Runners love to run. And if you want to get better at doing something it helps to enjoy the process, so this should be seen as a positive thing.

But, the flip side is that most of us aren’t very good at doing the essentials to keep injury free.

Whilst most runners know they should be doing some kind of body conditioning, few actually do enough to make a difference. Here are my three favourite training exercises:

1) Single leg squats. Balance on one foot and lower yourself into a squat, pushing your bottom backwards and keeping the weight in your heels.

Try to bend from the hips rather than rounding your back, and reach down with both hands either side of your knee. Aim to do 10 each side.

2) Hip Flexor Lunge. Stand tall and then take a long step back into a lunge position.

Sink your hips down so you feel a stretch in the front of your rear leg.

Tuck your tailbone under and lift your arms overhead to develop this stretch, hold it there for a few seconds then return to the start position and repeat on the other side. Aim for five each side.

3) Cross Step ups. Find a large step or bench and stand with it on your right side.

Place your left foot on the step so your leg is coming across your body and then step up. Lower back down and repeat for 10 repetitions before doing the same on the other leg.

Each exercise will strengthen the stabiliser muscles in your hips.

Whilst they won’t completely immunise your body from injury they will certainly help reduce your risk.

Go to www.readinghalfmarathontraining.com to access additional training resources to help you prepare for the event.

George Anderson is the official training partner for the 2015 Vitality Reading Half Marathon.

For more information about training for this event please visit www.readinghalfmarathon.com/community/training-advice.htm