Friday 31 December 2010

New Years Eve

I have not made any attempts at running since Christmas Day, in an effort to clear up the nightmare that is my respiratory system. I can only take heart from the fact that 99% of the population seems to be suffering with similar stuff this Christmas. I am grateful that my normal good health is keeping me going, but it is getting me down.

Today I decided to go for a four mile round the block job, and resigned myself to - if I have to have a walk break I will - but it was worse than I thought. Much worse.

As soon as I got onto a slight incline and my legs wanted a little more oxygen, my lungs responded by seizing up and after a stop-start effort I eventually ended up sat by the roadside at good ol' Joe McBain Avenue wondering how I go about volunteering to be a helper at the Edinburgh Marathon.


I managed to get back home - it's downhill - but that was a wee while ago now and my breathing sounds absolutely dreadful. I dare not go near a vet - they will put me down, for sure.

In all seriousness, I am gutted. I have lost so much running in the last four or more weeks that I really don't think there is any way I can manage the marathon. I am too behind with my training now. I maybe will swap to the half marathon, but for now, I think I only managed a mile today before I pulled up.

Apart from the lung malfunction, everything is fine, legs etc all working well, so I will stick to a bit of indoor bike and maybe some circuits until I am better. (Although it is traditional to run on New Years Day, so look out for a miler!)

Trying to keep my spirits up and be thankful for the good stuff, and with that in mind, Saffers can have this run. I'll get one another time, when I am all better.

Saturday 25 December 2010

Christmas Day Run

This was always going to be a ten miler. Arranged a later start at work to allow for it and everything, but I had not counted on (a) the lingering snow and ice, and (b) bronchitis.

I have missed a lot of runs this month but I was determined that I would get in some sort of a run for Christmas Day - it's traditional, isn't it!


I'm pretty sure this was just under three miles really, but my phone kept going off and I stopped the Garmin once or twice and forgot to restart the little blighter. you can see where fairly easily!

Never mind, I got in my half hour run, despite the terrible pain in my chest and the coughing and wheezing! Thank goodness for my shoe chains!! Now I'm gonna have a nice big mug of Cappucino and a mince pie!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Wednesday 22 December 2010

Cycle Path with Jasper

Yes it really has been that long since my last run. The combination of snow, ice and a lingering chest infection have kept me pretty much couped up, but today I decided to don the shoe chains and take Jasper with me.

He has not been running with me for a while - it's not good for me as he wants to stop every few minutes for a pee, a poo or to lick some lady piss - but hey, he is a dog, you gotta forgive him!

Anyway he was pretty good and quickly remembered that the best plan is to try to keep pace with Mummy Sare rather than go bounding off while we are still attached to one another, so we did an easy four miles up the cycle path and back.

There is not so much snow there as at home, but I decided to try out running in shoe chains and I found that I got on fine with them. I used them with a semi-retired pair of trail shoes, as I did not want to damage my 'current' pair, but they were fine and I definitely benefited from the additional grip they offered - particularly when Jasper wanted to go a different direction to me!

From a training point of view, there is not really much benefit to be had from this stop-start sort of stuff, but it made me feel better and JB loved it too. Had a couple of coughing attacks along the way which was bloody painful but knickers to it, what do doctors know - we runners need to just get out there, don't we!

Here's the link...

Saturday 11 December 2010

Low Moresby Non Christmas Pudding Run :-(

Today was supposed to by the Christmas Pudding 10k in Great Langdale, but it was canceled two days ago due to the lingering snow and ice. Disappointing, but unavoidable.

So, yesterday I was over in the North East of the country (Middlesborough) and was gobsmacked at how much snow they still have, wowsie, and today I was pleased to have the chance to get a run in on some tarmac!! The only underfoot hazard was residual grit, which was particularly hairy on the downhill stretch of this route - if you look at the elevation graph, you will be left in no doubt which bit I mean!!



A new route for me, and I didn't really know how far it would be but guestimated about 6 - ooh I'm good! The last bit was the very worst, I live up a pretty steep hill and it is hard enough work walking up the darn thing, never mind running it, but it had to be done.

Past two weeks or so, the training plan has kind of gone out the window, with the weather conditions and this chest infection that I have, it has not been easy, and I'm coughing and spluttering while I am typing this, but I thoroughly enjoyed this run and wished I had been able to get out earlier so I could go further. (Darkness fell as I came up Parton Long Mile)

Christmas is nearly here and then sanity, hopefully, will return. Although I suspect more snow is on the cards yet, ah well, for today I am happy :-)

Tuesday 7 December 2010

Hensingham 'Easy' Loop

Last night I was pretty despondent knowing there was absolutely zero chance of getting a run either then or this morning. The ice was so widespread and thick that you could barely stand up in it. Even Jasper didn't want to 'walk' far in it, oh yes, it was THAT bad.

And then it snowed....

This morning we have about 6-8 inches of snow - which means I can run. Well, after a fashion anyway. Pulled on the NB's and off I went. It seemed wise to avoid running in the road, for one thing you can't tell where the road actually is, and for another, there was a serious risk of a car sliding into you, so I elected to nip round Hensingham and back along the loop road, as there is footpath all the way. All you have to do is figure out where it is!



It was a short distance overall, but hard going all the way. The snow did become less deep as I dropped down into Hensingham, but it was still challenging, and the Sellafield traffic stacking up on the Loop Road left me so full of fumes that I felt like I had smoked 20 fags halfway round! I do feel sorry for people who run in cities all the time - I'm very lucky to live where I do.

Anyway, all things considered I was really pleased to be able to get out - can't get the proper runs in, but in these conditions, anything is good. I am supposed to be doing a 10k on Saturday in Langdale, but at the mo they are considering cancelling. It will be a shame, but it's a tricky spot to get to in ice and snow. We shall see.

Now to defrost the toes...

Sunday 5 December 2010

Ice Age 4

It's not been a good week for running. Wow, what an understatement! We had snow already but more and more came over the course of the week and although it was possible to run in it (after a fashion) I found that the doubling of my travelling time to and from work left me exhausted and there was no way a run was gonna happen.

