Sunday 1st August
Ran to gym, did RPM (Nicole again) then ran 5 miles on the treadmill, ran home. So about 11 miles of running and an hour of spinning. Wanted to run for longer on the treadmill but had a very painful stitch. Still, managed to get quite a bit of housework done in the afternoon.
Monday 2nd August
Abs class. Tired after doing a lot at the weekend, and plan to do the Pewsey 5 on Wednesday so trying to conserve energy. Still plan to go to the track tomorrow as it's only 8 * 300m.
Tuesday 3rd August
Track session, 8 * 300m. Took it fairly steady as racing the next day.
Wednesday 4th August
Competed in the Pewsey 5 which turned out to be one of the most painful experiences of my racing career. Basically my lower back seized up in the second mile and I was in agony the rest of the way. I finished in over 44 minutes - 5 minutes slower than my last 5 mile race.
Still, the evening wasn't a complete disaster. Janine came with me so I had company and we stopped for a drink in Marlborough on the way home. She had a nice surprise later when I got an email from Gary O'Brien telling me he had collected a trophy on her behalf (she came 3rd in the senior female category). So a pleasant evening despite the pain, but I definitely need to find someone to give me a good sports massage.
Thursday 5th August
In no mood to do any running today. RPM and circuits.
Friday 6th August
Walked to and from work.
Saturday 7th August
Intended to give the park run another go and parked at the gym so I could jog out there. I was running too late though and they were starting just as I got there. My back was still niggling me, so I decided to spectate instead. Got chatting to a nice lady whose daughter was running and they recommended a sports therapist, the same one my friend Dom goes to. As I write I have arranged an appointment for later in the month.
Jogged back to the gym and did RPM and body pump.
Sunday 8th August
Had to cut my long run short (about 8 miles) as doing housework all morning and had a viewing pencilled in for the afternoon. Could have carried on running as it was cancelled anyway.
Monday 9th August
Complete rest. Got my hair cut. I'm tired.
Monday, 2 August 2010
Tuesday, 6 July 2010
July 2010
Thursday 1st July
Two classes today, RPM and circuits. Enjoyed both. Nicole is becoming a very good, confident RPM instructor. Circuits was good and very sociable afterwards, Michelle threw in some new exercises to make it fun.
Friday 2nd July
At Lords' tomorrow so long run tonight. Roughly 2.5 hours on my feet. Some walking thrown in but mostly felt good.
Saturday 3rd July
Day off. Had a really good day at Lords', England v Australia in a ODI. Got there early and had a seat about 3 rows up from the boundary, so saw the the players practising at close range before the game. Funny old game, it looked like they would get a modest total but ended up getting 270-odd. Had a wander round at the lunch break, and it struck me how there is always a party atmosphere at Lords' - it's not quite the same at other grounds.
England didn't quite get up to their total but there was some merry hitting and some fantastic fast bowling from Shaun Tait. In any case, we won the series 3-2. Stayed for the presentation which proved a good move, as on the way out I bumped into Mike Atherton and had a quick chat. It was nice to finally shake hands and speak to him in person at last.
Stopped at a Wetherspoons on the way home, there is one just outside Baker Street tube station which is good to know. Went to my friend Claire Davis' birthday party when I got back, but I really was quite tired by then.
Sunday 4th July
Day off. Just didn't have the energy to do anything, and needed to get some stuff done at home.
Monday 5th July
Abs class after work and then a 5-mile run. Quite a few aches and pains on the run, obviously need to take better care of myself.
Tuesday 6th July
Track session, 8 * 300m. 6 laps to warm up (4 on my own, then joined Janine for a couple). 8 * 300m again might sound easy but because there were so few I think we all pushed ourselves harder than usual. Couple of laps to cool down then a quick shop in Tescos with Janine which is always fun.
Wednesday 7th July
Abs class, 5k on the treadmill and RPM.
Thursday 8th July
Interval session at the lake, 5 laps. A good session.
Friday 9th July
Walked to and from work.
Saturday 10th July
Made my debut at the park run. Got there late, with literally seconds to spare before the off. Found it a real struggle, especially on the first lap, but very impressed with the organisation. Just wish it wasn't so early - 9am start! Disappointed later with my time but at least it's something I can work on.
Body pump at the gym (new release) and another 5k on the treadmill. Out later with Paul and Jason from the gym, so forming a nice circle of friends.
Sunday 11th July
Struggled with long run today, ran to the gym, did an hour on the treadmill and ran back so still about 15 miles in total. Not bad after a night out. Was amazed when someone on facebook questioned my having chicken tikka massala for dinner! I still remember Anthony telling me to have whatever I like on the days I do my long run, and I stick by that. I had deserved it.
Monday 12th July
Abs class. Just that. My body was screaming at me for a rest. People were trying to drag me into Octathlon and other stuff but I was having none of it!
Tuesday 13th July
Track session. A nasty one tonight: a 500m rep, followed by about a minute's rest, then a 300m rep. Five sets of this, with four minutes between sets. I surprised myself by doing all of it, but was knackered by the end. So much so I could only manage one lap to cool down, having done about 5 to warm up. Shopping in Tescos with Janine and guilt-free pizza when I get home makes the rest of the evening enjoyable however.
Wednesday 14th July
Abs class, followe by three miles on the treadmill. A lot of lower back pain, had to stop and stretch after every mile.
Thursday 15th July
Interval session at the lake, same as last week. A good session but again, a lot of lower back pain. Had a good stretch after the second rep and was a lot better after that.
Friday 16th July
Walked to and from work.
Saturday 17th July
Too late up to go to the park run and in no mood to rush like I did last week. Ran to the gym, did body pump, then ran/walked home (had to stop at the bank in town).
Sunday 18th July
Good long run today. Drove to gym, did 7 miles on the treadmill, then another two hours outside so about 19-20 in total - the longest I've run so far this year. It's good to be back into proper marathon training again.
Monday 19th July
Abs class and four miles on the treadmill. Legs not feeling as bad as I thought they might.
Tuesday 20th July
Track session. Four laps to warm up with Dom, which seemed about my 10k pace! Another two with Lydia to be sociable which were a bit more sedate. The session was 5 sets of 2*400m with a minute between the reps. It didn't feel as bad as I thought it would, but I think my legs would only go so fast because they were tired. Invited to warm down with Dom again and was glad when Janine had a stitch in the second lap as it gave me an excuse to stop. I was knackered. I guess it's a sign of a good track session when you are so spent you can't do the cool down. Had a right laugh with Janine in Tescos, people were looking at us and obviously wondering what a fat old man like me is going with a 24-year old blonde stunner! I wish!
Wednesday 21st July
Body pump. Hadn't been on a Wednesday for weeks as it is always too crowded, even when I have booked. Not too bad tonight though, managed to get enough weights to do it all properly. Three miles on the treadmill afterwards - I wanted to do more, ie go for a longer run outside or do RPM but I really wanted to see Toy Story 3 at the cinema. I should have gone for that run, as when I arrived at the cinema the queue was all the way out into the car park! So came home instead :(
Thursday 22nd July
Just did RPM with Nicole tonight. Wanted to make an appearance at my writers' cafe, which was worthwhile as I got some useful feedback on my book.
Friday 23rd July
Walked to and from work.
Saturday 24th July
Ended up doing quite a lot today. Ran to the gym, did an extra mile and a half on the treadmill, then did body pump (Nicole covering for Ali). Then after coffee and a chat I got back on the treadmill and knocked out another 7 miles in an hour! My friend Anna even questioned my sanity! Then I had to run home again, so probably 14-15 miles of running plus body pump so not bad going. Some days I really don't to train, some days I can't seem to do enough. This was one of the latter so I cashed in while I could.
Sunday 25th July
Not up to a long run due to my exertions yesterday as well as going out last night. Managed about an hour's run in the afternoon, but a very slow steady plod.
A sad day for me personally as I visited Dad who was just out of hospital and he wasn't looking well at all. Fortunately a visit to my sister Amanda's house cheered me up, especially as Tanya (my niece) was there with Taylor, her little boy. And the dog (Bear) played with me.
Monday 26th July
Just abs class tonight. Really not in the mood to do any more.
Tuesday 27th July
Track session. 5 * 600m. Four laos to warm up, two to cool down. A very small group tonight. Mostly females so I wasn't complaining! A fairly tough but enjoyable session. Am struggling to do more than a couple of laps to cool down so I must be working hard at these sessions.
Wednesday 28th July
Body pump and RPM tonight, Emma teaching the latter. More calories burnt. Am convinced that even wicking t-shirts shrink, as one of my old vests is getting tight, whereas another that used to be tight, isn't. Interesting.
Thursday 29th July
Interval session at the lake. Only did 3 laps tonight as felt very tired.
Friday 30th July
Walked to and from work.
Saturday 31st July
Up early today so headed off to the Park Run. Nice to see my friends Claire and Martin there. Had a good run (at least, it felt good) and afterwards headed straight for the gym. Wasn't sure if I really wanted to do RPM as well as body pump, but Nicole was teaching so it became a no-brainer. Had a feeling the triple would sap my energy for running tomorrow - enjoying the cricket and athletics meant I wouldn't have much energy left at all.
Two classes today, RPM and circuits. Enjoyed both. Nicole is becoming a very good, confident RPM instructor. Circuits was good and very sociable afterwards, Michelle threw in some new exercises to make it fun.
Friday 2nd July
At Lords' tomorrow so long run tonight. Roughly 2.5 hours on my feet. Some walking thrown in but mostly felt good.
Saturday 3rd July
Day off. Had a really good day at Lords', England v Australia in a ODI. Got there early and had a seat about 3 rows up from the boundary, so saw the the players practising at close range before the game. Funny old game, it looked like they would get a modest total but ended up getting 270-odd. Had a wander round at the lunch break, and it struck me how there is always a party atmosphere at Lords' - it's not quite the same at other grounds.
England didn't quite get up to their total but there was some merry hitting and some fantastic fast bowling from Shaun Tait. In any case, we won the series 3-2. Stayed for the presentation which proved a good move, as on the way out I bumped into Mike Atherton and had a quick chat. It was nice to finally shake hands and speak to him in person at last.
Stopped at a Wetherspoons on the way home, there is one just outside Baker Street tube station which is good to know. Went to my friend Claire Davis' birthday party when I got back, but I really was quite tired by then.
Sunday 4th July
Day off. Just didn't have the energy to do anything, and needed to get some stuff done at home.
Monday 5th July
Abs class after work and then a 5-mile run. Quite a few aches and pains on the run, obviously need to take better care of myself.
Tuesday 6th July
Track session, 8 * 300m. 6 laps to warm up (4 on my own, then joined Janine for a couple). 8 * 300m again might sound easy but because there were so few I think we all pushed ourselves harder than usual. Couple of laps to cool down then a quick shop in Tescos with Janine which is always fun.
Wednesday 7th July
Abs class, 5k on the treadmill and RPM.
Thursday 8th July
Interval session at the lake, 5 laps. A good session.
Friday 9th July
Walked to and from work.
Saturday 10th July
Made my debut at the park run. Got there late, with literally seconds to spare before the off. Found it a real struggle, especially on the first lap, but very impressed with the organisation. Just wish it wasn't so early - 9am start! Disappointed later with my time but at least it's something I can work on.
Body pump at the gym (new release) and another 5k on the treadmill. Out later with Paul and Jason from the gym, so forming a nice circle of friends.
Sunday 11th July
Struggled with long run today, ran to the gym, did an hour on the treadmill and ran back so still about 15 miles in total. Not bad after a night out. Was amazed when someone on facebook questioned my having chicken tikka massala for dinner! I still remember Anthony telling me to have whatever I like on the days I do my long run, and I stick by that. I had deserved it.
Monday 12th July
Abs class. Just that. My body was screaming at me for a rest. People were trying to drag me into Octathlon and other stuff but I was having none of it!
Tuesday 13th July
Track session. A nasty one tonight: a 500m rep, followed by about a minute's rest, then a 300m rep. Five sets of this, with four minutes between sets. I surprised myself by doing all of it, but was knackered by the end. So much so I could only manage one lap to cool down, having done about 5 to warm up. Shopping in Tescos with Janine and guilt-free pizza when I get home makes the rest of the evening enjoyable however.
Wednesday 14th July
Abs class, followe by three miles on the treadmill. A lot of lower back pain, had to stop and stretch after every mile.
Thursday 15th July
Interval session at the lake, same as last week. A good session but again, a lot of lower back pain. Had a good stretch after the second rep and was a lot better after that.
Friday 16th July
Walked to and from work.
Saturday 17th July
Too late up to go to the park run and in no mood to rush like I did last week. Ran to the gym, did body pump, then ran/walked home (had to stop at the bank in town).
Sunday 18th July
Good long run today. Drove to gym, did 7 miles on the treadmill, then another two hours outside so about 19-20 in total - the longest I've run so far this year. It's good to be back into proper marathon training again.
Monday 19th July
Abs class and four miles on the treadmill. Legs not feeling as bad as I thought they might.
Tuesday 20th July
Track session. Four laps to warm up with Dom, which seemed about my 10k pace! Another two with Lydia to be sociable which were a bit more sedate. The session was 5 sets of 2*400m with a minute between the reps. It didn't feel as bad as I thought it would, but I think my legs would only go so fast because they were tired. Invited to warm down with Dom again and was glad when Janine had a stitch in the second lap as it gave me an excuse to stop. I was knackered. I guess it's a sign of a good track session when you are so spent you can't do the cool down. Had a right laugh with Janine in Tescos, people were looking at us and obviously wondering what a fat old man like me is going with a 24-year old blonde stunner! I wish!
Wednesday 21st July
Body pump. Hadn't been on a Wednesday for weeks as it is always too crowded, even when I have booked. Not too bad tonight though, managed to get enough weights to do it all properly. Three miles on the treadmill afterwards - I wanted to do more, ie go for a longer run outside or do RPM but I really wanted to see Toy Story 3 at the cinema. I should have gone for that run, as when I arrived at the cinema the queue was all the way out into the car park! So came home instead :(
Thursday 22nd July
Just did RPM with Nicole tonight. Wanted to make an appearance at my writers' cafe, which was worthwhile as I got some useful feedback on my book.
Friday 23rd July
Walked to and from work.
Saturday 24th July
Ended up doing quite a lot today. Ran to the gym, did an extra mile and a half on the treadmill, then did body pump (Nicole covering for Ali). Then after coffee and a chat I got back on the treadmill and knocked out another 7 miles in an hour! My friend Anna even questioned my sanity! Then I had to run home again, so probably 14-15 miles of running plus body pump so not bad going. Some days I really don't to train, some days I can't seem to do enough. This was one of the latter so I cashed in while I could.
Sunday 25th July
Not up to a long run due to my exertions yesterday as well as going out last night. Managed about an hour's run in the afternoon, but a very slow steady plod.
A sad day for me personally as I visited Dad who was just out of hospital and he wasn't looking well at all. Fortunately a visit to my sister Amanda's house cheered me up, especially as Tanya (my niece) was there with Taylor, her little boy. And the dog (Bear) played with me.
Monday 26th July
Just abs class tonight. Really not in the mood to do any more.
Tuesday 27th July
Track session. 5 * 600m. Four laos to warm up, two to cool down. A very small group tonight. Mostly females so I wasn't complaining! A fairly tough but enjoyable session. Am struggling to do more than a couple of laps to cool down so I must be working hard at these sessions.
Wednesday 28th July
Body pump and RPM tonight, Emma teaching the latter. More calories burnt. Am convinced that even wicking t-shirts shrink, as one of my old vests is getting tight, whereas another that used to be tight, isn't. Interesting.
Thursday 29th July
Interval session at the lake. Only did 3 laps tonight as felt very tired.
Friday 30th July
Walked to and from work.
Saturday 31st July
Up early today so headed off to the Park Run. Nice to see my friends Claire and Martin there. Had a good run (at least, it felt good) and afterwards headed straight for the gym. Wasn't sure if I really wanted to do RPM as well as body pump, but Nicole was teaching so it became a no-brainer. Had a feeling the triple would sap my energy for running tomorrow - enjoying the cricket and athletics meant I wouldn't have much energy left at all.
