Ronny Terry is a Swindon-based personal trainer. He has previously worked as Performance Analyst with Swindon Town FC and on obesity initiatives with the NHS. Tweet your questions to @SWITCHFITUK or visit www.switchfituk.co.uk

Q I’m thinking of starting running – can you suggest any tips for a complete beginner?

A Running is one of the most accessible ways into casual exercise as it is inexpensive and technically straightforward.

Despite there being various techniques and methods to improve running efficiency and prevent injury, it is one of those activities where you can quite literally get up and go.

Running can also reduce the risk of illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes and stroke.

When starting a new running programme it is important to go easy and allow the body to recover in between sessions. This can minimise the chances of overuse injuries such as shin splints, runners knee and pain in the soles of the feet. Selecting the correct running shoe to suit your style and biomechanics may reduce the chances of injury and generally make the whole process much more comfortable.

RUN Swindon, in Wood Street, offer a gait analysis service and advice on shoe selection.

If you have been inactive for a long period or are very overweight, you may benefit from walking to build up your fitness levels without putting your body under unnecessary stress.

Repeated sets of jogging for 30 seconds, followed by walking for the same amount of time, are a good entry point for complete novices or those who may struggle with more than a few minutes at a time. This process should be repeated every other day, gradually increasing the total number of minutes spent running. Once you are able to run for a mile, without interruption, gradually build up to 5km and so on.

Stretching is not strictly necessary before you start, but should be done afterwards to maintain flexibility and avoid unwanted muscle tightness. Ensure you are well hydrated and be certain you can be seen if running at night.

There are numerous local running clubs which welcome new members of all abilities and there are free 5km events, organised by Parkrun, up and down the country.