I am amazed at how crotchety I became as the week wore on, tiredness, cold and the need to stretch my legs have all made me totally unbearable to be around.

Yesterday, despite being determined to get in a run of ANY distance, it did not come to pass - we became totally iced in and it was absolutely treacherous outdoors. I took Jasper out and it was like the famous scene from Bambi where he is on the ice. We did not go far.

And so to today. My working week starts on a Sunday, but not this week. Apart from the fact that I was iced in (is there such a term), when I did feel brave and went out to the car, I found the battery had given it's last.

Thankfully, men are all born with the ability to bump start any vehicle, so I borrowed the neighbours fella for this task and then shelled out for the very nice guys at Kwik Fit to bung a new one in. Blast, more expense. Hey ho, gotta have it.

So, tonight I decided to go for it. And I am so pleased I made it round the block in one piece. Slipped once, tripped once on a frozen former snowball, and dived in the ditch to escape a BMW driver (Ahem, MUN) otherwise, everything was great. A very easy easy run, for obvious reasons but I feel so much better for it.

I am human again. :-)

A quick mention is appropriate for my footwear - I used my off roaders for this run, and I have always sworn by New Balance for this type of shoe. Currently using 874's and although I am still sulking that they did away with the rockstop feature on this model, they are a terrific pair of shoes, and come into their own on rubbish ground conditions such as today. (And they are the only running shoes made in the UK - in West Cumbria in fact, so there)

Saturday 27 November 2010

Snowy Saturday

It seems that most of us awoke today to find snow. For me, a couple of inches was all of it, and it was that really powdery stuff so not very good for building snowmen.

Anyway, there is something about waking to find snow that seems to make us all leap out of bed and get out in it asap! I have never seen so many Marras up so early, lol.

I decided to head for the bike path at Cleator Moor for safety reasons, and the intent was there to do 8 miles. I really need to get in a longer run after not making it last week. Trouble is that my run yesterday seemed to really mess up my lungs and I had spent half the night coughing, coughing, coughing. Grrr. I am wheezing like mad and can't manage to shift it, and so no surprise really that despite my mind and most of my body being more than willing to bang out the miles on such a beautiful and picturesque morning, the old lungs simply refused to allow enough oxygen in.


I'm very frustrated, but I know I really couldn't manage any more than this feeble 3. I have not had a good time these past few weeks, and now when I start to feel healthy again, I go and get this bloomin' cold. Sigh. Never mind, I will get there.

Friday 26 November 2010

Whelpside Wheezing

I am supposed to run 4 today and 8 tomorrow and I toyed with the idea of doing a switch around to take advantage of the fact that it is dry today. It doesn't look as if it will last into tomorrow! My forecasting is based on two things. Firstly, the town is full of seagulls, and secondly there are some ominous clouds building up on the horizon out to sea. Fairly sound clues, one feels!

I didn't manage to get out first thing, as I had some other things to deal with - primarily taking Jasper to visit Harry the butcher, and running up and down the shore with him like a total loon. With Jasper, that is - not the butcher.

So, as I have no desire to run in the dark if I don't have to, I have dumped the idea of a switcheroo and am gonna settle for 4. If I had remember to switch the GPS back on after the bike ride then the 405 would have confirmed that I did a bit over 4.


Had a little trouble partway round as my lungs seemed to seize up with the cold air and I had a fair old coughing fit, very much the same as the one I had when I returned to the warm air when I arrived back home. The smell of freshly baked bread soon helped my recovery there though. Me like my breadmaker.

Soup and bread it is then. See ya!

Wednesday 24 November 2010

Indoor Cycling

Okay, should have been a short run today but the ice put me off. I was slipping and sliding enough on it last night walking Jasper, so just didn't want to risk it today. We have severe snow forecast for tomorrow, but that's easier to run on!

Decided to do a half hour on the bike instead, and here it is. Nothing majorm didn't push too hard as I am still feeling less than 100%, but I'm happy to have done something!

Looking forward to the weekend, whatever the weather.



PS The toenail has come off :-(

Saturday 20 November 2010

Whelpside

Gorgeous sunshine this morning, although a heavy frost has left the ground very slippery in places which the sun hasn't yet reached!

Set off with a view to zooming round Whelpside and then up through Moresby for an 8 miler, but I felt as though I was struggling even on the downhill section heading out of town and as I came back up the hill at Whelpside I began to relaise that 8 miles was an ambitious hope.

I could have carried on and done it, I'm sure, but I was struggling with coughing and spluttering and to be honest, I figured it wasn't worth it, so I turned back and settled for three miles. Legs feeling a little heavy stillm, but a bit better than yesterday so I think I am on the way up at last.

Have taken some tests using the 405 of my heart rate at rest and it's definitely higher than usual so no surprise that I am feeling it when I get out.

Really don't like these 'Bing' maps that Garmin are now using - I mean, it says the Solway Firth runs across the front of my house and across Whitehaven Golf course it helpfully says England. Hey flippin' ho.

Friday 19 November 2010

Friday at last!

you may have noticed that I have not been for a run since Monday, this is cearly not planned! Furstratingly I still seem to be struggling to feel fully well and have now picked up a horrible cold just to make sure I feel reaaaaallllly bad. But today I am not at work, so have had a good lie in, and the rain and wind have given way to - dare I say it - yes, a little sunshine, so I am hoping this will all help for a run along the bike path.

I chose this route today as I feel I am probably not up to too many hills! (Feeling feeble, in other words!)

Incidentally, I can't pin down why this is happening, but I am getting a lot of problems with cramp in my legs. All times of day, doesn't matter if I have run or not run, and this is over the past fortnight really. I know this can be a symptom of dehydration, so maybe the stomach bug has something to answer for there - how shall I put this, I am definitely not having trouble 'going' of late!

Anyway, this is how I got on.


Incidentally, I don't think I like these new maps that Garmin Connect are using. They don't seem as clear.

The run went okay, although I stopped a couple of times to stretch and massage my right calf which was sore from a cramp attack yesterday. Eventually it eased off and other than that everything was fine except that I felt low on energy reserves!

