamela Nisevich Bede, Global Nutritionist at Lingo by Abbott, reached out to offer her expertise ahead of my 14-week Boston Marathon training block, I leapt at the opportunity. I’d never had a nutritionist on hand to answer my fuelling questions before, and I’d be wearing an in-arm Lingo Glucose Biosensor to monitor how my body was actually processing the fuel I was consuming for my workouts.

To say this process was transformative probably undersells it. I’ve long been a fan of CGMs, wearing them for about twelve months back in 2023 as part of my PCOS journey, but I’d never quite understood how to eat for PCOS alongside fuelling for running (and the PBs I’d worked so hard for). The process with Lingo and Bede taught me exactly how to do it - and, if the five-minute personal best isn’t proof, I don’t know what is.

Let’s get into it.

What is a Lingo Glucose Biosensor?

A Lingo Glucose Biosensor is a small, wearable continuous glucose monitor made by global healthcare company Abbott. Designed to be inserted into your arm, it tracks your glucose levels day to day and provides handy in-app prompts and suggestions for minimising glucose spikes and maintaining stable energy levels.

It’s quite neat, actually - a small sensor sticks to the back of your arm with a tiny filament sitting just under your skin. Once it’s been inserted, it monitors the glucose in your “interstitial fluid” and then sends readings to the Lingo app via Bluetooth

Loads of things can impact your glucose spikes throughout the day - stress, sleep, food, exercise and more - and, as with everything in life, balance is key here. Some spikes will happen, but observing what causes the biggest ones and making dietary tweaks can not only be empowering but also boost your metabolic health.

How is a Lingo Glucose Biosensor useful for runners?

Good question - and one I’ll admit I had my own reservations about, when I hopped on my first call with Bede back in January. “Continuous glucose monitoring with Lingo offers endurance athletes real-time visibility into their body’s fuel needs and a peek at how their body is responding to training and nutrition,” the registered nutritionist shares with Marie Claire UK.

This is the part that appealed to me the most - instead of guessing, as we do with so many other aspects of our nutrition and wellbeing, you can actually see how your glucose levels shift before, during and after your sessions. While glucose tracking is only one part of the puzzle, it does enable you to use this data to fine-tune a nutrition plan that works for your health and performance. As Bede says, “Real-time data plus countless insights result in a more robust understanding of whether you are adequately fuelled.”

For marathon runners, this might look like smarter pre-run fuelling decisions, better timing and quantity of carbohydrate intake during long runs and faster and more effective recovery after sessions. “Ultimately, it helps athletes train with greater consistency by avoiding both under-fuelling and large energy dips,” she shares.

How can experts use data from the Lingo Glucose Biosensor?

“As a sports RD and metabolic health expert, I rely upon CGMs as a tool to guide your approach to fueling and evaluate what’s going on behind the scenes with your metabolic health,” she explains.

That’s because glucose data allows experts to move from generic guidelines to truly personalised fuelling strategies - think of it as a real-time insight into how your body is actually using and responding to the carb gels, snacks, and bars you’re using during your training runs.

“Rather than providing a range of 30 to 60 grams plus of carbohydrates per hour during long training sessions and racing, we can better pinpoint when to add in fuel, how much is needed to fuel the effort, and the cadence which is needed in order to keep energy steady and effort strong.” Pretty neat, right?

Month one

Hopping on my first call with the registered nutritionist, my main question is simple: how should runners balance the glucose spikes that simple carbohydrates cause with their benefits as an easily digested pre-run fuel? “While invaluable, glucose is one metric and one piece of a complex puzzle,” she explains. “It should be used alongside how the athlete feels, as well as their performance and broader nutrition goals and habits.”

In short, you’ll need glucose (most easily digested in the form of simple carbs - think bread, bagels, pasta and so on) to fuel your muscles while you run. And simple carbs consumed without other food groups, like protein and healthy fats, are most likely to cause glucose spikes. But Bede reassures me that glucose variability is normal and expected, and this process wasn’t about observing singular spikes; rather, accumulating enough data across training sessions to understand my body’s response to nutrition and training demands.

As she finished up our call, she stressed the soundbite that stuck with me the most: that rises in glucose can actually be beneficial, especially for runners. “Spikes around exercise signal glucose being sent to working muscles where it’s used to fuel the activity – which is a good spike.”

So, tracker in arm and app downloaded, I set about my training. The plan for the first month was simple: to eat, move and fuel as I normally would to collect data for Bede to analyse. Simple enough...

Month two

After a month of tracking my glucose data and sending the insights to Bede, I couldn't wait to hear her observations.

She’s flattering about my commitment to my training, but noticed that I was likely underfuelling a little, and that my glucose levels tend to dip earlier than expected on longer sessions. As a result, she suggested that I’d benefit from fuelling slightly sooner and more consistently. “Consistency during runs improved outcomes,” she shared. “A more structured fuelling cadence, such as fueling every 20 mins with bits of fuel versus a bolus of fuel every 60 mins, helped maintain a steadier glucose ‘plateau’, rather than fluctuations that could impact performance and perceived effort.”

Fuel type made a difference, too - as it turns out, I tolerate gels more than bars, and they supported more stable energy, too. Unsurprisingly, blended foods (like smoothies) caused sharper spikes as they’re quick to digest as opposed to whole foods, such as a banana.

She also encouraged me to wake up slightly earlier on my mid-week sessions and eat a more well-rounded breakfast, like a bagel, peanut butter, and a banana 90 minutes before my session. “Timing was key to avoiding reactive patterns. You had two effective options: fuelling 90–120 minutes before a run to allow glucose to rise, be absorbed, and settle, or fuelling closer to the session during an active warm-up, using easily digestible options like gels or sports drinks rather than bars.” I was in the habit of grabbing a carb bar on the way to my interval session, but after seeing my glucose soar to eye-watering highs one morning after reaching for my usual bar (and subsequently come crashing down), on the mornings when I simply didn’t have time, I reached for a gel, instead, knowing that my body could digest those better and would leave me feeling more energised throughout my session.

Alongside the physical observations, Bede gently reminded me that I’d go further with my training if I mentally reframed pre-run spikes. As someone with PCOS, I’ve eaten to minimise glucose spikes and reduce inflammation for the best part of three years - so to now be reapproaching this from a run-centric perspective took some getting used to. “Larger spikes from pre-session bars weren’t inherently negative - they reflected rapid energy availability as one would expect the product to deliver,” she explains. “They did highlight the need to focus less on last-minute fueling and working to avoid spikes and more on starting sessions well-fuelled.”

She also reminded me that day-to-day variability mattered. Stress, hydration, sleep and hormonal factors (including my PCOS-related variability) all influenced my glucose responses, which only reinforced the importance of spending time with glucose steady and in a healthy range outside of training windows.

Overall, my data reinforced that effective fuelling isn’t about eliminating glucose rises, but about using them strategically - ensuring I have energy available when I need it, while keeping patterns more stable outside of training to support recovery and consistency.

Month three - race day

Come April, I really felt I’d got in the swing of things with my fuelling and had plenty of time to test Bede's suggestions. My biggest achievement of the training cycle came at Reading Half Marathon, a training run mid-marathon block, which ended with me coming away with a half personal best I’d been trying to achieve for over three years.

That race, I did exactly as instructed: two crumpets, peanut butter and banana 120 minutes before, a SAP gel 15 minutes before the start with a focus on little and often, and a Maurten 100 gel every 5km. This was a ramp-up from my old rule of thumb, where I aimed for a gel every 25 to 30 minutes (around eight to nine gels per marathon for me, vs seven to eight).

I executed a similar plan on race day. Another element that I’d discussed at length with Bede was my aversion to tracking - in Valencia, I’d tracked my carb load in the days prior to the gram and ultimately, I think, I over-carbed (if such a thing can happen). Despite preaching day in, day out, never to try anything new on race day, I got sucked into the social chat, sticking to a hard-and-fast ten to twelve grams of carbohydrates per kilogram of body weight per day in the 36 to 48 hours prior. But my body simply wasn’t used to it, and I ended up feeling bloated and getting the dreaded stitch on race day.

For Boston, I carb-loaded intuitively and as per my Lingo guidance. I aimed for little and often throughout the day, didn’t track my macros, and instead just ate carb-focused meals that I loved (easy in the USA, I’ll tell you). Breakfast the days before looked like porridge, pancakes, or bagels with some fruit, lunch, a mozzarella sub from Monica’s Mercato, which claims to sell Boston’s most famous subs, and dinner, pasta with chicken, garlic bread, and some salad.

The morning of, I had a bagel with a banana and honey. On the way to the start line and as per Bede's guidance, I had another bagel and honey. An hour out, I had a banana, and 15 minutes before we kicked off, I had a SAP gel. As with Reading Half, I aimed for a gel every 5km on the dot.

While there are a multitude of variables that can impact your race day performance, I can confidently say I’ve never felt so comfortable, well-fuelled or strong during a marathon before. I was easily able to take on my gels (every runner's dream), never felt tired or like I was hitting the dreaded wall, and even managed the infamous 1000m of hills (including Heartbreak Hill) without slowing my pace.

And best of all? I didn't experience even a hint of a stitch, which so nearly floored me in Valencia just four months prior.

As a woman who spent most of her 20's undereating, it felt pretty special crossing that finish line having fuelled in a way I knew worked for my body. No guesswork, no questions, just a clear and data-driven plan to execute - which I did. It was euphoric, emotional and exhilarating - I'll never, ever forget it.

I learnt more about my body and what I need to adequately fuel my runs than I have in the ten years of being a Health Editor and runner. While I’m all for eating intuitively and listening to your body, sometimes, leaning into the data can be empowering beyond measure and enable you to reach levels you’d once dreamed of.

So, if you’re on the fence about your run fuelling or keen to learn more about what works for you, I can’t recommend Lingo enough. If you’re anything like me, it might just be the key to your next PB….

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I've been running for years, but I'll admit I'm a creature of habit. Same routes, same effort, same pace. While that's always worked for me, I've become a bit too comfortable with my running routine recently. I've completed a handful of half marathons, and, while I cross the finish line every time, my pace has barely shifted. With another race on the horizon - and a PB feeling long overdue - I decided it was time to actually do something about it.

That's when I came across an idea that almost felt counterintuitive at first: to run faster, I needed to slow down. The approach, known as 'Zone 2' running, focuses on keeping your effort low to build your aerobic base.

Research suggests slowing down can improve endurance, increase efficiency and help you sustain faster paces over time, including findings from this 2019 study examining low-intensity endurance training and adaptation. It's also how many endurance athletes train, with a further study, published in Scand J Med Sci Sports, showing the majority of their running is done at lower intensities.

With this in mind, I decided to put it to the test and try running slower to get faster. I committed to consciously slowing down my running pace over the course of two weeks to see if it made any difference, tracking performance, energy levels, and recovery.

The result? You'll have to read on to find out. And while you're here, don't miss our guides to running advice for beginners, how to improve running stamina, how to run for longer, and mindful running.

I Always Ran Hard To Get Faster – So I Tried The Opposite For Two Weeks. Here's What Happened

What is Zone 2 running - and can it really make you faster?

Zone 2 running essentially involves running at a pace where you can hold a full conversation comfortably - a level of cardio activity typically around 60-70% of your max heart rate.

So, what's actually happening inside your body at this pace? "It’s an effort where your body is working steadily, but not struggling," explains Lillie Bleasdale, founder and head coach of online run coach company PASSA. "It might feel slower than you’re used to, but it’s what helps make everything else feel easier over time."

The science backs this up. Personal trainer and running coach, Sarah Campus, explains that at this intensity, your heart rate sits at a level where fat becomes a major fuel source rather than relying heavily on glycogen. "Inside the muscles, mitochondria become more active and over time increase in number, capillaries expand to deliver more oxygen, and enzymes that support endurance improve," she outlines.

"The result is a system that can sustain effort for longer with less fatigue, allowing you to run further."

In other words, do less but better, so ultimately you can do more.

What are the benefits of running slower to get faster?

Before I begin any experiment, I like to do my research and understand what benefits I might realistically expect to see. And after speaking to running experts, I was feeling optimistic that running slower to get faster could be the key.

1. It builds your endurance base

Think of your aerobic base as the foundation on which everything else is built. Running at a slower intensity gives your body space to adapt and actually get fitter from the training you're putting in, rather than constantly playing catch-up.

"Slowing down allows your body to handle more consistent training without constantly feeling fatigued," explains Lillie. "It’s a case of doing less, but better, so you can ultimately do more in the long term."

2. It reduces risk of injury

When every run is a hard one, the cumulative strain on your joints, tendons and nervous system adds up.

"You can accumulate more training volume with much less strain on your joints, tendons and nervous system, which in turn lowers injury risk," says Sarah. As someone who's had to take time off from running due to injury (anyone familiar with runner's knee will get it), this really resonates with me.

3. Your easy pace naturally gets faster

This is the payoff that makes the whole thing worthwhile, and the reason I wanted to give it a go in the first place. As your aerobic base strengthens, what once felt challenging starts to feel comfortable.

"Over time, this larger and stronger aerobic base allows you to run faster at the same heart rate, so your easy pace naturally becomes quicker, and your ability to handle harder sessions improves," says Sarah.

4. Your recovery improves

'Within a few weeks, most runners start to notice things feeling easier," says Lillie. "Small wins like recovering quicker between runs, feeling less sore, or naturally picking up the pace without trying are all signs it's working. It’s a gradual shift - but one that really lasts.

My review of running slower everyday for two weeks

Week 1

I'll be honest, the first week of the experiment didn't go as smoothly as I anticipated. I assumed slowing down would be the easy part, but I quickly realised that wasn't the case. Every instinct I had as a runner was telling me to push harder, and keeping my pace deliberately low felt genuinely uncomfortable. I also found myself constantly checking my pace and heart rate on my watch, which I think only made things tougher.

Turning to the experts for advice on how to slow down, Lillie told me to stop checking my pace as often. "Try turning off the lap function on your watch," she told me. "Focus on how the run feels rather than what your watch says."

By my third run, I felt like I had a breakthrough moment. I turned off my Strava voice notifications, and it made more of a difference than I expected. Without the constant pace update in my ear, I stopped chasing numbers and actually started listening to my body instead.

My smartest moment of the week came when I brought my five-year-old along for a run. If there's ever a guaranteed way to slow you down, it's running alongside a small child. What I perhaps didn't expect was just how much I'd enjoy it - no pressure, purely movement and fun.

Hills proved to be my biggest test, which doesn't help, as I live in a very hilly area. My instinct has always been to push harder on an incline, so forcing myself to slow down was challenging to say the least.

By the end of the first week, the biggest shift wasn't physical, but mental. I've always been competitive with myself when it comes to running, and seeing my usual pace drop would normally really frustrate me. But detaching from speed and focusing on effort instead felt like a reset I didn't know I needed.

Week 2

By the second week, I started to find more of a rhythm. My runs felt more controlled, and I found it easier to stick to a slower pace without constantly second-guessing myself.

It wasn't until I headed out on a longer run, though, that I noticed a real difference in terms of energy and recovery. Usually, on a 12km run, I hit a wall towards the end, and I struggle to keep my pace consistent. Running slower meant I didn't hit that wall - I finished the same distance feeling like I still had something left in the tank.

Not only that, my energy levels throughout the day improved too. Long runs can really take it out of me, but I found myself returning from runs genuinely feeling good and alert rather than depleted. It's a simple shift, but when you're training alongside a busy schedule, it matters more than you might think.

Lillie's advice about running with friends also stuck with me. I joined a friend for a run mid-week, and it was a good chance to test being able to hold a conversation naturally to keep my pace in check. It's a simple hack, but an effective one.

By the end of the two weeks, I wasn't breaking any speed records, but I'd definitely started to notice the benefits of running at a Zone 2 pace. It's clearly something I'd need to stick with to see the long-term effects, but I'm convinced enough to keep it in my routine.

Turns out slowing down might just be the smartest way to speed up.

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It's officially marathon week here in London. Flags are being hung on the mall, confetti cannons ordered, and cheer points meticulously curated.

For any of you lacing up to tackle your first 26.2 this weekend, or entertaining the idea of signing up for one in the not-too-distant future, you'll likely be feeling at least a little nervous. It's a long way, after all, and a once-in-a-lifetime kind of achievement.

Who better to ease your pre-race day nerves, then, than Eliud Kipchoge, the world's fastest marathoner and the only human ever to run a sub-2-hour marathon.

I was lucky enough to catch up with the athlete last month as he announced his "7 Marathons, 7 Continents" world tour. Next month, he'll begin the challenge, aiming to complete 7 marathons on 7 different continents, with the aim of inspiring people at home into movement, whatever the barriers to entry.

Because, as he shares with me during our chat, "Those who can casually run a 5km or 10km can run a marathon" - it's all a matter of training, dedication, and choosing the pursuit. It'll come as no surprise that he's a firm and passionate believer in movement as medicine, reaffirming his confidence in movement as one of the simplest ways to boost not only your health, but your overall quality of life, too, several times over the course of our sit-down.

So, what would his advice be to any runners taking on their first marathon this weekend? He's imparted his wisdom below. And while you're at it, don't expert-led explainers on the benefits of running, 10km training tips, how to run further and how to run faster, or simple yet practical running tips for beginners' bible here. If you're keen to invest, scroll our tried and tested round ups of the best race day outfits, chic micro shorts, the best running accessories, and the best running trainers.

6 things Eliud Kipchoge wants you to know before you run your first marathon

1. Be consistent

One of the main things Kipchoge wants you to focus on, whether you're preparing to lace up for your first marathon this weekend or considering signing up for one in the near future? Consistency.

He believes it's the easiest, simplest way to not only build fitness and routine, but build up your base level of fitness enough to make the marathon a breeze.

"Create consistency and be really disciplined in training," the world's fastest marathoner shares.

2. Be grateful for movement

Next up? See movement as a privilege, rather than a chore. "For anyone who's not an athlete, I'd tell them that movement - putting one foot in front of the other - is one way of creating good health." He goes on to add, "Above all, health is what we need to get by."

If you're feeling daunted by the length of the training block, the distance, or the sheer volume of running you'll be signing up for, remember: you don't have to run; you get to. As Kipchoge puts it: "Exercise is not a punishment - it's a medicine for your health," he shares.

3. Train your brain

One thing that Kipchoge thinks it's essential you know before you run - or sign up for - your first marathon? How much of a physical and mental challenge the marathon distance is. He recomends training both your body and mind - preparing both for the challenges that race day will present.

"Running is about the body and the mind. The mind should be more fit than the body, because the mind is what controls the body. The moment you train the body right, that's where the magic happens. It's like your heart - You can't train only your heart, but through swimming, through running, through any kind of sport, you train your heart. Same thing with the mind. The more you adventure, the more you pick a target, that's what the mind wants."

My favourite ways to train the brain pre-race day include journalling, using visualisation techniques, and building a strong playlist packed with songs I listened to during this specific training block.

4. Use the tech to your advantage

"This is the world of technology - the world whereby you can have a coach in your watch or phone," he shares. He's a fan of utilising the tech available and letting the stats inform your sessions, too.

One feature on his own watch that he really rates, and recommends you check out too? "The feature which actually predicts how fit you are by looking at your cardiovascular data, previous run splits, and more."

This comes in unbelievably handy come race day, when you train for months at a time. It takes the guesswork away somewhat, as while there are still many elements (mental resilience, being one of them) that can impact how fast you run on race day, it gives you a good idea of your current fitness level and what that translates to in a race time.

5. Journal, journal, journal

As I mentioned above, I'm a massive fan of journaling - I've kept a record of all ten of my marathon training blocks, documenting the highs and lows. And so, too, has Kipchoge (although he's run ten or so more marathons than me in slightly speedier splits, but who's keeping track?).

"I have a diary for every marathon I've ever run," he shares with me. In it, he'll document what he's eating, rate of perceived exertion, the workout in question, and how he felt that day. It's an easy way to document the journey, but also a brilliant way to process your emotions as the training block builds and you need a reminder of all your weeks (and weeks and weeks!) of hard graft and resilience.

6. But most important of all, enjoy it

"For the last 23 years, I've enjoyed what I do every single day," he confesses. And there's a real lesson in this simple yet effective mindset hack. If you wake up every day and tackle your training with positivity and excitement, you've already won.

That, paired with choosing a workout that you enjoy and that you genuinely feel you'll stick to, is the ultimate way to stick to a new workout routine or run plan. As professional athlete Philly Bowden says, "Love the grind."

Shop MC UK running favourites now:

When I ran my first marathon - the London Marathon in April 2018 - carbon plate shoes didn't exist. I trained - and raced - in a trusty pair of Saucony Ride 10's, which were so well-loved come race day, I'd actually worn a hole through the toe.

But all of that changed a few months later when Nike launched Project Breaking2, a "multi-year initiative aimed at breaking the two-hour marathon barrier." The project saw Eliud Kipchoge and two other athletes partner with Nike, attempting to break the two-hour mark for the marathon for the first time in human history.

Not only did the dedicated Nike team meticulously curate pacing strategies, a flat, optimal course, and personalised nutrition for each athlete, but they also debuted the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly trainer technology, too - and so the "super shoe" was born, a science-backed kit innovation designed to make you that bit faster.

In 2017, Kipchoge wore the Nike Zoom Vaporfly Elite 4%, which is widely accepted as the first-ever carbon-fibre plate running shoe and a sport-changing innovation that promised to not only increase energy return, but improve running economy by 4%.

While it took a few iterations of the shoe before sub two was finally broken, Kipchoge stormed to victory - and history - in 2019, becoming the first and only human on the planet to run a sub two-hour marathon in a prototype of the Nike Alphafly Next%.

