in the Western States, for example, suffer post-race colds and infections, compared with 15 per cent of marathon finishers.Since antioxidants such as betacarotene and vitamins C and E are supposed to neutralise free radicals, should you take them? "In theory, it

cushion unless your backside is sufficiently padded to start with. – SnapstingetI learned the hard way that it's essential to do cross training to maintain running capability. I ran a lot from 1985-2000, 40+ miles per week and races once a month. All I did

was clear and showed your progress (you can “race” the treadmill if you like), and you can alternate easily between different readings. The buttons were really simple, with several quick keys so it was easy to find programmes. It was solid to run

in my training when I am on my own; less so in races. When I ran my 2nd half last month (I ran all the way) I so wanted to walk from miles 7-9 when it was really windy and slightly uphill, but I was determined to get a PB – and also what works for me

't stay dry but they will be warm and the socks won't rub. – blimeythatsbendy... and squelch-freeSealskinz® are great for keeping your feet dry in heavy rain or when you’re racing off-road in water-logged conditions. – jason XTechnical kit needn’t break

round this, that is available on many units, is to set a lap distance, for example 1K, and have the unit display your average pace over the lap.7 I ran a 10-mile race, but the GPS said I had run 10.4 miles. Why?There are two reasons for this:You didn

If you want to become a better runner, there’s no real training substitute for running. Other sports just don’t cut the mustard when it comes to preparing your body for race day, right?Right. But in terms of boosting your fitness, balancing muscle

of caffeine drinkers, who downed 1.4mg of caffeine per pound of body weight (a 355ml coffee for a 68kg person), had a 1.2 per cent improvement in an 8K race. "They were able to maintain a higher intensity without undue fatigue," says study author Dr Michelle

. This shoe is so light on the foot it feels like a racing shoe, and yet it holds its own through different terrains – including a field of unnervingly sharp thistles – without letting the runner down. The ABZORB technology in the heel and forefoot gives

unexpected problems, best not to wear a new bra on race day!How long does a sports bra last?"After 30-40 washes most sports bras need replacing. As a rule of thumb you will need three new bras for every one pair of running shoes," says Messem. The technical