Bike doc

I am a 12-year-old cyclist who is very keen on improving. At the moment, I can cycle up to 40 miles with my dad on roads, but I would also like to cycle with children my own age. Do you know any organisations that arrange cycling events and training for children?

Shame on you, sisters

Helen Pidd: Women are facing a fitness crisis, as they seem to think that exercise makes them red-faced and sweaty. Isn't that the point?

More speed, less pain

A new approach to running, using the principles of the Alexander technique, is claimed to hugely reduce the risk of injury. Sam Murphy tries it out.

Running v walking

Running certainly burns calories, but it has its drawbacks - could walking be a better bet?

Bike doc

Matt Seaton: I am looking at new bikes for my six-year-old daughter. She is used to cycling both on her own and for longer distances on the back of a tandem. When should she be starting to use a bike with gears?

Bike Doc

Dear Matt, As a recently retired wrinkly, I want to take up cycling again after a 40-year gap. I went to the Cycle Show, with thoughts of spending lots of money on a new lightweight bike. Mmm, things have changed a bit. Can you tell me why all the frames now look as if they're too small for a normal-sized adult? And why is the crossbar no longer parallel to the ground? I want a bike for fitness riding on the road; any suggestions would be helpful. Mike Whittaker, via email