This September, take on 25, 50 or 100 miles – and each mile will help fund lifesaving research at the British Heart Foundation.
Whether you run around your local park, explore new routes, or tick off miles with friends, every step you take is making a real difference for people living with cardiovascular diseases.
The easiest way to get started is by setting up a JustGiving page. Share it with friends and family so they can donate quickly and easily.
Training tips and advice
Training videos
Suggested training plans
Sharing badges
Distance tracker
Introduction pack
What is Run for Hearts?
This is a virtual fundraising challenge for the British Heart Foundation. We're challenging you to run 25, 50 or 100 miles in September. It's your challenge, so you can choose when and where you complete your miles! You can track your miles using your phone, smart watch or manually. Please keep your distance tracker updated.
Do I have to do the challenge in September?
We encourage everyone to complete this challenge in September, so that you can be part of our supportive community of runners taking on this incredible event together! However, if you need a few extra weeks to complete your miles, feel free to extend your challenge.
Are there any registration fees?
No, this challenge is free to take part in.
How can I track my miles?
Track your miles in whatever way works for you. For Run for Hearts 2026, we recommend Strava - you can get started with Strava here. You’re responsible for tracking your own mileage or kilometres throughout the challenge.
Once set up, join the Run for Hearts Strava group to stay connected and motivated with other participants. You can join the group here!
You can also connect Strava to your JustGiving page so your activity updates automatically. Just log in, open your fundraising page, select ‘Connect Strava’, confirm permissions, and save your fitness settings. Need help? View JustGiving guidance on connecting Strava.
Only connect your account when you’re ready to start on 1 September!
Having trouble? Visit the JustGiving support centre for help.
Can I meet other participants?
Of course! You can join our Facebook group and Strava group and be part of our supportive online community.
Do I have to use the training plans on the Run Hub?
No, using the training plans is completely optional.
The training plans have been developed by our training coaches and personal trainers to help you prepare for your Run for Hearts challenge safely and confidently. They provide guidance on building your fitness, increasing your running distance gradually and reducing the risk of injury.
You are welcome to follow one of our training plans, adapt it to suit your needs, or use your own training routine if you already have one. The most important thing is choosing an approach that works for your fitness level, experience and goals.
What impact am I making with my fundraising?
Every donation you make helps to fund scientific breakthroughs. You can find out more by downloading our donation shopping list here.
How do I fundraise?
We would encourage you to set up a JustGiving page to get started with your fundraising. All the donations made to your page will be sent to us automatically. You can also share your progress on social media and in your groups chats for friends and family to see.
We will also send you plenty of fundraising tips and support throughout the challenge to help you raise as much as possible!
Is there a fundraising target?
Yes, the target is £200 to gain a British Heart Foundation medal. Raise £50 and we’ll send you bespoke lace tags. Reach £200 and you’ll earn a British Heart Foundation medal and certificate to celebrate your fundraising achievement.
Can I collect cash donations?
Of course! You can either pay any cash donations onto your fundraising page or you collect donations on a sponsorship form. Once you've finished collecting your donations, you can find full details of how to pay your donations into us here.
Need fundraising support or inspiration?
Get tips, ideas and guidance to help you succeed: Explore British Heart Foundation fundraising support
Learn how to spread the word and get more support for your fundraiser: Get tips on promoting your fundraiser
Download ready-made materials (posters, social assets and more): Access downloadable fundraising resources
How do I get the free British Heart Foundation t-shirt?
When you sign up, you can choose whether you would like to receive a free British Heart Foundation t-shirt from us and select your size.
What are the fundraising rewards?
If you raise £50 we’ll send you bespoke lace tags and at £200 we’ll send you a British Heart Foundation medal and certificate for reaching the fundraising target.
And don’t forget - fundraising rewards include:
Run for Hearts 2026 lace tags
Run for Hearts 2026 certificate
Run for Hearts 2026 medal
So get fundraising and take your first strides towards September.
Connect with other participants, share your progress and be part of a supportive community.
Track your miles, stay motivated and give each other kudos along the way.
Every mile you run and every pound you raise will help fund lifesaving research.
You’ve got this ❤️
