Pop superstar Madonna is gearing up to run the Marathon des Sables in Morocco,a 151-mile,six-day race. The 51-year-old singer is in training for the gruelling race which is due to take place April next year,Star magazine online reported. "She's always been in great shape,but she is now taking things to a whole other level. She is serious about doing it," a source told the magazine. The superstar,who is known for her super-toned physique and adhering to a strict eating plan and exercise regime,has also been forced to defend her ultra-healthy lifestyle and muscular body. 'Material Girl' singer,who is dating 22-year-old Brazilian model Jesus Luz,said,"My body is an important instrument as well as my voice. Does working out really help with singing? Yeah,absolutely. Using your diaphragm properly is connected to having good posture." "Your body is one organism. You can't separate it. If you are not in good health your vocal cords will suffer. Everything will suffer," Madonna said.
