Get motivated for the race on Sunday, July 17, with these top tips from marathon queen Paula Radcliffe...

LONDON Marathon champion Paula Radcliffe has come up with some great running tips for women taking part in this summer's Race for Life event on Southampton Common.

Paula is Britain's most successful long distance female runner of all time, and her sheer determination has turned her into a role model for British women of all ages, making her the perfect ambassador for Race for Life and Tesco.

Commenting on Race for Life, Paula said: "Race for Life has become one of the biggest fundraising events in the UK through the combined efforts of Cancer Research UK, Tesco and the contribution we all make. It's fantastic that more women than ever before are taking part this year, and it's vital that everyone collects their sponsorship money to make sure their effort goes to full use".

To help get you motivated for Sunday July 17, Paula has developed the following four summer fitness tips for Tesco, in support of Cancer Research UK's Race for Life:

1. Set a goal: a motivation to get you out there training. Anything from wanting to lose weight or lower cholesterol to finishing a marathon or raising money through an event such as Race for Life. It is much easier if you have something you really want to achieve to work towards.

2. Get the right equipment for you: it doesn't have to be expensive but training is much more enjoyable and effective if your clothing fits and feels good and your shoes suit your style of running. This will also cut down injury risks drastically.

3. Build up gradually at your own pace: it's not about getting out there and running five kilometres straight off. Also train with friends or in a group if possible - it helps to keep you motivated and increases enjoyment.

4. Modify your diet: your energy levels and needs will increase as you train more. You will need a balanced diet including enough carbohydrates and protein to support your body and also some good fats. Make sure you are getting enough vitamin C, iron, and antioxidants from your diet and if not maybe consider taking a multi-vitamin.

Cancer survivors form a significant proportion of the 10,000 women who will take part in Race for Life in Southampton this year. The charity wants to thank these women for the contribution they have made to the success of Race for Life over the past 12 years.

For more information and fundraising advice on Cancer Research UK's Race for Life log on to www.raceforlife.org or call the hotline on 08705 134 314.