When you're sidelined by injury your natural reaction should be to cut back on calories until it's time to return to training - and burning energy. But the healing process demands fuel, too. "It's like fixing a house," says sports dietitian Cynthia

free radicals, those unstable molecules that race around the body looking to inflict cell damage. Red peppers also contain lycopene, which may offer protection from some cancers. Peppers of all colours are a good source of dietary fibre

it with butter. But potatoes are rich in vitamin C (a powerful antioxidant) and are also a good source of B vitamins and minerals such as potassium (for muscle and nerve function), and magnesium (needed for the production of energy). Thin-skinned red potatoes

for you on race day. So I would say that the more time you have to try different sports bars, gels, energy drinks and timings, the better. As well as thinking about which carbohydrate you'll take on board during the race this is also a good time to plan

Racing well is as much a product of mental strength as physical readiness, whether you're out to nail a PB or just finish. Too often, though, runners practise mental tricks such as visualisation just a few days before race day - if at all."That's a

Developing speed is ideal for time-pressed runners because getting faster requires short, targeted efforts."Quick bursts improve your ability to produce energy without using oxygen, while strengthening muscles - both of which help improve your speed