FINDING THE RIGHT RACE FOR YOU: 10Ks, HALF-MARATHONS AND MARATHONS OF 2026

Published: 22/01/2026 | By: Jasmin Bodman

You’ve got the shoes, you’ve got the gear, you’ve even got the motivation – but what comes next? Securing a spot in a race can give you something to work towards, especially if you love the thrill of beating personal bests. We’ve put together this guide to help you choose which race is best for you, whether it’s your first 10K or your tenth marathon.

Work out, stress reliever, spending time with friends – running means something different to everyone, and whether you’re a beginner or running is second nature, having goals is essential. Being able to work towards something can not only provide a clear goal, but also help you build a solid training plan.

Building on your stamina, endurance and speed can help your overall running form, and who doesn’t want that? Races aren’t just for pros; here at Sports Direct, we’re completely for running, no matter your fitness level. If it’s a slow jog on the weekend to get your blood pumping or a sprint circuit on the treadmill at the gym, running is accessible for many and we encourage you to sign up for a race – but how do you know which one is the right one for you?

As we always say, what works for your best mate, fitness coach, mum, neighbour, might not work for you too. But don’t fret, we’re sure you’ll find the perfect race for you. Let’s dive into what to consider when choosing your race; these are essential to think about before booking any event, trust us.

WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER WHEN LOOKING FOR A RACE?

Fitness Level and Training

First things first - how ready are you for a race? We wouldn’t recommend a complete beginner who’s just started the Couch to 5K to sign up for a marathon that’s in the next month. Think about how much training you’ll need and in how much time.

For example, it can take anywhere between 12 and 20+ weeks for a complete beginner to feel ready to run a half-marathon, depending on fitness level. Don’t rush your training!

Location and Travel

There are running events all over the world – who doesn’t fancy jetting off to Spain for a sun-soaked run? But if you’re planning on travelling for your race, make sure it’s feasible. How much travel is needed? Have you booked accommodation for before and afterwards, if necessary? It’s important to plan ahead if you’re hopping a country or two to participate in a race, but it’ll be worth it once you’ve got the shiny medal and sense of pride. Remember to take lots of pics to share the memories on socials as well!

Time of Year

This is similar to the point above – the time of year can dictate a lot of things, like what you wear and how you train. If you’re competing in a summer race, you may choose to do all of your training outdoors and wear your favourite shorts and tank top combo, but if it’s during the colder months, it might be more treadmill sessions and tights.

The Course Type and How It Will Affect You

If you’re used to running on flat roads, it’ll be a good idea to practise on a few different terrains, like hills and trails. Your course can include any twists and turns and while interesting and potentially even scenic, you should be prepared for them. Check out the route beforehand to see what it looks like.

Solo Trip Or Group Event? Atmosphere And Crowds

A solo race, headphones in, focusing on each step? Or a fun meetup with friends, completing it together in style? Running solo or with others can impact the atmosphere, so always do what makes you feel comfortable!

Are You Running For Charity?

Sometimes, people sign up to marathons and other running events to raise money for charity or other special causes. If this is something you’d like to do, make sure you read up on your cause and any instructions before the race. It can also act as a great source of motivation to keep you pushing on – it’s a win-win!

Don’t Forget The Entry Costs And Added Extras

Most races require a small entrance fee and sign up cut off – if you have a race you want to complete in mind, make sure everything’s in order well in advance. Signed up? Check. Paid entry fee? Check. Ordered the t-shirt? Check.  Make sure it’s all sorted before you turn up.

FIRST UP - THE 10K

The 10k is probably the next best option after you’ve become confident with your 5K races. It adds more distance but is still doable for beginners who want to practise longer runs.

A 10k can be a great way to add another race under your belt without spending too much time on it - generally an hour and a half is plenty of time to complete it (but don’t worry if it takes a little longer, of course). It can fit perfectly into your routine due to its length being on the shorter side and there’s usually a great crowd cheering you on.

