Ben Parker

Ben has spent 6+ years as a professional running coach, helping everyone from beginner runners to elite athletes. Ben is also a certified England Athletics Coach, IRONMAN Coach, Personal Trainer and Pilates Instructor as well as being one of the founders of Runna.

Latest Article

man holding Hoka trainers
May 7, 2025

The Best Hoka Running Shoes in 2025

Discover the best HOKA running shoes in 2025 for training, racing, stability, max cushion, and trail. Reviewed by runners, for runners.

Continue reading

All Articles

A group of people running a half marathon
March 17, 2025

15 of the Best Half Marathons in the USA

Looking for your next half marathon race? Check out our top picks for the 15 most epic half marathons in the US to find the perfect event.

Continue reading
A guy running in a park.
March 4, 2025

What’s a Recovery Run? Run Easy to Get Faster

Do you need recovery runs in your training program, and how do you do them exactly? Find out all you need to know about recovery & easy runs.

Continue reading
Peanut butter and banana spread.
March 4, 2025

What to Eat Before a Half Marathon: Fueling Tips, Top 20 Foods, and More

Fuel smarter for your half marathon with top nutrition tips, race-day meals, and hydration strategies to boost performance.

Continue reading
Marathon runner on city street with direction sign.
November 15, 2024

The ultimate marathon checklist: Everything you need for race day

Getting ready for your next marathon race? Make sure you pack everything you need for a successful race – and an enjoyable post-race experience.

Continue reading
A bowl with yogurt, blueberries, and granola mix.
September 26, 2024

What to eat before running: 25 foods and drinks to fuel your runs

Whether you’re planning to do a regular mid-week workout, a long run, or a race, what you eat beforehand is key to achieving top performance.

Continue reading
Woman running outdoors on a road near the coast.
September 26, 2024

How to run faster and longer: Top 20 tips for every runner

Whether you're training for a major race or just want to level up your running game because your performance has slowed, learning how to run a faster mile and extend your running distance can be super rewarding.

Continue reading
Group of happy runners in the rain on the streets of London
July 12, 2024

25 Powerful Reasons To Start Running Now

Now is the time to start running, and this is why:

Continue reading
Two runners on an easy run in London
July 5, 2024

Everything You Need To Know About Embracing Your Easy Runs

Welcome to the secret to running success... easy runs.

Continue reading
Runner standing on a smart treadmill
June 21, 2024

The Runner's Guide To Getting More Out of The Treadmill

It's time to level up your treadmill game...

Continue reading
Ben Parker running a triathlon
June 7, 2024

Everything You Need To Know For Your First Triathlon

Get up to speed on your first triathlon with these tips...

Continue reading
Runners using a massage gun after a race
May 17, 2024

Your Guide to The Most Common Running Injuries (And How To Avoid Them)

Remember: it's better to prevent than aid...

Continue reading
Josh Patterson during his final marathon for One 4 Million challenge
May 10, 2024

The Runner's Guide to Tapering Before Your Marathon

Nailing the final preparations before marathon day...

Continue reading
Woman stretching her legs on a running track
April 26, 2024

The Ultimate Guide To Running on Heavy Legs

Understanding your body and listening to it is essential for becoming a better runner.

Continue reading
Runner sat on the Boston waterfront
April 19, 2024

Entering The Epic Quest for Boston Marathon Qualification

Time to dive into the complicated (yet intriguing) world of the Boston Marathon Qualification

Continue reading
Runner on treadmill
March 29, 2024

The (Almost) Secret Benefits of Running on a Treadmill

There’s something exhilarating about the sound of shoes pounding against the pavement with every stride and the technicality required to take on the trails. It’s challenging, thrilling, different every time and full of little surprises that add to each experience. But there’s a lot to be celebrated when you step into the world of indoor running, where the treadmill reigns supreme.

Continue reading
A girl running down a road in a remote area with mountains in the background
March 27, 2024

14 Top Tips for Running in the Rain

Explore expert advice on running in the rain, including what to wear and key tips for the most enjoyable wet-weather run.

Continue reading
People in black t-shirts talking.
May 17, 2023

8 Post-Run Snacks That Will Seriously Improve Your Recovery

Runnas, it’s time to talk about the magic of post-run snacks and how they can seriously level up your recovery game.

Continue reading
A group of people running.
May 3, 2023

Test Yourself at the 9 Best Triathlons in the World

Are you ready to push your limits and embark on a journey that will test your endurance, strength and mental fortitude? Well, you’ve landed in the right place because nothing is going to check your mettle more than a triathlon. Designed to bring the ultimate challenge to some of the most breathtaking places on the planet, these three-discipline races are not for the faint of heart, but for those seeking the ultimate thrill and an unmatched sense of accomplishment.

Continue reading
A group of people walking on a dirt path:
April 12, 2023

10 Trail Running Tips For Complete Beginners

Time to get down and dirty on the trails with these top tips.

Continue reading
A woman running on a road.
March 30, 2023

Pacing A Marathon

Unsure how to pace a marathon? You're in the right place!

Continue reading
A group of people running.
March 30, 2023

Pacing A Half Marathon

A half marathon can be tricky to pace. Runna is here to help!

Continue reading
A person drinking water.
March 30, 2023

Pacing a 10k: Top tips + a pacing strategy

Runna are here to provide you some top tips on pacing a 10k.

Continue reading
A group of people running through a forest.
March 30, 2023

Pacing a 5k

Pacing is an important factor of running a 5k. Here are our top-tips to help you get that PB!

Continue reading
A woman running and smiling.
March 1, 2023

11 Beginner Mistakes To Avoid When You Start Running

Runna is here providing the top tips to avoid when you start running!

Continue reading
Woman celebrating at the end of her first race.
May 4, 2022

14 Tips Every Runner Needs To Know Before Their First Race

From getting to grips with your gear to being a master of the water station, here are 14 tips to make sure your first ever race is a mega-success.

Continue reading
A woman drinking water.
April 6, 2022

9 Tips To Improve Your Post-Marathon Recovery

After months of training and a marathon medal on your neck, it’s time to give yourself a little TLC.

Continue reading
A person running on a road.
March 9, 2022

7 Common Running Mistakes - And How To Avoid Them

Looking to optimise your running? Here are the 7 most common running mistakes and Runna's tips on how to avoid them.

Continue reading
A runner warming up.
February 23, 2022

How To Get Back Into Running After a Long Break

It can be tough to get restarted following a break, read on for advice on kickstarting your running habits with Runna.

Continue reading