I shall see how I feel tomorrow. I don't expect wonders but hopefully I will feel a little better again, I'm beginning to get fed up with it! Think I will go back to having fresh vegetable juice for breakfast, that always seemed to make me feel great all day!

Monday 15 November 2010

Golf Course 4 miler

Well, torrential rain and some impressive lightning did not put me off. Oh no, not me! Fair zoomed round the old 4 mile circuit of Whitehaven Golf Course in record time...


Okay, well maybe a wee exaggeration, but I'm happy to report no problems with the run tonight beyond blind drivers and flooding! Hey ho.

Felt really tight in my calves going up School Brow, but felt fine after reaching the top. Gonna get in the shower now to dry off!

Saturday 13 November 2010

Not a very long long run

Today is 'long run' day and it is an 8 miler. My planned route is a double circuit of the golf course - I don't think I have ever run in laps before, so I'm not sure how I will find it, but having consulted the map, it is the obvious route for clocking up an 8 without having to travel. I don't really want to be running along the main road on a Saturday morning!

The gales have eased although it is still fairly windy, but I'm very happy to see the sun has found it's way through and the rain looks to be having a day off at last.

And so with all this positive thinking I set off but in the event it was all a bit of a disaster.

Well, not really that bad I suppose, at least I haven't got an injury or anything like that, but I just couldn't get going, or keep going and at one point I didn't even feel like I had the energy to even walk back home.

Oh, not good.



Not really sure what the problem is, although I wasn't feeling well yesterday and woke this morning full of cold and with a bit of a headache. Maybe the ol' bod just needs a rest. It is true that I have not felt 100% all week, but this was unexpected.

Anyway, I am going to try to put the disappointment behind me rather than let it bog me down. After all, at least I did get out for a run, albeit a short one. Back tomorrow, hopefully will do better.

Thursday 11 November 2010

Golf Course Circuit

Originally planned as a rest day, I have four miles to do, as I took Tuesday off instead. Great weather for it - I don't think! Gales and downpours again. Hey ho, at least the ice and snow have gone.

Usual four mile route then, and it was somewhat more comfortable than yesterdays run. I do feel tired, but not from the running, just in general really. Stopped before the climb up School Brow to observe the two minutes silence for Armistice Day, and so, refreshed, I had no reason to not run up it without problem today.


Turning the corner for the homeward mile was the hardest it has ever been, as the wind was full in my face. Normally this is the easiest mile of the route, but definitely not so today.

Made it in one piece and only got drenched twice. Not bad going!

Wednesday 10 November 2010

5 Miler

When I set up my training plan I incorporated two rest days per week as the norm, always with the thought that I could easily exchange mid week rest days if necessary. This week that is exactly what I have done.

Three very long days at work meant that when I eventually returned home last night, I was just too tired to run, so I have nudged back a day and will run on Thursday as well instead of resting.

So a five miler today is on the cards, reckon another minor variation to the standard circuit of the golf course should clock up the required distance.

Weather today is gorgeous - lovely sunshine, crisp frost on the ground. Much better than all that rain and snow of the last few days. Of course the puddles that remain have turned to solid ice!

Here it is.


I had a bit of difficulty staying motivated and my legs felt a bit heavy at times. Stopped partway to stretch a bit, particularly my left leg which I had a bit of a cramp attack in yesterday afternoon. (Too much sitting at a desk!)

Then came the assault on School Brow, stopped for no apparent reason just before the top. But I absolutely refused to walk up it and managed to bully myself in to continuing on. Turning the corner at the top, however, I was forced to stop again to catch my breath. I had that feeling that I just couldn't get enough air in to my lungs. Haven't had that for a while!

As soon as I had recovered I carried on and the rest of the run went without any hiccups.

I think maybe I was too hot - the sun was actually rather warm despite the air being cold and I did have quite a heavy shirt on today. Dunno, but it may have been that.

Monday 8 November 2010

Golf Course Circuit 4 miler

Ooh. what wicked weather today!! Through the night it was gales and torrential rain, then the wind eased a little and the rain turned to snow on the higher bits of Cumbria. Rain through most of the day turned back to snow again just in time for this run. Oh joy. Actually, I thought it felt too cold for snow, but obviously not!


If it had not been part of my long term plan to do this run today, I definitely would have passed, it really was an atrocious night, but I told myself to think myself lucky it was just 4 miles and got on with it. Felt fine, nothing really to report.  I would like to say that School Brow is getting easier, but it would be something of a fib, so I will save it for another time!

I have finally started to shed my toenail which was a victim of the Great North Run. The top most part crumbled away and it looks a bit manky now really, as well as being the wrong colour. No more pain from it though so I'm not going to grumble, it really was very sore for a while back there!

That's it. Gonna grab a scotch and hit the hay now. Purely medicinal, gotta keep those winter germs at bay!

Saturday 6 November 2010

Saturday Seven

Good weather this morning for the weekly 'long' run, so it's a seven miler. I had discovered a two mile add on to the usual 4 mile route, which would take me via Whelpside, and then I figured I would only need to detour about half a mile off the route and back to tot up to the required distance.

Doing the maths in your head when you're on the go is always a good way of distracting you if you're feeling weary, I find!

As it happened, I found this run quite enjoyable. The trudge up Whelpside was okay, not too steep or too long to make it tiring, and I was pleased that I pretty much took it in my stride. Similarly with the notorious climb up School Brow.

I did feel slightly tired on the last quarter of a mile, but I always do - I think it's just cos I know I'm nearly finished. Anyway, overall, very pleased with this after having lost a week. Definitely back on track now.

The postman had been while I was running, and he has delivered the bumpf for the Great Langdale Christmas Pudding 10k, in about a months time. Very pleased with my race number - this is my lucky number. A friend once suggested that I should name my house "222", but as it is actually number 26, I thought this might confuse people!

Friday 5 November 2010

Joe McBain 3 miler

A day off yesterday and back to the training plan this afternoon with this three miler in the wind and rain.

I'm pleased to find that I feel fully recovered from the bug I had last week (at last) and I enjoyed this little outing. I have apparently picked up an ear infection along the way, seemingly while my defences were taking a battering last week. Never mind, I have some nasty squirty stuff that should sort that out in no time.



