This year, Cancer Research UK has organised 230 5km runs across the country for its Race for Life campaign.

In 2008, Race for Life was reported to be the UK's largest female-only fundraising event, where women of all ages and fitness levels came together to walk, jog or run to raise money for the fight against cancer.

Entry costs £12.99 per person, but there is no set sponsorship.

To help women train for this year's events, Cancer Research launched 'shoppercise' exercise sessions at 11 retail centres throughout the UK (see p83). Details: +44 (0)871 641 2282 or www.raceforlife.org