was an important part of my marathon training. My weekly mileage developed from 20 miles, to 30 just before Christmas, and then finally 40 miles, and combined long runs of up to 20 miles, speed and often hill sessions. These were all-important parts

from the Jordan Desert Cup by Christmas.However, there’s rather more to the event than the description suggests. The most alarming of its many alarming features is that it’s non-stop. So within a few hours, the runners will be strung out sparsely across

and cons of whole menageries of tiny rodents.The evening before the fateful day, I’d attended my office Christmas party. The theme was School Days – a transparent ruse to persuade the secretaries to dress in short, pleated skirts – and I’d gone as the bike

counted: “when I sat down with my partner before Christmas she said ‘go for it’. You need someone very supportive to do it, as you tend to get a bit obsessive,” he says gratefully.In a pool Ratbag could swim a little, but the prospect of open water

to the best-accessorised Santas) they'll also have the rare chance of running through Liverpool's city centre. It will feel as if Christmas has come early. Ho ho ho.Victory 5 (Hants, December 4) For those more inclined to traditional short-distance racing

to traffic. Dress like a Christmas tree, wearing as much reflective gear (and as many light-producing products) as possible. Art of darknessIt isn't just the weather that makes winter running a chore. Whether you like a long run before breakfast or prefer

the deserted country roads on Christmas morning then getting back home to a delicious lunch (thanks Zilla's mum!) This month's lowlight: Feeling grim at the Grim. Usually I love mud and puddles but that day I just wanted to snuggle under the duvet and go back

legends Rebecca Adlington and Michael Phelps wearing it next year as they race to secure their spots in London 2012. Now ordinary swimmers can get our mitts on it - the range goes on sale today and it's already rocketed straight to the top of our Christmas

So, you already know that running will boost your heart and lungs. You probably also know that it’s the best way to say goodbye to that lingering Christmas bulge. But if your enthusiasm has been pummeled by dark nights and plateauing performances

I started my training before Christmas and everything was going well until it snowed.  I had the misfortune of slipping on ice in January, fracturing both wrists and was no longer able to train. I was gutted! Fortunately I had a place in the ballot