Back on track I hope, longer run due tomorrow...

Wednesday 3 November 2010

Joe McBain

I felt better yesterday but decided to be sensible and let myself rest another day before trying to run. So this morning I decided just a trip out to Joe McBain Ave and back would do nicely to gauge how I felt. Round trip a nice little 3 miles.



Had to stop a couple of times to throw up. Not good. Legs and all felt fine, but my heart rate was high and I just didn't feel right. Managed to run past the copper with the radar gun without him feeling it necessary to stop me, so I don't think I broke any records.

On balance I'm glad I went out as I was feeling stressed about not running, but it proved to me that I was right to have not tried and I did kind of manage a short run today after all. I will not run tomorrow, anyway, so next outing will be Friday by which time I hope to be fully recovered from the bug.

I am of course, now a full 19 miles short of hitting my 1000 miles by end of January.

Saturday 30 October 2010

Saturday Seven

OK, well it is now apparent why I was so tired all day Thursday, just could not get going and felt knackered the whole time. Wasn't just end-of-week syndrome, I have obviously picked up some ghastly bug or other as I woke up in the early hours of Friday morning sick as a dog (pardon the expression, Jasper)

I was due to do a little 3 miler but it was all I could do to lift my head off the pillow really, so that was out of the question. Not at all good. I did manage to get up later in the day and make a quick trip to Tesco for some supplies, however bad you feel, you can't do without certain things and loo roll is top of that list!

Drove past Father Christmas on his bike - still not entirely sure about that one - and returned home straight back to my bed.

So today I have woken up feeling somewhat trampled, but I think I'm okay. Got a bit of a bad head and feel a bit floppy but I am hoping I can manage the seven miles that I have planned. If not, I'll have to give it a go tomorrow instead.



Well, with hindsight it was more than a little ambitious. Don't think I even managed half a mile and now I feel ten times worse. Sigh.

I obviously need time to let myself recover from whatever the heck I have had, or indeed, still have. Well, at least Jasper will get walked, I think I can manage that.

So thats it for this weeks plan, I will not reschedule the 7 miler for tomorrow, I think it's best to just leave it and continue from where I am. That will mean I am looking at my next run being a 3 miler on Monday, by which time I hope to be fighting fit again.

I hate being poorly.

Thursday 28 October 2010

Late night with Joe McBain

Just a three miler, but I had no time before work to get this in so it had to be a late nighter. Never mind, still time to watch The Apprentice and have a glass of vino!

PS Note to Nic, when I say I'm gonna do something - I do it! :-)

Monday 25 October 2010

Golf Course Circuit

A four miler on the cards tonight, and as this is an easy week I should be feeling nicely rested, and indeed I am. September and early October were pretty tiring on the old legs and I was feeling like I could use a little easing off.

So, a circuit of the Golf Course it is. Trudged up School Brow, boy it's hard work that hill - good job it is only short, and then I was away. Felt like I was nipping on a bit more on the last mile, and the Garmin agrees with me. I thoroughly enjoyed this run. To be properly rested and know an easy week lies ahead is nice :-)

The new shoes felt great, when I first pulled them on I was struck by their stiffness in the upper, but once I stepped out I pretty much forgot them. All is good!

Here's the map...

Saturday 23 October 2010

Joe McBain three miler

Well, I still don't know who the heck this fella is, but I have sent a few emails enquiring so if I get any helpful replies, I'll let you know. In the meantime he is a good bloke to run to and fro for a three mile outing!



This one was the first run with my new GT 2150's and crikey, what a difference. I was very aware of the new shoes from start to finish, not sure yet if that is a good thing or bad, but time will tell I'm sure. My initial thoughts were that they certainly are more supportive than the 1140's. Feel as if they sit higher around the ankle and the heel, although I know they have lowered the heel on this model. They felt cushioned without feeling too spongy, and offered plenty of arch support.

My ankle that I hurt two weeks ago was definitely aware that I had a change of shoe - every impact with the ground I could feel it here, but it felt like a corrective twinge rather than a damaging one, if you know how I mean. It wasn't painful, just making it's presence known really. I imagine this is simply down to the control the new shoes offer, whereas I was probably over pronating in the old ones.

Didn't need the head torch or any reflective gear today as the new shoes were enough to dazzle the man in the moon.

Oh, and it was daylight anyway :)

Friday 22 October 2010

Shopping time!

 Since squeezing the last bit of wear from my Asics on The Great North Run a month ago, I have been wearing a previously underused pair of New Balance shoes. They had a fair few miles left in them, but they were shelved after I realised that I had a slight over pronation going on that had led to a knee issue a while back.


ASICS GT-2150

Using an orthotic with the NB's has been okay for the past few weeks but I have just ordered a new pair of Asics GT 2150's which should hopefully land tomorrow.

I should have done this sooner, but was left in no doubt that the NB's were not up to the job when I pulled on the effectively discarded old Asics to walk Jasper and was stunned at how much I could feel the support they afforded, even in their burned out state. Obviously this highlighted how little support the NB's are giving me, so out came the bank card!

Of course, now I have the frustration of waiting for them to arrive, but there are only two little short runs to complete this week, so I'm sure I will survive.

Decided to use the Asics for the required run today. Four miles today in an icy wind. Brrr. The wind is quite a common feature here, by virtue of the fact that I am running on a moor overlooking the Irish Sea. Bound to be breezy from time to time. On the plus side, you get some cracking views... sometimes, but not today! Couldn't really see much of anything through the pouring rain actually.


Tuesday 19 October 2010

Four Miler

Had a longer than intended day at work and was dead beat when I got home. Decided to reverse my normal after work routine and had some dinner first and then took Jasper out, leaving my run to last job.

Felt great running, but had an attack of runners trots - probably the dinner - and had to stop briefly. Still, the plan required 4 miles and that's what we got, and I got to play with the Petzl again. Still very impressed with it!

The ankle is a little grumbly, but strapping has been dispensed with and it feels strong, so I'm happy. Here's the map.

