No matter how much preparation you’ve done beforehand, sometimes on race-day things just don’t go to plan. But for this week’s questioner, a disappointing performance has left her void of all motivation to continue – can you help her regain her

Training for a marathon is a daunting business – our free weekly marathon email is here to keep you informed, motivated and right on track.It runs from December to April, and its 16-week training schedule is aimed at April 26, 2009. Each email gives

to walk. I’ve since had trouble motivating myself, and when I do I always have to stop and walk. I’ve entered a half-marathon, which is a few months away, but I’m having second thoughts. Can you help me get through this barrier?A It’s essential that you

© Getty Images If 26.2 miles just isn't enough, an ultra could be the race for you. Races longer than a marathon, ultras range from 30 miles to hundreds of miles and take place in hundreds of beautiful locations from Sussex to the Sahara

at the London Marathon (2:46, 2:43, 2:46, 2:43 [his quickest in last 20 years] and 2:47). Over the years, he estimates he's run about 2,000 races.Read the whole forum debateQ. Most marathon schedules are based on past performances but my opinion is that you

It happens to a lot of runners. You set your sights on a big race, log your miles and put your social life on hold, only to run into a roadblock in the last four to six weeks – that ‘monster month' when you're at your peak but still weeks away from

improvements is all about the overall mixture - how you put long runs, speedwork, tempo sessions, rest and warm-up races together. The single most important session though is the long, slow steady run.Q. I was hoping for a sub-4:00 marathon but have been

screwed on to make sure you've got the best chance of race-day success.The Night BeforeOne of the keys to racing success is having clearly defined goals to aim for. Before you even pin your number onto your top, figure out what you want to get out

between disciplines a little bit easier, we asked some professional triathletes for their tips on tackling every aspect of the race.Pre-race"I like to do a short run on the morning of my race. It helps to clear the mind, warm up the legs and offers a bit

. Taper early to prevent last-week problems. And make certain that you take post-race precautions against catching a bug since your resistance will be at its lowest then.Q: How can I motivate myself for a peak performance?A: In order to succeed