Friday, 4 June 2010
June 2010
Tuesday 1st June
Track session tonight, 10 * 300m. Usual warm up and cool down. Found it tough after running at the weekend, and the group isn't getting any better.
Wednesday 2nd June
Steady run, Lethbridge route so about 5-6 miles. A lot of lower back pain despite my new trainers which is a worry.
Thursday 3rd June
Ran with Terry and Tony tonight. An awful lot of pain in my lower back, it was just excrucating and not enjoyable at all. Managed to finish it though, but let them do a slightly longer run than myself. They measured the run at 6.75 miles, I probably did about .25 miles less. Used the foam roller a lot when I got back to the gym to self-massage myself.
Friday 4th June
Walked to and from work. A really horrible day for me personally, one of my lodgers left a pan of oil cooking and caused a fire. It wasn't serious, fortunately, but could have been.
Saturday 5th June
Body pump at the gym. Ran to and from the gym. Not a bad session considering how much alcohol I'd had to calm my nerves after the fire last night. Had actually hoped to be doing the park run at 9am for the first time, but that wasn't really an option.
Sunday 6th June
First really long run in the build up to NFM. 7 miles on the treamdmill, then another 9-10 outside. The latter took a lot longer than it should have, but my mind was all over the place after events in the last few days.
Monday 7th June
Easy run on the treadmill, 5 miles. Not bad considering how sore my legs were - pace between 10.2 and 11.8 kph.
I know I'm training for a marathon now. As I write I have just polished off a large plate of pasta but I'm still absolutely bloody starving.
Tuesday 8th June
RPM at the gym. I wanted to go to the track, but it was raining and I still can't wear my contacts so I wouldn't have been able to see a thing.
Wednesday 9th June
Steady run. Can't remember the exact time or distance to be honest.
Thursday 10th June
1 mile on the treadmill then Michelle's circuits class. Should get to the gym earlier and do a speed session before circuits, I enjoy it and it is good for the core.
Friday 11th June
No running, walked to and from work.
Saturday 12th June
Body pump in the morning. Couldn't figure out why my stomach was hurting so much, realised later it must have been from circuits, which proves what a useful addition to my training that is.
Competed in the Broad Town 5 race in the afternoon. It was a great afternoon out, there quite a few from the gym including Louise, Terry and Paul. Managed to finish in 39:19 despite a stitch which I was quite pleased with - at least it's sub 8 minute miles. Celebrated with a cake and a burger before going home to enjoy some beer on a Saturday evening.
Sunday 13th June
Ran to the gym, did RPM then another hour on the treadmill. So still managed a long session despite yesterday's exertions which is good.
Monday 14th June
Hills and sprints, 2 sets of 3 + 3. Didn't want to do anything too strenuous, but didn't fancy the tedium of the treadmill either.
Tuesday 15th June
Rest - Lethbridge 10k tomorrow. Makes a nice change to have an entire evening at home for a change.
Wednesday 16th June
Lethbridge 10k. Walked to the start from my home as it is only 15 minutes away. Had quite a good run, started with Terry, and he thought we were doing 7.5 minute miling in the first couple of miles. He said he was struggling so I pressed on ahead of him. Found it tough but enjoyable. Pleased with an offical time of 50:04, with chip timing that would have been under 50 minutes I reckon, so not bad on a tough course. It was definitely a PB for the course - and I beat Terry for the second successive time.
Thursday 17th June
Gave myself a rest from running, RPM and circuits back to back. Enjoyed both classes.
Friday 18th June
Walked to and from work.
Saturday 19th June
My birthday! Training as usual however, body pump at the gym in the morning but missed out the squats and lunges as saving my legs for the Bourton Hilly Half in the evening.
This was my fifth time at this event - the first time I have managed 5 consecutive appearances at any event, so that tells you how much I like it. I've even missed Lethbridge and the Swindon half once. It is a tough, hilly course but the scenery and views of the Gloucestershire countryside make up for the pain of those hills. And to be fair, the worst hill is in the first mile so is over quickly. Quite a long drag from 7-9 miles but apart from that just an undulating course really.
I made the decision, understandably, just to enjoy the run this evening and treat it as a hard training run. It worked - I was able to talk to people most of the way round but still found it tough. But as I said to a nice lady, I don't much see the point of entering such a scenic race, travelling from Swindon and then beasting myself to get a certain time. There are other races where I can do that.
I had no idea what pace I was doing and was quite pleased when I finished to be told I had finished in 1:58 (I found out later it was 1:58:58). One of the organisers joked with me 'Easy isn't it?' 'I've done easier ones' I replied archly.
Nice to chat with fellow runners at the end and interesting to hear about the Birmingham half marathon - a big city half that isn't a complete rip-off apparently. Might be a good opportunity to visit the city where I went to Uni.
Anyway, back home (quite a pleasant drive - shame it's so expensive) and just had a nice relaxing evening at home on my own with a curry and plenty of alcohol. I watched The Wrestler on sky movies and remembered why I enjoyed it at the cinema last year so much. A sad, depressing film but a brilliant character study and great performances from Mickey Rourke as an over the hill wrestler and Evan Rachel Wood as his estranged daughter.
Plenty of messages from friends and family on facebook which was lovely. Very often I feel lonely and isolated so it was nice to know there are actually lots of people out there who value me. It was a good day.
Sunday 20th June
Woke up quite late so it was a bit of a struggle to run to the gym and do RPM but I'm glad I did. Nicole was teaching which was a bit of a bonus and had a nice long chat with a fellow runner before jogging home. No need for a long run, a hilly half marathon is about the equivalent of 18 miles in training. As my lovely friend Emma said to me just before I left, fair play for coming to the gym after doing a half the previous evening.
Monday 21st June
Something a bit different tonight, did Michelle's abs class, then her 'octathlong' class later on after some light cardio. Only did 4 of the 8 stations as it was the first time, could be interesting to do all 8.
Tuesday 22nd June
Track session. Tough one tonight, 6 * 500m. Felt a bit queasy half way but got through it. Shopping in Tescos with Janine after which is always fun.
Wednesday 23rd June
Abs class again tonight, am enjoying this. Still sore from Monday though! Easy run afterwards, Lethbridge route, nice and steady.
Thursday 24th June
RPM tonight, Emma and Nicole teaching the new release together for the first time. Good fun and I like the new release.
Friday 25th June
Walked to and from work.
Saturday 26th June
Body pump in the morning, ran to and from the gym. Wanted to do the park run today, but ended up going out last night as my former boss, David Power, was playing in a gig in Swindon so I went to watch and had a couple of beers.
My birthday night out tonight, had a good evening and a great turnout, much more people than I expected incluing my niece Tanya which was lovely.
Sunday 27th & Monday 28th June
Rest days. Enjoyed my birthday a bit too much I think and ended taking Monday as holiday. In fairness I've had a lot on of late and probably needed a day off.
Tuesday 29th June
Track session, 7 * 400m. Sounds easy, but the recoveries were short and the idea was to sprint flat out for the last 200m. I did the best I could, but after 5 my heart was still pounding so had to miss one. So ended up doing 6 * 400m.
Wednesday 30th June
Abs class followed by a steady run.
Track session tonight, 10 * 300m. Usual warm up and cool down. Found it tough after running at the weekend, and the group isn't getting any better.
Wednesday 2nd June
Steady run, Lethbridge route so about 5-6 miles. A lot of lower back pain despite my new trainers which is a worry.
Thursday 3rd June
Ran with Terry and Tony tonight. An awful lot of pain in my lower back, it was just excrucating and not enjoyable at all. Managed to finish it though, but let them do a slightly longer run than myself. They measured the run at 6.75 miles, I probably did about .25 miles less. Used the foam roller a lot when I got back to the gym to self-massage myself.
Friday 4th June
Walked to and from work. A really horrible day for me personally, one of my lodgers left a pan of oil cooking and caused a fire. It wasn't serious, fortunately, but could have been.
Saturday 5th June
Body pump at the gym. Ran to and from the gym. Not a bad session considering how much alcohol I'd had to calm my nerves after the fire last night. Had actually hoped to be doing the park run at 9am for the first time, but that wasn't really an option.
Sunday 6th June
First really long run in the build up to NFM. 7 miles on the treamdmill, then another 9-10 outside. The latter took a lot longer than it should have, but my mind was all over the place after events in the last few days.
Monday 7th June
Easy run on the treadmill, 5 miles. Not bad considering how sore my legs were - pace between 10.2 and 11.8 kph.
I know I'm training for a marathon now. As I write I have just polished off a large plate of pasta but I'm still absolutely bloody starving.
Tuesday 8th June
RPM at the gym. I wanted to go to the track, but it was raining and I still can't wear my contacts so I wouldn't have been able to see a thing.
Wednesday 9th June
Steady run. Can't remember the exact time or distance to be honest.
Thursday 10th June
1 mile on the treadmill then Michelle's circuits class. Should get to the gym earlier and do a speed session before circuits, I enjoy it and it is good for the core.
Friday 11th June
No running, walked to and from work.
Saturday 12th June
Body pump in the morning. Couldn't figure out why my stomach was hurting so much, realised later it must have been from circuits, which proves what a useful addition to my training that is.
Competed in the Broad Town 5 race in the afternoon. It was a great afternoon out, there quite a few from the gym including Louise, Terry and Paul. Managed to finish in 39:19 despite a stitch which I was quite pleased with - at least it's sub 8 minute miles. Celebrated with a cake and a burger before going home to enjoy some beer on a Saturday evening.
Sunday 13th June
Ran to the gym, did RPM then another hour on the treadmill. So still managed a long session despite yesterday's exertions which is good.
Monday 14th June
Hills and sprints, 2 sets of 3 + 3. Didn't want to do anything too strenuous, but didn't fancy the tedium of the treadmill either.
Tuesday 15th June
Rest - Lethbridge 10k tomorrow. Makes a nice change to have an entire evening at home for a change.
Wednesday 16th June
Lethbridge 10k. Walked to the start from my home as it is only 15 minutes away. Had quite a good run, started with Terry, and he thought we were doing 7.5 minute miling in the first couple of miles. He said he was struggling so I pressed on ahead of him. Found it tough but enjoyable. Pleased with an offical time of 50:04, with chip timing that would have been under 50 minutes I reckon, so not bad on a tough course. It was definitely a PB for the course - and I beat Terry for the second successive time.
Thursday 17th June
Gave myself a rest from running, RPM and circuits back to back. Enjoyed both classes.
Friday 18th June
Walked to and from work.
Saturday 19th June
My birthday! Training as usual however, body pump at the gym in the morning but missed out the squats and lunges as saving my legs for the Bourton Hilly Half in the evening.
This was my fifth time at this event - the first time I have managed 5 consecutive appearances at any event, so that tells you how much I like it. I've even missed Lethbridge and the Swindon half once. It is a tough, hilly course but the scenery and views of the Gloucestershire countryside make up for the pain of those hills. And to be fair, the worst hill is in the first mile so is over quickly. Quite a long drag from 7-9 miles but apart from that just an undulating course really.
I made the decision, understandably, just to enjoy the run this evening and treat it as a hard training run. It worked - I was able to talk to people most of the way round but still found it tough. But as I said to a nice lady, I don't much see the point of entering such a scenic race, travelling from Swindon and then beasting myself to get a certain time. There are other races where I can do that.
I had no idea what pace I was doing and was quite pleased when I finished to be told I had finished in 1:58 (I found out later it was 1:58:58). One of the organisers joked with me 'Easy isn't it?' 'I've done easier ones' I replied archly.
Nice to chat with fellow runners at the end and interesting to hear about the Birmingham half marathon - a big city half that isn't a complete rip-off apparently. Might be a good opportunity to visit the city where I went to Uni.
Anyway, back home (quite a pleasant drive - shame it's so expensive) and just had a nice relaxing evening at home on my own with a curry and plenty of alcohol. I watched The Wrestler on sky movies and remembered why I enjoyed it at the cinema last year so much. A sad, depressing film but a brilliant character study and great performances from Mickey Rourke as an over the hill wrestler and Evan Rachel Wood as his estranged daughter.
Plenty of messages from friends and family on facebook which was lovely. Very often I feel lonely and isolated so it was nice to know there are actually lots of people out there who value me. It was a good day.
Sunday 20th June
Woke up quite late so it was a bit of a struggle to run to the gym and do RPM but I'm glad I did. Nicole was teaching which was a bit of a bonus and had a nice long chat with a fellow runner before jogging home. No need for a long run, a hilly half marathon is about the equivalent of 18 miles in training. As my lovely friend Emma said to me just before I left, fair play for coming to the gym after doing a half the previous evening.
Monday 21st June
Something a bit different tonight, did Michelle's abs class, then her 'octathlong' class later on after some light cardio. Only did 4 of the 8 stations as it was the first time, could be interesting to do all 8.
Tuesday 22nd June
Track session. Tough one tonight, 6 * 500m. Felt a bit queasy half way but got through it. Shopping in Tescos with Janine after which is always fun.
Wednesday 23rd June
Abs class again tonight, am enjoying this. Still sore from Monday though! Easy run afterwards, Lethbridge route, nice and steady.
Thursday 24th June
RPM tonight, Emma and Nicole teaching the new release together for the first time. Good fun and I like the new release.
Friday 25th June
Walked to and from work.
Saturday 26th June
Body pump in the morning, ran to and from the gym. Wanted to do the park run today, but ended up going out last night as my former boss, David Power, was playing in a gig in Swindon so I went to watch and had a couple of beers.
My birthday night out tonight, had a good evening and a great turnout, much more people than I expected incluing my niece Tanya which was lovely.
Sunday 27th & Monday 28th June
Rest days. Enjoyed my birthday a bit too much I think and ended taking Monday as holiday. In fairness I've had a lot on of late and probably needed a day off.
Tuesday 29th June
Track session, 7 * 400m. Sounds easy, but the recoveries were short and the idea was to sprint flat out for the last 200m. I did the best I could, but after 5 my heart was still pounding so had to miss one. So ended up doing 6 * 400m.
Wednesday 30th June
Abs class followed by a steady run.
Wednesday, 12 May 2010
May 2010
Sunday 9th May
First long run for a while, did the Swindon half route from my house so about 15 miles. Felt good most of the way, a bit of foot pain in the last mile or so, but I really struggle to keep running in the last mile. I think it must be a mental thing.
Monday 10th May
Rest. Time to watch England's last match in the super eights of the twenty20 world cup. They won comfortably and are top of their group to go through to the semis. Yay!
Tuesday 11th May
Track session, 6 * 900m. Did 4 laps to warm up then an extra 2 with Janine. Session wasn't as bad as I thought it would be, I didn't get lapped at all and managed to break each rep down into chunks. First 100m as a loosener, then a 400m rep strong and steady then pushed it on the last 400m. Managed all the reps which I didn't think I'd do. 2 laps to cool down with Janine and Lydia then had fun in Tescos shopping with J.
Wednesday 12th May
Easy run outside, 5 miles approx, followed by RPM class. Lot of lower back pain on the run, and worked out my trainers are over 6 months old so that may be why. RPM good, Emma teaching tracks 5-9. Would prefer to do body pump but again it was far too busy.
Thursday 13th May
Rest - Eng v Sri Lanka in the semi-final of the world twenty20, and England through to the final - yay!
Friday 14th May
No running, but walked to and from work so that's the best part of 2 hours' walking. In terms of calorie burning, I reckon that's as good as anything and the t-shirts I was wearing were soaked at the end of each walk.
Saturday 15th May
Quite a lot of training today. Ran to gym (the long way), did RPM and body pump and then ran home (the long way).
Sunday 16th May
Legs felt battered after yesterday and England are playing in the final of the world twenty20 this afternoon so didn't want to knacker myself out completely and end up sleeping all the way through it.