Sunday 17 October 2010

Six Miler

This weeks 'long run' is a six miler. Seems a tiddler after the half marathons and yet I did feel a little tired. I decided to do my normal four mile route and just detour off it for a mile to make up to six. In the event I forgot to start the Garmin, so it has not recorded the first couple of miles. I think I was still asleep after a bit of a late night!

Despite the tiredness I was pleased that I managed to dig in and keep going up School Brow. You can see from my heart rate that I wasn't enjoying that bit! Easy week ahead to recover and so my next long run is not for two weeks when I have a seven to do. I'll try to remember to set the watch that time!!

Friday 15 October 2010

Petzl Tikka Plus 2 Head Torch

Waited until it was fully dark before venturing out this evening as I wanted to test drive my new head torch. After much consideration I felt the Petzl Tikka Plus 2 should suit my requirements, so tonight was my opportunity to test it out.


A three miler is on the plan for today, so up the road and back it is. Good ol' Joe McBain - dunno who he is (or was) but judging by other street names in Whitehaven he was probably a famous socialist or somesuch. I must see if I can find out.... anyway, Joe McBain and back is about three miles and much of that route is unlit in any way, so a fair test is on the cards.

The torch is powered by three AAA batteries and when I first started running with it I was very conscious of the weight of the thing on my forehead bouncing around, but don't misunderstand - there actually was no bouncing at all, just that it took me a little while to get used to the feel of the thing. The fit against my head was very comfortable, in fact, and the elastic headband is wide enough to fit snugly without having the oppressive feel of a sweat headband. It wasn't too hot to wear either.

The torch felt totally secure and I really didn't notice the feel of it after the first five minutes.

Operation is simple. One button on the top of the lamp does everything. It's a good sized button that needs a firm push, so to operate it requires you to hold the torch at the bottom too. No trouble in operating it at all, even on the go.


The lamp has a ratchet swivel to allow you to adjust the direction of the beam. Plastic on plastic, but it appears to be pretty hard-wearing so I imagine it would last even with extensive use. Stiff enough to not move about uninvited, but not too stiff to make it tricky to position.

This model is rated as having a brightness of 50 lumens and a throw of 35m. I reckoned that would suffice. I have to say, if I were on a bike I would want more than this, but for running it seemed to be fine. The field of vision afforded by the illumination is as good as my eyes would manage anyway, and the main beam lights up a width of a fair sized footpath. As for the length of the beam - I took myself and the lamp up a farm access to assess this across the fields and I would reckon that I was lighting up to about 100ft. There were a lot of various coloured eyes that I picked up out there, I can tell you!!

This head torch offers a simple set of options. High intensity white light, normal intensity white light, high intensity white flasher, steady red light, flashing red light. Changing modes is simple, as I said earlier, all done on the one button. And the lamp 'remembers' what function you last used so if you turn it off while it is on red flasher, that's what it will come on as when you switch on again. I think that has to be considered an essential function really, but not all head torches do that.

Overall, I was more impressed with it than I expected to be. I felt far safer running along knowing that I could see where I was stepping, and I was blinded by far fewer car headlights, presumably because they were able to see me sooner? I was wearing all my usual night time running clobber, so no other change there.

I did feel that I looked a bit of a twit, but then I reminded myself that it was dark and no-one could see me. Heh heh.

Would I recommend this torch? Yes, I would. There are probably other makes which are good, but Petzl have a good name, they offer a 3 year warranty and the price suited. I would not recommend going for a lower specification than this one in any case, maybe the next one up for running if you want to spend a few more quid, but I personally think a higher brightness rating would leave me worrying that I would dazzle people! Yes, I felt a little more comfortable with this on, despite feeling that I looked like a dalek and I will be happy to take it on all my dark runs. Even through streetlit areas the whiteness of the lamp made the ground much easier to see than this stupid orange we are all bathed in.

In a nutshell....
Get one.

Thursday 14 October 2010

200 Sit-up Challenge

Before I went to bed last night I reviewed my training plan to see how many miles I am supposed to run today, and seeing it was just 3 I resolved that today is the day to tackle the 'final test' in the 200 sit-up challenge. I have followed the programme conscientiously so there is no reason why I shouldn't be able to do 200 in one go....

I always find it helpful to have a clear picture of what is expected of me before I go to sleep the previous night. I think it helps my mind to prepare myself for whatever it is - not just with running and stuff but I guess with everything really.

Anyway, I tackled the Sit-up challenge first thing. Decided to count down from 200 rather than up as I was a bit concerned that as I started to tire hearing those big numbers would just make me feel more tired. It seemed to work although I have to say the last 6 or 7 were a bit shaky!! Actually it wasn't as hard as I thought it might be. After a while you sort of get into it and go into autopilot, even daydreaming a little. Yep, honestly! Anyway, I've done it now so I have to think about what is the plan to maintain this. Should I do 200 every other day or something like that? I guess that wouldn't be a bad idea. I'll see.

Next up, time to get that 3 miler in. the usual trip up the road and back does the job nicely, and I am getting into the 4 mile 'round the golf course' route too, but I need to start planning ahead and devising some longer routes for the coming weeks. It's okay for my days off, but on work days I don't really want to waste time travelling so need to plan some runs in this area.

Wednesday 13 October 2010

Golf Course Circuit

The training plan said 3 miles, but 4 would have kept me level with Diane on our Fab 40 womens challenge for October, so I did another of these! Heh heh.

Surprisingly I had terrific ankle trouble initially, but I stopped and adjusted the strapping and lacing on my shoe and after that it was absolutely fine.

Phew!

Tuesday 12 October 2010

Golf Course Circuit

Back to work today after a rather nice ten days off. I was getting used to being a lady of leisure and Jasper was loving it too! Ah well, apparently there is an unclaimed jackpot prize on the lottery from the weekend - where the heck did I put that ticket, y'never know....

Yes you do. Sigh. So back to work it was, and also down to business in the running stakes. The only other event this year that I have to come is the 10k in December, which is no great shakes, so the real task is to concentrate on building up my distance and strength and getting this ankle better.