Now, you'd be hard-pressed to find a shoe that's not carbon-plated on a start line. They've swept into the mainstream over the past five years, with clever innovations and advancements from the likes of New Balance, adidas and ASICS cementing their status alongside Nike. Even Lidl now sells its own carbon plate shoe, the CarbonLite 1.0, a testament to how widespread super shoe mania is.

Need more convincing? The super shoe global market was valued at approximately USD 1.45 billion in 2024, as per Market Growth Report stats, and is expected to grow 27.63% to over USD 22 billion by 2034.

Basically, they're a really great investment if you're a semi-serious runner looking to chip away at your race times and personal bests. The plate acts as a sort of lever, and the specifically engineered foam, a spring, working together to propel you forward and make you faster.

Below, I share my edit of the best carbon plate shoes on the market, with detailed commentary on cushioning, wearability, comfort, and grip. Keen to shop the best running trainers, period? We've got a guide of that, alongside guides to the best cross-training shoes, best weightlifting shoes, and best sustainable trainers , not to mention best running shorts with pockets, the best sports bras with pockets, and the best workout camis, here.

Carbon plate trainers are the investment your running needs for 2026

Quick shopping links:

• Best overall: SuperComp Elite v5's, £230 at New Balance
• Most propulsive: Metaspeed Tokyo, £240 at ASICS
• Most aesthetically pleasing: Adizero Adios Pro 4, £220 at adidas
• Best for long distance: Alphafly 3 Glam, £289.99 at Nike
• Best price point: Deviate Nitro Elite 3, £156 at PUMA

What is a carbon plate trainer?

According to Emma Kirk-Odunubi, a gait analyst, footwear expert, and qualified sports scientist with over 15 years of experience in the running industry, carbon plate shoes are shoes "including the addition of a stiff midsole plate made of carbon."

And they work, how? "By storing energy from the force we drive into it when we land. As our foot flexes through to toe off the curved plate, then propels you forwards - think of it like a spring."

Ultimately, she goes on, the shoe aids in your quick forward propulsion whilst utilising less of your own energy per stride.

Who are carbon plate trainers best for?

According to Kirk-Odunubi, the main pros span their speed. "Research shows that if you're around 4:30/km or faster, you do get a true benefit from the speed you put into the shoe. And even if the science indicates the shoes don't work as effectively for slower runners, we can't deny the placebo effect. Running in a shoe you know is faster can have a positive reinforcement, whether science states it or not."

That said, they're costly - upwards of £200/250 is the norm - but secondly, they can't be worn daily, only for races. "More needs to be investigated, but research indicates that carbon shoes use muscle activation in the lower limb, which could lead to injury."

Best overall:

I've worn the FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5's for my last ten or so races now, and for thousands of training miles. The premium race day design from the brand, they're unbelievably light, uber cushioned, and made for speed.

They were my shoe of choice when I banked a marathon personal best in December (3 hours 13 minutes), a 5km personal best in January (19 minutes), and a half-marathon personal best in March, too (1 hour 28 minutes).

Long story short, they're fast. The carbon fibre plate and ultra-responsive PEBA midsole work together to propel you forward without compromising on balance or grip. They're also super comfortable and not as rigid as other carbon iterations - I have slightly wider feet and have found them spacious and comfortable, and they're never rubbed, caused blisters, or chafed.

The stack height is much smaller than other iterations on the market, but I quite like that - they're less in your face, and it's also easier to stay balanced wearing them (key for if you're a wobbly runner or have weaker ankles).

Most aesthetically pleasing:

The running world was up in arms when sportswear giant adidas launched the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 2 last year. Promising to be the fastest and lightest carbon plate shoe on earth, they market at a casual £450, around £200 to £250 more than most other competitors.

That said, I've long been a fan of adidas' carbon plate offering, and wore their Adizero Pro 3s for my 3.15 Berlin marathon PB back in 2023.

This advanced and redesigned iteration is lightweight, fast, and propulsive. While testing over an eight-mile run, I kind of felt like I had pogo sticks strapped to my feet; they push you forward that much.

Carefully designed to help you run your fastest times ever, I've no doubt they'd be an excellent choice for your next race (if the budget allows). They're ultra-advanced shoes for the most serious, speed-focused runners looking to chip away at that 1% after fully dialling in nutrition, training, and recovery. Also - the colourway is cute.

Only cons to note: the price point is obviously a barrier to entry for some, they are quite loud as your foot touches the floor, and I did find the fit a touch narrow.

Best for speed work

Rosemary Wanjiru won the 2025 Berlin Marathon in 2025 in the adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4's, with Sheila Chepkirui going on to win the 2025 New York City Marathon in the shoe just a month later.

But the shoe isn't just for athletes, and as I mentioned above, adidas has long been a go-to choice for me. I wore an earlier iteration for my 2023 Berlin Marathon Boston Qualifying time and again for a 1 hour 28 Paris Half a few months later.

Their hero race day shoe, the Adizero Adios Pro 4, is a really easy race day wear. Spacious, roomy, and with great energy return, they do exactly what they promise, feeling like a second skin and actively propelling you through your fastest miles.

I also love the range of colourways, the blue ombre above being my current favourite.

Developed with input from an all-star line-up of athletes from Kenya, Japan, and the USA, as well as thoroughly and rigorously tested in adidas' innovation lab in Germany, it's fair to say they put the shoe through its paces prior to launch.

Best for speed:

When I first tested the ASICS Metaspeed Tokyo, I was actually a bit taken aback by how springy the shoe is. A bit like the adidas, they're widely regarded as one of the most elite carbon plate shoes you can buy for race day

With an advanced dual-foam midsole and an impressive, explosive energy return, it's regarded as one of the lightest (163-170g, which is exceptionally light) and most responsive race day trainers you can buy. I tested them straight out of the box and didn't need to break them in, which I know has been an issue for some with previous ASICS designs, plus found the ASICSGRIP outsole instantly impressive (I didn't feel like I was going to fall, even when testing at around 3.45/minute kms and on wet roads).

I did find them slightly less stable than, say, the New Balance SuperComp's, but there's no denying they are insanely fast and well designed. Invest in these if you're serious about smashing your PB's and have your running form and efficiency down, but skip if you're just looking for a speedy shoe for your local Parkrun.

Best for a PB:

You know a shoe is going to be good when world-class athletes like Eliud Kipchoge wear the brand to smash the limitations of human potential. Ruth Chepngetich also wore Nike shoes to set the women's marathon world record of 2:09:56 in 2024, becoming the first woman to break 2 hours and 10 minutes in the marathon. Nike are an industry leader on this front, leading the charge and inspiring other brands to follow suit.

I ran the Chicago Marathon in 2022 in these Nike shoes and did all of my speedwork leading up to the race in them. They're a really cruisey super shoe - they propel you forwards while still providing stability and comfort.

This current iteration is one of the lightest Vaporfly models ever, with a slimmer midsole, thinner outsole, and redefined upper, and you can tell - you kind of forget you're wearing them, but the responsive ZoomX foam provides you with energy through even the toughest miles.

The only con to note: They do wear out more quickly than other models, which is worth bearing in mind, considering the price point.

Best new release:

Before we even get into the technical review of this super shoe, let me tell you - the new hot pink and black colourway is a vibe.

Released in February, the redesigned shoe is a real all-rounder, prioritising stability and durability thanks to its "slotted" carbon plate and SpeedRoll technology. They're also a slightly lower price point than competitors, so are a good option if you want a shoe that performs but doesn't break the bank. Plus, if you're someone who struggles with weak or wobbly ankles or who is taking on a more cobblestone-y course, like the Paris Marathon, they're an excellent, reliable option.

I tested them over a few speed sessions - two on the treadmill, one on the track - and was impressed with their superior grip. The track was rainy when I tested, and I didn't worry about slipping at any point, testament to the design. They're also really comfortable - I wore them straight out of the box and didn't experience blisters or chafing.

Best carbon plate trainer for a marathon:

My brother absolutely swears by the Nike Alphafly trainers, wearing them for the Valencia Marathon (and the many training miles in the lead up) back in December.

Seriously light, stable, and smooth as super shoes go, the Alphafly 3 has a fully connected ZoomX foam midsole (unlike the Alphafly 2, which featured a split sole). The brand said this promises a smoother transition, and when testing, I came to agree - it's a smoother ride, and also accommodates more runners and a far wider range of foot strikes. I tested over a few speed sessions - again, on both the treadmill and the pavement - and couldn't really fault them, bar them being much more "in your face" design-wise than the more subtle New Balance and ASICS designs. They're bouncy, balanced, and do the job, making you feel fast.

Cons to note: The stack height is big (40mm), and they can be quite loud - anyone who's raced in recent years will likely know of the small "squeak" the shoe can make when the foam hits the ground - but not so much so as to deter you from investing.

Best super trainer without a carbon plate

Last but by no means least, if you're looking for a speedy trainer to see you through faster-paced training miles and races but that's also suitable for easy runs, the ASICS Superblast 3 are a great investment. Still considered a "super shoe", but sans the carbon plate, they offer high-stack cushioning and race-day foam in a shoe you can use day to day, too.

I've been trying mine for around a month now and have found them springy but soft, responsive but a more confident ride. In my opinion, they're a better investment if you want a shoe that does everything thanks to their incorporation of FF Leap cushioning, also found in their Metaspeed range, which makes them less rigid than the carbon plate options on the market.

I reckon they're one of the most versatile "super shoes" currently available, and seamlessly bridge the gap between training miles at a range of paces and race day speed.

For context, running experts advise against wearing carbon plate trainers for all of your runs as they're specifically designed for speed. Not only will you struggle with energy return on slower runs, but you risk overloading your tendons and joints, ultimately increasing your chances of injury. The Superblast 3 promises to be a good middle ground - fast enough for race day, but supportive enough for your steady miles, too.

Perhaps one of the more unexpected trends to come out of recent years has been the rise in hiking gear for everyday wear, particularly in the world of footwear. But the beauty of the best trail running shoes, in particular, extends far beyond their looks—they're also highly technical designs that will support you on uneven terrains for running, hiking, and more.

They're not just for athletes, either. I regularly turn to my pair of trail running shoes for things like festivals, camping, lengthy walks on bumpy ground, and they're ideal for runners who like to go off-piste too. Combining style with substance, they tick countless boxes.

However, there are several things to know before investing in your next pair of trail running shoes, according to the experts. Charlotte Fisher, a British ultra-runner who has been selected as one of Snap Fitness’s Grassroots to Greatness athletes, has shared some of her favourite trail running shoes that she relies on for her races and training. Widely seen as one of the UK’s rising talents in ultra-trail running, it's safe to say she knows exactly what makes for a reliable pair of trail shoes.

It also pays to be aware of how running on uneven surfaces can impact your foot and leg health. Gabrielle Conroy, Podiatrist at Pure Sports Medicine, focused on sports-related lower leg disorders, has shared exactly why investing in specially designed trail shoes is important, as well as the key design features to look out for when shopping.

Plus, I've sought recommendations from runners on the Marie Claire UK team, and included my own favourite pair of trail shoes below. From hiking boots for all terrains to lightweight designs to style with running sunglasses throughout spring and summer, these tried and tested pairs are running accessories you'll thank yourself for investing in.

Best trail running shoes: Quick shopping links

• Best for summer: £220 at Hoka
• Best for winter: £170 at Hoka
• Best hybrid: £170 at Merrell
• Most comfortable: £150 at On
• Best everyday: £185 at Salomon
• Best lightweight: £150 at Merrell

Why is it important to wear trail running shoes?

"Trails can consist of a wide range of surfaces that are often uneven and can include tree roots or loose impediments. Therefore, trail running shoes are designed with greater grip and deeper lugs, whereas standard running shoes prioritise cushioning and weight saving," explains Conroy.

"It is important that the shoes have tougher soles and a protective toe cap to protect from debris on the ground. Due to this, they are typically heavier than traditional running shoes.

"While it is recommended that the athlete completes a gait analysis before choosing any running shoes, this is even more critical for trail shoes as trails often include steep inclines or declines where ill-fitting shoes are more likely to result in foot abrasions or blisters," Conroy says.

What should someone look out for when shopping? 

"A solid sole, good grip and traction, firmer heel counter and a comfortable toe box are probably the most important factors to consider," says Conroy. "However, when selecting trail shoes, it is worth considering the kind of trails that will be encountered and whether a waterproof / Gore-Tex shoe would be beneficial."

Best for autumn/winter

"Through autumn and winter, when the trails are wet, muddy and unpredictable, I rely on the Hoka Mafate 5. They give me the stability and grip I need to stay confident on technical terrain." - Charlotte Fisher, ultra-runner

With more cushioning and protection than other models, the Mafate 5 are ideal for difficult conditions. The Rocker Integrity Technology maintains control and protects from trail debris with an optional ankle gaiter, and the springy foam inside the shoe absorbs impact that trails might throw at you.

Best for spring/summer

"In spring and summer, when the trails dry out, and you can pick up the pace, I switch to the Hoka Tecton X3. They’re incredibly comfortable and feel fast over long distances." - Charlotte Fisher, ultra-runner

Carbon-plated for propulsion on trails, these Hoka shoes boast a seriously technical design. With winglets for stability, two layers of PEBA (the brand's lightest, most resilient compound) in the midsole, a Vibram® Megagrip outsole for better traction, and a dynamic vamp with plenty of room for feet to move. Best of all, they're extremely lightweight but will keep your feet well-padded on rocky paths thanks to the durable upper.

Best hybrid

"I did a 10-mile hybrid hike/run the first time I wore these shoes, and they felt as comfortable as the pair I’ve been wearing for over three months. There was a snug fit all the way to my heel so my feet didn’t slip around, but still enough room to wiggle my toes. The tongue also stays securely in place.

"The incredible Vibram Megagrip sole kept my footing confidently secure over rocks, roots, and wet ground, but I love that the pair still weighs less than my usual road running shoes—even with an integrated rock plate at the front to protect your toes on tricky terrain.

"Trail shoes can sometimes look functional, but I've happily worn the Agility Peak 6 for brunches in the city post-run after leaving the trails. I felt that the Peak 6 has less bounce and shock absorption when running down hills, but it’s a true trail runner that you can wear out and about after your adventure. Top tip: I’d recommend going up a half size to accommodate cushioned running socks. The toe box is on the narrower side, but felt spot on for my thin feet." - Lauren Scott, Senior Audience Development Manager

Best everyday

I don't own a huge amount of practical footwear, so my pair of Salomons comes with me everywhere when I need something reliable and weather-appropriate. Most recently, I wore them to battle against the snow in Iceland, and they worked a treat on icy paths and while walking through the national park. They fit perfectly true to size, and I love that they're fastened with a pull cord for easy wear and removal. Although not designed with technical features for hardcore trail runners, they're a brilliant option for more casual trail hikers.

The current model has been updated from a trail running shoe to be more city-appropriate, but that doesn't mean they don't still perform brilliantly on rocky terrain. I've worn these for hikes and jogs on bumpy surfaces, and they have held up perfectly, absorbing shock and providing enough cushioning underfoot. Best of all, they're waterproof—meaning mud, rain, and snow are no match. They're also sleek enough to wear casually, making them the ideal everyday trail shoe to have on hand when you need them.

Best lightweight

"These are my go-to hiking shoes. They have a very strong grip, waterproof material, and breathability—not to mention they're seriously comfortable. They're surprisingly light, while still offering good arch support in-shoe. If you're someone who doesn't like seriously chunky or heavy boots or likes travelling lightly, I'd go for these. Similarly, if you're prone to injury, they're ideal—they're light so won't cause you to overpronate or overcompensate, while also offering advanced support and functionality." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

Most comfortable

On is renowned for its footwear, so it comes as no surprise that the Cloudsurfer Trail 2 ticks almost every box for what makes a good trail runner. They're designed for shorter runs on non-technical terrains, meaning they're ideal for those who do regular local running stints. The brand's CloudTec Phase™ cushioning system is engineered for trail runs, so these are seriously comfortable. Plus, the Missiongrip™ rubber outsole offers the grip and traction you need for rocky paths.

The breathable and abrasion-resistant upper means they can withstand some wear and tear caused on the trail, whilst the padded lining will keep rubbing at bay. They're also seriously secure thanks to the shape, and who can resist this gorgeous spring pink hue?

Spring is in the air, and for some of us, this can mean only one thing: it's marathon season. Everywhere we look, people are hill-sprinting, fartleking and carb-loading their way to 26.2 glory - and as training plans draw to a close, we're all hoping we've done enough, come race day.

While no trainer will deny that putting in the hard miles is central to training for a big race, there's another, often overlooked aspect of a well-balanced program that might just make or break race day: strength training.

"Running itself is excellent for cardiovascular fitness, but it does relatively little to maintain muscle mass or strength," explains personal trainer at Ultimate Performance, Emily Schofield. "That’s why strength training is so important if you love running. It provides the stimulus your body needs to preserve muscle and build strength, which running alone simply doesn’t offer. If you want to get quicker, stronger, fitter and faster while out running, then incorporating strength training into your routine is one of the best things you can add to your training programme."

Not content to just take our word for it? The science stacks up, too. This 2024 meta-analysis, published in the journal Sports Medicine, shows strength training to be effective in improving running economy (by which we mean how efficiently you use oxygen at race pace). Further studies (such as this one, published in The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research) also reveal that strength training for runners improves performance and reduces the risk of injury - something no runner wants to contend with, this close to the marathon.

But all strength training is not created equal when it comes to pavement pounding - so, if you're keen to focus your sessions for maximum running benefit, keep scrolling. In the meantime, we have a mine of running-related content for your perusal: check out our guides to running advice for beginners, how to run a mile without stopping and how to run faster, as well as everything you need to know about AI running coaching apps, here.

Strength training for runners is key to improving performance and reducing injury - these are the moves to try today

What is strength training for runners?

While lots in the fitness world is complicated - especially when it comes to training for a marathon (or indeed, any other run), we're pleased to inform you that strength training for runners really couldn't be simpler. Essentially, you're working to build the very muscles you'll need when you lace up those trainers, from larger global ones such as glutes and hamstrings right through to the smaller (but no less important) stabilising muscles in the feet, calves and core.

"Strength training for runners refers to specific resistance exercises designed to improve, support and strengthen the muscles and tendons used when running," explains personal trainer and running expert Emma Bord. "It is one of the most powerful tools to help you run faster, reduce the risk of injuries and make you feel strong as you increase distance and/or intensity."

What are the benefits of strength training for runners?

We've touched on some of the benefits of strength training for runners above, but let's dig into the detail.

1. It improves running performance

This is the one that's likely to appeal to you most, but it's far from the only benefit to focus on. Where once running and strength were seen as mutually exclusive, the fact is that the stronger you are, the better you will run: the end.

"There is a temptation to plan your week around short runs, long runs, and interval training to increase your running speed and stamina, but I would recommend incorporating two strength sessions a week into your regimen," advises Schofield. "Strength training can support improvements in your running by helping you sustain faster paces for longer. Stronger muscles – particularly in your legs and core - contribute to better control of your stride patterns and more consistent running mechanics, particularly when you’re tired."

2. It increases running economy

As well as improving stride and pace, strength training boosts what we term running 'economy'; that is, how efficiently our bodies work when we're running. Just like any other machine, the more efficient we are, the better.

"A stronger body uses less energy at a given pace, meaning you can run faster or longer with the same amount of effort," explains Lillie Bleasdale, founder and head coach at leading online female running coaching collective PASSA. "More power equals better efficiency, which boosts overall performance."

3. It reduces our risk of injury

The world is full of people who tell us running is bad for our joints, and while it's true that it is a high-impact activity that stresses our joints, the stronger we are, the less likely this is to be a problem.

"Running is a repetitive and high-impact activity, with each step putting force through the body," notes Bleasdale. "Known as ground reaction force, the amount of force that goes through the body when our foot hits that pavement is often too much for three times our bodyweight - and without adequate strength, that load is absorbed inefficiently. This, in turn, can lead to increased injury risk.

"Strength training helps runners to better absorb and produce force, maintain good form when fatigued, and reduce strain on joints and our more passive structures (such as tendons and ligaments). In short, we're making the body more resilient to running, and reducing our injury risk."

4. It helps preserve muscle mass

As noted previously, while running is an excellent form of exercise, alone, it won't help us to build muscle mass or strength - something that starts to decline for women in our early 30s.

"In addition, strength training helps maintain muscle," agrees Schofield. "Running alone doesn’t provide enough stimulus to preserve muscle mass, so without it, many runners find they lose strength and muscle tone over time."

6 best strength training moves for runners, according to top coaches

1. Glute bridges

What? Lie on your back with knees bent and feet hip-width apart. Press your hips and bottom up as far as you can, then hold and squeeze the glutes at the top before lowering slowly.

Why? "The glutes are one of the primary engines for running, responsible for hip extension and forward propulsion," says personal trainer Caroline Idiens. "When they are underactive, runners often compensate with the lower back or hamstrings, which can lead to injury. Activating and strengthening the glutes helps to stabilise the pelvis and improve stride power."

How long for? Three sets of 12 to 15 repetitions.

2. Romanian deadlifts

What? A classic strength training move, the Romanian deadlift is a staple in most weight regimes. To do them, stand with your shoulders back and chest lifted, holding a pair of dumbbells in front of your thighs. Keeping a slight bend in the knees, hinge at the hips and lower the weights down the front of your legs while keeping the back flat. When your chest is parallel to the floor, and you feel a stretch in the hamstrings, drive through the hips to return to standing.

