Work Your Technique - If we want to run faster, it makes perfect sense that our legs and feet must face in the direction we’re running to achieve this.

For example, if we were to place our feet out to the side, we’d be slower. Yet few people realise that the swing of our arms is just as important when it comes to this forward momentum.

Many swing their arms across their body, or don’t swing them at all, losing a vital aid in helping us run faster and more efficiently. Running technique, the swing of our arms, our cadence – which is our steps per minute – and posture can all help us make huge gains in our running speed.

A simple way to improve is to work on our cadence. Ideally, we’re aiming for 180 steps per minute, which means shortening our stride for more efficient turnover.

To judge your current cadence, count the number of steps you take on your right foot as you run for 30 seconds, then multiply by two.

Gradually aim to increase this number until you’re able to run at 180 steps per minute.

A faster cadence means smaller steps for a more efficient turnover.