It’s no secret that running is a great way to keep fit and trim. But it can do a lot more than that, especially when taking part in an organised event like the Great Manchester Run. From a weekly park run to a half marathon – and beyond – running is the perfect excuse to get out there, alongside others, on your journey to get fitter. It can also help improve your mental health. What's more, by doing a sponsored run, you would be doing your bit to make a positive difference to other people's lives. And it’s never too late to start. Take Steve Dalton. While for many people retirement is a time to start slowing down, Steve took up running at the age of 64 as a way to boost his fitness after he retired. He’s since completed four marathons, 10 half marathons, and 16 10k races. Now at 84, he’s showing no signs of slowing down. The former university professor from Didsbury has signed up to compete in this year’s Great Manchester Run 10k event – and he’s determined to cross the finish line in a rapid one hour. “Maybe an hour and 10 minutes,” Steve concedes. “But anything slower than that, I won’t be happy. “I’m generally the fastest in the veterans category. But then again, there’s not much competition at my age! “I want to carry on until I can’t go anymore. It’s as simple as that.” For junior doctor Nabeel Hoque, 27, taking up running was less about getting fit physically than looking after his mental health. From Cheshire, Nabeel has always been dedicated to helping his patients. But he admits he didn’t always show the same commitment to his own wellbeing. “For years, I was quite harsh on myself, struggling with self-worth,” he says. Early last year, things came to a head. “I wasn’t eating or sleeping for more than an hour each night,” Nabeel recalls. “My speech had slowed down and my memory wasn’t working. “On my birthday, I met up with some friends from university, and they could see things weren’t right with me.” Nabeel was admitted to The Priory Hospital in Manchester in February 2024 after being diagnosed with severe depression. He spent five months receiving treatment, before being discharged in June. Among the things that have proved a lifeline for Nabeel during his recovery is running. “When I left hospital, I wanted to do things that would help my physical and mental health,” he says. “After my first run, I had a real sense of accomplishment. It triggered some kind of motivation, which had been lacking for a long time.” On May 18, Nabeel will be lining up for the 10k event at the Great Manchester Run, which will see thousands of local supporters turn up to cheer on the participants. “Running alongside my friend Rebecca and meeting new people on the start line - these will be my golden moments,” Nabeel says. For Tracey Croft and fellow members of the Manchester-based Holly’s Hearts Runners – co-founded by Tracey – taking part in the Great Manchester Run will also be an emotional occasion. They will be raising money for Holly’s Hearts, a local charity launched by a friend of Tracey in memory of their daughter Holly Prince, who tragically died from a rare form of cancer in 2022, aged just five. Since then, Holly’s parents have been raising money to provide gifts, experiences and holidays for families of other children affected by cancer. Holly’s Hearts Runners, who range in age from 16 to 67, aim to raise £10k for the charity by taking part in the Great Manchester Run half marathon. “When we started our group, some people struggled to do a one-minute jog,” says Tracey, 55. “They didn’t believe they could be runners. “I reminded them of that when they completed their first 10-mile run. Everybody has it in them to do it. Start slowly and you’ll get there.” Less than 12 months after the group was founded, 30 members are now preparing to take on the half marathon event. Whatever their reasons for taking part, what these runners have in common is the need to prepare their bodies for the event with the right foods, vitamins and nutrients. A “fundamentals first” approach is key, says Paul Chamberlain, product training director at vitamins and supplements specialist Solgar – the official wellness partner of the AJ Bell Great Run series. “Lifestyle and diet are the foundation of any training programme,” he explains. “That simply means eating enough of the right types of food, including plenty of carbs and regular servings of protein to support muscle recovery and adaptation. “It’s also about tailoring your training programme to your ability. “It’s well worth taking a multivitamin too – the VM-75 from Solgar has different nutrients that can support the immune system, recovery, and energy production.” Paul also suggests adding a fish oil product that contains Omega 3 – an essential fatty acid that helps with movement and flexibility – and a vitamin D supplement. Meanwhile, as the event draws nearer, the runners are all looking forward to feeling that special sense of achievement that comes from completing a long run. “People tell us running has completely changed their lives - whether physically, mentally, or helping them cope with something,” says Tracey. “To see them cross that finish line will be very emotional.” Steve adds: “I love the atmosphere and support at the Great Manchester Run. Getting to the start line is always exciting, and there’s a pinch of nervousness. “But once you start, the adrenaline kicks in, and you want to finish. For me, to get around the 10k course will be a success – and crossing the line will be my golden moment.” To find out more about Solgar's vitamins and supplements, visit the website here. Please proceed carefully when taking any food supplements. Check with a medical professional before starting out. These products are not recommended for those under 18.