the experience of the ordinary runner (of course, the two can be related: elite fields draw the TV coverage, which draws crowds, competitors and money to the race). Among other things, we scored the races for beauty, atmosphere and speed. And, hand on heart, we

among women. But that study yielded encouraging news for runners outside of the lead pack. For the non-elites, the decline was a little lower – and began later. "For these runners, significant age-related losses in endurance performance did not occur

Zoom Air shoes. The smooth, cushioned and responsive ride means that the Swift should find fans among runners looking for a shoe for quick training runs.Try it on if you liked Asics Gel DS Trainer (£80); Nike Air Zoom Elite (£70)

. With the 900, which offers stability and cushioning in a lightweight package, New Balance appears to be taking on Asics's DS-Trainer. That's great news for any runner looking for a stable shoe for racing and training.With its big two-density medial post, it

10.5 per cent per decade for men and 14.8 per cent among women. But that study yielded encouraging news for runners outside of the lead pack. For the non-elites, the decline was a little lower – and began later. "For these runners, significant age

all sorted just around the time the elite men were finishing.We watched a few finishers come past, then a trickle, a stream, a flood and finally a torrent of runners were filing past to collect their bags. I started asking people how long it had taken

1. London MarathonThe Flora London Marathon is genuinely a marathon for every runner. The huge field, large, enthusiastic crowds and party atmosphere appeal to first-timers, while the speed of the course and faultless organisation continue to draw

5. Boston MarathonBoston is the world’s oldest marathon, steeped in tradition and history, with fabulous crowd support, a top-class elite field and a surprisingly quick point-to-point course. Sadly it’s also a marathon that the majority of runners

Marathon has traditionally failed to catch the imagination of the running public. Things have definitely changed. The organisation has improved noticeably and it has the budget to draw a decent elite field – runners now flock to the race in their thousands

.The Fordingbridge 10 is a one-lap course run across undulating country roads and takes in picturesque Hampshire villages along the way. And what it may not have in elite runners, it makes up for with its friendly atmosphere. The event caters for all abilities