for action. It's the fight or flight response – your tolerance for pain, physical strength and stamina all improve. When you’re in this mindset, the average runner can be capable of major achievements."Each to her ownSo how "major" can these achievements be

it does change your running style. – The Aussie I used to run with rucksack, or a bergan as they're known in military circles. It hurts, and it's a pain in the neck (not to mention ar*e), bouncing around no matter how much you strap it down. The only

to have both my big toenails pulled off. I can't put the pain into words! – MOLAfter a half marathon I developed black toenails, an ache in the ball of my feet, and also an ache in my groin. It all seemed linked. I went to a great NHS physio who identified

, but it does allow your brain to switch off. You can generally buy it from a good herbalist or online. – Nick KirbyDo you eat before or after your run? When I trained for the London Marathon I used to run at about the same time each evening, and then would have

to be off for longer than I need to! What do people suggest?"– Rachel ChanYour best answers...Chest cold = No way Jose!Blocked nostrils = Generally OKFever = Have done it, but it makes things worse.When a cold is 'bubbling under', hard training always makes

This week's question was emailed to us by forum member Little T, who gets a painful stitch every time she runs."I've just returned to running after four months off with an injury. Unfortunately, I'm getting really bad stitch each time I run – always

, don't do it. – B (Ewok's Mate)Some things aren't worth itI tried switching from midfoot to forefoot just out of curiosity, and the pain in my calves was unbelieveable – I could hardly walk down the stairs! Now I'm back to my old style, inury free

whether Jane can make a digest of these responses that's fit for family viewing! – VelociraptorDitching the cool-down makes you faint and soreThink about it! Especially during 100m efforts, which I assume are at a fast pace, your muscles are making great

as there are children and runners. You just have to listen very carefully to your body. I found that I couldn't run after five months because the muscles around my ribcage hurt, and any new pain seemed like a bad idea, so I stopped.My other major concern was the long

, and now I can do so much more in the way of sport, particularly things that involve water like surfing. If anyone's considering it, just make sure you do some research first, and remember the consultation process is quite lengthy. I didn't have any pain