Organisers of the Manchester Marathon are challenging Mancunians of all ages and abilities to get moving in March by walking or running one extra mile a day to make up the 26.2 mile total marathon distance before race day on Sunday 5^th April.

The Mancunian Miles project asks people to walk or run one extra mile each day from Friday 6^th March that they wouldn’t otherwise, and builds on the successful work of Greater Manchester Moving, whose intention is to reduce inactivity and increase participation in physical activity and sport, with the aim of having 75% of people active of fairly active by 2025.

Taking part in the Mancunian Miles challenge is completely free for all, with the hope that many families and groups will embrace the challenge together. The project is hoped to encourage people to walk or run a combined 24,901 additional miles during March – the distance around the world.

Nick Rusling, CEO of the Manchester Marathon, said “We want the inspirational nature of the Manchester Marathon to go beyond just one day, and we hope that as many Mancunians as possible will embrace this new initiative.

Like many we’ve been enthused by speaking with Hayley Lever about the Active Soles campaign in Greater Manchester, and how something as simple as wearing a pair of trainers to work can improve the level of your activity. We hope this is a fun way to support the great work being done by many, and get Manchester into the marathon spirit before the big day.”

As part of the inaugural Mancunian Miles campaign, organisers are launching the Manchester Marathon Trainer Trail in partnership with footwear supplier Hoka One One. The trail is a city-wide scavenger hunt of colourful running trainers, each decorated by local Manchester artists. Each of the trainers are situated in key locations along the city section of the marathon route, with more details announced in the coming weeks.

Prizes and rewards will be available to each person who completes the Mancunian Miles challenge, with certificates available to collect at the Marathon Eve event at the Great Northern Railway building on Saturday 4^th April – the day before the marathon. Certificates can also be posted for a small fee, or downloaded to print at home.

The Manchester Marathon on Sunday 5^th April is the UK’s second largest marathon, with around 25,000 runners expected to complete course this year. Boasting a new three-mile-long section through the city centre, the route will track past some of Manchester’s most iconic landmarks including the Manchester Opera House, Spinningfields, Albert Memorial Hall, Hotel Football and The Midland Hotel.

The Manchester Marathon’s continued growth has seen it become one of the five largest marathons in Europe, challenging heavyweights like London and Paris, and attracting a mixture of elite and recreational runners due to its flat course and renowned friendly atmosphere.

For more information go to manchestermarathon.co.uk