The course changes every ear but the race always finishes in Paris. The race is divided into stages, with a winning time for each stage. These individual times are aggregated to determine the overall winner at the end of the race. So it is possible to win without winning a single stage.

The yellow jersey is a prize possession and it’s awarded at the end of each day to the rider with the lowest aggregate time. They wear the leader’s yellow jersey on the next day of racing. The race was first stage in 1903 and entry today is by invitation to teams chosen by the race organiser. The Tour is synonymous with Lance Armstrong who has won it for seven consecutive years from 1999 to 2005.

Buildings – these are generally quite hard to jump from as you have to negotiate security and locked doors. Skyscrapers that are under construction are a popular choice.

Antennas – with less security these are a better option and they are often as high as the world’s tallest buildings.

Spans or bridges – these have to cross over large canyons or gorges to be suitable.

Earth – large natural formations like cliffs, canyons, fjords and gorges are prime locations for jumpers.

An exercise buddy will keep you motivated and the laughs and jokes are a great way to build a relationship. Give the dog some exercise by taking it along too or you can join a walking club and enter regular events. Buy a pedometer so you can keep track of the number of steps you’ve taken.

A heart rate monitor can also make walking a little more fun and listening to your favourite music on your iPod will get your feet pumping. Keep a walking journal, so you can monitor your progress, and set achievable goals and milestones so that you’re more enthusiastic to carry on exercising.

Each event consists of a 3.86km swim, a 180.25km cycle and a 42.2km marathon. The event is raced in that order without a break. The start time is 7am and competitors have 17 hours to complete all the events; midnight is the cut-off time. Ironman Triathlons are well televised and supported as onlookers marvel at the endurance, determination and sheer will power of the competitors.

A milestone in the history of Ironman occurred in 1982 with a runner named Julie Moss. She was in first place but metres from the finish line she collapsed from severe fatigue and dehydration and was passed by another runner. Moss crawled over the finish line and her performance was broadcast worldwide. It helped create the ironman adage that just finishing is a victory.