So ran to the gym (short way) did James' one hour RPM class and ran home (long way). By God that was a tough RPM class - I was struggling and someone else nearly passed out!
Enjoyed the afternoon watching England winning their first ever World Cup! Not every day that happens!
Monday 17th May
Enforced rest. Not a happy day at all - spent the morning trying to see a doctor as my iritis has flared up again after a few years' absence, was referred to the eye clinic at the hospital in the afternoon and given some drops.
Had hoped to do a track session with HIghworth Running Club tonight, 2 sets of 8 * 300m. Have too many friends there to not go to the Tuesday session but can't go tomorrow due to a leaving do. Only consolation about not being able to go was getting a text from Janine saying she couldn't go either.
Tuesday 18th May
Rest. Tracey Freeman's leaving do at the Oriental Aroma straight after work so no chance to get a run in. Ended up wishing I had gone to the track instead, as good as the food was the company was boring and I could have saved myself £15.
Wednesday 19th May
Rest again. In London for Damian Barr's literary salon. Had hoped to run in the morning, but forgot I was on a course and had to pop into work instead to do a presentation (long story).
Very pleasant evening with Alex Preston (author of This Bleeding City) and Diana Athill among those doing the readings. Had a relaxing afternoon in London, the weather was good enough for me to sit in St James' Park, read and generally de-stress.
Thursday 20th May
Steady run in the evening, about 7-8 miles. Had to take it steady as vision in left eye very blurred, some pain in my lower back and shins due to my trainers being so worn out, but good to run again.
Cinema on the way home, the film tonight was Four Lions, a spoof about suicide bombers. Wasn't sure if I found the idea of suicide bombers trying to blow themselves up at the London Marathon all that amusing, but it had its moments.
Friday 21st May
No running, but walked to and from work again. I remember Dad telling me once walking is better than running in some respects because it makes you less thirsty. Sorry Dad, I don't agree.
Saturday 22nd May
Body pump at the gym. Ran there and back, the long way home. Probably should have tried to do a longer run today. Ali wasn't teaching and the girl who covered, lovely girl that she is, made a mess of it, including starting on time when it was meant to start at 11.15 so yours truly missed the first two tracks. Oh well. At least I had a good read afterwards.
Sunday 23rd May
Just a short-ish run (about 50 minutes) in the morning as off to watch cricket at Bath today. Interesting how many more runners there are out in the nice weather, and made even better by the number of female runners!
It was a lovely day at the cricket, Somerset v Worcestershire in a 40 overs match. I couldn't really follow it as I couldn't see well enough, plus we couldn't see the scorecard from where we were sat. So just chilled out, read the paper, drank some beer, soaked up the sun, drank more beer, enjoyed Terry, Hazel and Aaron's company, drank more beer before it was time to grab a Schwartz burger and catch the train home. It might sound decadent, but I stopped at the Savoy for a drink on my own which may turn out to be one of the best things I ever did as I read an interesting piece on how struggling authors get published in the Sunday Times, which offered some useful advice..
Monday 24th May
Feeling a bit happier in myself today, my eye looked better for the first time since the infection set in and the hospital confirmed I can start reducing the drops at the end of the week.
7 miles on the treadmill at a decent pace, a bit too warm to run outdoors, plus I can't really trip on anything running on the treadmill can I?
Posted my entry forms today for the New Forest Marathon in September and the Bourton Hilly Half Marathon in June, the latter being on my birthday. Never thought I'd see the day when I run a half marathon on my birthday, but there you go.
Tuesday 25th May
Track session, 7 * 500m. 4 laps to warm up as usual, then the session. A smaller group than usual, which seemed a bit odd. I could understand it if it had been as warm as the previous evening, but it was a lot cooler, if slightly muggy. Had a good session for the most part - until the 6th rep in fact, when I felt a bit wobbly with 100m to go. I stopped, took a quick breather and then jogged to the end before taking the last rep a bit steadier. I just wanted to leave with my pride intact knowing I had finished the session. 4 laps to warm down, mostly with my friend Dominique. Very often it is too easy to skimp on the cool down if there is no one to jog round with, so it's nice to have someone who does the same distance to warm up and cool down, even if her running is in a different league to mine.
Must have been tired from the session as I fell asleep in my armchair when I got home which doesn't normally happen on a Tuesday. I later wondered if the iritis is anything to do with it as my body is still fighting an infection, which takes something out of you.
Wednesday 26th May
Pay day today and a small bonus in our pay packets so ordered new trainers as a matter of priority. Look forward now to starting proper training ie getting proper long runs in at the weekends.
Forgot to book in for body pump tonight so did 3 miles on the treadmill steady followed by RPM. Won't be going to this so often in future, just supporting Emma while she qualifies as an instructor.
Thursday 27th May
Writers' cafe so rest today.
Friday 28th May
At Lords' for the cricket today so rest again. Cricket was ok but the weather was great, really feel like I deserved my day in the sun.
Saturday 29th May
New trainers arrived today but too hungover after yesterday to do anything!
Sunday 30th May
Really, really wanted to go for a run in my new trainers but had to deal with a minor disaster at home as some idiot spilled oil over my doorstep. I didn't see it and trod in it when I went outside early in the morning so managed to tread it all inside the house.
Monday 31st May
RPM in the morning as Emma was teaching, then got out for a run in the evening with Terry, Kev and Tony. 5 miles, average pace 8.5 mins per mile. Had a terrible stitch in the first 3 miles but broke in my trainers at least.
First long run for a while, did the Swindon half route from my house so about 15 miles. Felt good most of the way, a bit of foot pain in the last mile or so, but I really struggle to keep running in the last mile. I think it must be a mental thing.
Monday 10th May
Rest. Time to watch England's last match in the super eights of the twenty20 world cup. They won comfortably and are top of their group to go through to the semis. Yay!
Tuesday 11th May
Track session, 6 * 900m. Did 4 laps to warm up then an extra 2 with Janine. Session wasn't as bad as I thought it would be, I didn't get lapped at all and managed to break each rep down into chunks. First 100m as a loosener, then a 400m rep strong and steady then pushed it on the last 400m. Managed all the reps which I didn't think I'd do. 2 laps to cool down with Janine and Lydia then had fun in Tescos shopping with J.
Wednesday 12th May
Easy run outside, 5 miles approx, followed by RPM class. Lot of lower back pain on the run, and worked out my trainers are over 6 months old so that may be why. RPM good, Emma teaching tracks 5-9. Would prefer to do body pump but again it was far too busy.
Thursday 13th May
Rest - Eng v Sri Lanka in the semi-final of the world twenty20, and England through to the final - yay!
Friday 14th May
No running, but walked to and from work so that's the best part of 2 hours' walking. In terms of calorie burning, I reckon that's as good as anything and the t-shirts I was wearing were soaked at the end of each walk.
Saturday 15th May
Quite a lot of training today. Ran to gym (the long way), did RPM and body pump and then ran home (the long way).
Sunday 16th May
Legs felt battered after yesterday and England are playing in the final of the world twenty20 this afternoon so didn't want to knacker myself out completely and end up sleeping all the way through it.
So ran to the gym (short way) did James' one hour RPM class and ran home (long way). By God that was a tough RPM class - I was struggling and someone else nearly passed out!
Enjoyed the afternoon watching England winning their first ever World Cup! Not every day that happens!
Monday 17th May
Enforced rest. Not a happy day at all - spent the morning trying to see a doctor as my iritis has flared up again after a few years' absence, was referred to the eye clinic at the hospital in the afternoon and given some drops.
Had hoped to do a track session with HIghworth Running Club tonight, 2 sets of 8 * 300m. Have too many friends there to not go to the Tuesday session but can't go tomorrow due to a leaving do. Only consolation about not being able to go was getting a text from Janine saying she couldn't go either.
Tuesday 18th May
Rest. Tracey Freeman's leaving do at the Oriental Aroma straight after work so no chance to get a run in. Ended up wishing I had gone to the track instead, as good as the food was the company was boring and I could have saved myself £15.
Wednesday 19th May
Rest again. In London for Damian Barr's literary salon. Had hoped to run in the morning, but forgot I was on a course and had to pop into work instead to do a presentation (long story).
Very pleasant evening with Alex Preston (author of This Bleeding City) and Diana Athill among those doing the readings. Had a relaxing afternoon in London, the weather was good enough for me to sit in St James' Park, read and generally de-stress.
Thursday 20th May
Steady run in the evening, about 7-8 miles. Had to take it steady as vision in left eye very blurred, some pain in my lower back and shins due to my trainers being so worn out, but good to run again.
Cinema on the way home, the film tonight was Four Lions, a spoof about suicide bombers. Wasn't sure if I found the idea of suicide bombers trying to blow themselves up at the London Marathon all that amusing, but it had its moments.
Friday 21st May
No running, but walked to and from work again. I remember Dad telling me once walking is better than running in some respects because it makes you less thirsty. Sorry Dad, I don't agree.
Saturday 22nd May
Body pump at the gym. Ran there and back, the long way home. Probably should have tried to do a longer run today. Ali wasn't teaching and the girl who covered, lovely girl that she is, made a mess of it, including starting on time when it was meant to start at 11.15 so yours truly missed the first two tracks. Oh well. At least I had a good read afterwards.
Sunday 23rd May
Just a short-ish run (about 50 minutes) in the morning as off to watch cricket at Bath today. Interesting how many more runners there are out in the nice weather, and made even better by the number of female runners!
It was a lovely day at the cricket, Somerset v Worcestershire in a 40 overs match. I couldn't really follow it as I couldn't see well enough, plus we couldn't see the scorecard from where we were sat. So just chilled out, read the paper, drank some beer, soaked up the sun, drank more beer, enjoyed Terry, Hazel and Aaron's company, drank more beer before it was time to grab a Schwartz burger and catch the train home. It might sound decadent, but I stopped at the Savoy for a drink on my own which may turn out to be one of the best things I ever did as I read an interesting piece on how struggling authors get published in the Sunday Times, which offered some useful advice..
Monday 24th May
Feeling a bit happier in myself today, my eye looked better for the first time since the infection set in and the hospital confirmed I can start reducing the drops at the end of the week.
7 miles on the treadmill at a decent pace, a bit too warm to run outdoors, plus I can't really trip on anything running on the treadmill can I?
Posted my entry forms today for the New Forest Marathon in September and the Bourton Hilly Half Marathon in June, the latter being on my birthday. Never thought I'd see the day when I run a half marathon on my birthday, but there you go.
Tuesday 25th May
Track session, 7 * 500m. 4 laps to warm up as usual, then the session. A smaller group than usual, which seemed a bit odd. I could understand it if it had been as warm as the previous evening, but it was a lot cooler, if slightly muggy. Had a good session for the most part - until the 6th rep in fact, when I felt a bit wobbly with 100m to go. I stopped, took a quick breather and then jogged to the end before taking the last rep a bit steadier. I just wanted to leave with my pride intact knowing I had finished the session. 4 laps to warm down, mostly with my friend Dominique. Very often it is too easy to skimp on the cool down if there is no one to jog round with, so it's nice to have someone who does the same distance to warm up and cool down, even if her running is in a different league to mine.
Must have been tired from the session as I fell asleep in my armchair when I got home which doesn't normally happen on a Tuesday. I later wondered if the iritis is anything to do with it as my body is still fighting an infection, which takes something out of you.
Wednesday 26th May
Pay day today and a small bonus in our pay packets so ordered new trainers as a matter of priority. Look forward now to starting proper training ie getting proper long runs in at the weekends.
Forgot to book in for body pump tonight so did 3 miles on the treadmill steady followed by RPM. Won't be going to this so often in future, just supporting Emma while she qualifies as an instructor.
Thursday 27th May
Writers' cafe so rest today.
Friday 28th May
At Lords' for the cricket today so rest again. Cricket was ok but the weather was great, really feel like I deserved my day in the sun.
Saturday 29th May
New trainers arrived today but too hungover after yesterday to do anything!
Sunday 30th May
Really, really wanted to go for a run in my new trainers but had to deal with a minor disaster at home as some idiot spilled oil over my doorstep. I didn't see it and trod in it when I went outside early in the morning so managed to tread it all inside the house.
Monday 31st May
RPM in the morning as Emma was teaching, then got out for a run in the evening with Terry, Kev and Tony. 5 miles, average pace 8.5 mins per mile. Had a terrible stitch in the first 3 miles but broke in my trainers at least.
Sunday, 3 January 2010
January 2010
1st January
Hill reps, two sets of ten. Start the new year as I mean to go on with a quality session
2nd January
Body pump at the gym, plus I ran there and back so about 5 miles of running.
3rd January
Not the long run I planned. Too icy to run outdoors so ran for an hour (11.1k or 7 miles near as dammit). Should have done another hour but really couldn't face it.
Monday 4th January
5 miles on the treadmill plus some core exercises. Much too icy to run outside.
Tuesday 5th January
Speedwork at the gym. Snow and sleet showers forecast so did not risk the track.
1 mile warm up then 10 * 2 minutes @ 14kph, 1 minute recoveries. 1 mile cool down. Did try to crank the speed up on some of the middle reps to 14.5 - 15kph but it nearly killed me. God I am so overweight and out of shape. I really have it all to do if I want a PB at the Bourton 10k.
Wednesday 6th January
The snow came down with a vengeance so had to walk to work! I think 2 hours of walking counts as good exercise!
Thursday 7th and Friday 8th January
As Wednesday 6th Jan!
Saturday 9th January
The snow hasn't melted but managed to move my car at last. Drove to the gym, did the new body pump release and a speed session (as per Tuesday) on the treadmill.
Sunday 10th January
Very disappointed that the rough n tumble has been cancelled as this has become one of my favourite winter training runs. Fortunately there was a 2.5 hour spinathon at the gym which cheered me up a bit. Greatly enjoyed this as always, nice to see the class full on a Sunday. Plus I ran to the gym (in the snow, with my off-road shoes on) so that's over 3.5 hours of exercise! I slept well later - unfortunately during a film I wanted to watch on Sky!
Monday 11th January
Very sore today so 5 miles slow on the treadmill. Felt a bit looser in the last two miles.
Tuesday 12th January
Speed session on the treadmill again as didn't know what conditions would be like at the track, or how bad the traffic would be. 1 mile warm up, then 10 * 2 mins, 1 mile cool down but it was actually a bit all over the place. Not sure how much of it was due to feeling tired from Sunday or the fact that the treadmill is seriously doing my head in and I just wish I could run outside in some way shape or form.
Wednesday 13th January
Body pump. Helped push Kathryn out of the gym car park after!
Thursday 14th January
RPM. Almost safe enough to run outside but decided not to risk it.
Friday 15th January
Rest.
Saturday 16th January
Body pump. Missed out legs to keep them fresh for tomorrow.
Sunday 17th January
Highworth Half Marathon. Was going well for the first 8 miles, then my legs just seemed to seize up. Still, enjoyed the run and finished in 1:56:00 which is not bad for the course, in fact I'd have taken anything under two hours today. Also did another 5 miles on the treadmill after to make this the first quality long run of 2010.
Monday 18th Janury
Legs seriously sore today! 5 miles easy jog (Blagrove route).
Tuesday 19th Janaury
Track session. 1 mile warm up, then I did 11 * 400m (actual session 15 * 400). 1 mile cool down. Not bad considering how sore I still am, in fact I seemed to get looser through the session.
Long runs, track sessions - this is much more like it :)
Hill reps, two sets of ten. Start the new year as I mean to go on with a quality session
2nd January
Body pump at the gym, plus I ran there and back so about 5 miles of running.
3rd January
Not the long run I planned. Too icy to run outdoors so ran for an hour (11.1k or 7 miles near as dammit). Should have done another hour but really couldn't face it.
Monday 4th January
5 miles on the treadmill plus some core exercises. Much too icy to run outside.
Tuesday 5th January
Speedwork at the gym. Snow and sleet showers forecast so did not risk the track.
