In the twilight hours of Sunday morning, 53,000 runners made their way to their respective starting points, while most of us were still in bed. It might sound crazy to some but this could possibly be the best way to end the year.

Ming ran to raise funds for children with autism at the Standard Chartered Marathon last year and he’s doing it again this year. He also runs to help autistic children, telling Our Better World that it not only “feels good to do something for someone that you don’t know”, it adds a motivational boost to his running.

To all runners taking part in an upcoming marathon, you have put yourselves through high mileage and intensity workouts leading to race day. The final week and the 24 hours before will be just as crucial (or even more) as the START looms. You have been in the tapering phase, consumed loads of carbohydrates and plenty of fluids; you have even researched and ‘feel’ the route. What’s next?

The Standard Chartered Marathon Singapore might be on your personal race calendar. If it is, you are probably in the midst of doing some final preparations by now. But keep in mind that though running is good for your health, there are limits that you should not cross. If you have experienced symptoms of hearts issues as of late, walk away to race another day.

The Salomon X-trail Run 2012 is one of the most unique running experiences around! Rock, vegetation, clay, sand and mud will hinder you from your goal. Not only are there obstacles on the ground and physical barriers, canopy and over-hanging branches will add precious seconds to your fastest timing. Of course this is expected, so preparation is key!

Where you get your improvement is when you are sitting on the couch eating and drinking after your run, or when you’re asleep in bed. You see, it is not the training that makes you a better runner but the recovery from the training.