Have you ever tried slowing down to speed up? It sounds illogical but sometimes the best way to make performance improvements is to take a step backward and run slower or lift lighter. I have run half and full marathons all over the world, but I've never particularly enjoyed them. But I have been experimenting with running slower. Does it work? Well, yes, it does - kind of. I’ve been running to RPE (Rate of Perceived Exertion) - a pace that I think I can keep going for 7km. So now the plan is to run longer, slower and further - much like the advice in our piece on ultra running this month (see page 46). I've also enjoyed putting together the A-Z of running in this issue (p50) to remind myself of all the things I don't do right! And while there is a focus on getting out on two feet this month, without the conditioning to support it, those miles will be wasted. We tackle landmine moves, exercises for the core and killer descending workouts. And if you want to keep your brain healthy for life, then exercise is the key.  For me, it's about learning to be the tortoise, not the hare. Wish me luck!

Have you ever tried slowing down to speed up? It sounds illogical but sometimes the best way to make performance improvements is to take a step backward and run slower or lift lighter. I have run half and full marathons all over the world, but I've never particularly enjoyed them. But I have been experimenting with running slower. Does it wo....