I'm doing a Tough Mudder and the website says that you don't need to do loads of training beforehand, but it seems like a big challenge. How much preparation is really needed?

Tough Mudder is described as “probably the toughest event on the planet”. So we wouldn’t advise you to go into it without at least a reasonable amount of training. While grit, determination and having the right mental attitude will all help to get you around the course on the day, there’s little doubt that if you don’t prepare properly you will find the course much harder.

It’s all about having an enjoyable experience, and good training will help you achieve this. Remember, only 78 per cent of entrants earn the coveted orange headband.

You will need endurance, strength, speed and agility if you are to join them. So work on any weaknesses you have beforehand. It’s best to combine different types of training, including cardio, resistance and flexibility work, to ensure you have a good all round conditioning. It’s also important that you make sure you leave yourself enough time to prepare properly.

We’d suggest that you arrive for your Tough Mudder able to run 5-6 miles (8-10 km) comfortably. If you can’t, you will find it much more challenging. In short, while the adrenaline on the day normally ensures most people reach the finish, you will have a much more positive experience if you lay the groundwork beforehand. So hit the gym and try to add in a few cross-country runs too, you’ll thank yourself on the day!