Free Guide: Plan your best running year with coach Mike Gratton

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Set goals. Stay motivated. Achieve new personal bests.

With expert guidance from Mike Gratton, winner of the 1983 London Marathon, we’ll help you transform your running year into your most rewarding yet.

Don’t flatline and become frustrated by staleness and stagnation; plan well ahead and look at different targets in different periods

Mike Gratton – London Marathon Winner 2hrs 9mins

Why plan your running year?

January is the time for resolutions, especially for runners aiming to get healthier, train harder, or tackle more races. But let’s be honest – without a clear plan, these goals often fizzle out when life (or bad weather) gets in the way.

By setting specific goals and having a structured plan that spans the entire year, you can achieve more while staying motivated and avoiding the dreaded post-race slump. Whether you’re a marathon runner, a club runner, or someone looking to improve their fitness, planning your year ensures you’re always working towards your next high.

The benefits of a structured running plan:

  • Consistent Improvement: Focused training tailored to key races and seasons will ensure steady progress.
  • Prevent Burnout: Alternating between high and low-intensity periods helps you recover mentally and physically.
  • Achieve Higher Highs: With properly planned training cycles, you’ll hit new PBs and feel stronger than ever.
  • Stay Motivated: Having year-round targets keeps you inspired to put on your trainers, even on the toughest days.
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Align your goals with the running seasons

The UK running calendar is packed with events, and each season brings unique opportunities to challenge yourself. Here’s how you can match your goals with the seasons to keep your training fresh and exciting:

  • Winter (Cross country and trail races): Build strength and endurance.
  • Spring (Half or full marathons): Set your PB in the cooler months.
  • Early Summer (5k/10k road races or trail runs): Sharpen your speed.
  • Summer (Ultras or track races): Target longer endurance or explosive track sessions.
  • Autumn (Half or full marathons): Finish the year strong with a big race.

By following this seasonal approach, you can keep progressing while enjoying the variety of challenges available throughout the year.

What’s included in “Planning your running year with Mike Gratton”?

Mike’s guide provides a step-by-step framework to map out your best running year, drawing from his years of professional running and coaching experience.

Here’s what you’ll get in this 14-page guide:

  • A Personalised Pathway tailored to your goals, whether it’s a new PB, a marathon PR, or simply consistency.
  • Expert Insights from Mike Gratton, who knows how to balance training, recovery, and peak performance.
  • Templates for Year Planning that help identify target races and structure your training blocks.
  • Tips for Motivation and Recovery so you can avoid burnout or plateauing.
  • Insider Advice on Racing Strategies, learned from years of competing on the global stage.

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Frequently asked questions

Who is this guide for?

This guide is for runners of all levels, from those training for their first 10k to experienced marathoners aiming for new PBs.

How is this guide tailored to me?

Mike’s approach aligns with your specific goals, race calendar, and current performance. Whether you want consistency, speed, or endurance, the plan fits around your needs.

Do I have to be training for a marathon to use this guide?

Not at all! While marathoners will certainly benefit, the principles work for runners focused on other distances, from 5k races to ultra-marathons.

How quickly will I see results?

Each runner is different, but many see improvements within a few months of following the plan. Long-term consistency is key.

How do I access the guide after purchase?

Once you sign up, you’ll receive instant access to the guide via email. Join below…

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Your running journey starts here

Don’t just set resolutions this year – create a purposeful plan that ensures consistent progress and new achievements. With Mike Gratton’s seasoned expertise and tailored guidance, you can unlock your potential and have your most successful running year yet.

Picture of Mike Gratton
Mike Gratton
Mike Gratton is a highly decorated marathoner, having clinched gold in the 1983 London Marathon with an impressive time of 2:09:43 - to place him 14th amongst all-time UK marathoners. Additionally, Mike won bronze in the 1982 Commonwealth Games (2:12:06). "I have coached most of my adult life whilst running as an elite runner."

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