1 mile warm up then 10 * 2 minutes @ 14kph, 1 minute recoveries. 1 mile cool down. Did try to crank the speed up on some of the middle reps to 14.5 - 15kph but it nearly killed me. God I am so overweight and out of shape. I really have it all to do if I want a PB at the Bourton 10k.
Wednesday 6th January
The snow came down with a vengeance so had to walk to work! I think 2 hours of walking counts as good exercise!
Thursday 7th and Friday 8th January
As Wednesday 6th Jan!
Saturday 9th January
The snow hasn't melted but managed to move my car at last. Drove to the gym, did the new body pump release and a speed session (as per Tuesday) on the treadmill.
Sunday 10th January
Very disappointed that the rough n tumble has been cancelled as this has become one of my favourite winter training runs. Fortunately there was a 2.5 hour spinathon at the gym which cheered me up a bit. Greatly enjoyed this as always, nice to see the class full on a Sunday. Plus I ran to the gym (in the snow, with my off-road shoes on) so that's over 3.5 hours of exercise! I slept well later - unfortunately during a film I wanted to watch on Sky!
Monday 11th January
Very sore today so 5 miles slow on the treadmill. Felt a bit looser in the last two miles.
Tuesday 12th January
Speed session on the treadmill again as didn't know what conditions would be like at the track, or how bad the traffic would be. 1 mile warm up, then 10 * 2 mins, 1 mile cool down but it was actually a bit all over the place. Not sure how much of it was due to feeling tired from Sunday or the fact that the treadmill is seriously doing my head in and I just wish I could run outside in some way shape or form.
Wednesday 13th January
Body pump. Helped push Kathryn out of the gym car park after!
Thursday 14th January
RPM. Almost safe enough to run outside but decided not to risk it.
Friday 15th January
Rest.
Saturday 16th January
Body pump. Missed out legs to keep them fresh for tomorrow.
Sunday 17th January
Highworth Half Marathon. Was going well for the first 8 miles, then my legs just seemed to seize up. Still, enjoyed the run and finished in 1:56:00 which is not bad for the course, in fact I'd have taken anything under two hours today. Also did another 5 miles on the treadmill after to make this the first quality long run of 2010.
Monday 18th Janury
Legs seriously sore today! 5 miles easy jog (Blagrove route).
Tuesday 19th Janaury
Track session. 1 mile warm up, then I did 11 * 400m (actual session 15 * 400). 1 mile cool down. Not bad considering how sore I still am, in fact I seemed to get looser through the session.
Long runs, track sessions - this is much more like it :)
Friday, 15 May 2009
And so it ends...
Just a quick note to say that I have decided to draw a line under this blog having completed the Flora London marathon. The reason is simply that whilst I fully intend to continue training and racing, I need to give other activities priority. The book I have written won't get itself published and I need to devote my energies to that particular project.
I shall also be following the Ashes series of 2009 with a great deal of interest, and this also gives me an opportunity to hone my writing skills in this area. To this end (and to relieve some frustration at times no doubt) I have set up a cricketing blog at http://jonscricketblog.blogspot.com/
I may still post reports of certain races here, but for now as they say, that's all folks.
I shall also be following the Ashes series of 2009 with a great deal of interest, and this also gives me an opportunity to hone my writing skills in this area. To this end (and to relieve some frustration at times no doubt) I have set up a cricketing blog at http://jonscricketblog.blogspot.com/
I may still post reports of certain races here, but for now as they say, that's all folks.
Tuesday, 5 May 2009
Jon runs London 2009
Saturday 25th April
The big day (or at least, the weekend) is finally upon me! Met Daniel at the station in the morning to catch the train to London, and we met Anthony and some of his friends from South Wales on the train. When we arrived in London we made our way over to the expo at Docklands and swiftly completed the registration process - the organisation at FLM is faultless.
Anthony and I then headed over to the pasta party for our meal and then spent an hour or two looking round the stands. I resisted any temptation to spend lots of money, but did grab a few pairs of running socks at the sweatshop stand.
Afterwards, I made my way to Kennington to pick up the key for the guest room at my Uncle Eddie's retirement home there. True to form, he offered me alcohol as soon as he saw me but I managed to resist. I had come too far to mess up my chances over a few rum and cokes.
In the evening, I met up with Anthony, Daniel, Martin, Claire and other members of the Swindon Striders for dinner near their hotel at Vauxhall. It was a really nice meal and incredibly cheap - £5.50 for a huge plate of lasagne and chips!
There was a slight scare for me in that I seemed to have developed blisters on both heels; my new shoes weren't as comfortable as I at first thought. Fortunately Claire gave me some blister plasters to out on in the morning so all I could do was get to bed and hope for the best in the morning.
Sunday 26th April - THE 2009 FLORA LONDON MARATHON
Good news. My feet were less sore than the previous evening and with the blister plasters on I was able to walk normally again. Packed my bag, had my pre-race breakfast of rice pudding and made my way to the tube station. Somewhat serendipitously I met Anthony et al there, and teamed up with Martin and Claire, who was in the same pen as me at the blue start. If I had wasted energy the previous day by spending too much time on my feet I wasted more energy this morning sprinting between trains and getting stressed - a result of platform alterations and delays at London Bridge. Fortunately we still got to the start with a few minutes to spare. No time for a stretch but the first few miles were going to be my warm-up anyway.
Before long we were off and I was noticeably closer to the start this year - it only took 5 minutes or so to cross the line, unlike 10 two years ago. Whilst the pace was slightly faster, the streets were equally crowded and it was hard to get any sort of speed up. The first mile took 9 and a half minutes, and as my plan was to run 9 minute miles all the way round I was already behind schedule.
Not to worry, or so it appeared; I managed a few faster miles and by 5 miles was ahead of schedule. The mood of the runners was very positive and good-humoured; cries of 'Oggy Oggy Oggy' at the start and boos and hisses for the runners from the red start when the race converged at mile three!
On a more sombre note I will always remember passing a young man with an artificial leg in the first few miles wearing a 'Help for Heroes' t-shirt. I mused that he had possibly lost a leg fighting for his country in Iraq and Afghanistan, so I vowed at that point I wasn't going to whinge during the race, no matter how much it hurts.
I was still going strong at mile 10 and by now was starting to count down the miles. 16 to go, how many times have I done that in training?
Like I say, it was very crowded and there were plenty of near misses, and already I was getting sick and tired of people's elbows bashing into me as I tried to pass them.
The first major collision took place on Tower Bridge. Some TV or radio presenter, in his wisdom, decided to stop a lady right in my path. I couldn't stop and went straight into her. I'm guessing it hurt her more but it knocked the wind out of me. That notwithstanding, I felt reasonably strong at halfway, which I passed in about 1:56 so sub four hours was still a possibility at that stage.
I think it would have been at about mile 16 that things started to go wrong. I suddenly felt tired, my legs were heavy, and I was increasingly annoyed at having to avoid collisions. By now people were stopping in front of me, and it was as much as I could do not to crash into them. I didn't realise it at the time, but it was also now getting pretty warm.
I very nearly had a nasty accident in docklands when a bottle of lucozade rolled under my foot (whose idea was it to have bottles this year instead of pouches?!) and I could have ended up flat on my back. Fortunately I was still alert enough to realise what I had stepped on and roll my foot over it.
By miles 20-21 I was really starting to suffer and as much as I tried to tell myself it was only another 10k, it still seemed like a hell of a long way. My stopwatch had been stopped in another collision but I knew I was slowing down and hopes of finishing in under four hours were disappearing fast. I had to have a few walk breaks, usually at the drinks stations so I could regain my composure (I was feeling faint and dizzy) and take some fluid on board, which I badly needed. Truth be told, I can't recall ever wanting a pint of beer so badly in my life!
The signs saying Lucozade station in 500m were cruel by mile 23, as 500m seemed a very long way by that stage. I remember the crowd cheering me on and all I wanted to shout in return was 'Where's the f***ing lucozade station?!' I'm glad I can remember the humorous aspect of this painful passage.
By now I was just trying to hang in there and whilst I was moving slowly and really wanted to just stop I tried to remember the words of one of my true sporting heroes, the legendary Shane Warne: 'Never give up. Never, ever, give up.'
I tried to focus on the sights of London and the cheers of the crowd as I edged towards the finish. It was nearly over; soon I was passing the Houses of Parliament and beginning the final passage along Birdcage walk. By the time I got to the 600m to go sign I was in all kinds of pain; among other things my spine was hurting and so a sprint finish was out of the question. I did manage to raise my arms aloft as I crossed the line. I didn't know exactly what my time was, it was about 4hrs 6 minutes so I hadn't managed four hours but it was a lot faster than two years ago. A good 25 minutes, roughly speaking. Despite still being in agony I still managed the broadest smile possible as I had my finisher's photo taken.
Still wheezing I made a phone call to my Dad to let him know I had finished. When I told him how much I had suffered in the last six miles but kept going, he told me that was 'true grit'.
Yes, you could say that I guess.
After the race
Met up with Anthony et al in the meet and greet area, but when they made their way home my day wasn't over as I was very lucky to have an old mate, Roger, come to London to spend a few hours having a celebration drink with me. It was great to see him and a fantastic atmosphere in London. People were randomly shaking my hand, high-fiving me and saying well done when they found out I had done the race. In fact, it was easy to pick out anyone who had run as they were the ones hobbling...
We had a nice thai meal in Covent Garden (a cheap restaurant opposite The Salisbury, one of my favourite watering holes) and a few beers and generally caught up. Later I headed back to Eddie's but wasn't able to have a drink with him - I was well and truly whacked and a well-earned good night's sleep beckoned.
I treated myself to an overdue day out in London the next day before catching the last train home. In the morning I spent some time with Eddie and checked my result on his computer. My exact time was 4:05:52 and I came 11,808th overall, so well within the top third I guess. Again I was unlucky not to meet any celebs as Gordon Ramsay had finished just fifty seconds ahead of me and Ronan Keating 10 minutes later! Not sure if Matt Dawson was running though...
The weather was a bit rubbish which was a shame. I had anticipated relaxing in St James' Park but it was too wet for that so I bought my theatre ticket for the evening, had some lunch, spent a long time browsing in Waterstone's, bought a paper and had perhaps a few too many rum and cokes and pints of Stella in some of my favourite pubs. The play was Three Days of Rain starring James McAvoy (who I would love to play the lead character if my novel Ashes Summer ever gets made into a film) and I wish I could tell you all about it but my memories start getting hazy after dinner in Chandos...but to be fair, even Ali O'Hara told me to have a few beers after the race so if he thinks I deserved it then I guess I did.
The big day (or at least, the weekend) is finally upon me! Met Daniel at the station in the morning to catch the train to London, and we met Anthony and some of his friends from South Wales on the train. When we arrived in London we made our way over to the expo at Docklands and swiftly completed the registration process - the organisation at FLM is faultless.
Anthony and I then headed over to the pasta party for our meal and then spent an hour or two looking round the stands. I resisted any temptation to spend lots of money, but did grab a few pairs of running socks at the sweatshop stand.
Afterwards, I made my way to Kennington to pick up the key for the guest room at my Uncle Eddie's retirement home there. True to form, he offered me alcohol as soon as he saw me but I managed to resist. I had come too far to mess up my chances over a few rum and cokes.
In the evening, I met up with Anthony, Daniel, Martin, Claire and other members of the Swindon Striders for dinner near their hotel at Vauxhall. It was a really nice meal and incredibly cheap - £5.50 for a huge plate of lasagne and chips!
There was a slight scare for me in that I seemed to have developed blisters on both heels; my new shoes weren't as comfortable as I at first thought. Fortunately Claire gave me some blister plasters to out on in the morning so all I could do was get to bed and hope for the best in the morning.
Sunday 26th April - THE 2009 FLORA LONDON MARATHON
Good news. My feet were less sore than the previous evening and with the blister plasters on I was able to walk normally again. Packed my bag, had my pre-race breakfast of rice pudding and made my way to the tube station. Somewhat serendipitously I met Anthony et al there, and teamed up with Martin and Claire, who was in the same pen as me at the blue start. If I had wasted energy the previous day by spending too much time on my feet I wasted more energy this morning sprinting between trains and getting stressed - a result of platform alterations and delays at London Bridge. Fortunately we still got to the start with a few minutes to spare. No time for a stretch but the first few miles were going to be my warm-up anyway.
Before long we were off and I was noticeably closer to the start this year - it only took 5 minutes or so to cross the line, unlike 10 two years ago. Whilst the pace was slightly faster, the streets were equally crowded and it was hard to get any sort of speed up. The first mile took 9 and a half minutes, and as my plan was to run 9 minute miles all the way round I was already behind schedule.
Not to worry, or so it appeared; I managed a few faster miles and by 5 miles was ahead of schedule. The mood of the runners was very positive and good-humoured; cries of 'Oggy Oggy Oggy' at the start and boos and hisses for the runners from the red start when the race converged at mile three!
On a more sombre note I will always remember passing a young man with an artificial leg in the first few miles wearing a 'Help for Heroes' t-shirt. I mused that he had possibly lost a leg fighting for his country in Iraq and Afghanistan, so I vowed at that point I wasn't going to whinge during the race, no matter how much it hurts.
I was still going strong at mile 10 and by now was starting to count down the miles. 16 to go, how many times have I done that in training?
Like I say, it was very crowded and there were plenty of near misses, and already I was getting sick and tired of people's elbows bashing into me as I tried to pass them.
The first major collision took place on Tower Bridge. Some TV or radio presenter, in his wisdom, decided to stop a lady right in my path. I couldn't stop and went straight into her. I'm guessing it hurt her more but it knocked the wind out of me. That notwithstanding, I felt reasonably strong at halfway, which I passed in about 1:56 so sub four hours was still a possibility at that stage.
I think it would have been at about mile 16 that things started to go wrong. I suddenly felt tired, my legs were heavy, and I was increasingly annoyed at having to avoid collisions. By now people were stopping in front of me, and it was as much as I could do not to crash into them. I didn't realise it at the time, but it was also now getting pretty warm.
I very nearly had a nasty accident in docklands when a bottle of lucozade rolled under my foot (whose idea was it to have bottles this year instead of pouches?!) and I could have ended up flat on my back. Fortunately I was still alert enough to realise what I had stepped on and roll my foot over it.
By miles 20-21 I was really starting to suffer and as much as I tried to tell myself it was only another 10k, it still seemed like a hell of a long way. My stopwatch had been stopped in another collision but I knew I was slowing down and hopes of finishing in under four hours were disappearing fast. I had to have a few walk breaks, usually at the drinks stations so I could regain my composure (I was feeling faint and dizzy) and take some fluid on board, which I badly needed. Truth be told, I can't recall ever wanting a pint of beer so badly in my life!
The signs saying Lucozade station in 500m were cruel by mile 23, as 500m seemed a very long way by that stage. I remember the crowd cheering me on and all I wanted to shout in return was 'Where's the f***ing lucozade station?!' I'm glad I can remember the humorous aspect of this painful passage.
By now I was just trying to hang in there and whilst I was moving slowly and really wanted to just stop I tried to remember the words of one of my true sporting heroes, the legendary Shane Warne: 'Never give up. Never, ever, give up.'
I tried to focus on the sights of London and the cheers of the crowd as I edged towards the finish. It was nearly over; soon I was passing the Houses of Parliament and beginning the final passage along Birdcage walk. By the time I got to the 600m to go sign I was in all kinds of pain; among other things my spine was hurting and so a sprint finish was out of the question. I did manage to raise my arms aloft as I crossed the line. I didn't know exactly what my time was, it was about 4hrs 6 minutes so I hadn't managed four hours but it was a lot faster than two years ago. A good 25 minutes, roughly speaking. Despite still being in agony I still managed the broadest smile possible as I had my finisher's photo taken.
Still wheezing I made a phone call to my Dad to let him know I had finished. When I told him how much I had suffered in the last six miles but kept going, he told me that was 'true grit'.
Yes, you could say that I guess.
