What causes runner’s high – and how can you boost your chances of an ecstatic 5k?

A few lucky runners can look forward to ‘an orchestra of neurochemical changes’ when they lace up their trainers. Why do the rest of us just get sweaty? And do other forms of exercise have the same effect?

Doctors don’t know what to do about wellness influencers but we dismiss them at our peril

To be a cancer specialist is to see the worst of harm caused by social media. Yet I have never changed a patient’s mind with outrage

My rookie era: In my 40s I attempted my first multi-day hike – and became a walking cliche

Adult beginners are charming when the stakes are low. Learning the piano at 50 is cute – but nobody ever needed to be airlifted out of a piano recital

Midwives want to make childbirth miraculous – so what went so wrong in Nottingham?

The acronym ‘FOH’ for ‘Fuck off home’ was used beside the names of expectant mothers. Senior midwives advised others not to be ‘too kind’. But as this and other shocking evidence is brought to light, sexism is only one part of the story, writes Zoe Williams

What’s the secret to getting the perfect amount of sleep? Don’t worry about it!

Research out this month says you should aim for between 6.4 and 7.8 hours a night. But if you’re getting that granular about shut-eye, you’re overthinking it, writes Emma Beddington

Is it true that … you should sync your workout routine to your menstrual cycle?

There is no evidence that ovulation affects muscle-building, but you may feel stronger at certain times

Hybrid training: is this the secret to getting fitter and stronger?

Whether it’s Hyrox or CrossFit, some of this century’s biggest exercise trends have one thing in common: combining cardio with strength training. Here’s how to do it

Every month, my explosive rage would send shockwaves through my family. Then I got a diagnosis that changed everything

Mothers with PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) explain how it has affected their relationship with their families

Poor sleep linked to rising cancer risk in under-50s

Findings add to growing efforts to explain why cancer rates are increasing among younger adults worldwide

‘A literal life-saver’: 12 essential exercise products our writers use to get fit

Oura rings, Bombas socks, Google Fitbit Air – the Filter’s all-time favorite things for looking and feeling good this summer

The best bath towels of 2026 in the US, from fluffy to quick drying – tested

We tested bath towels at all price points to find the softest, most absorbent towels that can withstand the rigors of life – and are worth the money

The best face sunscreens in the UK: 10 lightweight, non-greasy SPFs for every skin type – tested

Whether you want a stick, a spray or a tinted cream, our expert’s favourite formulas can provide year-round sun protection

I’ve finally hit my midlife crisis. How do I know what I’m meant to do?

Knowing time is finite is not easy, writes advice columnist Eleanor Gordon-Smith. But you’re not alone in this feeling

Have you looked inside your water bottle? I was shocked and disgusted by what I found in mine

I stared into the abyss, and the abyss stared back – mouldily. This is what happens when you forget basic hygiene, writes Arwa Mahdawi