It held up very well on Sunday, although there was a fair degree of pain, and throughout today it has been bothering me pretty badly, but I have kept it strapped for support and it's not been too bad at all really.


First few steps on my run tonight were very uncomfortable, but once it had loosened up it was okay. Not perfect, but okay. Did a circuit of the Golf Course as this is about 4 miles. It was very foggy up on this hill, and consequently not at all cold, despite having been a pretty shivery day. All in all an enjoyable run, you always feel good after a long run and then a day of rest.

I did consider that I should rest the ankle, but having taken advice, I am happy that it will be okay as long as I am sensible. Uh, me? Sensible? Well, it could happen.

Y'never know.

Yes you do.

Sunday 10 October 2010

Great Cumbrian Run 2010

Yesterday I spent the majority of the day with my feet up. Particularly my right one, as this is the one with the troublesome ankle. And I was so cross with myself for having twisted it within days of the half marathon.

So, this morning as I hopped out of bed I was immediately reminded of the injury and came downstairs feeling somewhat miserable. I  really wasn't sure if I would be able to run at all, let alone complete 13.1 miles. Made some strong coffee and some toast for breakfast and switched on the laptop to check the weather forecast for Carlisle. No change, they are still saying it will be warm and sunny. Ok.

It can be as warm and sunny as it likes, but if I can't run then what's the point in even going? Quick read of my emails.... oh.

I have a message from my dear friend Michele telling me that she has had to pull out of a half marathon that she had planned, and wishing me well. That was what I needed. Of course I can make it, I thought. I know that if the ankle is supported adequately I should not do any more damage, and it may well hurt but I can take painkillers if need be.

Off I go then. This event is one big mental block for me really. I took part last year and I cannot express how much I hated it. To be fair, the weather was appalling - rain is okay, but it was accompanied by strong wind that seemed to be in your face however many corners you turned and it was just - well, 'orrible. But I had promised it one more chance and this was to be it. I knew if I didn't manage it today I would never enter it again and I wanted to like it, if only because it is local. So the ankle gave me the perfect excuse to not take part, but thanks to Michele I did not play the 'injured' card and instead decided to tackle it.


I had switched off the auto-lap feature on the Garmin (can't remember why now) and so it has not recorded the mile splits which is a shame as that provides a good picture of how it actually went.

Having studied last years data, however, I knew that the first half is up and the second half is down - well, pretty much! Without that foreknowledge last year, I think I just went out too fast, so this year I decided that if I needed to take a breather it should be in the first half and not in the second! It was a simple enough strategy, and it kind of worked.

The ankle was really hurting for the first two or three miles and then I got used to it. It wasn't worsening so I just accepted it and trudged on as best I could. I walked bits here and there but, hey, I got round.

It's always great to see the villagers out cheering you on, really makes it a special day, but what a shame that the people of Carlisle aren't more interested. It's their half marathon after all. There were about 2000 runners, so it's not a tiny tinpot affair anymore.

Coming back in to Carlisle sooner than I expected felt nice, and realising there were less than 3 miles to go I felt pretty strong and was pleased, but the last mile seems to last for at least two - I think they need to remeasure it! Oh it's a killer, and the finish is on the track at the Sheep Mount Stadium and suddenly running on the nice squishy athletics track after 13 miles of pounding the tarmac really feels wierd. I remember last year thinking I was gonna fall over on it, and it was just the same today.

Stopped the Garmin as I crossed the mat, so I reckon the time is accurate.

Sure I could have done better. I could have run without wimping out on some of the hilly bits, and I could have gone faster but who cares. I have done away with this demon, and with a sprained ankle too! I'm pleased, and I will definitely enter it again. I think the main difference was simply being more aware of the course beforehand really.

So it's now several hours after the run, and the ankle feels fine - well, no worse than it was yesterday. My main concern is toes AGAIN and a bit of chafing in one or two places. Particularly unpleasant is my belly button! I think this is where I have the scar from the op I had in the summer. I have googled and I conclude that the best treatment for this is a well earned beer.

Cheers.

PS. Thanks Michele. You really did make the difference.

Friday 8 October 2010

Last run before the next half.

During the Coniston run I was talking to a fella, discussing various Garmin models actually, and he said he does a bit of Triathlon - I told him I'm okay on a bike but rubbish at swimming, which is an understatement! Anyway, it reminded me of a time at school during swimming lessons when the teacher said that he thought I would make a lot more progress through the water if I didn't wiggle at the waist so much. It occurs to me that I do this a bit when I am running too, particularly once I am tired. And I think the same applies, I would certainly use less energy if I didn't do that. I'll try to be more aware of it I think.


Also, while I think on, I did say that the toe I hurt in Newcastle was fine - and it is, but what is interesting is that this morning it has gone really black. That's three weeks since I hurt it almost. Up til now it has been discoloured, but not like it is this morning. Strange. To be honest, I'm just happy the pain has gone, it was really giving me grief. Hope I don't set it off again on Sunday!


So to today, and a nice firm plan of action, thank goodness! Another circuit from home through Moresby Parks and back, should be just over 4 miles. This is going to be the last run before the Great Cumbrian Run on Sunday.



But even the best laid plans can go up the swanny, as this morning. Got up onto the top and a shooting pain that started in my ankle and ended somewhere in oblivion brought me to an abrupt stop. Ouch doesn't cover it. I stopped, adjusted my shoes, manipulated the ankle a bit and gently went on, but before long I realised that with every step it was getting more and more painful so I elected to stop before it forced me to again. Really unhappy about this and no idea what the problem is, but walking back I decided to do a quick blip on the indoor bike to make me feel better about it all.


It never ceases to amaze me just how much this makes me sweat!! And the plan worked, felt a lot less miserable after this, but the ankle is throbbing quite a bit now so I have taken some aspirin and will give it lots of TLC. I'm sure it can't be anything major, so if I look after it, hopefully it will hold up for the weekend. I have pineapple and I know how to use it!!

No more runs planned til Sunday anyway, so I shall spend some time checking my training plan for the coming weeks, so that I don't have any further dramas over where or how far to run!