Why? "The hamstrings act both to control the lower leg and help decelerate the stride when running," says Idiens. "Strengthening the hamstrings improves posterior chain power, protecting against common running injuries such as hamstring strains and knee issues. In addition, hamstring strength improves posture and supports the lower spine."

How long for? Three sets of eight to 10 repetitions.

3. Calf raises

What? Exactly what they say on the tin: stand with feet parallel, slightly apart. Slowly and with control, raise the heels off the ground, ensuring you don't roll the ankles. Slowly lower back down and repeat.

Why? "Calf raises target the lower legs, which take a lot of the impact when running," says Bord. "These exercises will help strengthen this area, supporting the Achilles tendon, which can tighten up as well as help improve running bounce and efficiency."

How long for? Three sets of 10 reps will leave you begging for mercy.

4. Split squats

What? Step one foot forward and the other back into a split stance. Lower the back knee toward the floor while keeping the chest upright and front knee tracking over the toes. Push through the front heel to return to standing.

Why? "Strong quadriceps are essential for shock absorption and knee stability when running, particularly during downhill sections or those later stages of a marathon when fatigue begins to affect your form," notes Idiens. "Split squats build unilateral strength and help correct muscle imbalances between legs."

How long for? Three sets of 10 to 12 repetitions per leg.

5. Dead bugs

What? Lie supine with your knees in tabletop and arms extended above your head. Slowly extend opposite arm and leg, keeping the lower back in contact with the floor and core engaged. Return to the centre and repeat on the other side.

Why? "Simple strengthening work helps maintain your posture and your stability, especially as you get tired," says Schofield. "A strong core allows you to hold your form more effectively, which improves efficiency and reduces the likelihood of compensatory movements that can lead to injury. Dead bugs are a great exercise for deep core control and stability."

How long for? Three sets of 12 reps (six on each side).

6. Chest press

What? Another standard strength exercise, the chest press will work the arms, chest and shoulders. Lying on the floor (or a gym bench) with knees bent and a dumbbell in each hand, lift the dumbbells above your chest and slowly release back down, concentrating on using muscle over momentum.

Why? "As counterintuitive as it might initially seem, I would also include some upper body pushing and pulling exercises, such as chest presses and rows," advises Schofield. "While they’re not directly responsible for propulsion, they contribute to overall balance and stability, which supports good running mechanics."

How long for? Three sets of 10 reps.

Shop MC UK's go-to running must-haves now:

If there's one person to persuade the masses that secondhand sportswear is cool, it's Harry Styles. The musician's longtime collaborator, Harry Lambert, styled him in a notable amount of vintage workout gear sourced from eBay for his recent Runner's World cover shoot, and it has me more convinced than ever that preloved is the way to go if you want to be the best-dressed (and most eco-conscious) person at the gym.

Any excuse to shout about shopping secondhand and sustainable living, I welcome with open arms. I'd say my screen time is 90% Vinted. The Business of Fashion recently reported that UK consumers spent as much as £4.8 billion on secondhand items online in 2025, so I'm not the only one.

But while scouring resale platforms has become commonplace for many of us, particularly when it comes to designer and high-ticket purchases, the athleisure world has yet to completely catch up. Understandably, some people don't love the idea of wearing race day kit someone else has sweated in. But I'm here to tell you that a hot wash and a good detergent can make anything good as new.

Lambert's choice to source secondhand led to some truly distinctive and dopamine-inducing looks, but it also proved that you don't need to turn to fast fashion brands for your workout. Good exercise clothes are made to last - and I often find that vintage pieces look much cooler too.

Retro printed tees, vintage trainer silhouettes, and even trends like capri leggings prove that the activewear world has a penchant for old school looks, and what better way to channel that than with genuine vintage purchases. Not to mention, opting for secondhand can save you a lot of money on items that don't come cheap when you shop new.

I've put my daily scrolling time to good use and found some of the best secondhand sportswear pieces available right now - and you can trust they will not only perform, but get plenty more life in your collection. From running sunglasses, gym layers, and workout leggings to running trainers and Pilates clothes, there's no end to what can be found secondhand.

Secondhand sportswear: Quick shopping links

• Sign of the Times: Shop elevated designer picks
• Depop: Browse affordable secondhand gear
• eBay: Bid on stylish y2k workout clothes
• Vinted: Find preloved bargains

Shop secondhand sportswear

Secondhand leggings

Secondhand tops

Secondhand sports bras

Secondhand shorts

Secondhand workout set

Secondhand jackets

Secondhand joggers

Secondhand trainers

Secondhand sunglasses

It can take a lot of fortitude to get out on a run when the weather isn't on your side, but when you still manage to pull yourself out of bed, the last thing you want is your leggings of choice rolling, slipping, chafing, digging in, or causing you to overheat. In fact, I'd say it's the same story even when the conditions are ideal - a bad pair of leggings can turn any good workout on its head. That's where our tried and tested edit of the very best running leggings comes in.

We test the best workout leggings for a living, so there's almost no brand that our expert Editors haven't put to the test over the years. But while low impact exercise allows for a little more flexibility with your athletic gear, running is one sport that you need to use your very best kit for - especially when going long distances.

With the running boom taking hold over the last couple of years, more of us than ever are turning to the sport for both the mental and physical benefits. In fact, one 2020 study found that "running bouts of variable lengths and intensities, and running interventions, can improve mood and mental health." But even if you go for runs primarily for the mental benefits, that doesn't mean that quality kit can take a back seat.

As well as analysing how well different pairs of leggings function during a workout, we've also paid close attention to how well our favourite pairs have aged over the years. Most crucially, if they have washed well and retained their shape. Each and every pair below comes runner-approved, delivering on all fronts - including petite leggings, high waisted leggings, and even leggings with pockets. Paired with your best sports bra, running socks, running sunglasses, running accessories, and running belts for extra storage, you've got everything you need for your best ever session.

Best running leggings: Quick shopping links

• Best overall: £45 at ASICS
• Best lightweight: £105 at On
• Expert recommended: £90 at Sweaty Betty
• Best petite: £45 at Gymshark
• Best with pockets: £54.99 at Nike

Best overall

"I particularly like the mesh ventilation holes behind either knee in these leggings. They're comfortable to put on, offering just the right amount of compression and a high waist fit, too. While they're snug enough not to roll down mid-workout, they're not so tight they cut you in half. I also found the material impressively sweat-wicking on my run, offering a barely-there feel and keeping you dry and cool. They also maintain their shape well after washing, meaning they'll last the test of time." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

Best lightweight

I recently tried On's leggings for the very first time, and they exceeded every expectation. Yes, £105 is fairly steep for leggings, but they stand head and shoulders above my cheaper pairs. They're extremely soft with a barely there feel, they don't roll down, they have ample pocket space, and they're the perfect length for me at 5ft2. They're actually designed for low impact workouts, but I've worn them for a treadmill session in the gym and they didn't budge or show sweat. For any shorter distances or gentler runs, these are the soft, comfortable leggings to have on hand.

Expert recommended

"I love the Sweaty Betty Runner's High Power Leggings for how comfy and practical they are on a run. The side pockets easily fit my phone and a couple of gels, so I can skip a running belt on shorter distances. There’s also a secure back pocket that’s perfect for keys, which makes them feel thoughtfully designed for real runners. They also feel very supportive and stay-put as you run, so they’re the kind of leggings you reach for every time." - Lotty Campbell Bird, runner and yoga, Pilates and barre teacher based in the Cotswolds

Best leggings with pockets

I bought these leggings secondhand and they're still going strong five years later. I love the zip pocket at the back that is the perfect size for keys or a card whilst the spacious pockets on the sides can easily fit my phone and keep it secure. The black design is sleek and functional, with breathable mesh panels on the back of the legs that allow air in but don't ruin the silhouette from the front. Plus, they have an adjustable tie waistband so they never fall down, even when running.

Most versatile

"These are leggings are incredibly lightweight, wick sweat well and have just enough compression to feel supportive without being uncomfortably tight. In fact, I barely feel like I'm wearing athleisure when I have these on. The wide waistband doesn't roll down or dig in and they’re very versatile - I wear them for Pilates and running with equal levels of success." - Valeza Bakolli, Health Contributor

Best petite

"I ran the London Landmarks Half Marathon a couple of years ago - my first half - in these leggings and they were a dream. While not specifically designed for petite women, they sit perfectly around my ankle (I'm 5ft 4). They're also seamless and run true to size. As a petite girl, I've long struggled with leggings that are too long and bunch around the ankles, or leggings that fit my leg length but ride down. During my 13.1 mile run, they did neither of these things, keeping me dry, comfortable, and supported throughout." - Sofia Piza, Junior Fashion Editor

Best affordable

"I've worn these for Pilates, strength training, yoga, Barre and - most importantly - both long and short runs. I love that they're versatile and stylish, too. Worth noting: the lighter colours might show slight sweat patches. That said, I've always been impressed with how well the chocolate brown and black colourways that I own sweat-wick." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

Top rated

"Having run countless half marathons and training runs in these Wunder Under tights and the London Marathon 2021 in the Fast and Free shorts made from similar Nulux sweat-wicking fabric, I can confirm lululemon's bottoms are some of the best. They sweat-wick effortlessly meaning you're always the right temperature (never sweaty, too hot, or too cold), they compress your legs without feeling restrictive, and they wash well, making them a great investment for years to come. Just be aware that they're listed in US sizing - so for a UK size 10, you'd need to opt for a lulu 6." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

All runners will know that nothing ruins your comfort and focus like grappling with your phone, keys, water bottle, and more whilst on the move. That's where handy storage solutions like the best running belts come into their own. However, finding one that doesn't bounce, chafe, or add unnecessary bulk - but still offers enough room for everything you need - takes some serious trial and error.

I can appreciate that this mission can be not just costly, but also very wasteful. So, in the interest of uniting you with the perfect running belt for your needs on the very first try, I've spoken to marathon runners, Olympians, running coaches, ultra-runners, PTs, and running fanatics about the belts they swear by.

"As a ten-time marathoner and four-time Boston Qualifying marathoner, I've tested upwards of 50 running belts over my decade in the industry," says Marie Claire UK's Senior Health Editor, Ally Head. "I notoriously don't get on with them - they make me feel quite weighed down in comparison to just running without anything attached to you, and many have bounced around on my hip or waist so much, they've actually ended up causing a stitch.

"That said, the sheer ease of being able to pop your essentials in a pouch that you know won't pop open shouldn't be overlooked - while my personal recommendation is going for a pair of the best running shorts with pockets, or a top or bra with pockets included, the below are the tried and tested best of the best."

From affordable options that won't break the bank and stylish patterned designs to fabrics that promise minimal bounce, I'm confident that one of our experts has a belt to suit your needs. And for even more storage options ahead of marathon season, we've tested sports bras with pockets, leggings with pockets, running accessories, and even running socks you can hide a gel in if you so desire.

Best running belts: Quick shopping links

• Editor's pick: £35 at ON
• Expert favourite: £35 at lululemon
• Best all-rounder: £24.99 at Nike
• Most recommended: £24.95 at Amazon
• Most stylish: £21.50 at Sweaty Betty (save 55%)
• No bounce: £31.99 at Amazon
• Best for long runs: £14.99 at Kiprun

Best running belts, worn daily by athletes and experts

Editors pick

"Sleek, secure, and stylish, this ON running belt is top of the range and really easy to use. It comes in four chic colourways, and does exactly what it promises - keeps your belongings secure throughout vigorous movement while looking stylish, too. I'm a big fan of the abrasion-resistant UHMWPE stretch fabric, which washes well and ensures maximum comfort, and the fact that this belt offers three - yes, three! - storage pockets - one front zip pocket and two side slip pockets." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

Expert favourite

"As a runner, I love using a running belt because it adds to the sense of freedom running gives me, it keeps all my little essentials without ruining the rhythm of my run. My favourite ones are lightweight, secure and don’t bounce while I’m moving. I can tuck in my phone so I’ve got my tunes and that security on me so if I do need to take an Uber home after a long run to the coffee shop, I know I can. It means I can run hands-free, stay comfortable and still have everything I might need. My favourite one is from lululemon. It's lightweigh, fits all my essentials, and most important; it's pink!" - Aimee Fuller, two-time Team GB Winter Olympian turned broadcaster, author and keen runner

"Minimalist with a sleek design, this lululemon belt is suitable for shorter runs. It can fit 2-3 gels and your phone. Some people recommend choosing a single size up for the best fit." - Arj Thiruchelvam, running coach and Performance Physique founder

Best all-rounder

"I've had this Nike belt for a couple of years now, and love the bright colourway, as well as how snugly it fits to your body. A non-negotiable in any running belt is its ability to stay put, and this one does a great job of that. The band doesn't dig in or cause discomfort while you're moving, and the zip is easy to navigate for grabbing gels mid-movement." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

Most recommended

"As I've mentioned, I notoriously... don't get on with running belts, and personally much prefer to wear shorts, tops, or bras which have pockets for all of my essentials in. But when I put a callout out on Instagram last November asking my running community which their go-to running belt was, this one got rave reviews. It's affordable, washes well, and most importantly, doesn't move around loads while you're moving. It also has handy loops for you to put your gels in on either side of your waist, meaning you've got more storage space in the pouch compartment for your keys, phone, and card." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

Most stylish

"I love this running belt as it’s easily adjustable around the waist, so it doesn’t move around when you’re running. To find a belt that can hold your phone, a small water bottle and gels for longer runs isn’t easy, but this belt fits it all." - Lotty Campbell Bird, yoga, Pilates and barre teacher based in the Cotswolds

Best no bounce belt

"I love this running belt because it's super comfortable with no bounce, loads of pockets, and it doesn’t chafe even after 100 miles. The pole loops are a great bonus too." - Charlotte Fisher, British ultra-runner

"The Salomon Pulse belt is excellent because the weight distribution is comfortable and you get very minimal bounce from phones, gels, or other small items." - Monty Simmons MSc, Personal Trainer

Best for hydration

"My absolute favourite running belt is the Fitletic Hydra 16 hydration belt. I think it makes sense to hydrate yourself while you’re running. The good news is that as you get more tired, you’ll probably have drunk more water, so the belt actually becomes slightly lighter as you go through the run. As the race progresses, you’re carrying less weight because you’ve already consumed some of it.

"These also work nicely if you’re pairing them with SiS gels or similar if you’re doing longer distance running. They’re great because they help you carry essentials like your phone, keys, or gels. Another benefit is that the weight stays close to the centre of your body, which is important. Instead of pulling on your shoulders and making your traps ache or sitting awkwardly in a pocket or off to one side, the load stays centralised around your hips.

"That means it doesn’t distract you while you run and it doesn’t get anywhere near your legs, so it doesn’t interfere with your stride. It’s not weighing on your shoulders constantly, and you’re not worrying about things bouncing around in your pockets. Most of them zip securely as well, so you don’t have to worry about things falling out while you’re running and you can maintain a good cadence without thinking about it." - Monty Simmons MSc, Personal Trainer

Best for long runs

"This Kiprun belt can store 6 energy gels plus keys, and a total of 500ml via two flasks. It is remarkably secure, reducing that annoying bounce when running. This is a really good long run option that doesn’t break the bank." - Arj Thiruchelvam, running coach and Performance Physique founder

Best running belt alternatives

Best top with pockets

"Not a belt, but easily one of the best running tops on the market if you're looking for storage space. The tops and shorts from independent brand Weasie are my current favourites - they have 5+ pockets on both, fit your belongings seamlessly, and are unbelievably handy for racing or training runs.

"With five - yes, five! - pockets to choose from, you can easily fit your phone, gels, keys, card, and basically anything else you may need in this top. The design is also surprisingly ergonomical - nothing bounces around, and it truly feels like a second skin. Want my two cents? Support a female-founded, independent business and treat yourself to one of the best running tops on the market RN." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

Best shorts with pockets

"These are the shorts I've worn for my last four marathons - London, Chicago, Berlin, and Valencia - so you can really trust that I think they're the best of the best. Race day can be so hard, you have to be wearing kit that's working hard for you - and lulu's cult favourite Fast and Free shorts do just that. They sweat wick unbelievably well, fit like a glove, and have two pockets on either side of your thigh, as well as five pockets inside the waistband for all of your race day or training run essentials. TLDR: I can't fault them if you're in need of storage mid-workout." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

I've made no secret of my love for Gymshark workout gear. What first attracted me to the brand was its incredible affordability, but the high performance fabrics and elevated silhouettes are what make me a repeat customer. Perhaps the only thing the gym-based brand had been missing was a capsule of quality, technical running-focused items that could stand up against others on the market - and it's now delivered exactly that.

It only takes a quick skim of my Gymshark ruched Sports Bra review to see how highly I rate the brand, and they regularly feature in our roundups of the best leggings, sports bras, and so on. So when news of the running collection dropped, I was understandably excited. And after carefully analysing a range of the hero products, I'm confident that this will be one of Gymshark's most sought-after launches in a while.

Yes, the brand is new on the running scene, but this drop marks a huge step up in its offering. We're not just talking basic tights and t-shirts that could make do for a run - these are pieces that will compete with some of your more premium running gear. Think reflective details, breathable mesh fabrics, windproof layers, sweat-wicking leggings with pockets, high support bras, and even a hydration vest with no detail overlooked.

And Senior Health Editor and ten-time marathon runner Ally Head agrees, adding: "The new run range from Gymshark looks top class - made from lightweight and durable materials for your spring and summer runs, and designed to be breathable, sweat-wicking, and stylish, the colourways are to die for."

These are the investment pieces that I believe will not only make for stylish additions to your kit, but that will genuinely perform for any type of running workout. Best of all, none of it will break the bank either.

Shop the new Gymshark running collection

If there's one thing no runner should leave the house without, it's a truly reliable pair of running socks. Although certain distances make some slight foot discomfort inevitable, your choice of socks is the thing protecting you from hugely painful blisters, rubbing, or excess sweating when there needn't be any. Enter: our roundup of the very best running socks, chosen by marathon runners and fitness experts.

Finding the right running accessories to support your workout can be just as essential as a pair of the best workout leggings or running shorts. They might not be the very first thing to come to mind when you're shopping, but they have the power to make or break a run - socks in particular. But investing in a high-quality pair isn't only reserved for long-distance athletes - a comfortable pair of socks will serve you equally well on a 10k as they will on your walking pad or home treadmill.

Senior Health Editor Ally Head has run an impressive ten marathons in her time, so it's safe to say she knows what makes for an excellent pair of running socks. And although I'm only partial to the occasional Parkrun or jog when I feel I need it, my sessions on the treadmill at the gym and the vast amount of long walks I've done mean I've tried and tested several types of workout socks that lend themselves well to running too.

Look no further for tried and tested pairs of socks that you can throw in your best gym bag and go, and that fit seamlessly into your running shoes with zero rubbing to contend with.

Best running socks: Quick shopping links

• Best overall: £26 at Free People
• Most affordable: £12 at Amazon
• Best technical: £22.20 at Amazon
• Best for long distance: £18.99 at STYRKR
• Most stylish: £12.99 at Stance
• Most technical: £18.99 at Sole

Best running socks overall

"I really think these are the best socks of all time - I wear them for all of my races," shares Head. The ribbed crew socks are the ideal length for wearing with both leggings and shorts, and the fun colourways add just the right amount of brightness to any workout look.

Best technical running socks

Arguably the biggest thing runners come up against is blisters, not to mention chafing and general sweat. FALKE's breathable cotton socks feature a triple layer sole design to wick away moisture, not to mention a flat toe seam which prevents pressure points, chafing and blisters. The special knitting techniques used to make these socks are adapted to the gender and anatomical differences of the right and left foot ensure a high comfort, a wrinkle-free fit that is also extremely durable. Yes, they're pricier than other socks for one pair, but the technical design is second to none.

Most affordable running socks

"If you're a runner, you'll have heard of Puresport - a buzzy, London-based brand which delivers both effective supplements and seriously clever marketing campaigns. I love most of their kit, but especially their socks - the designs are breathable and sweat-wicking, and also come in a range of fun colours for either training or race day." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

Best running socks for long distance

"Harry Styles wore Sums socks for the 2025 Berlin Marathon - which is kind of all you need to know, right? This collab with Styrkr - one of my go-to fuelling brands - gets a yes from me. Engineered for endurance and built for performance, they offer a light compression for circulation, anti-blister cushioning for comfort, and breathable mesh to keep your feet the right temperature." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

Most stylish running socks

"Because running socks can - and shall! - be cute, as well as functional. I'm a big fan of Stance designs and have been since I first tested them back in 2018. They're everything you want in a running sock - thick, but not too thick, supportive without being sweaty, and cosy while still offering breathability. Plus, this ruffle design promises to elevate any running 'fit." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

Best technical running socks

"Another pair of SUMS socks, this time from their main collection. Again, if they're good enough for Harry Styles - who ran a sub-three-hour marathon in Berlin in September, FYI - they're good enough for us. Made with polyamide, these come with anti-blister cushioning and in a breathable yarn knit." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor.

Most versatile running socks

"I've probably worn these socks hundreds of times. They're my go-to for races or running events, thanks to the minimalist design and comfortable fit. I love that they're fashionable, but also functional, and that they wash well and hold their shape." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

Best light cushioning running socks

I have had my Gymshark socks for about a year and they're the ones I turn to again and again for runs, long walks, and treadmill sessions. They're sleek and minimalist, but have a nice long length that keeps my ankles and legs protected and warm. I love the ribbed detailing, but my favourite feature is the terry knit that stretches from the heel to the toes that adds cushioning without too much bulkiness. They also wick sweat seriously well - I have never had to content with soggy or smelly feet, even after a lengthy hike or jog.

