Health and training

Shine is for men, women and children over 13 years. Whether you do the full marathon or half marathon, all that counts is that you and thousands of others across the UK are helping to fight cancer by walking and raising money for the cause.
Start your training as soon as possible with our training plans and healthy living tips. We’ve also included information on why it’s important to spot cancer early.
Training plans and tips
Whether you're doing the Shine full marathon or half marathon we've got training plans to support you every step of the way.
You don't have to be really fit to take part in Shine, but we recommend that you do training walks before the event. Most of us aren’t used to walking such distances and need some preparation! We also recommend that you check with your GP if you have any concerns. Find the right training plan for you and walk at your own pace.
How far is a half marathon?
Walking a half marathon is a challenging, yet achievable, goal for many men and women. Be sure to follow our training plans to make the most of your Shine event. Find out how far a half marathon is.
How far is a full marathon?
Why not double the distance and take on the full marathon challenge? With proper training, anyone can accomplish this remarkable feat. Find out how far a full marathon is.
Healthy living
There are lots of simple steps you can take to live a healthier lifestyle which could really help with your preparation for Shine as well as reduce your cancer risk.
Spot cancer early
When cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, the chances of successful treatment are higher. Find out more about how spotting cancer early can really make a difference.
Be SunSmart
Although Shine is a night time walk, enjoying the sun safely while you're training is an important way to help reduce the risk of skin cancer. Learn how to protect your skin and be SunSmart this summer.