WITH just under two months to go until the 2017 Vitality Reading Half Marathon, the Chronicle caught up with running coach and official event training partner, George Anderson.

Staying fit and motivated, particularly during the winter months, isn’t always easy. George gave us five top tips that will help you stay on track so that you’re ready to hit the start line on Sunday, March 19.

1) Mix up your training. Do some specific sessions designed to improve speed, technique, breathing, or anything else that will benefit you when you come to start your next training cycle.

2) Take to the trails. Winter is a great time to get refreshingly dirty with some cross-country trails.

It can build ankle and core stability and help you reconnect with your running, especially if you usually tend to run on roads.

3) Join free training runs. Get down to the Reading Sweatshop store this Sunday at 9am to take part in a free training run with hundreds of fellow runners.

You’ll head out into Reading to familiarise yourself with parts of the half marathon course, all abilities welcome and a perfect prep for race day.

4) Cross train. If the weather puts your running on hold, spend a few weeks getting strong inside with a body weight strength routine.

This can help with your running by improving your strength and reducing your chance of injury.

5) Parkrun. Taking place every Saturday morning, your local 5k parkrun is a great way to work on your speed over the winter as well as engage with a friendly and supportive community.

For more information and how to sign up to this year's Vitality Reading Half Marathon, visit www.readinghalfmarathon.co.uk