Penny Comins scoured the world to find the top six global running destinations for the "itchy soles" among us.

Penny Comins finds her running mojo in an unexpected place - on the trails of bustling Taipei.

Ruth Croft might not be the first name that pops to mind when talking about New Zealand's trail running celebrities- but maybe it should be. Penny Comins caught up with the tiny Westport pocket rocket who brought the kiwi flag to the podium at the World Series Finale, Ultra Trail Du Mont Blanc.

Ultimately we need fuel to get speed, but as the weather cools and our motivation to hit the trail wanes, it is important to keep the winter bulge in check to perform at a high level. A runner weighing 73 kilograms has to generate 6.5 per cent more energy to run the same pace as a runner weighing 68 kilograms. Penny Comins looks at some ways to keep active and fight the flab.

The English have a great saying, 'There is no such thing as bad weather just poor clothing choices.' Penny Comins gets under the skin to determine what you should have next to your skin when the weather is ugly.

Event director Penny Comins hopes Steelman will appeal to families. "All ages and skill levels are welcome, and it's a really fun thing for families to do together. Some of the challenges may be easier for kids, some they may need help with."

Heading out to the Manaslu Mountain Trail Race, Nepal meant I was looking for anything that could help me get through the eight stages, 216 kilometres and 14,422 meters of elevation. I had the kit sorted; fitness was where it could be so I looked to technique. I knew that having an efficient technique would mean I was using less energy to move faster. Thus resulting in less time on my feet, faster day on day recovery and an overall more enjoyable experience.