Here at runABC we always try to encourage our wonderful community of runners to give a little back to the broader community by signing up for one of the many events across the country that have charity at their heart, and the truth is the runABC community never let us down. 

Many billions (and we do mean billions) of pounds are raised each year by runners across the U.K. These amounts are truly staggering and the collective running community should be giving itself a huge pat on the back for such an achievement. We really do care about the communities and people in which we live and run.

It's the perfect time of year to give you all a little reminder to keep up the good work and runABC has teamed up with the fundraising platform GoFundMe to give you the little encouragement that you need to set up a fundraising page for a charity or cause that is close to your heart. But why should we run for charity?

Your efforts can make a real difference

Running a half marathon or a marathon is a big ask for most of us (and for less experienced runners completing a 10k can pose a big challenge) so if you decide to run for a charity it can provide huge motivation during the training period. Let's face it there's going to be lots of occasions when a night-in on the sofa or a night-out at the pub is going to be more tempting than a 10 mile run in the cold and wet.

However if you've signed up to support a charity you won't want to let anyone down and are sure to pull on your trainers and head out the door. The motivation factor can be a real help just at the times when your training is getting tough and you're thinking about chucking it or settling for a more modest time.

It's so easy

Running for a charity is so easy. You don't have to run across the Alps or even complete a marathon. There are lots of fundraising fun runs where you don't have to push yourself beyond your limits to make a difference.

You get great support from the charity

Backing from your charity can take two forms. One, many charities organise groups preparing for a big event like the Great North Run. It can be very motivating to train in a group which is being well-led and where the training is well-planned. Two, regular contact with other people in the same circumstances keeps you going and lets you share training and fundraising tips. Also don't forget to let your charity pamper you on race day; most have post-race parties, some with massage and therapies. Make sure you get a little reward at the end of a long campaign.

The crowd loves you

One thing you always notice at big races is the extra encouragement that charity runners get from the crowd. The guys in their bright red British Heart Foundation vests or the pink ladies from Breast Cancer Now get a louder cheer than your bog standard runner. Sign up for a charity and you can be a super-hero even if it's just for one day!

Make new friends

Your charity will put you in touch with people in your area who are preparing for a race. You might like some company on your training runs (a buddy to help you along when the going gets tough) while on race day you're sure to enjoy the camaraderie offered my all the other runners from your charity.

GoFundMe

One of the things that makes it really easy to run for charity is GoFundMe. This specialist website allows you to set up your own page online where friends and family can donate. It's really easy and it's great to see the progress you are making towards your total.

It makes you feel so good

Don't underestimate the 'feel good' factor if you're raising funds for a good cause. The idea that you're helping people less fortunate than yourself or supporting a worthwhile service can have a powerful effect on your sense of self-worth. And it will put a little extra petrol in your engine for that challenging last mile or so.

Image courtesy of BTR Liverpool.