As women across the region gear up for the remaining Race for Live events, the sports development team at the Dolphin Centre, in Darlington, and sports scientists at the University of Teesside answer some common questions.

1. Is it too late to start training for the Darlington and Durham events, which are both only a few weeks away?

Although it may be a bit late for training to run the event if you have not trained before, it is still possible to train to walk the 5k. The important thing is to start off gradually and take things easy in training. Build up to complete the distance, don't necessarily aim for a specific time. However, if you haven't exercised for a while, speak to your GP first.

2. Are there any other kinds of exercise you should do apart from running to help you train?

Fitness is specific, so the best exercise to do is to run, jog and walk, depending on your fitness level. However, it is always good to do some resistance training to improve muscular strength and endurance. It is best to consult a qualified fitness trainer before starting any training programme.

3. What kind of equipment should you wear for running?

If you are serious about running, it is important to invest in some appropriate running shoes and good-quality seamless socks, which are designed to cushion and support the foot. A mistake many beginners make is to wear a new pair of shoes for the event itself - and then often pay the price in blisters.

4. What is the best way to warm up before a run, and then warm down afterwards?

A good warm-up and warm-down is an important part of any run or training session. Start off slowly and then over 5-15 minutes gradually increase the intensity to encourage blood flow around your body. During a warm-down you need to gradually ease down your pace and slowly take the heart rate and muscle activity down. Stretching before and after is also advisable.

5. How do you deal with stitches or cramp when you're running?

Stitches and cramp can be caused by many different things. If they do occur, then you should slow down or stop. Sometimes, stretching the specific muscle that has cramp can help to alleviate the tightness.

6. Is there a diet plan that could be followed in the days leading up to the Race for Life to give extra energy?

Dramatic changes to a diet should not be made without consulting a state-registered dietician or a GP.

7. Are sports drinks best to help sustain you during a run, or is water sufficient?

Generally, sports drinks are aimed at sports people and athletes who are competing at high-intensity levels over prolonged periods of time. If your training sessions are quite short - less than 40 minutes - then water may be better than a sports drink.

8. How often should you drink while out running to help sustain you?

Generally, it is important to ensure you are drinking enough fluid throughout the day and not just when exercising. A general rule of thumb is that if you are ever thirsty, you are already de-hydrated. Drinking little and often is probably better than gulping down large amounts at a time.

9. Is there a best breathing technique for during a run?

Breathe as naturally as possible. Also try to monitor your breathing and effort by doing the talk test - when starting out, if you feel yourself getting so out of breath that you wouldn't be able to chat, slow down a little.