Best running socks for arch support

On's specially designed running socks offer arch support you can really feel, which is brilliant if you often get aches and pains in that area. You get two pairs in this pack with some gorgeous colour options, and they're made with maximum underfoot cushioning to support you through any distance. The ribbed cuffs make for a cosy fit with no danger or rolling down, and the breathable material keeps sweat at bay.

Softest running socks

Much like other Vuori activewear, these socks are incredibly soft. They are very breathable and moisture wicking, which makes them a joy to wear. They're thinner than some other options (but still well cushioned) so I love wearing them with my most comfortable trainers when I don't need too much padding. I regularly wear them casually too, because they're just that soft. If you hate rough, terry textures, these are the socks to go for.

Best moisture-wicking socks

"Finally, I wore these New Balance socks for my recent 3:13 marathon personal best in Valencia, and can confirm they're a dream to run in - soft, cosy, comfortable, but high-functioning, too. I also like that they double up for day wear - I'm all for activewear that can seamlessly fit into your wardrobe, whatever you're doing." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

We've all been there: you've laced up your trainers, and you're feeling pumped. You head off, full of optimism, but after only a couple of minutes, you're struggling.

Your legs are heavy, breathing laboured, every fibre of your being wants you to stop - and don't get us started on the inner dialogue in our heads - but you're only five minutes into your run.

You can't give up yet, so you push through, hating every second, until suddenly, the clouds part and you're in your stride - you could run forever. But whaddya know - only a few days later, the same torture hits. Why, why, why is running just? So? Hard?

Specifically, the first ten minutes of any given run. Ask any runner, and we'll pretty much unanimously agree: no matter how seasoned we are, those first ten minutes are tough. It's enough to put off the most committed of us, let alone a beginner who has yet to experience the multitude of benefits that exist on the other side of the temporary torment.

But you don't need us to tell you that it's worth pushing through; these benefits speak for themselves. Research (like this study, from the The Journal of the American College of Cardiology) shows that even short runs (we're talking five to ten minutes) reduces the risk of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular diseases, while other studies (such as this one, published in the journal Nature) reveal mental health benefits including mood regulation (that elusive 'runner's high') and improved executive function.

So, it's clear there are compelling reasons to lace up and run - but how can we make it feel like less of a slog? We asked the experts for their top tips; keep scrolling for all the details, but in the meantime, do check out our guides to running advice for beginners, how to run a mile without stopping, and our Health Editor Ally's winter running tips, not forgetting expert-led guides to how to run for longer, training tips for running your first marathon, plus how to improve your stamina, here. Eager to expand your workout wardrobe? Shop the best running trainers, best running shorts, and the best hydration vests, here.

Why the first 10 minutes of running is so tough - and what you can do about it

What are the benefits of running?

First up, let's take a look at all the reasons why we should push through our discomfort to reach the promised land of effortless running. As touched on above, there are a myriad of both physical and mental health benefits to running, as personal trainer and multiple marathoner Emma Bord explains.

"There are so many benefits to running!" she tells MC UK. "For me, the number one is the way in which it boosts your mood and increases your energy levels. You may feel that before your run, you are stressed and tired, but more often than not, going for a run can absolutely change that, leaving you feeling more positive, clear-minded and energised. In addition, it does wonders for your heart health, strengthens your muscles and improves your fitness levels."

Not inconsiderable fitness benefits aside, running can be a powerful tool for women, in particular, notes Sabrina Pace-Humphreys, running coach and author of Start Where You Are: The Beginner's Guide to Running 5k for Women.

"The act of practising running - because ultimately every time we go out that’s exactly what we're doing - has clear physical benefits like improved heart health, stronger bones, and better sleep," she tells MC UK. "But for me - and the women I coach - the real value goes deeper. Running can teach you how to meet yourself as you are, not as you think you should be. It builds confidence quietly, through consistency rather than perfection. And, over time, it can become a space to process life, regulate your nervous system, and prove to yourself that you can keep going without needing to earn the right to try."

Sounds good, right?

Why does running feel so tough at the start?

Given that running is one of the UK's favourite fitness choices (The London Marathon organisers have reported more applications for the 2026 race than ever before, at 1.1 million), it's clear that lots of us are overcoming our discomfort and discovering the joy of running.

But whether you're a stone-cold beginner or a hardened ultramarathoner, rest assured that those first few kms are always a challenge. So, what's going on in our brains - and bodies - when we're huffing and puffing after jogging for a couple of minutes?

The answer, reassuringly, is quite simple.

"Running asks a lot of your body and your mind at the same time," says Pace-Humphreys. "Your breathing changes, your heart rate rises quickly, your muscles demand more oxygen, and your brain is trying to work out whether this running malarkey - and the effort associated with it - is safe.

"On top of that, many people - especially women - carry fear, comparison, or remember past experiences of where they have felt excluded when it comes to running, which can also prove a challenge."

Lots to unpick, then - let's take a closer look.

1. Your body is adapting to increased demand

The human body likes to be in a regulated, predictable state and will always strive (through a process known as homeostasis) to keep things consistent, whether this is body temperature, breathing, heart rate or blood pressure. So, when we begin to run, and our bodily systems start to adapt, we're essentially taking our body by surprise - and it takes a beat for us to catch up.

"In the initial stages of the run, the body's systems are still adapting to the change in demand you have put upon them," agrees Lillie Bleasdale, founder and head coach of women's coaching collective PASSA. "Things such as heart rate, breathing and blood flow all need time to ramp up and find rhythm. Your nervous system is being asked to go from rest to effort, and your body is loosening off as you go. Even at an easier pace, this stage can feel tough."

2. The body is working hard

In news that will surely be welcomed by pretty much everyone: running feels hard because it is hard.

"When it feels tough, the body is working super hard," reassures Bord. "As you move faster, your heart rate goes up, and you breathe faster in order to ensure the muscles receive more oxygen so that they can be fully switched on to take on the movement. Even experienced runners can find it tough - those first 10 minutes are a battle!"

3. Your brain is in survival mode

"Mentally, your brain is checking in and - especially for beginners - it can often exaggerate effort early on as a protective response," explains Pace-Humphreys. "Women report that those signals feel loud - and they may well do for you - but they are not warnings that you cannot cope. They are simply your system catching up with what you have asked it to do."

How to overcome the uncomfortable first 10 minutes of any run

So, we've learned that questioning your life choices in those first few minutes is normal. But what can we do about it, other than simply giving up and trotting home with our tail between our legs?

The good news is that there are plenty of ways we can make the start of any run feel a little easier on both body and mind. Let's take a look.

1. Warm up properly

We know: it's boring, but trust us, warming up properly can make or break your run, so stop skipping it.

"A proper warm-up can really help us to overcome this bump!" notes Bleasdale. "It helps us to gradually increase the heart rate, blood flow, and make our joints feel a little looser. The warm-up doesn't need to be long - at a basic level, a few minutes of brisk walking and some dynamic movements like skips, leg swings and arm circles can make a really big difference. Stretching pre-run should be dynamic and moving rather than static."

2. Start slow

It sounds simple (and it really is!), but all our experts advised taking things slow - much slower than you think - at first.

"Make sure you start slower than you think, at a pace that almost feels too easy, in order to continue to warm up and calm yourself as you set off," advises Bord. "This will also mean your heart rate won’t increase so dramatically."

3. Adjust your mindset

All our experts are unequivocal on this one: the aim isn't for running to feel easier, it's to stop fighting that discomfort.

"Let go of the idea that it needs to feel good straight away," advises Pace-Humphreys. "I always say you’ve got to become comfortable feeling uncomfortable. And, for women who are new to running, that can be really powerful as you reclaim power via this mindset.

"Running does not get easier because you become perfect at it. It gets easier because you learn to trust yourself through the uncomfortable beginnings."

Shop MC UK's essential running kit now:

Hands up if you took up running in 2025, signed up for your first race, or achieved a personal best? How about invested in a pair of carbon plates, started supplementing electrolytes, or bit the bullet and attended your first run club?

If you said yes to any of the above, you wouldn’t be alone. Running is officially having a moment, and as a ten-time marathon runner who’s been lacing up for over ten years, I couldn’t be happier that more people are finding - and falling in love with - the sport.

More people ran marathons in 2025 than ever before. parkruns and race events globally smashed previous records - including the 2025 TCS London Marathon, which saw 56,000 finishers and set a new Guinness World Record. Sport England’s Active Lives survey from last year found that over 7 million adults in England are running regularly, cementing it as the country’s second most popular sporting activity. And Strava’s mid-year analysis found the number of UK run clubs that have joined the platform tripled year on year.

Safe to say the rise in interest in running has been pretty stratospheric, then, and the stats prove as much. But it’s no doubt come with its own set of challenges. I’ve been part of the London running community for the best part of a decade and heard so many stories in recent years - stories of people being left behind at run clubs, of being invited to events by brands only for the images to be used for global marketing campaigns (unpaid, of course), or told they can’t run with certain crews because their kit doesn’t fit “the vibe.” Online, you’ve got influencers being gifted spots at most Major Marathons and running back-to-back 26.2s for engagement and views, with some influencers even starting ahead of the elites at this year’s New York Marathon (a subject which still divides public opinion).

It’s all certainly nuanced - Mastercard, which gave the influencers the spots at the NYC Marathon last year, said they did so to “help unlock new ways for runners and fans to experience the magic of the marathon, and the city as a whole.” But as the sport goes from strength to strength, and more and more take up the form of movement, it begs the question - at what cost? Is the very essence of what makes running so great - the community, the camaraderie, and the fact it’s an accessible, affordable form of exercise - being diluted? Keep scrolling for my take.

Running isn’t going anywhere for 2026 - how we keep the sport focused on community, camaraderie, and the power of accessible movement

Let’s start at the beginning - with some hard stats on the number of people who’ve taken up running in the past few years. While I’ve been running since around 2015, nationwide interest in running began during the Covid 2020 lockdowns, when gyms shut nationwide and studios closed indefinitely. People quickly turned to running as an accessible and affordable way to move, with fitness app Runkeeper seeing a +667% rise in UK registrations from April 2019 - 2020, and Strava reporting an +82% increase across all activities.

Many thought the running boom might lose traction after the restrictions lifted, but spoiler alert: it didn’t. AI run coaching apps Runna and Coopah were developed, making coaching at your fingertips the new norm; in most of the UK’s major cities, run club after run club was launched; and a very specific, sought-after runner aesthetic emerged, heavily influenced by brands like Soar, Satisfy and Represent. A new uniform was born: think monochrome, slick designs, branded crew tees, and Oakley glasses, come rain or shine.

Harry Styles running both the Tokyo and Berlin marathons under the pseudonym “Sted Sarandos” only cemented the sport as one of the workouts of the moment, and put independent running brands Tracksmith, District Vision, and SUMS even more firmly on every runner’s radar.

So what’s the issue, I hear you ask? Great question. I’ve summed up my thoughts for you, below.

The obsession with speed

I ran my first marathon back in 2018, and printed out one of the Runner’s World online training plans and stuck it on my desk at work. For eighteen weeks, whatever the weather, I ran three times a week, nursing aching quads and 101 blisters along the way. The feeling of crossing the finish line that day - sheer, unadulterated elation - still remains one of the best moments of my life.

One thing I can safely say was never on my radar was what time I might finish in. The main and only goal was to get around in one piece: to tick the “run a marathon!” that had been on my bucket list for 5+ years off, once and for all.

But since Covid and the sharp spike in interest in running, we’ve seen a new wave of runners: runners hungry for personal bests week after week who choose to run several marathons a year and are seemingly constantly tailoring their lifestyles to improve even 1%.

Part of this is down to AI-powered apps, like Runna, Coopah, and so on, which have made run coaching that bit simpler. All you need to do is download the app, sign up for the subscription model, and input some data about your current fitness levels alongside your goal time, and you’ll have a personalised plan at your fingertips within minutes. Anyone can train with a coach, and anyone has access to interval, tempo, and speedwork sessions that’ll improve your cardiovascular fitness - and ultimately speed - week on week.

While accessibility is undoubtedly a good thing, as is making sure certain elements of running, like improving your speed, aren’t safeguarded, I believe we’re in an interesting era where people seem to value speed above all else. I’ve knocked nearly an hour off my marathon time since that first “one and done” London Marathon, but I can confidently say I’ve never overtrained, prioritised a time over my general happiness, or put my health at risk for a personal best. Which I don’t think is something all runners could honestly say right now.

Laura Fletcher, co-founder of OneTrack, agrees that some of the training we’re seeing glorified and sold online is problematic. She and her team have been hard at work for months designing OneTrack Club, an app designed to put the human touch back in run coaching and make qualified human experts easily accessible to runners. “The topic of speed and whether it’s gone too far is an interesting point, and a broader issue about being confident in your own lane. This is increasingly harder to do, with comparison culture rife on social media. Those who reduce their value down to their speed, their likes and the way they’re kitted out are perhaps not as content with themselves deep down as they portray. All abilities need to be supported and respected. Active humans who commit to movement should be applauded, whatever that looks like, whatever the speed, regardless of labels.”

It’s also worth highlighting the risks associated with constantly chasing personal bests - especially for women. “The obsession with smashing times can be dangerous – we know that 50% of runners get injured every year, and so for those of us with jobs, families and real-life commitments, training like an athlete without an expert support system to rein you in can be a problem,” Fletcher adds.

At OneTrack, they’re currently seeing increased instances of injuries, disordered eating, general burnout from overtraining and in some cases, unfortunately, issues like REDs. “Pushing boundaries is all well and good, but there’s an education and support gap at the moment. It’s easier than ever for the general public to overtrain and underfuel, particularly with AI and algorithmic training plan technology now prolific, designed to increase engagement. It’s easy to get swept up in training for a faster time, doing another marathon, chasing a bigger goal. The more we can break down the smoke and mirrors around what goes into training a professional athlete - the immense support crew of those who are sponsored, and the knife-edge these humans are on whilst pushing the boundaries of performance, then perhaps it will take the pressure off those of us who have day jobs. We need more perspective and not just the highlights to prevent comparison.”

I couldn’t agree with Fletcher more, and also know that if running had been as speed-obsessed as it seems to be now, back in 2018 when I first started marathon training, it would’ve likely seriously intimidated me and put me off the sport, making my life wildly different today. Her points are valid; the most important thing is that running remains supportive and respectful of all abilities, and that AI- AI-training plans are approached with caution.

And the fixation on far

William Goodge ran the entire length of Australia. Russ Cook, aka The Hardest Geezer, ran the entire length of Africa (that’s over 10,000 miles or 16,000km, FYI). And Jasmin Paris became the first female in history to complete the notoriously difficult Barkley Marathon last March.

It’d be reductive to talk about the rapidly growing running space without these household names - because while these challenges are wildly outlandish, they’re undoubtedly part of the reason more people than ever ran marathons last year. They remind us at home that anything is possible; that human capabilities are limitless; that, as the much-loved Eliud Kipchoge says, “No human is limited.”

That is, of course, until we are. Most of the people tackling these challenges don’t have nine-to-five jobs, families to look after, or anything to focus on other than the running - not a criticism, just a salient fact that has to be observed.

Because the running boom isn’t only inspiring runners to run faster, but further, tackling back-to-back marathons (which every personal trainer I spoke to for this piece discouraged, FYI, unless you’re an athlete or have done serious and specific training for that type of challenge).

When I ran my first few marathons - one a year, with plenty of “off” time and periods of allowing my body to recover - it was still seen as a very niche hobby. People didn’t really get it, and I spent countless hours justifying to friends and family why I’d actively chosen to run another one. Nowadays, you’re hard-pressed to open your Instagram app without seeing another colleague, friend from school, or distant contact banking a marathon. Marathons have become the norm.

But Anthony Fletcher, co-founder of OneTrack, reckons the obsession with distance may also be problematic. “The recent attempts of going further and further are much more hazardous to people’s health than seeing how fast we can go,” he shares. He saw Faith Kipyegon’s attempt to break the four-minute mile record back in June as encouraging, and hopes it'll inspire "a wave of interest in racing track, and not 30-day ultras.”

The rise - and fall - of run clubs

Figures suggest there are over 1,900 affiliated run clubs across the UK at the moment, with the number of run clubs on Strava tripling from ‘24 to ‘25.

On the surface, and for many, run clubs are the ultimate way to encourage beginners and more seasoned runners alike into weekly movement. They’re community-driven and focused, ideal for getting you up and out, and above all else, designed to make running fun - a free, accessible workout you can do with friends each week.

I’ve been to a fair few, but as the CEO of GUNG HO, Paul Phedon touched on at a recent panel event, run clubs are becoming increasingly saturated, copying and pasting set formats in search of a certain aesthetic - and in a bid to become this, losing the welcoming, community feel run clubs should, at their core, have. “Success breeds saturation. Saturation invites corporatisation. And somewhere between the waiting lists and the brand activations, the thing that solved urban loneliness started producing new problems,” shares Phedon.

Phedon is spot on that run clubs, at their best back in 2021, were a hub of joy, socialising, movement, and creativity - all were welcome, and no one got left behind. But sadly, fast forward four years, and that’s just not the case. I could share countless examples of women being left in the dust at run clubs - in areas they’re not familiar with - because the “inclusive pace” was, in fact, 5-minute kms and the club didn’t think to offer a back pacer for safety reasons. I could also list countless examples of run clubs without qualified first aiders or insurance policies - which, while boring, are absolutely essential to ensure every runner’s safety and wellbeing.

Not only that, but I’ve heard many stories about run clubs where people aren’t picked for activations, trips, or opportunities because they don’t fit a certain “aesthetic” - you may remember the viral Reddit from last year where a club leader anonymously asked the Internet how to ask a local to stop coming to his run club because he didn’t “fit the vibe” in his Decathlon kit. In case you needed the reminder: running isn’t about how you look, or what brand you’re wearing; whether you’ve got the latest shoes, or whether you’ve hit certain splits; rather, about encouraging anyone and everyone into movement, no matter their start point.

The hidden cost of the "free" workout

Of course, one of running’s biggest appeals is that it’s free, right? Well, kind of. AquaCard research estimates the cost for a beginner runner to sit at around £1,029; meanwhile, data from The Running PhD’s blog totals her yearly running spend at £1328.57 for 2025.

One thing’s for certain: running isn’t cheap in 2025, signalling another barrier to entry. Race spots can cost anything from £30 to £500, for major marathons; travel and accommodation for these events, upwards of £1000; and race day kit? Well, adidas launched their £450 race day shoe, the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 2, in April.

“Everyone wears £140 trainers, carbon plates for race days, matching kit, and buys post-run coffees that cost £4,” shares Phedon. “The rising popularity of callisthenics crews amongst younger and more diverse audiences is telling - the culture celebrates minimalism as a strength. Progress measured in reps, not tech.”

“Meanwhile, run clubs skew older, wealthier, whiter, with a ‘democratic’ narrative that collapses when you track the real costs: shoes every 500 miles, GPS watches, race entries that are ever more increasing in price,” he goes on.

The problem with this is that running, at its core, claims to be open to all; claims to be welcoming; claims to need nothing. But that comes unravelled when you get to certain intersections of the running scene. “Recession-proof fitness isn’t in ‘free’ clubs with hidden costs. It’s in movements that are actually free to belong in,” Phedon concludes.

When I started running, race entry fees weren’t another barrier to entry. Kit was affordable, and even fitness trackers could be purchased for around £40 to £50 - doable, if you saved up. While this isn’t entirely running’s fault - rather, it's a wider economic point- it’s critical that brands keep the sport accessible and continue to release designs that span the more advanced and the everyday beginner.

Brands doing their bit - or oversaturating the space?

Brands have played a huge part in the running boom, with many sport and non-sporting brands alike trying to own space. Gymshark and TALA now offer running ranges, despite starting out as gym-focused brands; lululemon has gone hard on their running offering in recent years, swaying from their yoga-centric focus of the past; and high street chains H&M, Abercrombie, and M&S are also carving out niches for themselves for off-the-rack workout gear.

Of course, brands have undoubtedly played a part in the running boom. While in many ways, brands have enabled growth, connected people to products to boost performance, and sponsored events that would otherwise never have happened, there’s also a clear trend: they now understand the true value of running, and as a result, many brands seem to be jumping on the bandwagon without really adding value to the space.

While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing - they have the facilities and insurance policies to host activations safely - when not done correctly, it does take up valuable real estate in a space that's meant to be about community and connection. As Phedon shares, “Third Space has launched run clubs from their premium gyms. Gymshark, the opposite end of the market, have done the same. lululemon doesn’t need its own crew; they just host Run Dem. When luxury gyms and mass-market brands both decide to own running, independent crews get squeezed.”

It's a bit of a chicken-and-egg situation - without the brands and their budgets, the running space will grow far more slowly. But when brands don't do things well, it causes issues. Longer term, I think the community-driven clubs that genuinely favour connection and substance will come out tops: free kit is one thing, but lacing up with friends with shared goals and mindset as you will trump that time and again. Adidas Runners coach and pacer at Brked Off, Michella Mentu, agrees, adding: “Run club culture is growing and evolving because people are craving connection, not competition. The groups that thrive feel human, authentic and inviting.”

Bottom line?

Running, for me, has always been about joy, connection, and opportunity. About proving to myself day in, day out, that I am capable of hard things, and that I can do whatever I set my mind to. The sport has shaped all areas of my life for the better - so much so, if I can encourage one other person to give running a go, and connect with the sport in the way I have, I’ll be happy.