After the race
Met up with Anthony et al in the meet and greet area, but when they made their way home my day wasn't over as I was very lucky to have an old mate, Roger, come to London to spend a few hours having a celebration drink with me. It was great to see him and a fantastic atmosphere in London. People were randomly shaking my hand, high-fiving me and saying well done when they found out I had done the race. In fact, it was easy to pick out anyone who had run as they were the ones hobbling...
We had a nice thai meal in Covent Garden (a cheap restaurant opposite The Salisbury, one of my favourite watering holes) and a few beers and generally caught up. Later I headed back to Eddie's but wasn't able to have a drink with him - I was well and truly whacked and a well-earned good night's sleep beckoned.
I treated myself to an overdue day out in London the next day before catching the last train home. In the morning I spent some time with Eddie and checked my result on his computer. My exact time was 4:05:52 and I came 11,808th overall, so well within the top third I guess. Again I was unlucky not to meet any celebs as Gordon Ramsay had finished just fifty seconds ahead of me and Ronan Keating 10 minutes later! Not sure if Matt Dawson was running though...
The weather was a bit rubbish which was a shame. I had anticipated relaxing in St James' Park but it was too wet for that so I bought my theatre ticket for the evening, had some lunch, spent a long time browsing in Waterstone's, bought a paper and had perhaps a few too many rum and cokes and pints of Stella in some of my favourite pubs. The play was Three Days of Rain starring James McAvoy (who I would love to play the lead character if my novel Ashes Summer ever gets made into a film) and I wish I could tell you all about it but my memories start getting hazy after dinner in Chandos...but to be fair, even Ali O'Hara told me to have a few beers after the race so if he thinks I deserved it then I guess I did.
Friday, 24 April 2009
Highworth 5 mile race and final taper
Sunday 19th March
Competed today in the Highworth 5 mile road race. This is usually the weekend before, or after, the London marathon. This year, as was the case two years ago, it was the weekend before which is convenient for me as I can use it as my last hard run before a week of next to nothing.
I decided before the race to use as just that - a hard run - as I was planning to do another five miles after the race to bring me up to 10 miles as my last long run. So when I set off I didn't start the timer on my watch, I just concentrated on running hard but enjoying the race.
I didn't look at my watch at all during the race but I imagine the first three miles were faster than the last two. Certainly the last mile would have been the slowest - the hill at the four mile marker would have made sure of that.
In any case I was surprised and delighted with a time just under 37 minutes (36:59 official) as this was more than a minute and a half faster than my previous best at the distance. As I've been concentrating on distance rather than speed I can only put this down to improved fitness and the weight loss.
And yes I did do 5 miles on the treadmill afterwards - in a much more sedate time of 43 minutes. I'm feeling good and confident at this point.
Monday 20th April
Stupidly went out with the running club and soon regretted it. I made it clear that I had done a race the day before and had to taper for the marathon but they still went off at a pace that was too fast for me today. So I let them go about half way, and just ended up doing the Blagrove route on my own, which is about 5 miles.
Tuesday 21st April
Just a very easy jog tonight, about 3 miles. Went from work and jogged up the path which runs parallel with the dual carriageway. Should really take more advantage of this as the path leads to the bottom of the railway path where I start a lot of my runs from. There is a shower at work so really there is no need to head to the gym just to go for a run.
Time to rest and carbo-load now, and started both in earnest with a trip to the cinema. The film was the excellent Let The Right One In, a love story between a young boy in Sweden and a female vampire. It might sound silly, but it really was a beautiful film and I think I liked it because it was an impossible love story between two people who feel alone and ostracised for very different reasons but find some common ground. Don't listen to me ranting on about it, see if for yourself.
Wednesday 22nd April
Complete rest. Can't say I missed body pump. It can be tiring at times, a constant treadmill of work-gym-dinner-writing. Instead went home and did a quality editing session.
Thursday 23rd April
Full body massage with Ali. Felt some aches and pains during the run on Sunday so knew I needed this. He found a great deal of tension in my back, which he got rid of. Another quality session on the book and finished the second round of editing! Still some work to do - need to add in a few scenes and give it at least another read through but am very close to sending it out to agents and publishers now. Really wanted to reach this particular landmark as I feel in a funny way it will give me confidence in the race on Sunday, knowing I have got this far with the book as well as training.
Friday 24th April
Complete rest. Made the last minute preparations for the big day. And a few more donations came in which brings my total up to £1200 with £50 still to come from Dad.
Under the circumstances, it's been a fantastic effort whatever happens on Sunday, even if I say so myself.
Competed today in the Highworth 5 mile road race. This is usually the weekend before, or after, the London marathon. This year, as was the case two years ago, it was the weekend before which is convenient for me as I can use it as my last hard run before a week of next to nothing.
I decided before the race to use as just that - a hard run - as I was planning to do another five miles after the race to bring me up to 10 miles as my last long run. So when I set off I didn't start the timer on my watch, I just concentrated on running hard but enjoying the race.
I didn't look at my watch at all during the race but I imagine the first three miles were faster than the last two. Certainly the last mile would have been the slowest - the hill at the four mile marker would have made sure of that.
In any case I was surprised and delighted with a time just under 37 minutes (36:59 official) as this was more than a minute and a half faster than my previous best at the distance. As I've been concentrating on distance rather than speed I can only put this down to improved fitness and the weight loss.
And yes I did do 5 miles on the treadmill afterwards - in a much more sedate time of 43 minutes. I'm feeling good and confident at this point.
Monday 20th April
Stupidly went out with the running club and soon regretted it. I made it clear that I had done a race the day before and had to taper for the marathon but they still went off at a pace that was too fast for me today. So I let them go about half way, and just ended up doing the Blagrove route on my own, which is about 5 miles.
Tuesday 21st April
Just a very easy jog tonight, about 3 miles. Went from work and jogged up the path which runs parallel with the dual carriageway. Should really take more advantage of this as the path leads to the bottom of the railway path where I start a lot of my runs from. There is a shower at work so really there is no need to head to the gym just to go for a run.
Time to rest and carbo-load now, and started both in earnest with a trip to the cinema. The film was the excellent Let The Right One In, a love story between a young boy in Sweden and a female vampire. It might sound silly, but it really was a beautiful film and I think I liked it because it was an impossible love story between two people who feel alone and ostracised for very different reasons but find some common ground. Don't listen to me ranting on about it, see if for yourself.
Wednesday 22nd April
Complete rest. Can't say I missed body pump. It can be tiring at times, a constant treadmill of work-gym-dinner-writing. Instead went home and did a quality editing session.
Thursday 23rd April
Full body massage with Ali. Felt some aches and pains during the run on Sunday so knew I needed this. He found a great deal of tension in my back, which he got rid of. Another quality session on the book and finished the second round of editing! Still some work to do - need to add in a few scenes and give it at least another read through but am very close to sending it out to agents and publishers now. Really wanted to reach this particular landmark as I feel in a funny way it will give me confidence in the race on Sunday, knowing I have got this far with the book as well as training.
Friday 24th April
Complete rest. Made the last minute preparations for the big day. And a few more donations came in which brings my total up to £1200 with £50 still to come from Dad.
Under the circumstances, it's been a fantastic effort whatever happens on Sunday, even if I say so myself.
Tuesday, 14 April 2009
Starting the taper
Tuesday 14th April
Speed session tonight but decided to mix it up a bit. 1.6k warm up, then 10 * 2 minutes @ 14kph but cut the recovery time back from 60 seconds to 30. It would have helped if I hadn't had to switch treadmills after the first 3 reps because the belt was slipping, but I felt I coped well. It was a lot harder with the shorter recoveries, but that pace is obviously more comfortable for me now.
Wednesday 15th April
Just body pump tonight. Went a tad lighter on some of the tracks. Wasn't tempted to do RPM afterwards. Well, ok maybe a little. But instead I had a 'For Goodness Shakes' milkshake (now is not the time to be skimping on calories) and got myself home and had a quality editing session.
I read later on runners' world it is not a good idea to do any weights in the two weeks before a marathon as it won't help you in the race, will sap your strength, and may even cause an injury. Oh well I won't do pump again before the big day.
Thursday 16th April
7 (11.2k) miles on the treadmill, nice and steady. Resisted the temptation to crank up the pace at the end. Think I may have upset Terry by refusing to join him for a run outside, but it was raining and the last thing I should do is take any silly risks, so why risk catching a cold?
Friday 17th April
Not raining this evening so managed to get outside. Did a five mile jog, very steady. My legs felt very sore, which just goes to show how much they need a week of next to nothing before the big day.
Saturday 18th April
Complete rest. Competing in the Highworth five mile race tomorrow but am thinking it may be as well to jog round as opposed to going for broke and risking an injury.
Speed session tonight but decided to mix it up a bit. 1.6k warm up, then 10 * 2 minutes @ 14kph but cut the recovery time back from 60 seconds to 30. It would have helped if I hadn't had to switch treadmills after the first 3 reps because the belt was slipping, but I felt I coped well. It was a lot harder with the shorter recoveries, but that pace is obviously more comfortable for me now.
Wednesday 15th April
Just body pump tonight. Went a tad lighter on some of the tracks. Wasn't tempted to do RPM afterwards. Well, ok maybe a little. But instead I had a 'For Goodness Shakes' milkshake (now is not the time to be skimping on calories) and got myself home and had a quality editing session.
I read later on runners' world it is not a good idea to do any weights in the two weeks before a marathon as it won't help you in the race, will sap your strength, and may even cause an injury. Oh well I won't do pump again before the big day.
Thursday 16th April
7 (11.2k) miles on the treadmill, nice and steady. Resisted the temptation to crank up the pace at the end. Think I may have upset Terry by refusing to join him for a run outside, but it was raining and the last thing I should do is take any silly risks, so why risk catching a cold?
Friday 17th April
Not raining this evening so managed to get outside. Did a five mile jog, very steady. My legs felt very sore, which just goes to show how much they need a week of next to nothing before the big day.
Saturday 18th April
Complete rest. Competing in the Highworth five mile race tomorrow but am thinking it may be as well to jog round as opposed to going for broke and risking an injury.
Easter training
Thursday 9th April
Running club tonight. I had suggested a long-ish run of about 10-11 miles as it would be a nice way to wind down before going home for the Easter weekend.
As it turned out, we only covered 6.2 miles in about 57 minutes. There was the option of carrying on at the 5 mile point with Gerry, but by then I was tired and just wanted to go home and enjoy being off for a few days.
Friday 10th April
Went to Ali's lunchtime body pump class then did a speed session on the treadmill afterwards. 1k warm up, then 8 * 3 minutes @ 14kph, 1k cool down.
Went quite heavy on some of the tracks in pump, Ali advised me after the class to always have a good selection of weights handy so I can adjust during a track if needs be.
Saturday 11th April
Body pump again, Rachel covering for Ali today. Ran to the gym from home and back again but didn't do any more cardio than that because I wanted my legs to be fairly fresh for my final long run tomorrow. And I have to admit, I found it hard doing pump two days in a row.
Sunday 12th April
Last long run today before the big day in two weeks. Set off to do my usual 20-miler, the Swindon half route but starting from the gym.
I felt surprisingly strong for most of the run, so much so that as I started the trek along Queens Drive into town I decided I could probably run a bit further, so when I ended up heading through Cheney Manor and along Akers Way, past the lake and along Cartwright Drive to the gym. That must be a good 24 miles and I managed it in less than four hours, despite tired legs and dehydration from enjoying being on holiday.
I'm optimistic now that the hard work will pay off on the big day. Whilst I haven't got a 10k or half marathon PB in the build up, spending long periods on my feet and all the strengthening work should pay off in the last few miles. All I need to do now is taper down, load up on carbs and avoid any nasty bugs and illnesses doing the rounds.
Monday 13th April
Ran to the gym and did RPM in the morning. Thought this would be a good way to get some of the lactic acid out of my legs. Did some core exercises as well as I was more than a little reluctant to go home and do housework for the rest of the day.
It wasn't that bad in the end, it was a lovely day weather-wise so I managed to cut the grass and do some tidying up in the back garden. Summer is coming!
Running club tonight. I had suggested a long-ish run of about 10-11 miles as it would be a nice way to wind down before going home for the Easter weekend.
As it turned out, we only covered 6.2 miles in about 57 minutes. There was the option of carrying on at the 5 mile point with Gerry, but by then I was tired and just wanted to go home and enjoy being off for a few days.
Friday 10th April
Went to Ali's lunchtime body pump class then did a speed session on the treadmill afterwards. 1k warm up, then 8 * 3 minutes @ 14kph, 1k cool down.
Went quite heavy on some of the tracks in pump, Ali advised me after the class to always have a good selection of weights handy so I can adjust during a track if needs be.
Saturday 11th April
Body pump again, Rachel covering for Ali today. Ran to the gym from home and back again but didn't do any more cardio than that because I wanted my legs to be fairly fresh for my final long run tomorrow. And I have to admit, I found it hard doing pump two days in a row.
Sunday 12th April
Last long run today before the big day in two weeks. Set off to do my usual 20-miler, the Swindon half route but starting from the gym.
I felt surprisingly strong for most of the run, so much so that as I started the trek along Queens Drive into town I decided I could probably run a bit further, so when I ended up heading through Cheney Manor and along Akers Way, past the lake and along Cartwright Drive to the gym. That must be a good 24 miles and I managed it in less than four hours, despite tired legs and dehydration from enjoying being on holiday.
I'm optimistic now that the hard work will pay off on the big day. Whilst I haven't got a 10k or half marathon PB in the build up, spending long periods on my feet and all the strengthening work should pay off in the last few miles. All I need to do now is taper down, load up on carbs and avoid any nasty bugs and illnesses doing the rounds.
Monday 13th April
Ran to the gym and did RPM in the morning. Thought this would be a good way to get some of the lactic acid out of my legs. Did some core exercises as well as I was more than a little reluctant to go home and do housework for the rest of the day.
It wasn't that bad in the end, it was a lovely day weather-wise so I managed to cut the grass and do some tidying up in the back garden. Summer is coming!
Tuesday, 7 April 2009
White Horse Half Marathon
Thursday 2nd April
Complete rest. I actually had a day's leave, as I had arranged a trip with the Sports & Social Club to see the musical Oliver. It was my intention originally to spend the day in London, but I ended up not bothering, for various reasons. Mainly, I can't afford it - the credit crunch has put an end to any unnecessary expenditure - but also I know I'd probably end up spending most of the day in the pub which is not ideal three weeks before a marathon.
As it turned out I had a most pleasant evening with my friends, and being the organiser meant I could choose who I sat with, which was Louise from my department, her boyfriend Ian, Tamara and her nine-year old son, Cameron, who I ended up entertaining during the interval.
Friday 3rd April
Complete rest. Came home from work and had a really good evening, watching England actually win a one-day international and winning a one-day series in the West Indies for the first time. Seeing my new facebook friend Andrew Flintoff take a hat-trick was just the icing on the cake really.
Saturday 4th April
Body pump and core work. Another day's rest might have bee sensible but I was bored of housework and missed out the leg tracks anyway. Plus it gave me an opportunity to learn the new routine.
Sunday 5th April
Competed in the White Horse half marathon, for the third year running. I've always liked the event, but never posted a PB, even though it is a PB course. Two years ago I was recovering from a PB effort at Bath the week before and last year I had tired myself out the week before trying to shed a few pounds.
I knew I would have to have a good time to beat my PB from Chippenham but was fairly confident I could do it. Indeed, I started strongly (too quickly as usual) but managed to maintain a sub 8-minute mile pace. The good news is, I felt comfortable doing it as well. Much more so than at Chippenham.
Where it all went wrong I don't know. I'm sure I passed the 12-mile marker in 1:33 so I was confident then of a 1:42 finish but somehow managed only 1:43:21, four seconds slower than my PB. I can only assume the heavy mileage caught up with me in that last mile.
That notwithstanding, I did feel strong most of the way round and had a pleasant day out. I love the event because it is such good value at £8 and the mug this year was a nicer design than the last two. I also bought a race t-shirt with the names of the runners which was great value as well for £5.
