to carrying a backpack with water, gear etc. Recently I developed some lower back pain due to posture; as an asthmatic, I tend to hunch slightly. I've actually found that the pack helps relieve the pain, partly because it makes me brace my shoulders and partly

it will transform your running and racing. I now do one day of speedwork, one fast-paced 7-miler, one 10-20 miler and one other run. I felt I haven't been doing enough, but my running is getting better and better all the time. It might be useful to get someone to do

"How soon should I run after I've had a cold? I've always been sporty, but I've only been running seriously for a few months. In the past when I've had colds and coughs, I've often gone back to sport as soon as I've been able to breathe properly

140, but I think if you're an accomplished runner you can do more. – Mitchie MooI'm now 29 weeks pregnant. I've continued to cycle to work every day, and I will be taking part in a 20-mile sponsored walk in Snowdonia in just under two weeks' time. My

, and the 4x15 were fitted around commuting – running to and from the train station twice a week. I think all the talk about 'mental toughness' is a bit of snake oil. Ultras aren't that hard. Running 100 miles slowly is much, much easier than running 26.2

to put on weight on 2,000 calories a day of any sort of foods. If you're a 4'11" size 8, it might just be enough to maintain your weight. Any taller and it won't be enough. As for exercising less or more... you're already doing a substantial mileage

and targets, and enter events? How do you help a 12-year-old through the low times and disappointment?"– Raymond McMillan (by email)Your best answersMake it an enjoyable family activityMy two daughters aged 11 and 14 have come running with me – just light

was hooked instantly and have been wearing them full-time since. – VelociraptorI eventually caved in and got daily disposable contact lenses. This was after (1) a 10K race chosen solely because it was in an area I knew from years back, and wanted to see again

or you will injure yourself. I gradually increased the miles on my toes and gradually decreased the "heel" miles; whole process took about 10 weeks. The morning walk down the stairs took longer than normal, but it felt great running at my new race pace

racing and training. At the start line you should be sweating and your heart rate elevated (60-65% of max). However there are two reasons why this rarely happens: at the start of big races you need to get into position and are probably waiting 10-15 mins