Ben's Training Diary

Ben Edwards ran in, and completed, the Marathon des Sables - known as the most demanding foot race on earth. We caught up with him a few weeks before he left for Africa to find out just how his training was going.

Although Ben was spending as much time as possible preparing for his upcoming challenge, he managed to spare a few moments to give us this amazing insight into his training regime.

"Only a month to go and despite an injury in training last month I am back on track now and raring to go. I've stepped up my fitness programme and this week will tackle two 20 mile runs and a 30-miler as well as strength-training sessions in the gym every other day. Because success and survival depend on me carrying my own kit every day, I am practising every chance I can. I'm also trying out different backpacks, clothes and shoes to find out which are the most comfy and least likely to rub : the neighbours must think they live next door to a madman. Of course it's one thing running along Southport beach on a wintery day in March and quite another trying to imagine how I'll shape up in the unyielding sun and intense heat of the Moroccan sands. But in a fortnight I plan to introduce some acclimation work in the heat chamber at Liverpool John Moore University, where I am a senior lecturer, and that should give me some idea of just how tough its going to be. As a sports scientist I know success is all about setting achievable goals and making sure and steady progress, and I believe that's what I am doing. I have the added incentive of knowing that I am doing it not just for myself, but for a very worthwhile cause. For those of you who have sponsored me, many thanks. All the money raised will support the pioneering work of scientists funded by AICR. I don't believe there is a cause more important than cancer research, and I am living proof that it really can make a difference."

Ben took part in the race of his life - you can still sponsor him by following the link.

Thank you.