I stopped at the gym for a stretch, steam and shower and had a nice surprise when I bumped into an old friend, James Joel who I haven't seen for a couple of years. We exchanged numbers and will try to arrange a weekend in Bournemouth in the summer (where he lives) so that will be something to look forward to hopefully.
Monday 6th April
Nice steady run this evening, a bit further than usual at nine miles. I am definitely recovering better these days.
Tuesday 7th April
Lovely evening tonight so went outside for a speed session, did an 'old-school' sprints and hill session, 2 sets of 5 sprints and 5 hills. Even though my legs were tired I could tell I was quicker than I used to be. I weighed myself at the weekend and according to the dodgy scales am bang on 15 stone, so nearly 20 pounds lighter than when Ali and I had our famous 'chat'. I think 14 stone would be ideal but boy can I feel the difference.
Wednesday 8th April
Body pump and RPM as usual. Good classes as usual. Really can't wait for the Easter weekend now.
Complete rest. I actually had a day's leave, as I had arranged a trip with the Sports & Social Club to see the musical Oliver. It was my intention originally to spend the day in London, but I ended up not bothering, for various reasons. Mainly, I can't afford it - the credit crunch has put an end to any unnecessary expenditure - but also I know I'd probably end up spending most of the day in the pub which is not ideal three weeks before a marathon.
As it turned out I had a most pleasant evening with my friends, and being the organiser meant I could choose who I sat with, which was Louise from my department, her boyfriend Ian, Tamara and her nine-year old son, Cameron, who I ended up entertaining during the interval.
Friday 3rd April
Complete rest. Came home from work and had a really good evening, watching England actually win a one-day international and winning a one-day series in the West Indies for the first time. Seeing my new facebook friend Andrew Flintoff take a hat-trick was just the icing on the cake really.
Saturday 4th April
Body pump and core work. Another day's rest might have bee sensible but I was bored of housework and missed out the leg tracks anyway. Plus it gave me an opportunity to learn the new routine.
Sunday 5th April
Competed in the White Horse half marathon, for the third year running. I've always liked the event, but never posted a PB, even though it is a PB course. Two years ago I was recovering from a PB effort at Bath the week before and last year I had tired myself out the week before trying to shed a few pounds.
I knew I would have to have a good time to beat my PB from Chippenham but was fairly confident I could do it. Indeed, I started strongly (too quickly as usual) but managed to maintain a sub 8-minute mile pace. The good news is, I felt comfortable doing it as well. Much more so than at Chippenham.
Where it all went wrong I don't know. I'm sure I passed the 12-mile marker in 1:33 so I was confident then of a 1:42 finish but somehow managed only 1:43:21, four seconds slower than my PB. I can only assume the heavy mileage caught up with me in that last mile.
That notwithstanding, I did feel strong most of the way round and had a pleasant day out. I love the event because it is such good value at £8 and the mug this year was a nicer design than the last two. I also bought a race t-shirt with the names of the runners which was great value as well for £5.
I stopped at the gym for a stretch, steam and shower and had a nice surprise when I bumped into an old friend, James Joel who I haven't seen for a couple of years. We exchanged numbers and will try to arrange a weekend in Bournemouth in the summer (where he lives) so that will be something to look forward to hopefully.
Monday 6th April
Nice steady run this evening, a bit further than usual at nine miles. I am definitely recovering better these days.
Tuesday 7th April
Lovely evening tonight so went outside for a speed session, did an 'old-school' sprints and hill session, 2 sets of 5 sprints and 5 hills. Even though my legs were tired I could tell I was quicker than I used to be. I weighed myself at the weekend and according to the dodgy scales am bang on 15 stone, so nearly 20 pounds lighter than when Ali and I had our famous 'chat'. I think 14 stone would be ideal but boy can I feel the difference.
Wednesday 8th April
Body pump and RPM as usual. Good classes as usual. Really can't wait for the Easter weekend now.
Wednesday, 1 April 2009
New body pump release
Wednesday 1st April
New body pump tonight, and I like it. Squats - ok track, music a bit cheesy. Chest - good, like that there are no press-ups at the end. Back - similar to a lot of the old ones. Triceps - quite hard using the bar a lot again. Biceps - short and sweet. Nice. Lunges - good, like the mix of lunges and bottom half squats. Shoulders - a bit too much going on here perhaps, frequent changes between press-ups, the barbell, dumbbells and press-ups again. Abs - like it, some opportunities to make it harder for yourself.
Went for a run outside after the class, 5 miles nice and steady, about 45 minutes on my feet. It just made such a nice change to be able to run outside at that time and for it to still be light. British Summer Time rules.
Plan now is to rest until the White Horse half on Sunday (but may do the upper body part of pump on Saturday) as that will be the only flat half I'm doing before London (and probably until Chippenham in September) and my best chance of a PB. Wil then train hard up to and including the Easter weekend and then start to taper down towards the big day. Not long now.
New body pump tonight, and I like it. Squats - ok track, music a bit cheesy. Chest - good, like that there are no press-ups at the end. Back - similar to a lot of the old ones. Triceps - quite hard using the bar a lot again. Biceps - short and sweet. Nice. Lunges - good, like the mix of lunges and bottom half squats. Shoulders - a bit too much going on here perhaps, frequent changes between press-ups, the barbell, dumbbells and press-ups again. Abs - like it, some opportunities to make it harder for yourself.
Went for a run outside after the class, 5 miles nice and steady, about 45 minutes on my feet. It just made such a nice change to be able to run outside at that time and for it to still be light. British Summer Time rules.
Plan now is to rest until the White Horse half on Sunday (but may do the upper body part of pump on Saturday) as that will be the only flat half I'm doing before London (and probably until Chippenham in September) and my best chance of a PB. Wil then train hard up to and including the Easter weekend and then start to taper down towards the big day. Not long now.
Long knackering run
Friday 27th March
Complete rest. Had to take a half day leave and go to the Dentists' in Melksham for a check-up. Visited Dad while I was over there as well, and left with the usual food parcel. Came back to Swindon to watch the cricket and really, really wished I'd gone for a run instead.
Saturday 28th March
Wasn't sure what to do before or after body pump today but in the end I had a novel idea: a quick speed session on the treadmill. 1k warm up, then 8 * 3 minutes @ 14kph each followed by 1k cool down. It felt a lot easier than usual, running at that pace, which can only be a good sign.
Did about 30 minutes of core work after the class so a quality session for a Saturday morning as it turned out.
Sunday 29th March
Long run today. Intention was to run an hour on the treadmill, then do the Swindon half route from the gym. Managed the first part but not the second. Ran up the railway path and down Marlborough Road but then wimped out of the original plan and instead ran back along Queens Drive, through town, towards Cheney Manor and along Akers Way before heading round the lake and back to the gym. So I still covered a good twenty miles plus.
The problem was, I just ran out of steam completely in the run outside. Maybe the heavy mileage, coupled with work, the book, and the stress of trying to find new lodgers is all starting to get to me. Maybe time to take a breather after the Downs challenge on 16th May and concentrate on shorter distances.
Monday 30th March
It was my intention to do an easy recovery run tonight but it transpired my old friend Nicole Cutting was covering RPM, so I did that instead. Apart from the obvious fact that it was nice to see her again, it probably wasn't a bad move as 45 minutes of easy pedalling probably got a lot of lactic acid out of my legs. Plus I managed to get my weekly food shop done and still be home by 8pm.
Tuesday 31st March
Another speed session tonight, wanted to make it a quick one as I was showing yet another potential lodger my gaff.
1k warm up, then 10 * 2 minutes this time, I did the first two at 14.5kph then the next eight at 15kph. It was hard at first at that pace, but did seem to get easier. Maybe I just need to work on lengthening my stride. Aerobically it certainly didn't hurt as much as it used to.
I checked my weight on Saturday and according to the (admittedly slightly dodgy) scales in the back room I am 15st 2 pounds. My target (set by Ali O'Hara) is to get under 15 stone - 14 stone would be great, to go any lighter would mean having to lose muscle which I certainly don't want to do. So if I'm closer to a healthy weight that's probably why these sessions are easier.
Complete rest. Had to take a half day leave and go to the Dentists' in Melksham for a check-up. Visited Dad while I was over there as well, and left with the usual food parcel. Came back to Swindon to watch the cricket and really, really wished I'd gone for a run instead.
Saturday 28th March
Wasn't sure what to do before or after body pump today but in the end I had a novel idea: a quick speed session on the treadmill. 1k warm up, then 8 * 3 minutes @ 14kph each followed by 1k cool down. It felt a lot easier than usual, running at that pace, which can only be a good sign.
Did about 30 minutes of core work after the class so a quality session for a Saturday morning as it turned out.
Sunday 29th March
Long run today. Intention was to run an hour on the treadmill, then do the Swindon half route from the gym. Managed the first part but not the second. Ran up the railway path and down Marlborough Road but then wimped out of the original plan and instead ran back along Queens Drive, through town, towards Cheney Manor and along Akers Way before heading round the lake and back to the gym. So I still covered a good twenty miles plus.
The problem was, I just ran out of steam completely in the run outside. Maybe the heavy mileage, coupled with work, the book, and the stress of trying to find new lodgers is all starting to get to me. Maybe time to take a breather after the Downs challenge on 16th May and concentrate on shorter distances.
Monday 30th March
It was my intention to do an easy recovery run tonight but it transpired my old friend Nicole Cutting was covering RPM, so I did that instead. Apart from the obvious fact that it was nice to see her again, it probably wasn't a bad move as 45 minutes of easy pedalling probably got a lot of lactic acid out of my legs. Plus I managed to get my weekly food shop done and still be home by 8pm.
Tuesday 31st March
Another speed session tonight, wanted to make it a quick one as I was showing yet another potential lodger my gaff.
1k warm up, then 10 * 2 minutes this time, I did the first two at 14.5kph then the next eight at 15kph. It was hard at first at that pace, but did seem to get easier. Maybe I just need to work on lengthening my stride. Aerobically it certainly didn't hurt as much as it used to.
I checked my weight on Saturday and according to the (admittedly slightly dodgy) scales in the back room I am 15st 2 pounds. My target (set by Ali O'Hara) is to get under 15 stone - 14 stone would be great, to go any lighter would mean having to lose muscle which I certainly don't want to do. So if I'm closer to a healthy weight that's probably why these sessions are easier.
Wednesday, 25 March 2009
Hogweed Hilly Half Marathon
Saturday 21st March
Body pump as usual, I continued with my policy of doing my core exercises in lieu of squats and lunges. Did some more core exercises after the class.
Sunday 22nd March
Competed today in the Hogweed Hilly Half Marathon, at Horton, Gloucestershire. This was the fifth running of the event and my third time there. I chose it as a training run for London in 2007, and was so impressed I vowed to come back every year. It is what it says on the tin - a very tough, hilly half marathon but is also remarkably well organised and boasts some of the most glorious scenery I have seen in a race.
I started well enough, knocking out the first mile in about 8 minutes, but then reminded myself to relax and enjoy the run as much as possible. It was perfect weather for running, a beautiful spring morning.
The hills were hard as always, and I was going well until I got to the 8-mile marker. The hill in the ninth mile put paid to any hopes I had of a 1:50-ish finish. What's more, after that point my legs started to feel very tired (as I expected they would) and so it was just a case of trying to get round in under two hours.
I did it comfortably in the end, aided perhaps by some of the friendly young marshals handing out jelly babies to us! I was more than happy with a 1:56 finish, but wish I could improve my downhill running - the last section is a steep downhill stretch and there was nothing I could do to stop my fellow runners sprinting past me.
A nice touch was I got chatting to the treasurer of the Samaritans in Bristol (I was wearing my vest in preparation) after the race, talking at length about the charity and races overseas.
I had contemplated another run in the day but decided after the race that my legs could really do with an easier Sunday than they've had lately. So I made my way to the gym for a stretch and a shower. As I left I felt slightly sad, knowing that I wouldn't be taking part in such a lovely event for another year. Yes, I really do like it that much.
Monday 23rd March
Tonight there was a two hour "Spin-a-thon" at the gym to raise money for the British Heart Foundation. To tell the truth, it was quite a disappointment.
For a start, the entry fee was to raise a minimum of £50 in sponsorship which was always going to be a tall order in the current climate. I told someone a couple of weeks ago that I wouldn't be able to raise any sponsorship as I am already committed to raising money for the London marathon. I said I was quite happy to donate £5 of my own money to attend the class.
Even so, I was still surprised by how quiet the class was. The room was less than half full, and of the people there, most seemed to be staff members. The class itself was enjoyable enough, but I was careful not to go crazy with the resistance as my legs were still tired from yesterday so I never really got a sweat on.
Oh well, it's calories burned I suppose.
Tuesday 24th March
Steady run tonight, about 1 hour 10 mins. Up the railway path, through Old Town, down Drove Road and through town back to the gym. Just needed some thinking time tonight.
Wednesday 25th March
Body pump tonight, did 2k on the treadmill beforehand as a warm-up. Used my heaviest weight yet on the squats track, 42.5kg (or four reds and a yellow on each end). Might not sound a lot, but when you consider I'm doing squats for about 5 minutes, it's not bad at all. I usually use 40kg and it's amazing how much heavier that 2.5kg made it feel.
No RPM or other cardio as I needed to do some shopping and hate getting home too late.
Thursday 26th March
Interval session at the lake. Managed to knock out 5 laps, but they probably weren't as fast as they should have been due to my legs feeling sore from yesterday. That was probably to be expected to be fair. Good session nonetheless, need to do more speed and hill work to get good times in races this summer.
Body pump as usual, I continued with my policy of doing my core exercises in lieu of squats and lunges. Did some more core exercises after the class.
Sunday 22nd March
Competed today in the Hogweed Hilly Half Marathon, at Horton, Gloucestershire. This was the fifth running of the event and my third time there. I chose it as a training run for London in 2007, and was so impressed I vowed to come back every year. It is what it says on the tin - a very tough, hilly half marathon but is also remarkably well organised and boasts some of the most glorious scenery I have seen in a race.
I started well enough, knocking out the first mile in about 8 minutes, but then reminded myself to relax and enjoy the run as much as possible. It was perfect weather for running, a beautiful spring morning.
The hills were hard as always, and I was going well until I got to the 8-mile marker. The hill in the ninth mile put paid to any hopes I had of a 1:50-ish finish. What's more, after that point my legs started to feel very tired (as I expected they would) and so it was just a case of trying to get round in under two hours.
I did it comfortably in the end, aided perhaps by some of the friendly young marshals handing out jelly babies to us! I was more than happy with a 1:56 finish, but wish I could improve my downhill running - the last section is a steep downhill stretch and there was nothing I could do to stop my fellow runners sprinting past me.
A nice touch was I got chatting to the treasurer of the Samaritans in Bristol (I was wearing my vest in preparation) after the race, talking at length about the charity and races overseas.
I had contemplated another run in the day but decided after the race that my legs could really do with an easier Sunday than they've had lately. So I made my way to the gym for a stretch and a shower. As I left I felt slightly sad, knowing that I wouldn't be taking part in such a lovely event for another year. Yes, I really do like it that much.
Monday 23rd March
Tonight there was a two hour "Spin-a-thon" at the gym to raise money for the British Heart Foundation. To tell the truth, it was quite a disappointment.
For a start, the entry fee was to raise a minimum of £50 in sponsorship which was always going to be a tall order in the current climate. I told someone a couple of weeks ago that I wouldn't be able to raise any sponsorship as I am already committed to raising money for the London marathon. I said I was quite happy to donate £5 of my own money to attend the class.
Even so, I was still surprised by how quiet the class was. The room was less than half full, and of the people there, most seemed to be staff members. The class itself was enjoyable enough, but I was careful not to go crazy with the resistance as my legs were still tired from yesterday so I never really got a sweat on.
Oh well, it's calories burned I suppose.
Tuesday 24th March
Steady run tonight, about 1 hour 10 mins. Up the railway path, through Old Town, down Drove Road and through town back to the gym. Just needed some thinking time tonight.
