Super Fit at 50: a ‘mid-term report’ after the SDW50

I’m on a journey to become a fitter, faster endurance runner and have more energy for the important stuff in life – something I’ve dubbed ‘Super Fit at 50’. The real measure of success will be whether I can run the South Downs Way 100 in under 24 hours. Along the way, I’ve set some […]

Ultra-running for beginners: Where to start

I recently got chatting to some first-time ultra-marathoners at XNRG’s legendary Pilgrim’s Challenge. They were saying how difficult it is to know where to start when it comes to running ultra distances (defined as anything over a marathon, but usually 50km (31 miles), 100km or 100 miles+). Moving up from a marathon Marathons are big […]

Things Runners Don’t Talk about #3: pooing alfresco

What happens when you get caught short on a run? It happens. It’s not something runners talk about much – so I hope this blog helps! It’s inevitable The longer you run, the longer you spend on the trail – and the more food you need to eat to fuel yourself to the finish. If […]

What it’s like to run ultras in your 50s

I’m not quite sure how being in my 50s is supposed to feel, but I’m pretty sure I’m not feeling it. I still run ultramarathons, love music as much as I always did, and the memory of turning 30 still seems within my grasp. As much as I might not ‘feel’ it, the reality is […]

How to run when it’s so cold you can’t feel your toes

It’s sub-zero outside and the wind is bitter. You’re asking yourself whether you should go out for a run or stay in the warm. If, like me, you start your day with a run, then it’s probably dark as well – which only adds to the quandary. Get the right kit Running in the cold […]

10 things I wish I’d known when I started running

It’s the classic question: what would you say to your younger self if you could? Here’s my take on that, now as an ultrarunner in my 50s: Make a plan and record your progress Use whatever works for you: keep a paper journal, or start by reviewing your Strava data each week against your goals. […]

Things Runners Don’t Talk About #2: blisters on the trail

I first attempted a 100-miler back in 2010 in the Cotswolds. My brother-in-law was crewing me and I was doing well. Disaster struck around the 60-mile mark: blisters. Blisters soon graduated to blisters upon blisters. The pain was excruciating and I DNF’d 75 miles in. I’m still kicking myself about it now. Until that race, […]