I started running in January in an attempt to get some regular exercise, as I was no longer playing football very often.  I'd tried taking it up before without success - I'd rather play football and can find running a bit boring - but the combination of run tracking apps and the chance to listen to music finally cracked it for me. 

I'm using Runkeeper to keep track of runs - the best of the apps I've tried when it comes to the audio options while you run - and use Tapiriik to sync the data to Strava for the social features and fun with segments. As my running has increased I've started using the goals and free training plans in Runkeeper too.

Being a man, I have also found that taking up running necessitates buying various bits of gear. From a starting position of "I've got loads of t-shirts already" I soon found myself buying 'technical' tops and 'fueling' and spending hours on sites like wiggle - if I can move position that quickly on race day I should be ok.

To keep up the momentum and have something to aim for I've signed up for the Richmond half marathon in September - very much the gentleman's half. I'm supporting the Prostate Cancer Research Centre, once you donate Justgiving will send your money directly to the charity.