Wednesday 25th March
Body pump tonight, did 2k on the treadmill beforehand as a warm-up. Used my heaviest weight yet on the squats track, 42.5kg (or four reds and a yellow on each end). Might not sound a lot, but when you consider I'm doing squats for about 5 minutes, it's not bad at all. I usually use 40kg and it's amazing how much heavier that 2.5kg made it feel.
No RPM or other cardio as I needed to do some shopping and hate getting home too late.
Thursday 26th March
Interval session at the lake. Managed to knock out 5 laps, but they probably weren't as fast as they should have been due to my legs feeling sore from yesterday. That was probably to be expected to be fair. Good session nonetheless, need to do more speed and hill work to get good times in races this summer.
Thursday, 19 March 2009
First run in the sunshine!
Saturday 14th March
Body pump this morning. Missed out squats and lunges, but instead of nipping downstairs for an orange juice I used the breaks to do some core exercises. Did some more core work after the class as well which was good. Also had a long chat with Rachel (Barber) who was covering for Ali and who is also running the London marathon next month, for the first time. The only advice I was keen to impress upon her was not to worry too much about her time and simply celebrate the fact that she is taking part in the best race on the planet.
Sunday 15th March
Long run today and beautiful weather for it. Did the half route, starting from the gym, and soon realised that it was too warm to be wearing two layers of clothing.
This was actually a really good run. I wasn't sure if I'd cope with the distance after the 20 mile race last weekend, but my legs held up well I thought. The big difference was the mood of the people I met on the way; everyone was so much friendlier, other runners and cyclists said hello, drivers ackowledged me and the world seemed a much happier place. What a difference the weather makes.
That took me 3 hours 10 minutes and I knocked out a very slow mile on the treadmill when I got back to the gym. I wondered later if I hadn't missed a trick here as my legs felt strong enough to go a bit further.
Had a steam after the run and wondered if that is helping my training, ie are the sessions in the steam room keeping my muscles looser and reducing the build up of lactic acid? It's the only thing I've been doing different of late so it could be.
Monday 16th March
Recovery run. Up the railway path (was just about able to see where I was going, so the light is improving), down Drove Road and back through town to the gym. One hour ten minutes approx. Not bad for an easy run.
Tuesday 17th March
Speed work. Out to the lake, then three laps hard. Approximately one hour on my feet. Would have done more laps but needed to go to Sainsburys and wanted to go to the cinema tonight. Felt I did well on the laps considering I was still recovering from Sunday.
Cheap Tuesday's film was He's Just Not That Into You, which I really enjoyed, and not just because it featured a semi-naked Scarlett Johansson. There was a lot in there about relationships which I could relate to, and it was good research on the subject for my writing, if you see what I mean.
Wednesday 18th March
Body pump with Ali followed by RPM with James. Excellent as always. Noticed the latter was busy, wondered how many people noticed me making a tit of myself in pump when a weight went flying off the end of my bar in the back track?
Thursday 19th March
Run with Kev and Gerry. We covered 11 miles at an average of just under 9 minutes per mile. It was faster than that, but a slow mile up a hill dragged that down. Still, good effort for a Thursday, especially considering how tired my legs are now. Definitely rest tomorrow, pump and core work Saturday ahead of the Hogweed Hilly Half on Sunday.
Body pump this morning. Missed out squats and lunges, but instead of nipping downstairs for an orange juice I used the breaks to do some core exercises. Did some more core work after the class as well which was good. Also had a long chat with Rachel (Barber) who was covering for Ali and who is also running the London marathon next month, for the first time. The only advice I was keen to impress upon her was not to worry too much about her time and simply celebrate the fact that she is taking part in the best race on the planet.
Sunday 15th March
Long run today and beautiful weather for it. Did the half route, starting from the gym, and soon realised that it was too warm to be wearing two layers of clothing.
This was actually a really good run. I wasn't sure if I'd cope with the distance after the 20 mile race last weekend, but my legs held up well I thought. The big difference was the mood of the people I met on the way; everyone was so much friendlier, other runners and cyclists said hello, drivers ackowledged me and the world seemed a much happier place. What a difference the weather makes.
That took me 3 hours 10 minutes and I knocked out a very slow mile on the treadmill when I got back to the gym. I wondered later if I hadn't missed a trick here as my legs felt strong enough to go a bit further.
Had a steam after the run and wondered if that is helping my training, ie are the sessions in the steam room keeping my muscles looser and reducing the build up of lactic acid? It's the only thing I've been doing different of late so it could be.
Monday 16th March
Recovery run. Up the railway path (was just about able to see where I was going, so the light is improving), down Drove Road and back through town to the gym. One hour ten minutes approx. Not bad for an easy run.
Tuesday 17th March
Speed work. Out to the lake, then three laps hard. Approximately one hour on my feet. Would have done more laps but needed to go to Sainsburys and wanted to go to the cinema tonight. Felt I did well on the laps considering I was still recovering from Sunday.
Cheap Tuesday's film was He's Just Not That Into You, which I really enjoyed, and not just because it featured a semi-naked Scarlett Johansson. There was a lot in there about relationships which I could relate to, and it was good research on the subject for my writing, if you see what I mean.
Wednesday 18th March
Body pump with Ali followed by RPM with James. Excellent as always. Noticed the latter was busy, wondered how many people noticed me making a tit of myself in pump when a weight went flying off the end of my bar in the back track?
Thursday 19th March
Run with Kev and Gerry. We covered 11 miles at an average of just under 9 minutes per mile. It was faster than that, but a slow mile up a hill dragged that down. Still, good effort for a Thursday, especially considering how tired my legs are now. Definitely rest tomorrow, pump and core work Saturday ahead of the Hogweed Hilly Half on Sunday.
Thursday, 12 March 2009
Gloucester 20 mile race
Thursday 5th March
Complete rest.
Friday 6th March
Full body massage with Ali. Interestingly it didn't hurt anywhere near as much as usual, apart from my upper back being a bit tense. Keep doing whatever you're doing, he told me, as it seems to be working. I would say my body's just getting tougher.
Saturday 7th March
Complete rest. Unless you count housework as exercise - instead of going to the gym on Saturday morning I used the time to give the house a bit of a spring clean.
Sunday 8th March
Competed today in the Gloucester 20-mile road race (which starts and finishes in Framton-on-Severn). I did this in 2007 as a warm-up for the London marathon and was using it today for the same reasons. On that occasion it turned out to be an enjoyable run and a confidence booster. Today was much the same.
It took me less than an hour to get to the race which was less than I remember it being. Plus the parking was better organised - in a field where the start line was also, plus we could drop our baggage off and pick it up at the race HQ. The negatives were a poor pre-race briefing with most of us unable to hear what was being said and people being warned for running more than two abreast - if two people are already running two abreast, how else do you get past them?
I started the race well, probably too well. I was doing sub 8-minute miles for the first four, slowed slightly in the fifth, and then the weather came into play. It rained hard, hailed even, and there was a strong wind for large parts of the race.
That notwithstanding, I was still feeling good at 10 miles and passed the 13-mile marker in under 1:50 (not a bad half marathon time for me). There was an incentive to speed up just before that point, as someone just behind me obviously had an awful running style and his trainers were making an awful, grating noise (you know the kind). It was honestly like chinese water torture and in the end I decided to sprint for a while just to get away from it.
It wasn't until after about mile 16 that I really started to suffer, but fortunately I made some friends who kept me going. I'm not sure what was wrong, it felt like a bad stitch but it could have been my body starting to dig into it's fat stores, but without me slowing down to ease the process. I chatted to a bloke who was also training for the London marathon and there was also a bit of competitiveness between myself and a girl who had been neck and neck with me most of the way round. I know it's sexist and typical me, but she was very attractive and I decided early on I wasn't going to let her out of my sight! So I decided to use her as kind of a pace maker.
I had expected to finish in around 3 hours (9-minute miles) so bearing in mind the weather and some discomfort in the last miles I was pretty delighted to finish in 2:48 (2:47:52 if you go by my chip time). A nice touch was chatting to the young lady in question (Siana, I found out) on the walk back to the race HQ to collect my bag and t-shirt. She told me she is training for the Edinburgh marathon and will be doing a lot of the local races in the coming months, so let's hope our paths cross again one day soon.
Monday 9th March
Quite sore today and definitely not up to running with the group, but surprised myself by managing 8.8k (5.5 miles) on the treadmill, albeit at a very steady pace. It was only meant to be 5 miles by the way...
Tuesday 10th March
Not ready for a speed session but managed 10k, a little quicker than yesterday. Gutted to watch England come close to winning the last test and drawing the series v West Indies but to be fair the latter deserved the series victory.
One of my toes is quite swollen and painful and I'm not sure I'll be able to do much running the rest of the week.
Wednesday 11th March
Just RPM tonight. Missed body pump tonight as I was showing someone (potential lodger) round the house. What a pain in the arse this business is at times. I didn't mind picking her up from her hotel (which was on my way anyway) as she didn't know how to get to my house using the bus routes, but I was astounded when she asked me if I could give her a lift into the town centre so she could view another place!!! So I gave her walking directions and made my way to the gym for RPM, which was good as it always is with James.
Thursday 12th March
RPM again. Toe is a little better today, and I managed to cut some of the dead toenail away, but I don't want to aggravate it as I'm hoping I'll have a race number for the Bath half marathon on Sunday. I know I won't get a great time as my body won't have fully recovered from Sunday, but I would like to enjoy it.
Complete rest.
Friday 6th March
Full body massage with Ali. Interestingly it didn't hurt anywhere near as much as usual, apart from my upper back being a bit tense. Keep doing whatever you're doing, he told me, as it seems to be working. I would say my body's just getting tougher.
Saturday 7th March
Complete rest. Unless you count housework as exercise - instead of going to the gym on Saturday morning I used the time to give the house a bit of a spring clean.
Sunday 8th March
Competed today in the Gloucester 20-mile road race (which starts and finishes in Framton-on-Severn). I did this in 2007 as a warm-up for the London marathon and was using it today for the same reasons. On that occasion it turned out to be an enjoyable run and a confidence booster. Today was much the same.
It took me less than an hour to get to the race which was less than I remember it being. Plus the parking was better organised - in a field where the start line was also, plus we could drop our baggage off and pick it up at the race HQ. The negatives were a poor pre-race briefing with most of us unable to hear what was being said and people being warned for running more than two abreast - if two people are already running two abreast, how else do you get past them?
I started the race well, probably too well. I was doing sub 8-minute miles for the first four, slowed slightly in the fifth, and then the weather came into play. It rained hard, hailed even, and there was a strong wind for large parts of the race.
That notwithstanding, I was still feeling good at 10 miles and passed the 13-mile marker in under 1:50 (not a bad half marathon time for me). There was an incentive to speed up just before that point, as someone just behind me obviously had an awful running style and his trainers were making an awful, grating noise (you know the kind). It was honestly like chinese water torture and in the end I decided to sprint for a while just to get away from it.
It wasn't until after about mile 16 that I really started to suffer, but fortunately I made some friends who kept me going. I'm not sure what was wrong, it felt like a bad stitch but it could have been my body starting to dig into it's fat stores, but without me slowing down to ease the process. I chatted to a bloke who was also training for the London marathon and there was also a bit of competitiveness between myself and a girl who had been neck and neck with me most of the way round. I know it's sexist and typical me, but she was very attractive and I decided early on I wasn't going to let her out of my sight! So I decided to use her as kind of a pace maker.
I had expected to finish in around 3 hours (9-minute miles) so bearing in mind the weather and some discomfort in the last miles I was pretty delighted to finish in 2:48 (2:47:52 if you go by my chip time). A nice touch was chatting to the young lady in question (Siana, I found out) on the walk back to the race HQ to collect my bag and t-shirt. She told me she is training for the Edinburgh marathon and will be doing a lot of the local races in the coming months, so let's hope our paths cross again one day soon.
Monday 9th March
Quite sore today and definitely not up to running with the group, but surprised myself by managing 8.8k (5.5 miles) on the treadmill, albeit at a very steady pace. It was only meant to be 5 miles by the way...
Tuesday 10th March
Not ready for a speed session but managed 10k, a little quicker than yesterday. Gutted to watch England come close to winning the last test and drawing the series v West Indies but to be fair the latter deserved the series victory.
One of my toes is quite swollen and painful and I'm not sure I'll be able to do much running the rest of the week.
Wednesday 11th March
Just RPM tonight. Missed body pump tonight as I was showing someone (potential lodger) round the house. What a pain in the arse this business is at times. I didn't mind picking her up from her hotel (which was on my way anyway) as she didn't know how to get to my house using the bus routes, but I was astounded when she asked me if I could give her a lift into the town centre so she could view another place!!! So I gave her walking directions and made my way to the gym for RPM, which was good as it always is with James.
Thursday 12th March
RPM again. Toe is a little better today, and I managed to cut some of the dead toenail away, but I don't want to aggravate it as I'm hoping I'll have a race number for the Bath half marathon on Sunday. I know I won't get a great time as my body won't have fully recovered from Sunday, but I would like to enjoy it.
Thursday, 5 March 2009
Easy week
Monday 2nd March
Nice easy week this week, both to recover from the long run yesterday and to get myself fresh, physically and mentally, for the Gloucester 20 mile race next Sunday.
Surprised myself greatly by managing to knock out 10k on the treadmill tonight, even though it was pretty slow - I didn't get above 11.2kph and that was only in the last kilometre as well to be fair. Followed this up with some abs work for about 15-20 minutes. Good session for a recovery run.
Tuesday 3rd March
Speed session tonight, albeit not as intense as usual. 1.6k warm up, then 10 * 2 minutes at 14kph, followed by 1.6k cool-down. I know I usually run for longer and faster but I've had a couple of twinges in my calves since Sunday and didn't want to risk any damage.
Got to the gym late as was in work until 6pm so no time to go to the cinema tonight. Oh well, there's always next week, and maybe Saturday afternoon.
Wednesday 4th March
Body pump followed by RPM. Enjoyed both classes as usual, careful not to overdo it on the legs. Plan now is complete rest for three days with a full body massage with Ali on Friday. I have always performed best in races when I've had two or three days off and I'm hoping to finish the 20-mile race in under three hours, which is about 9-minute miling. I'll have a much better chance with fresh legs.
Nice easy week this week, both to recover from the long run yesterday and to get myself fresh, physically and mentally, for the Gloucester 20 mile race next Sunday.
Surprised myself greatly by managing to knock out 10k on the treadmill tonight, even though it was pretty slow - I didn't get above 11.2kph and that was only in the last kilometre as well to be fair. Followed this up with some abs work for about 15-20 minutes. Good session for a recovery run.
Tuesday 3rd March
Speed session tonight, albeit not as intense as usual. 1.6k warm up, then 10 * 2 minutes at 14kph, followed by 1.6k cool-down. I know I usually run for longer and faster but I've had a couple of twinges in my calves since Sunday and didn't want to risk any damage.
Got to the gym late as was in work until 6pm so no time to go to the cinema tonight. Oh well, there's always next week, and maybe Saturday afternoon.
Wednesday 4th March
Body pump followed by RPM. Enjoyed both classes as usual, careful not to overdo it on the legs. Plan now is complete rest for three days with a full body massage with Ali on Friday. I have always performed best in races when I've had two or three days off and I'm hoping to finish the 20-mile race in under three hours, which is about 9-minute miling. I'll have a much better chance with fresh legs.
Tuesday, 3 March 2009
Ultra training
Saturday 28th February
RPM and body pump in the morning. The first class was a mistake - I intended to do body attack, purely because I fancied doing something different, but I was put off by someone before going in how told me it has quite a high impact on the knees. So as I was at the gym I decided to do RPM instead. I didn't go mad with the resistance or pedalling, but should really have given my legs a rest before my long run tomorrow.