Ultimately, I’m delighted that more people are finding the sport in the same way I did ten years ago. More people feeling encouraged to make movement a part of their everyday is only ever going to be a positive thing - I just want the momentum to be maintained, and for us to prioritise what running's meant to be about: simple, accessible movement, community-driven events, and bringin people together. And maybe - just maybe! - a speedy new personal best somewhere along the way, too.

If you ever need a reminder of the essence of running - and what makes it such a magical sport - head to your local parkrun. Mine is Burgess Park, and the turnout every Saturday never fails to make me smile. We often see 1000+ runners, some finishing in as fast as 16 minutes, some coming in (to rapturous applause from the volunteers, I might add) at just over an hour.

Community. Camaraderie. Joy. Running isn’t complicated. Don't make it.

Shop MC UK's tried and tested running kit now:

One of the biggest perks of my role as a Shopping Editor is having the opportunity to try out the best activewear brands on the market, but that means it takes a lot for products in my collection to cut through the noise. But if there's one brand that has never disappointed and that I can guarantee I'll be wearing in some variety for every workout, it's Gymshark.

Launched in 2012 by school friends Ben Francis and Lewis Morgan, the UK-founded brand has had an astronomical rise in success over the last thirteen years. Now reporting over 10 million customers worldwide and 18 million followers across social media platforms, it's no surprise that Gymshark has been raved about online for years. Delivering high-performance activewear at a reasonable price point, the brand's accessibility is a huge selling point. Not to mention the elevated seasonal athleisure drops that can easily be styled outside of the gym, too.

Other avid Gymshark wearers include MC UK's News Editor, Jadie Troy Pryde, and Fashion Writer, Sofia Piza, who both rave about the kit. Between us, we've tried a big selection of the brand's bestsellers, and have plenty to say about each - including the workouts we wear them for, how the fabric performs, how well the fabric has washed over the years, and how different pieces function for different heights.

From the best gym leggings and sports bras for big boobs to gym layers and Pilates clothes, every tried and tested item in this guide gets our experts' seal of approval. Keen to shop for more affordable yet genuinely great activewear? Don't skip our edits of the best Adanola workout clothes and best Oner Active workout clothes, here.

Best Gymshark products: Quick shopping links

• Best leggings: Activate Seamless Legging, £48 at Gymshark
• Best sports bra: Ark Ruched Sports Bra, £28 at Gymshark
• Best top: Everyday Seamless Tank, £28 at Gymshark
• Best jacket: Gymshark Conditioning Jacket, £55 at Gymshark
• Best base layer: Training Baselayer, £25 at Gymshark

Best Gymshark leggings

"I’ve been testing these during strength training sessions, and I have to say - as someone who usually opts for buttery soft leggings, I’m actually a big fan of the stretchy, more compressing fabric," says Troy Pryde. "It's breathable and moves well during workouts. The sculpting waistband and the rear ruching make them super flattering, and they’re a comfy fit. I’ll definitely be keeping them in my gym rotation."

With a ruched bum and V-shaped waist, they also help to add shape. Plus, they're modelled here on someone who's 5ft3, so they're pretty petite friendly too.

"I am incredibly picky when it comes to workout leggings; as someone who does high and low-intensity workouts almost every day, there is a long list of requirements my kit needs to fulfil," says Piza. "For starters, they must be buttery-soft, sweat-wicking, and not too long on my 5'4 "frame. And I'm proud to say, these Gymshark leggings have surpassed all expectations."

These leggings are made from Gymshark's softest material, and they're also totally squat-proof. However, some reviewers note that they come up slightly small - so if you're between sizes, it might be best to go up.

I love nothing more than flared leggings, and this is one of the most comfortable pairs I own. The material is just thick enough to keep me feeling supported without being compressed or uncomfortable, and the cross waist keeps me secure without any digging in around my middle. I will say they're best suited for workouts like Pilates or strength sessions in the gym, just so that the material doesn't get in the way.

Best Gymshark sports bra

I rave about this sports bra constantly. I bought it while I was at university, and it's yet to be dethroned as my all-time favourite. Not only does the ruched fit look great, but it's incredibly supportive on my larger chest despite only claiming to be medium support. I've worn it on runs, to the gym, for Reformer classes, on hikes - everything. I've washed it countless times over the years, and it hasn't faded, changed shape, or bobbled at all in that time.

The adjustable straps provide the perfect fit, and they never cut or dig in. The stretchy fabric also makes it a breeze to get on and off, even when I'm sweaty. The only downside is that the padding can feel slightly bulky, but it's removable, so that's not really a problem.

Best Gymshark tops

"This is a very easy throw-and-go top for the gym, Pilates, or any other low-intensity workout," says Piza. "Its slightly scooped sides make it a bit hard to do high-impact workouts if you're larger-chested. However, in terms of function, style, and practicality, it's a no-brainer in my repertoire."

With a second-skin feel and internal shelf bra for a little extra support, it's a versatile vest to have on-hand for any workout session.

"I’ve really gone back to basics with gym tops this year, but finding a fitted no-frills cut as someone with big boobs can prove quite difficult as they usually roll up mid-workout," says Troy Pryde. "But this is long enough to tuck into your bottoms (hurrah), and it’s also really lightweight. I also like the low scoop neck detail at the front - a little extra oomph for a simple gym tee."

"This is hands down the best base layer top I've ever worn," says Piza. "I simply layer it over a sports bra and wear it everywhere, and I mean everywhere. This top has come with me on runs, to the gym, dog walks, to the office, and on date nights. You name it."

With a snug thermal fit in a lightweight material, this long sleeve is ideal for winter workouts - especially outdoors. It's also sweat-wicking, so it can be trusted to withstand even the most intense sessions.

Another uni purchase, this long-sleeve shirt has also been in my wardrobe for years. I used to wear it all the time for running, but now I love it for winter workouts in the gym or outdoor hikes. It has a compressive fit that hugs me nicely, and I love the thumb holes to keep my hands warm. However, it's not so thick that I overheat or feel too held in. Breathable and sweat-wicking, it ticks almost every box. However, it does have a longline fit that I know some people don't like, but I love that it keeps me covered and never rides up.

Best Gymshark jacket

"If you need an extra layer now that the weather has dropped, this lightweight zip jacket is perfect for runs, walks, or to throw on over your Pilates leotard," says Troy Pryde. "The shallow collar is particularly useful if you’re wearing it during a workout (making it chafe-free), and there’s enough stretch and compression to give it a snug fit."

Best Gymshark joggers

I have these joggers in a different colourway that's no longer sold, but they're just as good in every colour. Although I usually don't like a more tapered leg, these still feel roomy enough to throw over leggings on my way to the gym or just wear when working from home. They've stayed soft even after being washed, and they haven't shrunk or lost any stretch around the waistband. For the price point, they're a great, simple pair of everyday joggers.

I always thought fitness trackers were reserved for ultra-marathoners and hardcore gym-goers, but since adding one of the best Garmin watches to my wrist, I've come to realise just how much of a difference they can make to any type of active lifestyle.

Our expert health team have thoroughly tried and tested a whole range of the best fitness trackers on the market, and whilst there are several brands we regularly turn to, Garmin has certainly become one of the most favoured amongst the team thanks to the sleek designs and impressive range of functions on offer.

From long-distance runs to low-impact swimming sessions, we've used each of the models in this guide for various types of exercise over the years, paying close attention to ease of use, accuracy, and functionality. And, as fashion-conscious exercisers, we've also focused on how each watch looks and feels after hours of wear - no rubbing or slipping around here, thank you.

If you've already narrowed down your fitness tracker search and decided this is the brand for you, these are the Garmin watches we have found serious success with, plus the particular reasons they get our vote.

You're in luck, too - just this month, Garmin announced the launch of their own nutrition tracking in Garmin Connect. The new tool allows Garmin Connect+ users to receive Active Intelligence insights to help them achieve their nutrition goals, which is ideal if you're looking to tailor your macros to your marathon training or Hyrox fuelling.

Without further ado - keep scrolling for the Garmins we've tried, tested, and loved. Shop our edits of the best gym leggings, best running shoes, best running sunglasses, and the best sports bras for your most comfortable workout yet. Or, if you're keen to invest in workout kit for at home, don't miss our round-ups of the best at-home Reformer Pilates machines, best walking pads, and best weights, here.

Best Garmin watches: Quick shopping links

• Garmin Vivoactive 6: £279.99 at Amazon
• Garmin Venu X1: £679 at Amazon
• Garmin Forerunner 935: £443.14 at Amazon
• Garmin Lily 2 Active: £299 at Amazon (was £349, save 15%)
• Garmin Venu 2S: £349 at John Lewis

Garmin Vivoactive 6

I was previously an Apple Watch user, and I never expected to say this, but I'm a total Garmin convert. I've received so many compliments on this watch thanks to the modern watch face and chic pink colour way that sets it apart from other fitness trackers. It's also much more lightweight than other smart watches I've worn. But by far the best thing about the Vivoactive 6 is the battery life - my first charge lasted me two whole weeks of consistent wear, which allows me to keep it on at all hours and get very accurate stats.

I love that it's water resistant and you don't need to set it to a certain mode before jumping in the swimming pool, and it has all the key functions I need (steps, heart rate, sleep, workout tracking, alarm clock, notifications, etc) for my daily routine. The touch screen is also a very handy addition that makes it even more intuitive to operate.

The only thing I've noticed is that the smart alarm feature isn't the strongest, rarely waking me up before my actual alarm, but it's not a huge issue.

Garmin Venu X1

"At almost £700 per watch, this is a significant investment - but it would seem the Venu X1 delivers. Launched in June 2025, the Venu X1 is, quite literally, hot off the press. According to the brand, its USPs are that it's exceptionally lightweight (I can attest to this) and the ultra-large display, alongside the features you'd expect from preloaded maps and workout stats to health insights, including sleep and stress data."

"First and foremost, its sleek design sets it apart from my previous running watches, and it's the most comfortable watch I've ever owned. Practically speaking, it ticks a lot of boxes, too. You can listen to music via the built-in speaker, as well as pay for your post-run coffee and pastry, all while making and receiving calls and texts, should you wish. I also have to commend the battery life: I found that it lasted well, and certainly lived up to its touted eight-day life; however, you have to make sure that the display isn't in always-on mode, as this will drain the battery."

The Venu X1 tracks my runs and other workouts efficiently for the most part, and it churns out some interesting data. As it gets to know me and my lifestyle, I'm pleased to note that it's giving me decent feedback on my fitness via V02 max scores, resting heart rate, fitness age and - my favourite function - the 'body battery', which tells you how much energy and resilience you have at any given point, and allows you to tailor your activity accordingly," - Anna Bartter, Health Writer

Garmin Forerunner 935

"I've had my Garmin Forerunner 935 for around ten years now, and it's as good as new - and if that isn't a testament to how sturdy and long-lasting their watch designs are, I don't know what is. They're a lifetime investment, but one that will positively impact your health so much - especially if you're a keen fitness fan who wants detailed but easy-to-navigate data on demand."

"The 935 is my particular favourite for a number of reasons. It's lightweight, slick, and stylish, as fitness trackers go. It has all the obvious features - specific workout tracking, step counts, and sleep tracking, alongside a whole wealth of more in-depth stats, like your VO2 max data and cadence. It offers so much useful data, but is still easy to navigate and use, and I like that the watch face is slightly bigger than other Garmin alternatives, making it easier to see mid race or run."

"You can light up the screen, download your music to your watch, and use GPS maps offline if you find yourself out on a trail run without signal or phone battery. And it also gives you a little celebratory buzz and screen face celebration every time you hit your daily goals, which you can set in the app (for example, mine are 12k steps)."

"But my favourite bit? It uses your training to then calculate race predictions, which are scarily accurate and come in super handy on race day. I honestly can't recommend the Forerunner enough - I've used mine for all of my most recent marathons (London, Chicago, and Berlin), countless half marathons, and even one 37-mile ultramarathon in the snow." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

Garmin Lily 2 Active

"The Lily 2 Active is one of the most seamless fitness watches I've ever used. The features are also really simple to navigate, with data clearly outlined on the app. My favourite element is the variety of things it tracks. Throughout the day, I was able to monitor my fitness progress, steps, sleep score, and body battery and analyse how this data was going to affect my day and performance whilst exercising. Especially tracking my runs with its specialised GPS system that helped me feel comfortable and safe when running outside."

"It's definitely helped me stay on track with my fitness goals (currently loving my 41-day 10K step streak), and as someone with a very sedentary job, its movement reminders 3x a day have really helped me make sure I move more during the day and stay active - though the constant updates could be irritating for some. Comfortable and sleek, there really hasn't been a day I haven't enjoyed using this watch and will thoroughly recommend it as a long-term investment." - Sofia Piza, Fashion Writer

Garmin Venu 2S

"The Garmin Venu 2S is one of the most efficient smartwatches I've ever used. Its design is very simple, so it feels like a piece of jewellery rather than a smartwatch. It took me a while to get my head around the different buttons and functions, but it connected to the Garmin app pretty easily, which was very useful for exercise inspiration and health stats."

"My favourite thing about this model is that it has a strong focus on wellbeing, tracking your stress levels and often notifying you when these are too high. The Garmin also offers timed breathing exercises to help you relax. It also has a MOLED display and it enables you to store music directly on your wrist for hands-free listening when paired with headphones. All in all, it's a very well-rounded smartwatch that provides accurate workout-tracking tools with a strong focus on wellness while looking fashionable, too." - Sofia Piza, Fashion Writer

The best pieces of workout kit are two things: impossibly stylish and incredibly practical. Well, if you ask me, the best running sunglasses tick both of these boxes effortlessly, which is why no runner should be without a pair.

If you keep up with any running influencers, you have undoubtedly seen oversized, rainbow-tinted, metallic sunglasses plastered all over your Instagram feed. Running sunglasses aren't exactly a new phenomenon, but they have certainly grown in popularity in recent years, with seasoned runners and novices adding them to their everyday running kit.

As well as reducing sun glare and protecting from UV rays on sunny days, running glasses can shield the eyes from any debris that could cause you problems (particularly if you're hiking or trail running). It's just a bonus point that they look cool, too.

Our Senior Health Editor, Ally Head, has nine marathons under her belt—so you can be pretty sure that she knows what makes a good pair of running sunglasses. Below are her favourite pairs, from high-tech designs to lifestyle models that just so happen to be great for running in.

And once you've selected the best running sunglasses for you, why not take a look at our curated edits of running shorts with pockets, the best sports bras with pockets, workout camis, and trending cobalt blue activewear to make your runs both comfortable and fashion-forward?

Best running sunglasses: Quick shopping links

• Best overall: £60 at Hystride
• Most stylish: £70 at Izipizi
• Best affordable: £34.99 at Decathlon
• Editor favourite: £79.99 at Always In Motion
• Best new: £135 at Jimmy Fairly
• Best vintage style: £194 at Oakley
• Best everyday: £88 at Free People

Best new running sunglasses

"When I heard that one of my favourite glasses brands, Jimmy Fairly, was releasing run-specific frames, I actually let out a little squeal of excitement—and they haven't disappointed."

"With three different designs to choose from (see also: The Aero in black and brown colourways), these are aptly named The Volt and promise to make any run both stylish and speedy. I love the effortlessly chic colour of the lenses, and that they're category 3, which means they'll protect your eyes against UVA, UVB, and glare in sunnier weather."

"Wear these to run in or for long, hot summer days—they're versatile, design-forward, and fashionable," shares Head.

Best running sunglasses overall

I'm willing to bet that the majority of running sunglasses you've seen online are from Hystride—and for good reason. Not only are they very well priced, but they're extremely light for enhanced performance, available in several chic colour ways, and designed with clear polarised lenses and UV400 protection.

"A newer brand to the running sunglasses scene, Hystride have been making waves in recent years thanks to their well-designed and affordable shades. I first saw them on fashion influencer and friend Polly Sayer's Instagram—she wore them for much of her London Marathon training earlier this year—and knew that if they were Polly approved, they'd be cool," shares Head.

"I love the range of colourways on offer, that they're made from hard-to-break, bendy frames (great if, like me, you have a tendency to drop and/or sit on your sunglasses), and that the lenses don't get as mucky as other competitor alternatives."

Best retro running sunglasses

"They remind me of sunglasses my dad used to have when I was a kid—in the best way. With a slightly statement but noughties look, they're just cool," says Head. But aside from how they look, they fit perfectly around the face for good eye protection, and they have polarised lenses. Plus, the O Matter™ frame material helps to provide durability and all-day comfort, whilst the nose pads offer a secure fit.

Best oversized running sunglasses

The Apex glasses offer the same protection benefits and lightweight materials as the Speed Pros, but with a more oversized fit that sits slightly further off the face. If you prefer the look of larger frames or want something that has a less streamlined fit, these are the pair for you.

"While I'm guilty of owning a few pairs of the Hystride designs, these are my favourite. They're super easy to wear, and, practically speaking, cover enough of your face to properly protect you from the sun when you're banking your long run," Head explains.

Best high tech running sunglasses

If you're after a seriously high-tech pair of running sunglasses, look no further than these. Yes, they're pricey, but for good reason. Oakley has spent years developing its sports glasses, and these have been made with pro athletes in mind. The taller lenses offer an extended range of view in the upper peripheral region, and they've been scaled down to fit smaller faces. Plus, they're extremely durable and won't slip down.

"These were the first pair of running sunglasses I ever owned, and they've been by my side for most of my major races of the past ten years. I wore them for the London Marathon, Chicago Marathon, and Berlin Marathon, and banked my half-marathon personal best in Paris in them, too. Fair to say they've been tested thoroughly, then—and I can confirm that they truly are top tier in terms of comfort, staying in place remarkably well and allowing you to focus on the workout at hand," shares Head.

Best custom running sunglasses

When you're investing in a pair of running sunglasses, you want to be picky to ensure you get the absolute best pair for you. Well, SunGod allows for just that—every pair is custom-made and guaranteed for life. They're ultra-light and can withstand all terrains with bounce-free comfort, and you can totally customise your colourway too.

"SunGod glasses are loved in the running and ultra-running community for their seriously lightweight designs. They're comfortable, don't move on your face or hit the bridge of your nose, and are easy to clean. They offer loads of fun customisable options, too, meaning you can choose the frame and lens colour that you're most likely to wear on repeat," shares Head.

Best day-to-night running sunglasses

Running sunglasses don't just have to be those specifically designed for sport—lifestyle glasses work surprisingly well, particularly if you're a newer runner. This Jimmy Fairly pair is so chic and will really take you anywhere, and Ally has found they're brilliant for running in too.

"Hear me out on this one—because while these aren't specific running sunglasses, they are great for short to mid-length runs. When testing, I've found that they offer a good amount of coverage on your face and stay in place well, too. I probably wouldn't wear them on race day, but I do love throwing them on for runs that will end in brunch or pastries with friends," says Head.

Best slim running sunglasses

Another pair of lifestyle glasses that have seen our Health Ed through plenty of runs, these understated Le Specs are small and easy to pack in your bag on sunny days.

Head shares: "Again, these Le Specs shades aren't specifically designed for running, but I've found they're a great option for slightly elevating a running look, if you're someone who likes your kit to be functional and fashionable. They have smaller lenses and frames than other alternatives in this round-up, but they stay in place really well and don't cause any irritation on the face mid-movement. They're a real all-rounder IMO and a great price point for how much you'll end up wearing them."

Best everyday running sunglasses

If you're finding shopping for running sunglasses slightly overwhelming and just want a simple, stylish pair for everyday sessions, this is a great starter option. With polarised lenses and 100% UVA/UVB protection, as well as non-slip nose and ear details, they're a classic, well-performing investment with unique matte frames.

"FP Movement are really smashing it with their kit at the moment, designing effortlessly chic, stylish, and supportive gear and accessories. These running sunglasses are super lightweight and look great, adding a pop of colour to an all-black running 'fit or making a colourful one even more colourful," shares Head.

Best affordable running sunglasses

Running sunglasses can get extremely expensive, but this bargain pair can stand up to some of the pricier models. The anti-fog, UV protection lenses protect the eyes from the elements and are very light on the face.

Head shares: "Keen to invest in some running shades but put off by some of the price points? I get it. Decathlon actually have a great range of sport-specific sunglasses on offer, including these ones. While they say they're designed specifically for cycling, I've run in mine loads and they come Ally-approved—they have UV protection in the lenses and are comfortable and lightweight to wear, too. What's not to love?".

Most fashion-forward running sunglasses

These glasses are actually designed with water sports in mind, so they feature water-repellent, salt-resistant, and scratch-resistant lenses as well as UV protection. So, despite their fashionable look, they're surprisingly practical too.

"I hadn't heard of Izipzi until a few months ago, but since trialling their shades, I'm a fan of the brand. While all of the designs are super on trend RN—the bug eye look was a firm favourite at Glastonbury and still is anywhere you look in Hackney Wick - they're highly practical too, offering a whole roster of perks. I particularly love that they're salt-repellant and have scratch-resistant lenses, so you don't have to worry about them getting sweaty on your long runs or scratching up the lenses," shares Head.

Editor favourite running sunglasses

"My Always In Motion shades have accompanied me for basically every race I've done this year. They're just a vibe," says Head. "What I love about these is you can wear them for a race and they don't move, but you can wear them for everyday as well." The rubberised grips keep them firmly in place without digging in, and there are several colourways to choose from. As well as looking good, they're also made with UV400 lenses—the highest UV protection possible—and scratch resistant lenses too.

