I concentrate on the ground and try to stay focused so I don't slip and fall. Laughter and enjoyment are the most important things during the race. After all, it's not a foregone conclusion that you can even take part in the competition!

It is important to spread the power and recognise your strengths. I always train with a heart rate monitor, so I know at which pulse I can run for which distance. This helps me not to begin the race too quickly and to pace myself throughout. In this way, I set my own rhythm.

Most of the time, it's the spectators who cheer you on or another runner who challenges you to keep going to the finish line.

Something decisive I've had to learn is that less is more! It's no use a week before the race to start trying to catch up on missed training sessions. A fortnight before the event, I reduce myself to interval training using only 80-90% of my energy reserves.Then three days before the competition I stop training altogether so that on the day I am up to full strength again.

Of course, I prefer training somewhere in Adelboden. The most attractive footpaths are along Hörnliweg; the view is stunning and there are plenty of choices. If I have enough energy left, Tschenten isn't too far away, and if my legs are tired, I can change my mind and shorten the route back.

The night before a race, I eat lots of carbohydrates - my absolute favourite dish is potato gratin. The following morning, I'll probably only eat two honey bars. I never eat anything during the race. On a one-hour run, I'll take a liquid power gel after about 40 mins. to keep my strength up. Apart from that, I only drink at the refreshment stations along the route.