MALE long-distance runners find it easier to attract women, apparently.

Now I turn a few heads when donning my short shorts in the office, but I assumed those were glances of dread more than desire.

But, according to researchers from the University of Cambridge, people who are better at running half marathons are likely to have been exposed to high levels of the sex hormone testosterone before birth.

This means they not only have better cardiovascular efficiency but also a strong sex drive and high sperm count – suggesting they have historically been chosen by women as more desirable mates.

Dr Danny Longman, from the university’s division of biological anthropology, said: “The observation that endurance running ability is connected to reproductive potential in men suggests that women in our hunter-gatherer past were able to observe running as a signal for a good breeding partner.”

Make no mistake, my long runs hardly resemble a Lynx advert, and I don’t expect a rabble of Czech beauties to come a-flocking in May.

Meanwhile, with just over two weeks to go, I’ve garnered some race preparation advice from PureGym Warrington group exercise manager and personal trainer Dave Cross.

“By this time all runners should be wearing the clothing they’ll be running in on race day,” he explains.

“This will give you the chance to make sure there’s no chafing and that you’re comfortable in the running gear you’ve selected.”

Skimpy shorts, check; St Rocco’s running vest, check.

“Trying to cram extra mileage in at this stage in your training is futile and your aim should be to maintain your fitness and make sure you get plenty of rest, to prepare mentally and physically for the challenge ahead,” adds Cross.

“Energy will play a key part in completing the marathon, in the last two weeks start to taper your training by cutting back on your day-to-day mileage as well as your daily intake of food.

“You’ll notice your extra energy levels will have increased as you won’t be covering as much distance.

“Remember you don’t need to burn this excess energy it’s ok to leave some in the tank, just keep calm and relax.”

I’m running for a very worthy cause, St Rocco’s Hospice, and all donations are greatly appreciated by both me and everyone involved with the hospice: personalchallenge.everydayhero.com/uk/alex-bysouth