Best running sunglasses from a female-founded business

"Mile Off are doing such great things in apparel and this eyewear range," says Head. And not only do they look good, but these chic glasses are seriously technical too. The lenses are UV400, providing 99-100% protection, and the photochromic lenses adjust to the UV rays, going from transparent to a dark purple shade as needed. Of course, they're non-slip too—and they come with a handy case to keep them fresh.

So, you're on the hunt for a pair of the best running shorts that don't ride up and that also come with handy pockets to store all of your essentials. Fear not - for you're in the right place. Because no, it doesn't matter if you're a seasoned runner or you're still navigating the complex world of Strava kudos; having the right kit on hand is the first step to a stress-free and productive workout. One investment that our Editors swear by? Running shorts with pockets.

Although running vests are experiencing a spike in popularity, not everyone feels comfortable wearing one or finds it necessary. I've always favoured workout gear with pockets (the best sports bras with pockets are a lifesaver) where I can keep my phone and keys when I'm on the move without fear of them flying out.

Running shorts with pockets are specifically designed with runners in mind, and there's an option on the market for all preferences. What makes the best running shorts is down to personal preference; whilst I like a cycling short design that ensures no risk of chafing, our Senior Health Editor, Ally Head, loves a loose, breezy mini short for her marathons. I've also enlisted the help of Health Contributor Valeza Bakolli, who is easing back into running postpartum, meaning comfort and convenience are at the top of her priorities list. Between us, we have tried a fair few pairs of shorts, and the following pairs are by far our favourites, with the added bonus of practical pockets built into the design.

And if you're on the hunt for even more workout clothes to see you through the season, our edits of the best gym hoodies, cool girl activewear brands, and the best long-sleeved workout tops will see you through any winter sweat session in comfort and style.

Best running shorts with pockets: Quick shopping links

• Best running shorts with pockets overall: £49 at Asics
• Best double layer shorts with pockets: £48 at Oner Active
• Best fitted shorts with pockets: £60 at The Sports Edit
• Most affordable shorts with pockets: £6.99 at Decathlon
• Best bulk-free shorts with pockets: £59 at Monday Body

Best running shorts with pockets overall

Senior Health Editor Ally loves these breezy shorts for their innovative design that offers ample storage. "Not only are they noticeably light, flexible, and breathable, but they have three pockets in total - one in the waistband and two on the front - plus more on the sides of your legs and a handy hook on the back for any sweaty tops during hot summer runs," she says.

Editor's favourite running shorts with pockets

"When I say these shorts are next level, know that I mean they are truly top tier. I could list all of the elements that make them so fabulous, but instead I'll say this - they're the pair I reach for on autopilot when I know I need a short that just does the job, holding me in and feeling like a second skin.

With a trusty built-in liner for coverage, front split design for effortless range of movement and a 360º waistband with not one, but four (!) drop-in pockets, plus a back tunnel pocket to hold an extra layer, you've got ample storage for long training runs or heading to HIIT class sans bag.

Speaking to lululemon Vice President of Research and Product Innovation, Chantelle Murnaghan, about the short, she shares a fun fact: the short was actually specifically designed for the athletes competing in lululemon's Further six day ultramarathon race, where they ran a total of 4634kms. I love that they've been designed by top industry experts and tested by world-renowned pros," says Ally.

"Every element was built with runners’ needs in mind, including on-body storage solutions," Murnaghan shares. "The 360-degree waistband has four drop-in pockets and a back tunnel pocket - perfect for stashing essentials like keys, cards, water, gels, or even an extra layer without breaking stride."

She goes on: "The design and testing process for the shorts was highly extensive and rooted in a collaborative approach. By bringing together athlete insights, research, and our history in innovating for women’s unmet needs, we put forward designs that solved the real challenges athletes and women face in the sport. And we saw first-hand how far women can go when they’re given the resources and product innovations typically reserved for men."

Best double layer shorts with pockets

If, like me, you suffer from chafing but have always wanted to be able to wear flowy running shorts, these are the perfect pair. They have fitted shorts underneath to keep you comfortable whilst enjoying a flared silhouette for extra style points. They have a small zip pocket on the outer layer that is just the right size for keys, gels, or headphones. I tend to hold my phone when running, so it's no huge problem for me that it doesn't fit, but it's something to keep in mind.

Best fitted shorts with pockets

Another favourite of Ally's, these shorts are brilliant if you prefer a cycling short fit that will fully protect from chafing "Offering three pockets (one on each leg and one at the lower back), these cycling-style shorts from New Balance are great. I've tried them on many a training run and they always dry quickly," she says. They will also work for gym workouts or treadmill sessions when sweat-wicking is key.

Best running shorts with a small pocket

If you hate the thought of bulky pockets and want something more discreet, these are the shorts for you. They're extremely lightweight and non-see-through, and have space for small essentials that won't weigh you down.

"I've run in these a handful of times now, and you barely notice you're wearing them, and they get a yes from me for the handy yet discreet zip pocket for smaller items (my phone didn't fit, but my keys and card did)," says Ally.

Best shorts that don't ride up

"I'm a big fan of these bike shorts and have worn them on repeat since testing," says Ally. "They're exceptionally comfortable, fit well, and don't ride up or down while you're working out. I love that there are pockets on both sides (handy for your phone, keys, or all-important gels come race day). Note: they run true to size, so no need to size up or down here."

Most affordable running shorts with pockets

With 2,166 reviews and at just £6.99, you can't go far wrong with these Decathlon shorts. "I found that, while they didn't last for as long as some more expensive shorts out there, they supported me through shorter runs once or twice a week, plus, are made with stretch fabric and a wide waistband for ultimate comfort. Zip pocket included that can fit your phone, keys and card," says Ally.

Best running shorts with open pockets

I usually stay away from pockets that don't have a fastening for running for obvious reasons, but if I'm using wired headphones attached to my phone or have snacks or gels that need to be easily accessible, they're very handy. I love the stretchy waistband on these shorts, and the pockets offer plenty of space. They're also great for lounging or walking, and they come at a great price point. They're currently on sale though, so might sell out soon.

Best shorts with pockets for seasoned runners

Ally has tried several pairs of ON running shorts and raves about how well they wick sweat. They're designed by runners for runners, meaning Ally recommends them most for race training or longer distances rather than shorter or more gentle workout runs. This is largely due to their compressive fit that might not be the most comfortable for newer runners, but is brilliant if you like to feel fully supported no matter the distance you're going and favour kit with high compression levels. And with sleek side pockets big enough to hold your phone, they can take you anywhere.

Best running shorts with discreet pockets

Ever since I got my hands on them, these Monday Body shorts have become my most worn gym shorts of the year. They don't slip down no matter what type of exercise I'm doing, they're so comfortable and supportive, and they have a small waistband pocket that fits my keys and card perfectly. I usually hold my phone when I'm working out, so it doesn't bother me that this pair doesn't have a phone-sized pocket too. It also means that there's zero bulk or heaviness, which is a dream. Plus, this deep green colourway is just so chic.

Most supportive running shorts with pockets

With a reflective strip for low-light runs, four-way stretch and deep pockets on either side, these shorts are the perfect balance of comfort and practicality, something Health Contributor Valeza always looks for in her running kit:

“I often find that fitted shorts ride up for me while running, but the lightweight, stretchy material of these shorts makes them not only super comfortable, but also ensures they stay put,” she says. “The pockets are big enough to hold my phone, keys and card holder, and the material is fully opaque and supportive, so I feel held in and secure, even during faster runs.”

Most breathable running shorts with pockets

As someone who runs extremely hot, even during outdoor winter workouts, Valeza is a huge fan of how lightweight and breathable these Asics running shorts are. She says, “These are probably the most comfortable running shorts I own. When I’m feeling supremely lazy but still want to get some movement in, this is the first piece of kit I’ll reach for, as they don’t even feel like I’m wearing athleisure. They’re incredibly lightweight you see, making them great for short, easy runs as well as longer distances.”

Best longline running shorts with pockets

My recent trip into Uniqlo led me to discover the impressive range of affordable activewear on offer, including these longline shorts. They're unisex but with a more 'masculine' fit, hence the longer inseam. I rarely wear very short shorts (particularly for running) because I don't want to risk chafing, so I love that these offer a flowy cut in a longer length to keep me comfortable. They're breathable and sweat-wicking, and have multiple fastening pockets for all the essentials. They're also ideal for lounging and running errands in.

Best shorts for race day

"Represent have only recently ventured into women's running clothes - but what an entrance they've made. The stylish sportswear brand has a cult-like following, and these shorts are light as a feather, breathable, and generally a joy to wear, with a soft, comfortable waistband and ultra-lightweight nylon-spandex material. I rate that the semi-split leg design encourages range of motion and that the inner liner has an antibacterial finish, meaning the shorts wash well and will stand the test of time. Do note, though - while these don't have an actual pocket, they do have ingenious looped bands on the waist to store your towel for training runs or gels come race day," says Ally.

As all seasoned runners know, the best running accessories aren't just helpful for a successful running session - they're essential. They might not be the first things you think to invest in when starting out, but you'll be surprised by just how much you come to rely on these handy little purchases when you're mid run.

With temperatures already dropping and winter edging ever closer, getting out of the house to get your miles in can become slightly more intimidating, but having adequate accessories to call upon can make the darker days much easier. Yes, a good pair of trainers and sweat-wicking leggings can do a lot of heavy lifting, but you don't want to be suffering with icy hands, keys flying out of pockets, or a lack of water when you most need it.

We have several runners on team MC UK, including Senior Health and Sustainability Editor, Ally Head, who has run nine marathons in her time - so you can be very confident she knows exactly what is needed for the most comfortable and functional run. Fashion Writer Sofia Piza has also shared the accessories she relies on for her regular 5k sessions, and whilst I'm not a regular runner, I do enjoy a Saturday Parkrun, and have a few items I turn to when needed.

And once you have your accessories fully in order, make sure to check out our guides to the best race day outfits, chic micro shorts, the best workout tops, best running trainers, and essential gym layers to keep you cosy too.

Best running accessories: Quick shopping links

• Best cosy running hat: £35 at ON
• Best running gloves: £38 at lululemon
• Best running cap: £28 at Next
• Best running watch: £174.75 at Amazon
• Best running vest: £65 at Myprotein
• Best cosy running socks: £12 at BAM
• Best running headband: £32 at Alo

Best cosy running hat

We all know that a cosy hat is the key to keeping warm during winter, but there's nothing worse than an itchy knit that makes your head sweaty whilst running. This sleek On hat is designed for movement, so it has a form fit that covers the ears and won't budge throughout your workout. The brushed lining works to keep in heat, and, best of all, there's even a hole to put your ponytail through.

Best cosy running socks

Although these are technically walking socks, I always turn to my BAM pair during the winter months for all forms of exercise - particularly outdoor running. I favour these walking socks over thinner pairs as they offer extra cushioning, but also keep my feet even warmer than other pairs. Made from bamboo, they're both breathable and absorbent, so your feet stay dry even when you break a sweat.

Best running gloves

If you're anything like me, the first thing to feel the chill on a run is your hands. A cosy pair of gloves is a non-negotiable, and this lululemon pair is designed with runners in mind. Not only are they fleecy inside, but they also feature screen-conductive fabric so you can still use your phone, absorbent fabric on the thumbs to wipe your nose with, and reflective details to keep you safer in the dark.

Best running beanie

Sometimes, a cosy beanie is the only thing that will do. However, as previously mentioned, it's essential to invest in a knit that won't itch, irritate, or trap sweat on your forehead. Made from a wool blend, this hat offers breathability and antibacterial properties that make for a comfortable run, free from the sweatiness that synthetic fabrics can cause.

Best new running sunglasses

"With three different designs to choose from (see also: The Aero in black and brown colourways), these glasses promise to make any run both stylish and speedy. I love the effortlessly chic colour of the lenses, and that they're category 3, which means they'll protect your eyes against UVA, UVB, and glare in sunnier weather," says Head.

Best race socks

"These are the best socks of all time IMO - I wear them for all of my races," shares Head. The ribbed crew socks are the ideal length for wearing with both leggings and shorts, and the chic colourways will bring any running outfit to life.

Best elevated running gloves

"These are genuinely cosy and easy to use running gloves that make keeping hands warm and using your phone without taking them off seamless," says Head. With an elevated design and small motif, they have an extra chic finish. Plus, panels of soft fabric along the thumb and forefinger are designed for wiping your nose when needed.

Best everyday running glasses

Head has these running glasses in several colourways, which goes to show how good they are. "They have specially designed polarised lenses for unmatched clarity, a promise of UV400 protection, plus are feather light, meaning they don't hit the bridge of your nose or cut into the side of your temples while you're running in them," she says. If you frequently run outside, a pair of protective sunnies is essential for eye health and ensuring you can see properly. Another plus is the bendy frames which mean they're tricky to break, even if they fall off when running or you sit on them.

Best running cap

This is a breathable, lightweight option if you want to avoid your head getting too sweaty, whilst also keeping the sun off your face. "I like that it comes with reflective details so I can run in the dark with it, and I appreciate the "low depth" design as I find it more flattering. It says to hand wash, but I've chucked mine in the machine a few times on a low heat and it's been fine," says Head.

Best running watch

Piza says the Garmin Venu 2S is one of the most efficient smartwatches she has ever used. "Its design is very simple, so it feels like a piece of jewellery rather than a smartwatch," she says. She notes that it takes some trial and error to get used to the different buttons and functions, but it connects to the Garmin Connect app pretty easily which is very handy. "It's a very well-rounded smartwatch that provides accurate workout-tracking tools with a strong focus on wellness while looking fashionable, too."

Best running vest

"This vest is durable and waterproof, making it great for wet weather running. I love how easy this vest is to throw on and get moving in, thanks to the clip front design, plus there's plenty of room for your essentials in the pockets," says Head. It isn't the cheapest vest on the market, but it's built to last.

Best running headband

"As someone with curtain bangs, normal pins never keep the hair out of my face when running. So, after plenty of tried-and-tested attempts, I was finally able to nail the exact failsafe product that gets the job done every time. Sweat-wicking, comfortable, and thick enough to cover my ears to make sure my headphones don't fall out, this Alo Yoga headband is a total win," says Piza.

Best running water bottle

It's always a good idea to stay hydrated when running, which this handy little bottle will support. The lightweight plastic means it isn't too heavy to carry around, and the sip lid means there's no fiddling when you need a drink.

Best running sleeves

Sleeves like these are brilliant if you want to regulate your temperature, keep dry, or add some muscle support. This red pair is reflective, making it ideal for low lighting, and comes at a good price for the set of two.

Best running crossbody bag

You don't have to invest in high tech running gear, especially if you're new to the sport. A spacious crossbody bag like this one will fit everything you need when heading out the house, and the zips ensure everything stays safe and secure. It may bounce around a little if you keep it loose, but that shouldn't be a problem for shorter distances.

Best running ankle socks

If you prefer a shorter sock for running, or want something on the more affordable side, these New Balance socks are brilliant. They wick moisture which is essential when running, and you get a pack of three for under £12.

By now, you've all seen that Harry Styles x Runner's World cover.

In a move that seemingly broke the Internet last night, world-renowned pop star Harry Styles graced the UK publication's cover, photographed in largely vintage sportswear and pink running sunglasses.

Interviewed by no other than Haruki Murakami, a celebrated Japanese novelist, author of What I Talk About When I Talk About Running and a running icon in his own right, the interview covered the isolation of fame, Harry's new music, plus how meditative running can be.

Of course, he also chatted his go-to race day kit and the brands he wears on repeat to help him feel his best.

Back in September, the singer completed the Berlin Marathon in a time of 2 hours and 59 minutes, shaving 25 minutes off his personal best from the Tokyo Marathon in March prior.

Running under the alias of "Sted Sarandos," he completed the 26.2-mile race despite temperatures of nearly 30 degrees and challenging conditions.

And his kit choices were exceptional. You see, Harry chose to run in a number of independent running brands that I've worn and loved for years, using his platform to promote smaller businesses.

Alongside a bright pink pair of Nike Alphafly 3s, Harry donned some Tracksmith Van Cortlandt shorts, District Vision running sunglasses and SUMS lilac socks.

If you're keen to shop Harry's look, or you're currently training for a marathon yourself, keep scrolling. Below, I've shared my complete guide to the best race day outfits - aka, the kit that looks fashionable but is also functional, too.

All are tried and tested outfits that I've worn to run half and full marathons and would personally recommend. None have chafed, caused blisters, or prompted stitches, and I'd recommend all to family and friends. And for more Editor-approved kit picks, don't skip our edits of the best running shoes for women, the best running shorts, the best sports bras, and the best workout tops.

What are the most important things to look for in a race day outfit?

I've tested a lot of activewear brands in my time, specifically over short, mid and long distance runs, and the below come out top time and time again.

The brands I gravitate towards on repeat for quality, wearability and durability are lululemon, Sweaty Betty, New Balance, and adidas, with some of the higher-impact designs from Adanola and ALO being firm favourites, too.

The most important thing to look for, if you're looking for race day kit that'll perform, is that it's designed for high impact movement, wicks sweat well, and offers some element of compression.

Of course, pockets are an absolute essential, too, for carrying your phone, gels, and any other essentials, and so all of the short options I've included have ample storage space.

Why should you trust me?

I'm a nine-time marathon runner and the Senior Health Editor here at Marie Claire UK, you see, and I run most days. I've completed the London Marathon three times, and Chicago, Berlin and Peterborough marathons, too, so it's fair to say that I know a thing or two when it comes to good kit.

And let me tell you - kit can make or break you come race day. You might shrug me off now, but try and picture how painful running on a blister for 4+ hours might be. Or how agonising it'd be for your shorts to chafe your thighs, knees and belly button red raw. Or how irritated you'd feel if your running belt smacked you in the back for the entire route. You get my drift.

While I can laugh about all three of the scenarios above now - because yes, they have all happened to me in races in the past - I promise you that while you're pouring months of hard work, dedication, sweat and tears into a race only for your kit to hold you back, it isn't funny. It can be the difference between crossing the finish line and not, and the difference between a shiny new PB or a DNF (did not finish, for those of you who aren't au fait with running jargon).

While freak kit accidents can - and will - happen on the day, all you can do is prepare, prepare, prepare. Only run in kit that you've worn in training runs before (and no, that doesn't include your box-fresh carbon plates that look cuter with your outfit). Slather yourself in more BodyGlide than you knew possible. And do make sure you pack some emergency blisters and sliders for sore feet come the finish line.

Best race day outfit: If you want to replicate Harry's look

I've long been a fan of independent running brand Tracksmith, a company rooted in celebrating running’s distinct culture and designing stylish and supportive kit for non-professional yet competitive runners.

So it's no surprise that Harry - who's long been known to wear smaller designers and up-and-coming brands on stage - chose to opt for their Van Courtland shorts for his marathon yesterday. I own a pair myself, and the shorts are a breathable, breezy, sweat-wicking dream. Wearing mine for the Chicago Marathon shakeout - and plenty of training runs since - I can attest that they're a great basic, with three hidden pockets, to boot.

Do note, though - if you prefer to feel more held in while moving, you might want to opt for a pair with an in-built cycling short liner or higher waist design.

Founded by Ed Vickers after watching his Dad run marathons all his life, SUMS has one simple goal: to design planet-friendly, performance-focused socks that look great and feel better. Vickers is passionate about running being about more than competition - rather, as he puts it, "curiosity, connection and altruism - the real DNA of running culture." As he points out, this sounds abstract until you experience a race yourself, but once you do, you'd be hard-pressed not to be moved, and then get moving yourself.

The socks themselves are great - so much so, it's hard to fault them. Trialled over thousands of test miles to find the perfect balance of comfort, durability, breathability and compression and with a 4.9/5 review average, they're really innovating in the running sock sphere. All of their designs are unisex, offer a light compression, and come with anti-blister cushioning, and the breathable mesh and zero-slip arch support mean they're trusted by a wide range of elite athletes for marathons and ultra-marathons alike.

A running brand and wellness collective based in Los Angeles, District Vision was launched by friends Tom and Max over ten years ago. What began as a series of workshops teaching meditation to runners has since developed into a sports apparel and accessories brand with a commitment to thoughtful sourcing and purpose-led design.

The pink racing sunglasses that Harry wore for Berlin are one of their best-sellers. Invest in the Junya Racer for a running frame that sits close to the face, promises not to move mid-movement, and offers maximum sun protection, too. They come in a wide range of colourways, so if pink isn't for you, the brand has you covered.

Best race day outfit: If you love all black

I wore this tank for the Chicago Marathon - my second Boston Qualifying time - and on repeat for countless half marathons since, including the Victoria Park Half (pictured above). It's a runner's dream - supportive, sweat-wicking, and anti-chafe, with clever reflective details for if you're ever running in the dark. Other need-to-knows: it also has a handy zip pocket on the back of your ribcage for storing your essentials.

These lululemon Fast & Free shorts honestly have my heart - they are my most trusted and reliable pair of marathon shorts, with ample space for your essentials, a thick and supportive but breathable material and a flattering and functional design. They feel pretty like a second skin, the barely-there feel boosts your confidence and allows you to focus on the race at hand.

These have become my favourite race day trainers this year, and you can really tell that years of research went into the design of this shoe. The energy return is superior to other competitors I've tried - a combined FuelCell PEBA midsole and "Energy Arc" design pairs a thin carbon fibre plate with clever midsole voids to optimise the amount of bounce and propulsion. Besides how speedy they are, though, these shoes are seriously comfortable, easy to wear, and stylish, ticking all of the right boxes.

