Now for the hard part. With a record 60,000 entrants potentially taking part on Sunday, September 13, here are one veteran plodder’s 10 tips aimed at first-time participants. They include valuable warm-up races along the way.
5. May day
If March 1 is too soon then aim for the Sunderland City Runs weekend of May 9-10 and its 5k, 10k and half-marathon races. At the very least you should be able to run 5k comfortably by this stage. Go to www.sunderlandcity10k.com/ Photo: Frank Reid
6. Charity challenge
Helping a good cause along the way from Newcastle to South Shields can be another motivation. Yet, particularly if it is your maiden Great North Run, don't accept too many kind pledges. Motivation can soon turn to stress. Photo: Tim Richardson
7. Durham date
The Durham City 10k on Thursday, July 16, is an ideal training goal. By then you should be able to comfortably complete the six-mile-plus distance. The hilly course also preps you for the Run's two-mile toil from Gateshead Stadium-Heworth. Go to www.durhamcityrunfestival.com/ Photo: Tim Richardson
8. Sideways move
These training races should prepare you for the reality that a Great North Run is rarely straight forward. With five times as many competitors due to take part compared to the 1981 Run, see right, you need to learn how to bob, weave and dodge. Photo: JPIMedia