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Runners cross the Verrazano Bridge as they compete in the New York Marathon in New York on November 2, 2025. (Photo by ANGELA WEISS / AFP) (Photo by ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images)

Looking beyond London? These 10 incredible city marathons deliver huge crowds, iconic routes, and electric race-day energy

Can't get into the London Marathon despite years of ballot entries? You're not alone. Instead, why not check out these 10 incredible city marathon alternatives in Europe and beyond. These popular events compete with London for atmosphere, scenery, and history.
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An athlete runs along the Marin Headlands during The Big Alta 100K Ultramarathon in 2026 in Muir Beach, California

Smashed the marathon? Here’s how to choose your next running goal

From ultras to Ironmans and trail runs, here are the next milestones to try after conquering 26.2 miles
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Celtman triathlon

Move aside, Ironman: These are the toughest triathlons in the UK (and the world)

You’ve probably heard of an Ironman — but these brutal triathlon challenges make it look easy by comparison
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Swimmer taking off from the blocks

Crowning achievements: These royals were all elite athletes (some might surprise you)

Balancing medals with monarchy is no mean feat, but these royals have forged extraordinary sporting careers away from their royal duties
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Runners on a road during the London Marathon

London Marathon 2026 freebies: Here are the best free giveaways you can claim if you’re running the London Marathon

Running the London Marathon this weekend? Don’t miss out on the perks that come with this huge challenge! From free pizza and post-race burgers to cheesecakes, medal engraving and even river cruises, here’s what you can claim with your medal
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Hands on rock climber

The simple 30-second test that could predict your future health – and how to improve it

Grip strength is now regarded as one of the most revealing measures of health and vitality as we age
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Plymouth, Devon, England, UK, Overview of Tinside Lido on Plymouth seafront, Historic art deco style and voted in top ten outdoor pools in Europe. Outdoor salt water swimming pool. (Photo by: Peter Titmuss/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Britain’s most iconic lido can actually be found in London – but there are plenty more to explore, from geothermal heating to art deco masterpieces

Come on in, the water's lovely! Take a dip in one of Britain's most spectacular lidos this spring and summer with our pick of the best lidos in the UK
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Wide shot of a small group of mature adult female friends enjoying a walk in a dappled woodland area in the Lake District National Park, North West England. They are talking and smiling as they walk, wearing casual clothing and backpacks.

The 7 key lifestyle pillars that keep you energised, healthy and full of vitality after 50

"Loneliness is as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day." Follow these simple lifestyle habits to improve your health and wellbeing as you get older
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Runners racing down a hill

Bog snorkelling, cheese rolling and nettle eating – inside Britain's weirdest sports

From chasing horses to snorkelling in bogs and chasing a cheese down a rather steep hill, here is our pick of the best eccentric contests from around the UK
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shot of the feet of group of runners

What is Jeffing? The legend behind the popular running interval training method

As the world pays tribute to pioneer American Olympian Jeff Galloway, we look into Jeff's extraordinary life and the 'Jeffing' legacy he's left behind
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Credit: Centre for Ageing Better

What core exercises should I do as I age?

Runners in desert

Blistering deserts, the Amazon rainforest and the entire length of Wales – these are the world's toughest ultra running events

From the spine of Wales to Pennine peaks, here are the UK's toughest ultra-running challenges for 2025 and how they compare to global races
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MURCIA, SPAIN - DECEMBER 16: (EDITORS NOTE: Image has been converted to black and white.) Carlos Alcaraz of Spain runs during his VO2 Max test as he trains for the Australian Open 2026 at Cardiosalus Sport centro medico deportivo on December 16, 2025 in Murcia, Spain. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

What’s a good VO₂ max for my age? Everything you need to know about this important fitness indicator

VO₂  max is one of the best indicators of your cardiovascular fitness and longevity. What counts as a 'good' VO₂  max changes with age, so comparing yourself to the right benchmark is key for optimum health and fitness.
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Trail runners Exmoor

The toughest marathon running events in the world to tackle in 2026: from Machu Picchu to the North Pole

It's a truly iconic race distance, but which marathon courses are the toughest in the UK and around the globe? Here's our top 10 marathon races bound to inspire and motivate your next challenge.
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Black and white photo of The British Curling team during the Winter Olympics at Chamonix, France in 1924 with sweeps and curling stones

Thought this Winter Olympic sport was Canadian? This is its real origin story – and why its most important element is still made from one tiny Scottish island

Often mistaken for a Canadian creation, curling’s roots are firmly Scottish – and Britain even claimed the sport’s first Olympic gold
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Measuring spoons with protein and creatine, BCAA capsules and dumbbells on a dark background

I see caffeine supplements are all the rage in sport. Why? Is there more to it than marketing?

With caffeine gums, gels, liquids and capsules now dominating the supplement market (and the sidelines of football pitches), we investigate whether they ACTUALLY do what they promise
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United Kingdom, Scotland, Cairngorms, Coire an t-Sneachda, ski tourer

Discover some of the best locations to ski and snowboard in the UK this winter

Hit the slopes without leaving the UK with our ultimate guide to the best ski resorts, hidden gems, and scenic spots where you can catch some fresh powder
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Working together as volunteers in a garden

Could this easy 10-minute habit help prevent cancer? It "sends powerful signals to the body" says consultant

Just 10 minutes of an intense exercise of your choice could reduce your chances of cancer, according to the International Journal of Cancer.
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Triathlon swimming

You don’t have to be 'fit' to do a triathlon – here’s why...

Think you're too old or unfit to try a triathlon? Think again. Here's everything you need to know.
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Cache hidden in a tree trunk - Getty Images

This high-tech treasure hunt is a global phenomenon – and everyone can try it

The biggest treasure hunt in the world is right on your doorstep. It’s free, it’s easy and it’s called geocaching.
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Group of women wild swimming

Beat stress, boost your immune system and gain confidence: How to start cold-water swimming (and feel the benefits)

Boosting your mood, immune system, circulation and fitness levels, the benefits of cold-water swimming are immense. Here are our insider tips to get you started
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Durdle Door in winter

32 beautiful beaches to visit this winter

The British coastline offers incredible wildlife, views and fresh air in winter – our guide looks at the best beaches to visit as the cold weather hits.
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Hiking up mountain for Three Peaks Challenge

Is this Britain's toughest hiking challenge? Here's how you can conquer it in 2026

Climbing three British mountains in a 24-hour period is a demanding test of endurance. Here’s how to take on the National Three Peaks Challenge
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What is SAD

I fought seasonal depression with a winter trip to the Arctic – and what I learned blew my mind: Here's why Laplanders don't get winter blues

Overcome by annual anxiety, Helen Moat set out on a quest to dispel her low winter mood. Via Lapland, Japan and Britain’s remote and rugged landscapes, she discovers how nature itself has the answers.
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