I have also been taking a look at my Garmin data for last years Carlisle half, so remind myself of where the hills are. Oh yeah, they're everywhere! lol

Thursday 7 October 2010

Howgate

I had originally intended to do a short run yesterday, but I realised my legs were a bit tired after the weekend and then a fairly long walk with Jasper the previous day, so I decided to leave it on that occasion.

This morning then I was all over the place, no actual plan as to what I was aiming to do today - not good. Had a coffee and considered my options and found myself dithering ridiculously over where to run and how far and oh for goodness sake!


In the end I headed off up the loop road to Howgate thinking I would do a gentle 6 miler, or maybe I should just do 4 today and then... well, this was going through my head all the way, and I just can't run like that. I have found in the past that I need to have an intended distance, at least, in my head before I even put on my shoes, otherwise I ain't gonna make it. And I struggled and everything was wrong, knee twinged (and I don't have a knee problem), calf hurt (and it's fine), had a headache, couldn't hear myself think for traffic. Well, there wasn't that much traffic at all, but I was just on a downer for everything really and all things considered it was a pants run. I stopped partway and did some stretching to try and regain some semblance of sanity, but it was not to be mustered.

My own fault, I really should learn the lesson right here that I can't run like that and should get it right in my mind first. I'm a bit cross with myself really, but there you are.

To make myself feel better I decided to jump into day 2 of the sit-up challenge (week 6). This went much better, you see - a firm plan of what is expected. Even though it was hard, I knew I would manage it. Contrary to seeming like a bit of a wuss, I do have a bit of grit y'know.

Completed the session with a total of 390 sit-ups in total. Also the recovery time between reps reduced today from 60 seconds to 45. I tell you what, I never realised how much difference 15 seconds could make!

So, one more run tomorrow and then a rest day before the Great Cumbrian Run - Carlisle's half marathon. I am trying to think positive about this, and it's hard because I so hated the course last year, but I wanted to give it a second chance before writing it off altogether as a horrible race! Lol - as I said, I need to work on the positive thinking!

Monday 4 October 2010

Golf Course Circuit

After the trail run on Saturday my legs were feeling it a bit, mainly in the quads - probably all that jumping over the rocks on the way down. Today, however, we were itching to get out and run again, and so I wisely spent the day doing all the indoor stuff I had to do, whilst the sun blazed down, and waited for the early evening to arrive.



"I felt like the Green Cross Code Man"

Once I was happy that it was blowing a gale and throwing down enough water to fill the harbour every minute and a half, I headed out. Well, I mean, what a plonker - why on earth I didn't go out sooner I do not know, but I was not willing to allow the weather to be an excuse for passing. It's only a short run anyway, so out came the night time road running kit. I felt like the blinking Green Cross Code Man - but I didn't get hit by any cars so I guess it worked! The is a footpath through Moresby Parks, but other than that little bit, it's road all the way. Uncharacteristically for Cumbria, the roads are pretty wide, so there's plenty of room as long as the drivers can see you!

This is a pretty good little route. It's a little undulating at first and then there is a killer hill past the school, about 2.5 miles round. It really is head down and grit your teeth stuff, but it's short enough to not be too painful. Just a little bit of fun really!

Up onto the top, and in this weather, that is the worst bit - the full brunt of the storm hitting straight in your face. Wow it is well windy up there, and then it's just cruising home for a nice little four and bit miler.

Catching up on the end of last week, I decided to stop messing around and have entered the Edinburgh Marathon. May 22nd is the big day, so I have some serious training to get in over the coming months. Plan stays the same for the remainder of this year - working on the 'base training' ie building up distance and my fitness in general.  So, once the Carlisle Half Marathon is out of the way this weekend, that's gonna be the order of play.

I'm hoping to use the Marathon to raise money for the Alzheimers Society, it will obviously benefit them and as a bonus it will help to keep me motivated. There's a link to the sponsorship pages on the right of this page.

Keep checking in to the blog to make sure I'm not slacking - I am willing to admit that I need all the help I can get with this one - it's a big ask for me la'al legs!

Saturday 2 October 2010

Coniston 15km Trail Challenge

Well, the weather forecast said it would stay dry, but while I was having coffee this morning the heavens opened! Gulp. I took precautions and stuffed a serious waterproof jacket and hat in the car, all the while reminding myself that the weather could quite possibly be totally different in Coniston. It's always tricky running on the fells, you know you're gonna get hot cos of the climbing, but it can very quickly get cold if it's raining hard.

Took a little over an hour to get to the venue. Lovely clear signposts and excellent marshalling at the car park, as I had expected having encountered this lots event management in the past. So I booked in, collected my race number and a cappuccino from 'Bob the Coffee' and then sat in the car passing the time considering whether to switch the Garmin over to kilometres or leave her on miles.

I had made a mental note of key points along the route (ie the steep bits) in miles, so I decided to leave it where it was. Also, psychologically I was only gonna have to run 9.3 instead of 15, so that's obviously a lot shorter isnt it!!?

The weather in Coniston was ideal - lovely sunshine but a cold breeze. Why have I got this jacket in the car?

The elevation map of the course told me that the steepest bit was the first 4 miles, then another shorter incline and then pretty much downhill from there.

Oh ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha. Let me translate that into English for you. Out of the nice flat school playing field and then up the hill to the village and up the hill to the pathway that leads up to the next bit that goes up and then it goes up a bit and then oh yeah, you guessed it, up again. Phew it was seriously steep, and so early on in the route there was no way I was gonna be able to run all the way up it. Did my best, though, but to be fair, it was a bit like the last few miles of the Great North Run - even if you wanted to run, you couldn't for the walkers in front of you!

When the trail levelled out a wee bit it unfortunately narrowed to a single file and this meant that we were literally queuing on the fell side! Bizarre really, but it gave us all chance to get our breath back before managing to get some really great running in - and to enjoy the fab views.


There are several waterfalls alongside the route, particularly this section, and the downpours of yesterday ensured that we were treated to them in full flow. Wonderful.

I was quite surprised to find that when we got to some lovely wider stretches on the downhills that I was zooming past everyone. Obviously my additional weight means that Dr Gravity helps with that, but seriously, it struck me that a lot of people seemed to be scared of running on rocky paths. Why enter this type of race then? Duh.

