Run in

What

We’d all like to exercise more (or at least, we all know we should), but there never seems to be the time. Let taking this pledge help with that.

By running to work, school or uni, you can combine your daily workout with your commute and make yourself and the planet healthier as you go.

If you live close enough to your workplace or school, swap your usual form of transport for foot-power and run to your destination.

run-in

Why

For people

Traffic jams are the absolute WORST. Not only are they boring and time-wasting, they burn lots of harmful fossil fuels which contribute to climate change while also damaging local air quality. You can ease congestion by leaving the car at home and running instead. As they say: "you're not stuck in traffic – you are traffic!"

The fresh air, the great outdoors, the post workout glow, the post workout food - running makes you feel pretty amazing. There's a reason they call it a 'runner's high'. Whether you’re running in beautiful countryside or simply exploring your neighbourhood, you have every right to feel good about your life choices as you tick off those miles.

Running keeps you fit and, as long as you’re not eating back all the calories, can help you lose weight. But the benefits don't stop there: regular running reduces your risk of all kinds of diseases such as diabetes, stroke, heart disease, cancer and osteoporosis. It also improves your mood and mental wellbeing.

For planet

Running is a zero-carbon, zero-pollution mode of transport, and - unless you’re buying new kit every month - it uses very few raw materials. In fact, running is one of the most environmentally friendly ways you can get from A to B. What’s more, by hitting the streets instead of the gym, you’re doubling down on carbon savings by avoiding that energy-hungry treadmill as well.

How

One of the great joys of running is that you don't need a lot of fancy equipment to get out there. As long as you have a decent pair of trainers and a positive attitude, you’re more or less ready to go.

Complete beginner?

If you're new to running, there’s loads of help and advice online about how to get started. But here’s our short version: start slow and build up gradually (and check with your doctor before you start if you’re at all concerned about vigorous exercise). There are plenty of beginners' training programmes to help you get going - we love the Couch to 5k regime - aka C25k. You'll be catching up with Mo Farah in no time.

Want to find a route?

There are lots of other runners out there who love nothing more than sharing their running routes with the world. Check out Strava and Map My Run to get you started.

Home Run London coordinates groups of runners who run home from work in London. Sign up and they'll carry your bag for you and keep you company on your journey.

Need a hand training?

Good Gym are a great way to keep fit, whilst helping out in your local community and making new friends.

Need some kit?

If you do fancy getting yourself kitted out, check out Pebble Magazine’s list of ethical sportswear brands.