Now the dust has - just - settled on the streets of the London Marathon let's spare a thought for all those non-runners. Even before the race start, competition was keen with over 50,000 disappointed applicants unable to take part and the situation is no different across all the World Marathon Majors.

But if you're still serious about testing your body to its limits, a triathlon event can be an interesting and much more accessible option with less pressure on places. The triathlon event comprises 3 consecutive disciplines of swim, bike and run, with distances to suit all abilities from super sprints to Olympic levels.

At the pinnacle of the triathlon family are the grueling Ironman competitions, testing the triathletes with increased distances. The toughest courses in Hawaii and the Canaries also add the infinitely more glamorous ingredients of ocean, volcano and scorching sunshine.

Indeed Lanzarote's Ironman Triathlon is almost upon us, due to take place this year on 20th May, with registration for both men and women closing on 1st May 2006. Lanzarote will see over 800 competitors attempt to complete a 3.8km (2.4 mile) swim, 180km (112.5 mile) volcano bike ride followed by a 42km or 26 mile marathon run, all in one day.

Attracting some of the world's best professional athletes, the event is definitely not for the fainthearted although the schedule of activities lasts for a few days with fun runs in the week leading up to the event itself, and parties and award ceremonies during the evenings.

If the sun, fun and party elements sound appealing but you find you're just not quite able to hone your body into this superfit category, then just slow the pace down a notch or two with a stay at Lanzarote's Club La Santa, official headquarters of the Ironman and recognised as one of the world's top sports resorts.

Combining superb sports facilities with all year round sunshine, the Canaries are easily reached throughout the summer and winter, see XL to find out about a cheap Lanzarote flight. The Club's triathlon instructors are available for personal coaching for those more serious athletes with organised professional events such as the Volcano Triathlon as well as weekly smaller triathlon and duathlon events with free participation available for all guests.