I run to work at least once a week. It wasn’t always that way. I used to think I couldn’t run in the mornings, but then I decided this was just something I was telling myself. So, in light of lots of people catching on that the time spent sat on a bus or train going nowhere could be better put to use as training time, here’s some tips.

1. Sandwich bags. You’ll see lots of articles telling you all the kit you need to run to work. I’m here to tell you nothing is as valuable as the few pence you can spend on sandwich bags. I use one to put my make-up in and, if there’s a chance of rain, one for my phone.
2. A running back-pack will make your run commute more comfortable. One with a strap across the waist and one across the chest will minimise bag bounce and therefore chances of chafing and general comfort. But more important is what you put in your bag. Pack as light as possible. I use an ultra vest which means my phone and purse are where I can easily grab them in the drink pockets on the front and the pack is very small. I don’t have much room for clothes so I travel light making my bag much more comfortable.
3. Keep a set of clothes at work. And spare underwear. I have three changes of clothes in my desk drawer. This can lead to some interesting combinations but it does mean I can pack light. Did I mention spare underwear? That’s a lesson learnt the hard way… several times.
4. Don’t be an idiot. You’re running along on the pavement. But you don’t own the pavement. Pedestrians walking will do things that will annoy you like stepping out in front of you without looking, looking at their phone and not at what’s coming towards them. They’re not expecting someone to be running along. Don’t get mad at them. That’s just the way it is. Say thank you to those who do step out of your way.
5. Chill out about your pace. The chances are that, as well as pedestrians, you’re going to have to deal with cars, buses and bikes as you cross various roads. This is not the time to be trying to nail your marathon pace every mile. Calm down, run easy and don’t dart out in front of traffic to keep your average pace up. You watch has a pause button if you’re that bothered.
6. Enjoy it. Despite what some of the tips above might suggest, running to work is a really good, relaxing way to start the day. Remember that you’re saving yourself a trip on a bus or train or in a car that would probably make you want to stick a fork in your eye. Running to work is great. Take five minutes at the end of your run to sit down (stop sweating) and bask in your post-run glow.