Sunday 1st March
Time to really crank up the mileage if I want to do a 33-mile "Ultra" marathon in May (I have sent my entry form off for the Marlborough Downs challenge) so the plan was to do an hour on the treadmill followed by 20 miles outside.
It didn't quite pan out as planned, I did slightly more than an hour on the treadmill - 12k to be precise, but this was only because I hit the emergency stop button by accident at 7.8k! So rounded it up to 12k - 7.5 miles.
Headed outside and wasn't sure which route to take, so decided to play it by ear a bit. In the end I did the Blagrove route then headed up the railway path, along the canal, across the motorway, then cut back on myself and did the Elcombe route. When I got through Wroughton I turned up Pipers Way and then headed down Marlborough Road and then along Queens Drive and back through town to the gym.
I've no idea how far this was, but I was out on my feet for exactly 2hrs 50 mins. Admittedly most of it was a bit of a plod and there were some walk breaks (including when I saw an old friend, Wally, who I hadn't seen for a few years) but I followed it up with a mile on the treadmill (more of a mental exercise than anything) so all told I did four hours of running. It would have been comfortably over 20 miles and the most important thing was I get used to being on my feet for this length of time.
RPM and body pump in the morning. The first class was a mistake - I intended to do body attack, purely because I fancied doing something different, but I was put off by someone before going in how told me it has quite a high impact on the knees. So as I was at the gym I decided to do RPM instead. I didn't go mad with the resistance or pedalling, but should really have given my legs a rest before my long run tomorrow.
Sunday 1st March
Time to really crank up the mileage if I want to do a 33-mile "Ultra" marathon in May (I have sent my entry form off for the Marlborough Downs challenge) so the plan was to do an hour on the treadmill followed by 20 miles outside.
It didn't quite pan out as planned, I did slightly more than an hour on the treadmill - 12k to be precise, but this was only because I hit the emergency stop button by accident at 7.8k! So rounded it up to 12k - 7.5 miles.
Headed outside and wasn't sure which route to take, so decided to play it by ear a bit. In the end I did the Blagrove route then headed up the railway path, along the canal, across the motorway, then cut back on myself and did the Elcombe route. When I got through Wroughton I turned up Pipers Way and then headed down Marlborough Road and then along Queens Drive and back through town to the gym.
I've no idea how far this was, but I was out on my feet for exactly 2hrs 50 mins. Admittedly most of it was a bit of a plod and there were some walk breaks (including when I saw an old friend, Wally, who I hadn't seen for a few years) but I followed it up with a mile on the treadmill (more of a mental exercise than anything) so all told I did four hours of running. It would have been comfortably over 20 miles and the most important thing was I get used to being on my feet for this length of time.
Friday, 27 February 2009
The Terminator - I'll be back...
Saturday 21st February
Body pump in the morning. Not that I expect it to have an impact on my performance tomorrow, but I missed out squats and lunges to ensure my legs are fresh for the race.
Did a mile on the treadmill after the class, purely because I received two new pairs of trainers this week (Nike Air Pegasus and Air Skylon) and wanted to break in the Pegasus. I could really tell the difference between the new and old pair in terms of support and cushioning, so it was not before time.
Sunday 22nd February
My intention was to be competing in the Bourton 10k today. I've run it every year for the last three years, and have got a PB on each occasion. This year, unfortunately, I didn't get in - I sent my form off just after entries open but it must have filled up in record time.
This left me with the choice of running the Tough Ten at Weston (a lovely run, and it would have been my third time) or running the Terminator for the first time. It was a tough call, but in the end I decided on the latter as I don't get many opportunities to try new races and have really enjoyed these off-road races this year.
I certainly wasn't disappointed. I was immediately impressed by the marshals guiding us into the car parks as soon as I reached Pewsey. I made the short walk to the race HQ, dropped my baggage off, bought my pre-race cakes and it was business as usual.
The race pretty much met my expectations. The one surprise was that while it wasn't as muddy as say, Sodbury, the muddy bits were very deep and I nearly lost my trainers in the first mile! Message to self - secure them with duct tape next year.
The other slight surprise (and it shouldn't have been) was just how busy the race was. In a lot of sections we were moving in single file and I couldn't get any speed up (not that I minded - I was happy to get a good training run and burn calories more than anything).
I recognised a lot of the course from the Rough n Tumble and the hills were just as tough. They were well worth it though - some of the views from the top really took my breath away and proved a salutary reminder just how lucky I am to live in a part of the world that boasts such wonderful scenery.
Happy to finish in a time of 2:15 and glad of the t-shirt and mars bar at the end! Home for a celebration fry-up (which didn't touch the sides) and a few well-earned drinks. On that subject, I've decided to give up alcohol for lent which will give my system a thorough de-tox, help me lose a few pounds and save quite a few as well.
Monday 23rd February
Running club tonight. I was tired from the run yesterday, but decided to risk going out with the group as Terry and Kev did the tough ten yesterday and would be in the same boat.
The only problem was, they obviously weren't as tired as me, having done a slightly easier run than me and being slightly stronger runners anyway. We were joined by Becky who clearly wasn't tired at all!
I struggled to keep up, but kept pushing myself, and we did the Cheney Route (about 6 miles). They assured me it was only an average of 9 minutes per mile but it felt a lot faster. It just proves what being tired does to you, and how important rest and recovery days are.
Tuesday 24th February
The plan was to do a speed session tonight but this changed when I met Andy at the gym who was going out to do six miles. So I decided it would be good to catch up, plus I would be able to break in my new Pegasus properly. So we did the Cheney route but in reverse (I know, still boring).
Lent started for me tonight. Normally it starts tomorrow (Ash wednesday) but I arranged to meet Pete in Bath thursday so starting a day earlier makes up for it :) Not that I drink in the week much anway. Cheap Tuesday at the cinema so took myself off to see Vicky Cristina Barcelona which I thoroughly enjoyed. Ms Johansson is always easy on the eye, but there were some other good performances as well from Penelope Cruz and Rebecca Hall who I know from Starter for Ten.
Wednesday 25th February
Body pump and RPM. Both good, but Ali did some old tracks in pump which I struggled with a bit - push ups at the end of the chest track are a killer, especially when you've been ambitious with your weight...Was a bit concerned when my lower back seized up during the abs track but I stretched it out before RPM and it was fine after that.
Thursday 26th February
Complete rest as met Pete in Bath. It was a good night, but I was alarmed just how quiet the pub and the restaurant were for a Thursday night. The recession really is hitting hard.
Friday 27th February
Just five miles (8k) on the treadmill, nice and steady. Felt really tired tonight and as I have a twenty mile race a week Sunday I'm looking forward to an easy week next week.
Body pump in the morning. Not that I expect it to have an impact on my performance tomorrow, but I missed out squats and lunges to ensure my legs are fresh for the race.
Did a mile on the treadmill after the class, purely because I received two new pairs of trainers this week (Nike Air Pegasus and Air Skylon) and wanted to break in the Pegasus. I could really tell the difference between the new and old pair in terms of support and cushioning, so it was not before time.
Sunday 22nd February
My intention was to be competing in the Bourton 10k today. I've run it every year for the last three years, and have got a PB on each occasion. This year, unfortunately, I didn't get in - I sent my form off just after entries open but it must have filled up in record time.
This left me with the choice of running the Tough Ten at Weston (a lovely run, and it would have been my third time) or running the Terminator for the first time. It was a tough call, but in the end I decided on the latter as I don't get many opportunities to try new races and have really enjoyed these off-road races this year.
I certainly wasn't disappointed. I was immediately impressed by the marshals guiding us into the car parks as soon as I reached Pewsey. I made the short walk to the race HQ, dropped my baggage off, bought my pre-race cakes and it was business as usual.
The race pretty much met my expectations. The one surprise was that while it wasn't as muddy as say, Sodbury, the muddy bits were very deep and I nearly lost my trainers in the first mile! Message to self - secure them with duct tape next year.
The other slight surprise (and it shouldn't have been) was just how busy the race was. In a lot of sections we were moving in single file and I couldn't get any speed up (not that I minded - I was happy to get a good training run and burn calories more than anything).
I recognised a lot of the course from the Rough n Tumble and the hills were just as tough. They were well worth it though - some of the views from the top really took my breath away and proved a salutary reminder just how lucky I am to live in a part of the world that boasts such wonderful scenery.
Happy to finish in a time of 2:15 and glad of the t-shirt and mars bar at the end! Home for a celebration fry-up (which didn't touch the sides) and a few well-earned drinks. On that subject, I've decided to give up alcohol for lent which will give my system a thorough de-tox, help me lose a few pounds and save quite a few as well.
Monday 23rd February
Running club tonight. I was tired from the run yesterday, but decided to risk going out with the group as Terry and Kev did the tough ten yesterday and would be in the same boat.
The only problem was, they obviously weren't as tired as me, having done a slightly easier run than me and being slightly stronger runners anyway. We were joined by Becky who clearly wasn't tired at all!
I struggled to keep up, but kept pushing myself, and we did the Cheney Route (about 6 miles). They assured me it was only an average of 9 minutes per mile but it felt a lot faster. It just proves what being tired does to you, and how important rest and recovery days are.
Tuesday 24th February
The plan was to do a speed session tonight but this changed when I met Andy at the gym who was going out to do six miles. So I decided it would be good to catch up, plus I would be able to break in my new Pegasus properly. So we did the Cheney route but in reverse (I know, still boring).
Lent started for me tonight. Normally it starts tomorrow (Ash wednesday) but I arranged to meet Pete in Bath thursday so starting a day earlier makes up for it :) Not that I drink in the week much anway. Cheap Tuesday at the cinema so took myself off to see Vicky Cristina Barcelona which I thoroughly enjoyed. Ms Johansson is always easy on the eye, but there were some other good performances as well from Penelope Cruz and Rebecca Hall who I know from Starter for Ten.
Wednesday 25th February
Body pump and RPM. Both good, but Ali did some old tracks in pump which I struggled with a bit - push ups at the end of the chest track are a killer, especially when you've been ambitious with your weight...Was a bit concerned when my lower back seized up during the abs track but I stretched it out before RPM and it was fine after that.
Thursday 26th February
Complete rest as met Pete in Bath. It was a good night, but I was alarmed just how quiet the pub and the restaurant were for a Thursday night. The recession really is hitting hard.
Friday 27th February
Just five miles (8k) on the treadmill, nice and steady. Felt really tired tonight and as I have a twenty mile race a week Sunday I'm looking forward to an easy week next week.
Monday, 16 February 2009
First long, long run
Friday 13th February
Quite sore after last night's run but wanted to run anyway. There's something I like about the gym on a Friday night, it's never completely dead but isn't too busy either.
10k on the treadmill followed by about twenty minutes of core work, mostly on the cable machine. Really want to build a good strong core which will hold me in good stead over the longer distances.
Saturday 14th February
Body pump in the morning, followed by 4 miles (6.4k) on the treadmill and some core work. Wasn't sure if the run was a good idea as I want to do some serious mileage tomorrow, but it didn't seem to hurt. My legs actually felt a lot better than they did yesterday.
Sunday 15th February
And so it begins. I actually set my alarm so that I would get up earlier than usual and get my long run over with so I could enjoy the rest of the day. Actually managed to start it before 9am, which has to be a first.
11.2k (7 miles) on the treadmill followed by a good two hours plus outside (up the railway path, down Marlborough Road, along Queens Drive, through town then towards Cheney and along Akers Way, round the lake and up Cartwright Drive back to the gym. It would be nice to know exactly but I'm guessing that must be about 12-13 miles. So about 20 miles in total. Was very pleased with how I felt, the run outside was quite slow but I hardly had to stop and walk and generally felt okay.
It was nice to get out early, although this was more than 3 hours of running it didn't seem to take as long, I guess this is because it was over earlier and I had so much more of the day left. Was quite tired when I got home and needed a nap before the cricket started but it was well worth sacrificing my lie-in.
Monday 16th February
Considering how much I had done yesterday my legs didn't feel too bad at all. That notwithstanding, I wasn't doing anything more than a gentle recovery run indoors. Meant to do 5 miles (8k) but it turned out to be 8.5k because Keeps Getting Better by Christina Aguilera came on the music channel just as I was starting to cool down and I really like the song (and the video obviously). This seems to happen a lot recently?
Anyway, now that the weather is getting (slightly) warmer and the days are getting longer I really need to do some more runs outside. As I write it is clear I have been doing too much running on the treadmill which was fine when there was snow on the ground but now it has gone I really need to get out more (story of my life really).
Tuesday 17th February
6-7 miles steady, just did the Cheney route on my own. Legs feeling better now.
Wednesday 18th February
Body pump. No cardio. Just wanted to get home at a reasonable hour tonight.
Thursday 19th February
Did an interval session outside tonight, so jogged out to the lake and did 5 laps hard. The session seemed a lot easier than I remember it being, I don't know if that is down to the work I've been doing on the treadmill or if I've lost weight or what. I actually did it with my MP3 player which I wouldn't normally do. In the end I decided if I have music doing my speed sessions indoors, why not outside as well?
Friday 20th February
Complete rest. A different kind of maintenance however, as I had an eyebrow wax and tidy (don't laught) at the body clinic. Had my appointment with a girl called Carly, and it was my first treatment there for a few years. All I'll say is it is nice to be doing business with them again.
Quite sore after last night's run but wanted to run anyway. There's something I like about the gym on a Friday night, it's never completely dead but isn't too busy either.
10k on the treadmill followed by about twenty minutes of core work, mostly on the cable machine. Really want to build a good strong core which will hold me in good stead over the longer distances.
Saturday 14th February
Body pump in the morning, followed by 4 miles (6.4k) on the treadmill and some core work. Wasn't sure if the run was a good idea as I want to do some serious mileage tomorrow, but it didn't seem to hurt. My legs actually felt a lot better than they did yesterday.
Sunday 15th February
And so it begins. I actually set my alarm so that I would get up earlier than usual and get my long run over with so I could enjoy the rest of the day. Actually managed to start it before 9am, which has to be a first.
11.2k (7 miles) on the treadmill followed by a good two hours plus outside (up the railway path, down Marlborough Road, along Queens Drive, through town then towards Cheney and along Akers Way, round the lake and up Cartwright Drive back to the gym. It would be nice to know exactly but I'm guessing that must be about 12-13 miles. So about 20 miles in total. Was very pleased with how I felt, the run outside was quite slow but I hardly had to stop and walk and generally felt okay.
It was nice to get out early, although this was more than 3 hours of running it didn't seem to take as long, I guess this is because it was over earlier and I had so much more of the day left. Was quite tired when I got home and needed a nap before the cricket started but it was well worth sacrificing my lie-in.
Monday 16th February
Considering how much I had done yesterday my legs didn't feel too bad at all. That notwithstanding, I wasn't doing anything more than a gentle recovery run indoors. Meant to do 5 miles (8k) but it turned out to be 8.5k because Keeps Getting Better by Christina Aguilera came on the music channel just as I was starting to cool down and I really like the song (and the video obviously). This seems to happen a lot recently?
Anyway, now that the weather is getting (slightly) warmer and the days are getting longer I really need to do some more runs outside. As I write it is clear I have been doing too much running on the treadmill which was fine when there was snow on the ground but now it has gone I really need to get out more (story of my life really).
Tuesday 17th February
6-7 miles steady, just did the Cheney route on my own. Legs feeling better now.
Wednesday 18th February
Body pump. No cardio. Just wanted to get home at a reasonable hour tonight.
Thursday 19th February
Did an interval session outside tonight, so jogged out to the lake and did 5 laps hard. The session seemed a lot easier than I remember it being, I don't know if that is down to the work I've been doing on the treadmill or if I've lost weight or what. I actually did it with my MP3 player which I wouldn't normally do. In the end I decided if I have music doing my speed sessions indoors, why not outside as well?
Friday 20th February
Complete rest. A different kind of maintenance however, as I had an eyebrow wax and tidy (don't laught) at the body clinic. Had my appointment with a girl called Carly, and it was my first treatment there for a few years. All I'll say is it is nice to be doing business with them again.
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