I have a few colourways of these Hystride running sunglasses, and I really can't fault them. They have specially designed polarised lenses for unmatched clarity, a promise of UV400 protection, plus are feather light, meaning they don't hit the bridge of your nose or cut into the side of your temples while you're running in them. For clumsy runners, they also have super bendy frames, meaning if you sit or tread on them (of which I'm guilty), they're harder to break.

Best race day outfit: If you love all pink

The Nike Swoosh bras are raved about for a reason - they're seriously easy to pull on while also offering a seriously impressive amount of support. My only criticism is that the lighter colourways can show sweat patches, if you're someone who sweats a lot, but it's a great bra option if you love how lower impact bras look but want to make sure you're properly supported for your mileage.

I'd never have expected this tank from Free People to become such an asset in my running wardrobe, but it's become one of my go-to layers. A cute top to throw on over your sports bras, it isn't the best at sweat-wicking, but it isn't the worst, either, and will make any outfit look that bit more chic.

I am beyond obsessed with these workout shorts, which top FP's viral Hotty Hot shorts IMO. They sweat-wick really well, meaning no unwanted sweat patches, have an inbuilt layer, cinch you in at the waist without crushing any internal organs and are a great length, too. They come in a wide range of colourways and are really responsive to your body and leg movements, meaning you won't be flashing anyone mid-race.

If you're on the hunt for a running trainer that promises to be stable, supportive and cushioned, you can't go far wrong with the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4's. They're a really reliable workhorse of a running trainer, easy to slip on and off and do up quickly, and come in a gorgeous range of colourways. They're not the springiest, but they are stable, meaning I also rate them for any runners who have precarious or wobbly ankles.

Best race day kit: For the neutral lover

This longline sports bra is ridiculously clever and a great example of how a brand can modernise a classic workout staple with some seriously handy features that make your runs all the more enjoyable. I'm a big fan of the higher neckline, curved rear hem, and razorback silhouette, not to mention the removable cups and an under-bust band for impact support. Do note, though - I'd say it offers medium support, so if you have bigger boobs, you'll need an underwired sports bra underneath it.

You know an item is really good when I find it hard to fault - and I fell in love with these race day shorts the second I put them on last year. They really are made for all conditions - effortlessly breathable, sweat-wicking, and supportive, they have an inner pant liner and a responsive material that moves with your body to make sure you have a decent range of motion. The fabric is next level - seriously light, stretchy, soft and with a slight leg split to make sure the shorts support, rather than restrict, your goals.

If you're on the hunt for a carbon plate running trainer to support your speedwork or racing, then the Mach x 2 from Hoka is a pretty reasonable price point. The material is sturdy and resilient and the sole bouncy and propulsive. While the design means these shoes will likely last you a long time, they did cause small blisters and some wearing in straight out of the box. That said, this is easily trumped by the fast, fun and functional support they've offered me for races since.

Best race day kit: For the print lover

I wore this adidas singlet for the Berlin Marathon in 2023 and I really can't fault it. It almost feels like a second skin - seamless, lightweight, and breathable, it's a great option if you're a fan of a "barely there" running outfit. Coming in a range of fun prints and colourways, it's sure to make any race day outfit look good without scrimping on functionality.

Sweaty Betty's Power shorts are one of their running best-sellers for a reason - they offer a few longer lengths than other cycling short iterations on the market (they come in 4", 6", or 9" leg lengths) and are seamless and anti-chafe, too.

There's a subtle adjustable waistband that sits just above your belly button to hold the shorts in place, with the option to tailor the fit to your waist, too. Mine have never ridden up or rolled down, either, helping me to smash my workout head-on without worrying about my kit.

They also have plenty of pockets for storing your essentials - a runner's essential.

My go-to race day shoe for years, the adidas Adios Adizero Pro 3's were the first speedy shoe I ever fell properly fell in love with. I'd never got the hype before, reading horror stories of overwear and subsequent stress fractures or injuries. But these shoes are built for making your speed work easier and I can't recommend enough. Worn by more athletes than I care to count and with some seriously impressive world records to their name, they're seriously efficient at boosting energy return, effortlessly boost your propulsion without impacting form, and look cute, too.

Best race day extras:

You probably know by now that we love workout gear that packs a punch for any sweat session but also looks unbeatably stylish. That's why the best pink activewear is a staple in team MC UK's exercise arsenal.

Making sure your kit of choice is suitable for your workout is essential. Namely, it has to wick sweat, offer ample movement, and not rub or chafe. But practical workout gear doesn't have to be basic - it can be chic, too. Pink is one of those colours that suits absolutely everyone, and it's true that wearing bright, playful colours works to spark some joy on dull days. So, why not add some bubblegum pops to your exercise wardrobe?

Between us at Marie Claire UK, we have tested a lot of activewear. Our Senior Health and Sustainability Editor, Ally Head, spends hours upon hours trialling the best brands in the business, so she really knows which labels she can rely on. Most recently, she ran the London Landmarks Half in a selection of her favourite pieces - and all of them happened to be pink.

I love low-impact workouts like Reformer Pilates, and I've found that I really do perform best when I feel confident in my exercise outfit. So it's no surprise that several pink pieces have found their way to me, and there's no time like spring to dig them out again.

From the best petite gym leggings, best running shoes for women, and best Pilates clothes to running shorts for women that can survive even the longest distances, look no further for high-performance activewear (tried and tested by us) that just so happens to be playful and feminine as well.

Best pink activewear: Quick shopping links

• Best longline pink workout top: £14 at adidas (was £28, save 50%)
• Best pink flared leggings: £26.99 at Hollister (was £39.95, save 32%)
• Best pink workout shorts: £38 at Free People
• Best pink running sports bra: £39 The Sports Edit
• Best pink running trainers: £140 at New Balance
• Best pink unitard: £76 at BetterMe

1. Best pink workout shorts

"No word of a lie - I think these might be my favourite workout shorts of all time. I raced London Landmarks Half in them at the weekend and can confirm first hand that they're a sweat-wicking, flattering dream of a workout short. While I was a fan of Free People's earlier viral Hotty Hot short, I found that the material could show sweat patches and also ride up quite a lot. Not with the Carpe Diem shorts - made from polyester and elastane, they're weighty enough to stay put but also responsive enough not to restrict your stride movement. They come in a range of cute colourways, including two pink options." - Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor

2. Best pink workout top

"This cute little tank from FP is another firm favourite in my workout wardrobe rotation - while it's not supportive enough to wear on it's own, it is cute to layer over a supportive sports bra for Pilates, yoga, or running (dependant on the level of support you like). They have a seriously impressive range of colourways, but I'm particularly fond of this contrast piping pink tank." - Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor

3. Best pink workout flares

I rave about these flares any chance I get. With three different leg lengths available they cater to pretty much everyone, which many activewear brands don't offer. The fabric is buttery soft and has plenty of stretch for comfortable wear, but they're not at all see through or thin. Plus, they're sweat-wicking and breathable. The thicker waistband makes for supportive wear without digging in, and the flared silhouette means I can wear them around and about too. They've seen me through countless Reformer classes and plenty of hikes, and they still look good as new after being washed tens of times.

4. Best bright pink running trainers

"A stable, supportive and cushioned ride of a trainer, I've worn the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4's more than I care to count. They're seriously easy to slip on and off, don't rub, and are breathable, too. They offer just enough bounce to propel you, while being stable enough to support over longer distances. Plus, what's not to love about this colourway?" - Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor

5. Best pink running sports bra

"One of their most iconic and most-loved designs, I've had my black Nike Swoosh bra for yonks now and know it's good because it's one of the bras I return to for effortless support time and time again. Surprisingly supportive despite having the aesthetic design of a lower impact bra, I wore this exact pink iteration of the bra to race London Landmarks Half marathon last weekend, and felt supported (but not suffocated - a fine balance with bras designed for high impact) for the entire 13.1 miles. I did have a small sweat patch at the end of the race, but was impressed by how comfortable, anti-chafe, and easy to wear the design is." - Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor

6. Best pink workout unitard

"Now *this* - this is how to make a statement with your workout clothes. Barbie, is that you? All jokes aside, I was really pleasantly surprised by how butter soft, supportive, and breathable this Better Me one-piece was. It's an ideal outfit for throwing on when you're late for your class or just want full body, sculpting support for your session." - Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor

7. Best subtle pink trainers

"This colour way has my heart. The New Balance Fresh Foam x 1080 is the *ultimate* beginners running shoe - uber cushioned, comfortable and versatile, it's a great all rounder that you can wear for pretty much any kind of workout. They've also improved the breathability of the latest iteration, meaning bye, bye, overheating or blistered feet, and additional rubber in high wear areas to ensure that your running trainers last the test of time." - Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor

8. Best longline pink workout top

I actually bought this top second hand and it's still in brilliant shape. I like to do Pilates in short sleeved tops but still want coverage around my stomach, which this vest provides. It's extremely stretchy and comfortable but not at all see through, and there's ample room for a sports bra underneath whilst still being form-fitting. It's designed for HIIT but works for any type of exercise thanks to its sweat-wicking properties. Plus, this might just be the perfect shade of pink.

9. Best pink low impact bra

Our Social Media Editor, Dionne Brighton, has worn this H&M move sports bra for low impact classes like Pilates, and it's ideal for keeping you comfortable and held in without being restricted. It's made with extra soft, sweat-wicking fabric, and also features removable inserts so you can customise the fit.

I have a confession to make - I have more running shoes in my house than I care to admit. As the Senior Health Editor here at Marie Claire UK and an eleven-time marathon runner, I'm constantly testing the latest designs and WhatsApping friends and family with my recommendations.

While I've been running for the best part of ten years now, it's only in recent years that people seem to have cottoned on to just how joyful lacing up can be. It's no exaggeration to say we've become a nation of runners - everywhere you look, there's another lycra-clad run club or Instagram post full of someone achieving a shiny new personal best.

If you're one of the keen beans now lacing up regularly, know this - one of the simplest ways you can improve your running is by investing in the best kit. Enter: this handy guide to the best running shoes for women. No, we're not talking about the best gym trainers, but running trainers specifically designed with return, bounce, and boost in mind.

As someone who runs marathons for fun and tests kit as part of their nine-to-five, I've tested close to a thousand pairs of running trainers in my time. While my all-time favourite running shoes are the ON Cloudmonster 3's, New Balance Rebel v4's and adidas Adios Adizero Pro 4's, I've rounded up all of my go-tos below for you, for every gait type, distance, and occasion.

All of the running trainers below have been tested by the team or me over a 5km, 10km, half-marathon or marathon distance and get my seal of approval. I've also enlisted the help of our Barre and Pilates-loving Contributing Shopping Editor Valeza Bakolli, marathon runner and Ecommerce Analyst Sophie Cookson, and Fashion Writer Sofia Piza. Keep reading for an honest review of which trainers are worth your investment - and which aren't.

Not into running? Don't worry, we've also rounded up the best cross-training shoes, best weightlifting shoes, and best sustainable trainers for you, too.

Shop the best running shoes for women for 2026 and beyond: quick links

• Editors pick: ON Cloudmonster 3, £180
• Coolest new running shoes: New Balance Ellipse, £130
• Best overall running shoes: New Balance Rebel v4 Shoes, £84
• Best every day running shoes: adidas Ultraboost 5
• Best cushioned running shoes: Hoka Bondi 9, £127.99
• Best half marathon training shoes: ON Cloudmonster 2, £118.50
• Best running shoes for stability: ASICS Gel Kayano 31, £126
• Best running shoes for the treadmill: New Balance SuperComp Elite v4, £156
• Best value running shoes: Nike Vomero, £144.99
• Best marathon training shoes: ASICS Gel Nimbus 27, £126

Why is investing in a pair of the best running shoes for women so important?

Yeah, surprisingly enough your old Converse aren't the best bet for your morning miles (that said, they're in our round-up of the best weightlifting shoes for a reason). Why? Well, wearing incorrect trainers can increase your risk of injury and encourage poor running form.

Think about it: if you wear super flat Converse for your 5km, your foot arch won't have adequate support, your joints won't have proper cushioning as your body hits the floor, and your hips, knees, Achilles, and tendons will likely have to work harder to over-compensate. End result? Likely injury, if you run regularly (aka three times a week or more).

Testing process: What we looked for in the best running shoes for women

• Adequate cushioning: When you hit the floor during a run, you're putting as much as three times your body weight through your foot. Think about that for a second - it's a lot. We made sure all of the shoes in this round up have proper cushioning underfoot.
• Appropriate weight: Again, this one's fairly common sense and worth thinking about pre-investing in running trainers. The lighter your shoe, the easier it'll be for you to move quickly in them, so there are plenty of light trainers in this edit. That being said, if you're a distance or marathon runner, making sure you've opted for a shoe with proper support for the mileage is key - options for that below, too.
• Designed for the right terrain: In short, are you someone who's going to be running on pavements home from work or heading out to the countryside for steady miles come the weekend? If it's the former, invest in road shoes; the latter, trail shoes. Road shoes are more cushioned, to protect your body from the impact of the concrete, and trail shoes have more grip and support, for muddy trail routes.

Best running shoes for women: 22 to shop now

Editor's pick:

It's no secret that ON's Cloudmonster's are arguably my favourite running trainers of all time. It only takes a quick scroll of my Instagram to see that I wear them on repeat - for easy runs, long runs, and everything in between. So I've been eagerly awaiting their latest iteration of the design, the Cloudmonster 3.

They offer all the same things I loved about the 2, just better - their cult-favourite rocker propulsiveness, iconic colourways and trademark hole-scattered cushion (or, as the brand calls their iconic soles, "CloudTec®"). On the redesign front, they've altered the midsole and upper, promising to provide smoother transitions, lockdown, and long run protection, as well as expanding to a triple-layer CloudTec® cushioning system "for more responsiveness." What this translates to, for you lot at home, is more cushioning, a smoother ride, and longer durability (aka your shoes should last for longer!).

My verdict, after wearing for an easy to steady five mile run and one 13-mile long run? As per usual with ON, they're a dream. Easy to pull on while still feeling secure on your foot mid-movement, blister and chafe-free, and supportive while also maxing out on comfort.

One thing to note, and that I definitely noticed when testing: the third iteration offers a much firmer ride than previous designs, which takes some getting used to, especially if you wear the Cloudmonster 2 regularly like me.

Coolest new running launch:

Easily one of the buzziest new running shoe launches in the past few years, New Balance's Ellipse exploded onto the scene this month to instant praise. Rapper and chef Action Bronson even fronted the promo, presenting his own "Sneaker Report" and calling the Ellipse "a vibe."

While I was initially suspicious of how lifestyle-focused the trainer looked - it'd look just as good with your office wear as your gym gear, for perhaps the first time in running shoe history - I've been pretty impressed with its functionality. Incorporating New Balance's trademark Fresh Foam X cushioning and a multi-layer air mesh upper, it's a real joy of a running trainer - fashion forward and surprisingly functional.

I tested over a five-mile easy run and a ten-mile long run and couldn't fault them - no blisters, no soreness, just bouncy, seamless strides.

Best every day running shoe:

Best running shoe for beginners:

Best running shoes for wide feet:

Best running shoes for stability:

Best running trainer for energy return:

Best running shoes for short distances:

Best value running shoe:

Best ON running trainer

Best VEJA running trainer

Best ASICS running trainer

Best Nike running trainer

Best running trainers for speed work

Best fashion-forward trainers

Best Under Armour running trainer

Best cushioned running shoe

Best running shoe for easy runs

Welcome back to Road To Recovery, Senior Health Editor Ally Head’s fortnightly column where she documents her injury progress, training diary, and chances of completing the 2025 London Marathon. This week, she’s reflecting on the joys of low impact exercise and finding calm amongst the chaos.

If you’ve called me at any point this year between the hours of 7.30 and 8.30 am, chances are, I’d have been on the stationary bike, thighs burning and headphones firmly in as I spin my way through hours (and hours… and hours) of low impact cardio.

Following the advice of my run coach and physiotherapist, despite being just 49 days out from the London Marathon, I’m on a strict high-impact ban - including running, HIIT workouts, and jumping.

Don’t get me wrong - I love trying different workouts. As a Health Editor who gets to try different sweat sessions as part of my job, I kind of have to. I’d be in the wrong profession if I didn’t embrace trying new forms of movement.

The bike, though, is my arch nemesis. Many of my most vivid childhood memories involve huffing and puffing my way up hills after my Dad, who always seemed to enjoy whiling away the hours on two wheels as much as two feet. I, on the other hand, have never understood why you’d voluntarily choose to suffer through the indignity of such a sore arse if you could experience the joys of nature on foot. In my world, there’s nothing quite as meditative as the steady strum of feet to floor.

I don’t think it helps that I’m not a very good cyclist - something I’m sure many of you who have tried a workout, felt a bit useless at, and never returned to, can relate to. Alongside the underlying fear of not being up to scratch, I’ve always felt confounded by the fact that it causes such a specific type of muscle burn - one that I’m just not very good at pushing through, which is truly a humbling experience for a stubborn endurance runner who has such a high pain threshold, she didn’t realise her foot was broken for two weeks in December.

It’s not all negative, though. When I found out I’d seriously injured myself last year, I knew I had no choice but to embrace low impact sessions and reframe my approach to exercise for the next few months. Out went speedwork, BodyGlide, short shorts and carbon plates, and in, Pilates socks, hours on the bike watching Gossip Girl, and zen-inducing yoga classes at my friend Jaimes’ new studio, Basic Space, in Camberwell.

No-one’s more surprised at how much I’ve embraced low impact life than me. Running is a part of my personality, something I look forward to each and every day, and a habit that’s not only shaped my career trajectory, but who I am, too.

But, determined to make lemonade from lemons, I grabbed 2025 by the horns and threw myself fully into my new normal. Rather than getting frustrated at what I couldn’t do, I saw it as a golden opportunity - a chance to do all the many other workouts I simply don’t have time for when marathon training or chipping away at personal bests. Sure, the bike and I may still have a long way to go before we can call ourselves friends, but I’ve learnt a lot throughout this period.

Namely, that life really is what you make of it. I feel happy, relaxed, and hopeful for the future, not to mention proud that I’ve discovered new forms of movement that are nurturing my body when it needs exactly that to heal. But most of all, I feel grateful - grateful at what my body is able to do, rather than frustrated at what it can’t.

This could have been a bleak few months and a downwards spiral into fitness lost - instead, it’s been a chance to remind myself of the joy of any kind of movement. As one of my favourite poets Donna Ashworth said, “When bad things are happening in the world, it’s common to feel helpless. But remember, everything exists in energy. Your kindness, your care, your hope, has weight. Send it out.”

So, next time you catch yourself talking your way out of trying something new, thinking you won’t be good enough or assuming you won’t enjoy an activity, give it a second thought. There’s so much power - not to mention joy - to be found in having hope.

To read part one of Ally's Road To Recovery column, where she explains her injury, her hopes of running the 2025 London Marathon, and how she's dealing with the setback when her big goal of the year is at risk, click here.

A-listers always seem to find the harmonious balance of practicality and endless style points when it comes to workout gear, so celebrity-approved activewear brands are at the top of my list when I'm in the market for pieces that can be trusted to deliver on every front.

As a Shopping Editor with far too much sports kit stashed in my wardrobe at home, the best activewear brands to me are those that I know I can do pretty much any workout in, but that are also true to my personal style. I always get a better sweat on when I dress the part, and though it might be slightly shallow, slouchy, boring and ill-fitting items just don't fit the bill.

Earlier this year, both Kendall Jenner and Lila Moss announced collaborations with Adanola, both of which sold out pretty quickly. So it's clear that the appetite for celebrity-backed activewear brands is stronger than ever.

I've done some digging and managed to find several labels that celebrities have been spotted wearing on repeat, including Taylor Swift's Eras Tour rehearsal looks and Bella Hadid's favourite trainers. If your sports wardrobe is in desperate need of a refresh for the start of a new year, these are the brands that celebs swear by—and they're surprisingly affordable too.

Celebrity-approved activewear: Quick shopping links

• Adanola: Kendall Jenner's favourite
• On: Worn by Zendaya
• Popflex: Spotted on Taylor Swift during The Eras Tour
• Sweaty Betty: Worn by Kate Middleton
• Alo Yoga: Hailey Bieber's go-to brand
• Asics: Trainers loved by Bella Hadid

1. Kendall Jenner

Kendall Jenner's Adanola edit alone should tell you what a fan she is of the Manchester-based athleisure brand, but she has been flaunting her co-ords from the label on her Instagram stories for months. And she's not the only star that has been spotted wearing Adanola—Maya Jama and Rose Huntington-Whiteley are also a part of the cult fan base. Straddling the line between workout gear and loungewear (without feeling too slouchy or undone) each piece from the British brand is distinctly chic and practical, so it's no wonder it comes approved by some of the most stylish celebs in the game.

2. Zendaya

Zendaya has recently partnered with On, so it's only natural that she's been repping the brand left, right and centre. Best known for its unmistakable cloud trainers that have become a rite of passage piece of kit for runners, you'd be forgiven for assuming that shoes was all On had to offer. It took me seeing Zendaya's sleek sporty looks to be convinced to properly browse the brand's clothing offering, and I am very glad I did. The actress has been wearing her On sets for everything from travelling in style to walking the dog, so it ticks every box.

3. Taylor Swift

We rarely get a glimpse into Taylor Swift's casual attire, so when it comes, best believe her fans are paying close attention. Her music video for the single I Can Do It With A Broken Heart featured exclusive behind the scenes clips from The Eras Tour, showcasing the star's rehearsal outfits—and there's one brand that she was wearing on repeat. PopFlex skorts, sports bras, and shorts seem to be Taylor's firm favourites, and anything that can survive prep for one of the biggest tours in history can't be ignored. Her lilac skort could easily be mistaken for a regular skirt thanks to its floaty finish, so this is the ideal sportswear brand for those who like something a little more feminine and fun for working out. PopFlex also carries sizes from XXS-3X, so it's size inclusive too.

