themselves for either the European or the Commonwealth Games, but essentially the challenges a runner meets are the same whatever your level of performance. Being a runner is one of the things that defines us. We face challenges, we overcome them, and our

, the marathon seems nothing. However, you have to respect your body and allow it to get used to the idea gradually. Best of luck!—Bruce Tulloh, who took just 65 days to run across the USA in 1969

and training.So what have I learnt – deep down – in 50 years as a runner?Enjoy your runningAs I was small and skinny, with no eye for a ball, running was the sport I enjoyed most. And competitive running is a challenge, a performance. You get nervous, you get

when the weather is warm enough. Continue with flexibility work, oxygen intake training and hill or resistance running (but look for variety and challenge).April-May: Move on to lactate tolerance sessions, but maintain drills and oxygen intake sessions