up of former elite athletes and experienced running coaches, will be well prepared for the task. As well as giving time to individual runners, staff lead a packed schedule of coaching and classes.Mike Gratton says, "We try to have a look at your
of an elite competitor, but getting enough quality sleep should still be a priority. During deep sleep, your body releases human growth hormone (HGH) which helps build and repair muscle, and encourages the body to use more fat as fuel. Without the right
for the hills, while strong core muscles will help you maintain form as the miles tick by. Of course the element that marks out ultra hero from zero is perfect pace. Even the elite rarely "run" all the way in long ultras, so map out a run-walk strategy
after winning Olympic gold, she told the press, "I know I can perform when I need to. I may not have a good season, but events like this and the World Championships are what I train all year for."Although elite runners soon cottoned on to the benefits
1. Flora London Marathon Where: London When: April 26It’s the big one. Twenty-eight years of racing; 35,000 runners; and 26.2 miles around the streets of London. For runners of all kinds from the international elite to run/walkers, the Flora
. Dr David Fletcher, lecturer in Sport and Performance Psychology at Loughborough University says, "If beating people is the only thing you're interested in, then you're going to be in trouble.'Dr Fletcher works with elite athletes, researching
in more than 150 countries and an estimated one million people lined London’s streets to cheer on runners in last year’s race. With a field of over 35,000, the presence of the world’s best elite runners and a huge crowd roaring support, taking part
heading towards number three? I blame helping out at Mudchute! I remember taking photos of the elite runners as they zoomed past and then four or five hours later, taking photos of the real heroes, those who were hobbling past with pain on their faces
?Unexplained underperformance is surprisingly common, occurring in elite athletes and mere mortals alike - especially if you're cramming in the races or you've recently ramped up your mileage. Take a close look at your training schedule. Does it include enough variety