4. Hailey Bieber

Everything Hailey Bieber touches seems to turn to gold in today's market, including her favourite activewear pieces. She has been seen wearing the LA apparel brand for years, alongside her famous pals Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid, granting the label it-girl status. Although we have mainly seen Hailey in Alo for running errands in style, it's not all about looks. Team MC have tried and tested countless pieces of Alo kit over the years, from the best Pilates socks to the best yoga clothes, and it comes out on top every time.

5. Bella Hadid

It's no secret that Bella Hadid has one of the best wardrobes on the planet, so she's the first person I turn to when I want effortlessly cool outfit inspiration—even when working out. If you've been on the hunt for trendy but comfortable footwear to complete your activewear looks, take a leaf out of Bella's book with a pair of Asics. As well as making some of the best running trainers, Asics has countless trendy silhouettes that the street style set can't get enough of, so they pair perfectly with the more casual pieces of activewear for off-duty days. The supermodel teamed hers with a sporty romper that would be ideal for Pilates workouts.

6. Kate Middleton

Ever wondered what you'd find in a Royal Family workout kit? Wonder no more. Kate Middleton has been seen on many different occasions in Sweaty Betty, including for an interactive visit to Maidenhead Rugby Club, and anything good enough for a Princess is good enough for us. The best Sweaty Betty products also come highly rated by fitness experts, so there's no going wrong with this staple brand (which also counts Reese Witherspoon, Halle Berry, and Jessica Alba amongst its fans).

7. Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez has long been a fan of fashionable yet functional activewear sets, often seen out and about in coordinated two pieces. Known for her love of dance and regular tour rehearsals, she often opts for fit kit from sustainable, independent brands, like The Giving Movement. Sweat wicking, stylish, and kind to the planet? What's not to love.

8. Lori Harvey

It's fair to say Lori Harvey knows a thing or two about good activewear - the star is regularly spotted leaving Pilates or yoga studios in chic, effortless athleisurewear combos. Her go-to legging? The lululemon Align, a soft-as-anything, sweat-wicking star of a wardrobe staple that has a cult following. They're an investment, but you'll have them forever.

The best long-sleeved workout tops, in my opinion, don't get nearly enough credit. In fact, I’d even go as far as to say it’s my favourite style of workout top - there to keep you warm yet sweat-wick, cosy yet cool. A core staple in any fitness fan’s gym wear, it’s the perfect accompaniment to your gym leggings, sports bra and running trainers if you’re after that bit more coverage without compromising on a lightweight feel.

Now that we’re officially in January, and the weather is firmly brisk (if not downright chilly), the best long-sleeved workout tops are about to get a whole lot more well-deserved attention. Perfect for that awkward in-between transitional weather, they strike the perfect balance between warm and cool. Worn alone, they’re not as lightweight as a workout vest but also not quite as cosy as layering up with a gym hoodie.

As Marie Claire UK’s Contributing Shopping Editor, I cover a lot of fitness shopping content, so naturally, I’ve tried and tested plenty of workout gear in my time. I adore low-impact workouts like Pilates, yoga and strength training and love to supplement these with a sweaty at-home HIIT workout.

To help in my search for the best workout tops, I’ve also enlisted the help of Senior Health Editor Ally Head (who, as a multi-marathon runner has trialled countless pieces of kit for durability, sweat-wicking and general performance), Junior Shopping Editor Amelia Yeomans, Teacher Training Manager and yoga teacher at MoreYoga, Sophie Boucher, and athlete and founder of PASSA, Lillie Bleasdale.

We’ve included a range of styles and price points for our long-sleeved top roundup. Whether you prefer a cropped or longline style, loose or form-fitting, a zipped design or a practical pullover, whether you love running or Pilates - we’ve got you covered.

If you prefer a sweaty indoor workout above all else, we have a roundup of the best summer workout outfits and workout vests for you to shop. Similarly, running shorts, matching gym sets, and cosy rest-day loungewear will always come in handy, no matter the weather, so be sure to check out our buying guides for these too. When it comes to long-sleeved workout tops, though, there are a few important things to consider:

What we looked for while testing the best long-sleeved workout tops

We always ensure to thoroughly trial each and every product we recommend here at MC UK - here’s what we kept in mind while testing:

• Material - was it sweat-wicking, lightweight and breathable? Did it keep us warm or cool? Both were very welcome for different styles of workout.
• Fit - was it cropped or longline? Fitted or oversized? Long-sleeved workout tops come in all shapes and sizes - and again, all would suit different styles and preferences.
• Quality - did it wear and wash well? Did it bobble over time or absorb a lingering ‘gym kit’ smell?
• Price - would we get our cost per wear?

13 best long-sleeved workout tops of 2026, tested by Editors and fitness pros

1. Best affordable long sleeved workout top

Every member of Team MC UK who's tested Adanola kit has fallen in love with their designs. Not only is the kit stylish and fashion-forward, but it's really functional, too, washing well, supporting you through any session, and leaving you feeling your best. This tee is no exception, with a compressive fit, four way stretch, and thumb holes to keep your hands warm during winter runs.

2. Best long-sleeved workout top for all workouts

Head is a huge fan of the lululemon Swiftly top and she’s not alone - it’s one of the brand’s best-selling designs for a reason, after all. According to our Senior Health Editor, it can be worn in summer and winter alike thanks to its lighter material, washes well and has a flattering fit. It’s great if you're looking for longevity, too - Head has owned hers since around 2018 and claims it still smells, feels and looks as good as the day she bought it (which is no mean feat with long-sleeved workout tops in particular, we can tell you). If you’re after a long-sleeved workout top that's flattering, doesn’t ride up, and washes well, then look no further.

3. Best oversized long-sleeved T-shirt

I’ve always had a thing for casual long-sleeved cotton T-shirts, and after picking up this Nike number in New York last September, it became my unexpected autumn saviour. It’s made of a beautifully thick cotton material, making it perfect for lounging as well as light workouts in cooler weather - think: your favourite oversized gym T-shirt, but with more coverage. One thing to note is that as it’s made from cotton, it’s not the most sweat-wicking piece in this list and so won't be suitable for running or HIIT. My top is a darker green so doesn’t show sweat marks too much, but they might show up on lighter colours. For form-fitting, sweat-wicking designs made for more intense workouts, keep scrolling.

4. Best long sleeved workout top for gym classes

Senior Health Editor Head loves this Sweaty Betty long sleeved workout top for cooler summer runs. It's made from a super soft material and is breathable, meaning you're not stuck with damp elbows or armpits mid workout. Do note, though: it can run a little large and isn't the thickest, meaning it's best suited to spring, summer and autumn runs, rather than chillier winter sessions.

5. Most fashion-forward long-sleeved workout top

We’re a bit obsessed with Alo Yoga kit here at MC UK, and there’s a reason for that: when it comes to stylish-yet-functional designs, they hit the nail on the head every single time. Head owns this slightly cropped top and finds it perfect for wearing during slower, more focused Pilates sessions. Its soft ribbed material will keep you cosy in cooler temperatures, and how chic is the twist-front design?

6. Best long-sleeved workout top for yoga and Pilates

Pilates trainer Boucher loves how versatile this long-sleeved top is - in fact, it’s so chic she often even pairs it with jeans when she’s out of the studio. She’s also a fan of the flattering ruched detail and how incredibly soft and comfy it is to wear during Pilates flows and while out running errands alike.

7. Best long sleeved workout top for running

Bleasdale wears this New Balance layer on repeat for strength sessions, speedwork, and long runs - and trust us, she's tested a lot of running gear in her time. This particular New Balance design is fast-drying and practical, making any workout comfortable, and offers great breathability and comfort, too. Plus, it's a great price point for the quality you get.

8. Best cropped long-sleeved workout top

I love a cropped workout top, as I find them the most flattering when paired with my favourite high-waisted leggings. This style from Gymshark has been my go-to long-sleeved workout top for years. I own them in a few colours and used to wear them while out running all. The. Time. They’re ideal for all types of weather from autumn to spring, thanks to the longer sleeve length. The material is super lightweight - yet warm - and wicks sweat well. In fact, I own this in a pale lilac and have never seen a sweat patch yet. In terms of fit, it’s fitter but not too tight and restrictive, moving effortlessly with my body through fast-moving and low-impact workouts alike.

9. Cosiest long sleeved workout top

Yeomans practically lives in this Gymshark top during winter as it's the ideal cosy layer for even the chilliest of mornings. With a comfortable yet warm that keeps your hands covered, it provides that extra bit of warmth without losing any practicality. It's also extremely stretchy so provides a perfect fit, and it keeps its stretch even after years of hot machine washes. Available in several equally as chic colours, it could also function as athleisure wear when working from home or just layering up for a winter walk.

10. Softest long-sleeved workout top

My adoration for Amazon athleisure brand CRZ Yoga is no secret. In fact, after picking up the brand’s highly-rated Butterluxe leggings a few months ago, I’ve gone on a bit of a wild one and bought loads of pieces from the range. Just like my beloved leggings, this top is unbelievably soft and comfortable. It’s made from a stretchy, sweat-wicking material that makes it perfect worn alone over a sports bra during slightly cool weather, and as a base layer under a running jacket during the colder winter months. It’s seamless and oh-so flattering, cutting off at the perfect point, it’s not too long or too cropped. Consider this the Goldilocks’ porridge of the workout top world.

11. Best zip-up long-sleeved workout top

I’ve owned this GNGR Bees top for a couple of years now, and nothing makes me feel more autumnal than popping this on for a brisk walk or calming yoga flow. It’s great for more fast-paced workouts too, but the lighter material might show sweat marks, so do note that it’s also available in black if that matters to you. Not only is it sustainable (made from dead stock cotton and spandex fabric), it’s probably the most flattering workout top I own. This top hugs my waist without feeling at all compressive or tight. It unzips almost down to the bottom, making it easy to put on and take off, and you can zip it right up to the high neckline for extra coverage and warmth.

12. Best breathable long sleeved workout top

Head has trained in this ON long sleeved tee on repeat, wearing it in the winter months for staying cool but also cosy during her training miles. It's the ideal running companion - soft and supportive, but also roomy and breathable enough to keep you performing at your best. It's a good price point from the brand, too, who's kit normally retails at higher price points.

13. Best long sleeved workout top for nighttime

Adidas are known as one of the go-to's for sporting gear for a reason - they know how to design activewear that feels like a second skin, washes well, and supports you through any and every workout. This long sleeved running top is made from their patented AEROREADY material, which essentially means the top is breathable while still keeping you warm. "I tested over a ten mile long run and a shorter five km route and would definitely recommend. It fits well, is snug but sweatwicking, and proves a great option for darker evening runs as it has reflective detailing on both arms," explains Head.

So, you’re keen to find the best high street activewear picks but don’t want to scrimp on quality. Well, you’ve come to the right place. Here at Marie Claire UK, we pride ourselves on finding the best gym wear for you to shop, from leggings and workout tops to running shorts and gym trainers. Sometimes, the best picks of the bunch just so happen to be available on the high street, too.

As MC UK’s Junior Shopping Editor, I am a strong advocate for not spending a fortune when it comes to great activewear. From Adanola and Free People to eco-friendly brand BAM, some of the best athleisure I’ve tried comes from high street brands and falls well under the £50 mark.

Sure, some of our all-time favourite athleisure picks come from brands like Alo Yoga, lululemon and Sweaty Betty, which can set you back a pretty penny. But if you’re in the market for affordable pieces that genuinely work, these are the pieces we, as editors, genuinely rate and that don't compromise on quality or performance.

It's worth noting here: plenty of high street brands don't design their kit using breathable materials, meaning that while your crop and leggings might look cute, they won't last the test of time (especially during any sweaty sessions). But that's where this edit comes in - each and every item has been personally tested during both high and low impact workouts to ensure you're not wasting your money on "kit" that's could be made from the same materials as your work tops.

Meet your testing team: I’m Valeza, and as mentioned above, it’s literally my job to trial fit kit and pick out the best. As a cost-conscious Shopping Editor, I’ll always gravitate towards the more affordable option that doesn’t compromise a smidge on quality. I adore low-impact sports like Pilates, yoga and strength training, and I’m also currently six months pregnant, so have picked out some brilliant affordable maternity options too.

Ally Head, MC UK’s Senior Health Editor and multi-marathon runner, is no stranger to testing athleisure in the name of journalism. She’s constantly trying out new releases for review and naturally has built up her favourite picks - a surprising amount of which fall well under the £50 mark. Finally, Sofia, MC’s Fashion Writer and lover of long-distance runs and strength training alike, always knows the most affordable and aesthetically pleasing picks to shop. Keep scrolling to find out how we tested the products in this roundup, and to shop our top picks for yourself.

What did we look for when testing the best high street activewear picks?

Here at Marie Claire UK, we’re big on thoroughly road-testing every single product we recommend. Because the last thing we’d want is to suggest you spend your money on something we don’t actually rate. When putting the best affordable athleisure pieces to the test, there were a few criteria we looked out for, which we’ve outlined below:

• Quality - while there are plenty of high street activewear options that don't cut the mustard when it comes to breathability and genuinely supporting you through your workouts, some brands are better than others. When testing, we always look out for bobbling, piling, sweat stains, smell, structural integrity, and whether they hold up against multiple wears and washes.
• Performance - were these pieces sweat-wicking, lightweight and breathable? Did they stand their own on long-distance runs and lengthy stretching sessions alike? Did they pass the squat test?
• Fit - were they stretchy or compressive? Did the styles flatter the body and sit comfortably? All burning questions.
• Cost - obviously, each piece had to be affordable to make it on this list. But more importantly: would we get our cost per wear?

14 best high street activewear picks: as tested by team MCUK

1. Best running shorts

"Having first picked them up when they went viral on TikTok, I now own these FP Movement shorts in several colours - they’re that good. They feature built-in pants, a high waistband and are water-resistant (making them great for sweaty and rainy runs). I feel supported wearing these shorts - even on long runs - but be aware that they run slightly large and are quite short on the leg, so choose your size accordingly." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

2. Most versatile shorts

"These biker shorts are my current go-to running shorts. I've worn them for long and short runs for the past two years and can confirm they have stood the test of time. They are ultra sweat-wicking and have deep side pockets to hold valuables or gels. I have also found them to be super comfortable and chafing-friendly as they don't ride up, so they allow the fabric to rub against itself, protecting your thighs." - Sofia Piza, Fashion Writer

3. Best leggings

"Gap are one of the most underrated frontrunners when it comes to high street fit kit IMO. They've been designing cute matching sets that actually perform since around 2016, and I've tested the bras, shorts, tanks and leggings over the years. While most of the bra designs aren't supportive enough for high impact, some are, and plenty of their items (including these 7/8 leggings) are made from a mix of polyester and elastane, meaning they’re more breathable and sweat-wicking for high impact." - Ally

4. Best running vest

"I’ve worn these ASOS 4505 vests for years. They’re the perfect slightly cropped length to pair with high-waisted leggings, and their breathable, lightweight quality makes them a dream for sweaty summer runs. They’ve held up impressively well over multiple washes - especially considering they’re only £10 a piece." - Valeza Bakolli, Junior Shopping Editor

5. Best high-impact sports bra

"I've been a fan of the M&S Good Move range for a while now - two of their designers are ex-Nike and you can tell from the products. The leggings and sports bras in particular are great - sweat wicking, flattering, and breathable, although do be sure to go for a non-cotton option, where possible (cotton generally isn't great for high intensity workouts as it traps sweat against your body and so results in you getting hotter, faster, and your kit not staying fresh or lasting as long)." - Ally

6. Best longline sports bra

"It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of longline sports bras. I wear them as tops during low-impact workouts, paired with leggings alone, they make for a flattering and effortless Pilates or yoga outfit. I’m a fan of this ruched design from H&M, which I own in several colours. It washes well and looks chic paired with V-waist leggings and yoga flares." - Valeza

7. Best workout T-shirt

"Not only is all of BAM’s workout gear sustainably designed, but it’s also great performance-wise too. This top is super soft and made from 59% Bamboo viscose which means it’s breathable, sweat-wicking and will last for years. The slightly cropped shape is flattering but doesn’t impact high-intensity workouts, meaning you can wear it for all types of training. The fabric has a soft yet technical feel, too. I’m a fan." - Ally

8. Best workout vest

"Since I first tried my CRZ Yoga piece, I can confidently say it is one of the best affordable activewear brands out there. The Butterluxe range is comparable to much pricier alternatives in terms of stretch and buttery softness. This workout vest hugs me in and stretches beautifully, supporting me through pretty much any workout. Oh, and I’d highly recommend the brand’s maternity leggings too." - Valeza

9. Best maternity leggings

"Speaking of maternity leggings, I can’t quite believe the affordable price of these ones from Seraphine. They’re comfortable and easy to pull on, stretch easily over my bump and even have pockets. My favourite feature has to be the back support panel, which has become more and more crucial as I’ve been experiencing the third trimester aches and pains. IMO, these leggings perform far beyond their price tag." - Valeza

10. Best oversized gym T-shirt

"Not only am I a massive fan of Adanola’s leggings, cropped tanks and hoodies, but the brand’s basics are pretty impressive too - especially considering the price. I own a few oversized gym T-shirts from the brand, including this classic white one. It’s perfectly slouchy and a great thickness, meaning it looks far more expensive than it is and holds its shape over time." - Ally

11. Best cycle shorts

"Gymshark is a great option for affordable, genuinely high performance kit that'll stand the test of time, and the prices have remained affordable as they've expanded, too. They've got tonnes of options on sale for a great price, plus the kit all washes well, will sweat wick for pretty much any workout, and support you, too. I'm a big fan of these cycling shorts for running, with handy pockets to store your essentials in, but their layers and leggings are great, too." - Ally

12. Best cropped yoga top

"Hush is primarily a women's clothing brand, but they expanded into activewear a few years ago with some gorgeous printed matching sets and layers to chuck on pre Pilates. Again, the bras aren't the best for high impact, but the kit is impressively sweat wicking for sweatier low impact classes like hot yoga or Reformer Pilates." - Ally

13. Best maternity unitard

"I find H&M’s Mama range to be one of the best maternity brands out there in terms of quality, and the fact that each piece is super affordable is simply a bonus. I have worn this all-in-one piece to death since I first got it at 10 weeks pregnant, and it’s grown and stretched with me effortlessly in the time since. I wear it for at-home Pilates sessions, long walks, running errands and more - seriously, it’s so stretchy, flattering and comfortable that I would wear it every day if I could. The material is impressively lightweight and breathable, but still opaque enough to wear during deep stretches without fear of flashing my pants - I can’t fault it." - Valeza

14. Best oversized hoodie

"Looking for an oversized piece to throw on between gym sessions or wear on your rest days? This 4th & Reckless knitted hoodie is it. I own it alongside the matching wide-leg joggers and it has fast become my absolute favourite matching loungewear set - comfy and chic in equal measure. It might be a *little* over the £50 budget, but it's still a really good price for a high-quality hoodie." - Valeza

If you've recently taken up running or joined a run club, welcome. Long a fairly niche hobby for those who craved the endorphin rush or wanted to become a part of the elusive 1% of the population who finish a marathon, running has taken over in the last few years, prompting a sharp increase in the number of people lacing up.

One of the most joyous things to come from the boom in interest in running, IMO, is how fun athleisurewear brands are now being with their designs. Long gone are the days of boring or brashly-printed pieces that smelt like your old PE kit after two washes - in have come dopamine-bright sets, polarised round-the-face sports glasses, hydration vests and carbon plate-boosted shoes galore, all meticulously paired to create the finished 'Gram look, of course.

The standout trend among the runner girlies RN? Micro shorts, adorned by many a running influencer still hoping that the UK might finally show us the sunshine we've all been waiting for. Pair with a cropped, sweat-wicking vest and whack a scrunchie or ribbon in your hair and you're good to smash whatever distance you choose (while looking cute for some selfies at the same time).

While I was a little dubious about the trend to begin with, it's safe to say I'm a convert. As the Senior Health Editor here at MC UK, I'm picky about what kit I feature and never write about designs that are fashion-forward but not actually functional (in other words, leaving you with chafing, unsubtle sweat patches or a serious front or back wedgie). But the micro shorts I've been testing tick all the right boxes, working with your body to provide a barely-there feeling while you're moving while also looking seriously cute.

Below, I've shared my top tried and tested picks, plus included some top picks from my favourite athletes and runners. Keen to invest in some shorts? Read our definitive guides to the best running shorts that don't ride up, the best gym shorts, best workout leggings, and women's cycling shorts, while you're here.

Best micro shorts: Quick shopping links

• Best cycling-style micro shorts: £54 at adidas (was £90, save 40%)
• Best lightweight micro short: £28 at ASICS (was £40, save 30%)
• Best colourful micro shorts: £38 at Free People
• Best sweat-wicking micro shorts: £48 at lululemon
• Best breathable micro shorts: £69.99 at Nike
• Best micro shorts available in a range of colours: £25 at Amazon

1. Best colourful micro shorts

What I thought when testing: These viral Free People shorts went viral for a reason - they're super cute and loved by runners and influencers alike for the high waistband, wide range of colourways and fashion-forward design. They're also designed from a water-resistant material and come with built-in pants and two side pockets. I've personally got five colourways, although the Royal blue is my favourite. Do note: they run large, so size down if you like a tight fit.

2. Best sweat-wicking micro shorts