Here's Some 10K Races In The UK For 2026

• Vitality London 10K - 27th September 2026, London: if you love the capital city, this one's for you. You can run along some famous sights, and even finish your race victorious outside of the Buckingham Palace - the perfect London 10K
• Great Manchester Run 10K - 31st May 2026, Manchester: this is Europe's largest 10K (who wouldn't want to put that on the achievement list?) and like the city, it'll bring electric crowds and energy that you'd want of a 10K
• Cardiff 10K - 6th September 2026, Cardiff: celebrating 40 years in 2026, the Cardiff 10K is great way to explore the city and celebrate the race's rich history
• Leeds Abbey Dash - 29th November 2026, Leeds: crowned the England Athletics 10K Championship, the Leeds Abbey Dash is an important fixture on the running scene this year
• Bournemouth Supersonic 10K - 11th October 2026, Bournemouth: run along the seafront while clocking a new PB with the Bournemouth Supersonic 10K. It's a flat course that's great for aiming for quicker times!

ONTO THE HALF-MARATHONS

You’ve been running for a while and are craving that new challenge? A half-marathon might be right up your street. It’s a great way to build up your endurance and speed, spreading your running out over a longer distance than what you may be used to.

You can generally train for a half-marathon in around 12 weeks - but again, the training isn’t the race, so don’t rush to complete it! If you’re searching for that next hit of endorphins and want to take your running to the next level, then a half-marathon could be on the cards.

Here's Some Half-Marathons In The UK For 2026

• Edinburgh Half - 24th May 2026, Edinburgh: a beautiful course in an even more wonderful city - what's not to love? Explore historic buildings along the way like Edinburgh Castle, and enjoy completing this half-marathon
• Royal Parks Half - 11th October 2026, London: this race will take you through four of London's iconic parks, including Hyde Park, so you can browse the sights as you close in on those 13.1 miles
• Great North Run - 13th September 2026, Newcastle Upon Tyne: this is the world's biggest half-marathon, with the crowd sizes to match. Run to the sounds of the crowd as you clock your half-marathon
• Reading Half - 22nd March 2026, Reading: a huge race known for its strong community feel, the Reading Half is one to sign up for if you're looking for an electric atmosphere and plenty of supporters to push you on
• Cardiff Half-Marathon - 4th October 2026: the course is flat and fast, with a brilliant atmosphere and landmarks that you'll want to Instagram immediately (Cardiff Castle or the Principality Stadium, anyone?)

THE BIG FINALE - A MARATHON

Do you dream of completing a marathon? It’s many runner’s biggest goal, to complete a marathon, and we couldn’t agree more that it’s a great target - having targets when running can keep you pushing to succeed.

A marathon is a whopping 26.218 miles in length, or 42.195km, so it’s ideal if you have running experience and are willing to train hard. Whether you’ve already completed a marathon or two, or this’ll be your first one, it’s a great goal to work towards and is a definite bucket list item for runners of all strengths to achieve one day!

Here's Some Marathons In The UK For 2026

• Of course, at the top of the list, we have the TCS London Marathon, 26th April 2026, London. With a huge turnout every year, it's important you sign up with plenty of time - you can enter via a public ballot or by running for charity, but the ballot can be very competitive
• Manchester Marathon - 19th April 2026, Manchester: it's a relatively flat course, so ideal if this is your first marathon or you want to aim for a new PB.
• Loch Ness Marathon - 27th September 2026, Scottish Highlands: run along the famous Loch Ness in this marathon, taking in the breathtaking beauty of the Scottish Highlands
• Beachy Head Marathon - 24th/25th October 2026, Eastbourne: if you're an active trail runner, then this one might be for you. A challenging yet rewarding experience, take part in this off-road marathon this year
• Richmond Marathon - 13th September, 2026, London: beginning in the Royal Botanical Gardens, you can enjoy a beautifully scenic run, finishing in the Old Deer Park
• Brighton Marathon - 12th April, 2026, Brighton: with a huge turnout of up to 20,000 people, this marathon is a must if you love the brilliant city of Brighton!

WHATEVER RACE YOU CHOOSE, ENJOY EVERY SECOND

Running looks different on everyone and it’s important to remember not to rush - training is vital for any race as you’ll need to build up the stamina and endurance you need to complete it. Whichever race you choose, make sure you have fun and enjoy the journey – and don’t forget to log it on Strava!