Thanks for posting that - I found the programmes fascinating (despite the somewhat frustrating lack of conclusions). I have been reflecting recently on the ways in which diet and/or a training regime might impact on one's ability to walk events such as the 100, so this was all grist to the mill. I get the general impression that on the whole LDWA members take a fairly laid back approach to these things - they walk lots of miles but otherwise don't get fanatical about preparation through diet or other sorts of training, but by any standards 100 miles (or even 50) is a demanding event, so perhaps we would benefit from taking these things more seriously.

A two-part edition of Radio 4's Food Programme titled 'Can you eat to run ?' and 'Eating to Run', recently aired in response to marathon and 40-miles-per-week runner Nicole Marais's request for info and advice. Available on iPlayer and as MP3/Podcasts (variable volume quality).

Includes ultra-marathon (100+ miles) eventer Scott Jurek, Kenyan and Japanese runners. Ranges from high-carb to low-carb, high-fat and protein to low-fat, (low) meat to vegan, fresh to fermented (and years-old yoghurt). Of interest to both runners and those of us who either part-run or don't.

It's interesting and informed, but there doesn't (yet ?) seem to be a consensus on what works best, or for whom. What is certain is that diet has a large part to play in performance on endurance events. (And no mention of fry-up breakfasts.)

Iain