Of course, while I am zooming away and feeling pretty pleased with myself I trip dodging a walker and nearly went a right purler!! I'm not absolutely sure what part of that bloke I grabbed to steady myself, but I was grateful for it, and he seemed to enjoy it. Thanks - whoever you are, big boy - you saved me a quite nasty fall!

The rocky path then turned into grass. Now this is a different story, that can be very slippery in the wet, but the rains had softened the ground enough that every step sunk in muddily and there were only minor slips on this bit. Again, there were folk trying to run around the streams and boggy bits - for goodness sake - just go through it!! Splosh!

Yeah it's all good fun, but the steepness of the early section was starting to tell and my legs were feeling heavy. It's pretty tiring mentally too, constantly watching your footwork on the rocks as well as on the mud. It's not really anything like road running, that's for sure.

The good news - toe and calf both absolutely fine and the only trouble I had was just tiredness, mainly felt in the hamstrings.

Coming in to the last two miles or so I could picture MUN studying the HR graph but I just couldn't do any more than I did I'm afraid. Latched on to a couple of fellas on the last stretch along the lakeside and back in to the village, and the chat kept me going. Thanks fellas.

And then the pain is all behind you and you're in the queue for Bob the Coffee again, and you're thinking it was bloody murderous, but I LOVED IT!!

Yeah, this time next year I will be fitter and stronger and lighter and it'll be easier. Won't it?

Final words - It was no surprise to meet several folk who I had seen on the previous Lakeland Trails event that I had taken part in - I really can't tell you enough how terrific these events are, if you are within reach of Cumbria anywhen next year then sign up for one, you won't be disappointed!

Friday 1 October 2010

Exhaustion Test!

I am at the end of week 5 of the 200 sit-ups programme and this means it's time for another 'exhaustion test'. This is where you do as many consecutive sit-ups as you can and that determines which level you play at for the following week. As week 6 is supposed to be the final week, you need to complete 75 at least during the test to advance, otherwise you are recommended to redo week 5.

I started to sweat a little when I got to 50, and at 82 it started to hurt a wee bit, but by then I was in the swing of it and in total I did 170 with no stopping, so I reckon I can safely progress to week 6. I confess to being quite pleased with myself!

Trouble is that I am now worrying about what happens when I finish. What is going to motivate me to keep going with it... I mean, it's the progression that is the motivator at the moment. Hmm. I'll have to watch out for that.

Wednesday 29 September 2010

Last run before Coniston

First things first, I am overdue on my situps so had to get that out of the way first. Actually it seems to work pretty well doing the situps just before a run. I'm at the end of week 5 of the 200 sit-ups programme, and I am definitely getting better - slowly but surely!

And then out for a run. It's only another 3 miler and will be the last one before the 15km at Coniston and assuming that I survive that in one piece next week will be much the same leading up the Carlisle Half. Torrential rain today and I think the freezing water filling my trainers helped with the pain levels in the ol' toe! Anything that makes it hurt less is fine my me!

Tuesday 28 September 2010

Again??

A change of shifts meant that I was off up the road again before I had barely got back last night. Ah well, these things happen, and as it was only a three miler, no big deal.

I know I keep twining about it, but my toe is really sore, and I simply don't know what to do to alleviate it. Stumped, I am.

Anyway, here's the run.

Monday 27 September 2010

Another easy 3 miler

Just a routine 3 miler up the road and back for tonights run. The plan this week is to bang out three of these just to keep myself ticking over til Saturday for the Coniston 15km.

Feeling a bit of pain on my right inner calf, I think this twinged the other day, but there's definitely a bit of inflammation there. I reckon plenty of TLC and some magic pineapple juice will keep that at bay. Let's hope so anyway!



Straight back out with Jasper afterwards, and I have decided to leave the sit-ups til tomorrow morning as I am quite tired now. Mondays are long working days for me, and this one was spent mostly on my feet which doesn't help. Gotta take it easy sometimes!!

Ooh, almost forgot to mention this, but I probably should. My toe flared up again after the long run on Saturday. I didn't know about it until I went to bed, and the weight of the duvet on it was enough to lead to a bad night's sleep. Yes, it really is that painful! It's starting to settle down again now, but I feel certain that the weekend will set it off again. Hmmph.

Saturday 25 September 2010

Week 1 - Long Run

I had hoped to find a route from the door for today's run, but strangely I couldn't find my local map anywhere, so before despondency set in and I ended up doing a poxy 4 miler, I jumped in the car and headed for the cycle path. It's good for running, and fairly even ground so makes a good spot for a little bit longer distance.



Felt a little weary at 4 miles, but I think it's slightly uphill all the way - must be right as the 4 miles back again were definitely easier! A few aches and pains, nothing to write home about, but strangely I noticed that I seemed to be leaning to the right somewhat as I was running. Not sure why that is, but I tried to make sure I corrected that as it is bound to lead to trouble.

Slight achiness in the right heel may be is to blame, again, this is something I need to keep an eye on. I suspect that may have been down to wringing a few miles too many out of that last pair of trainers. Serves me right, I know better than that.

Anyway, not a bad run. Still rubbish at keeping the HR down, but I will get better once I have got the Cumbrian Run behind me (10th Oct). Next week's long run on Saturday will be the 15km Coniston Challenge. Now that really does involve hills!

So the week went all as planned, and I even managed to lose a little weight in the process. I have drawn up a base-training plan which will take me to mid December, but this will start after the 10th October, as I have the two races to deal with first. By then I shall have decided what my main goals for next year will be. Is it going to be too soon to have a first stab at a marathon? We shall see....

Friday 24 September 2010

Up the Road and Back

Nearing the end of the first week so tomorrow is the 'long run' day. Then I will assess how my first week of the year has gone, maybe keep a running total thingy on the page somewhere if I can remember how to write HTML!

This morning, however, just another 3 miler up the road and back to see how far it is. I'm pleased that the torrential rain has gone and the sunshine returned, but it's pretty windy this morning and up here on the hill overlooking the Irish Sea... well, you can imagine there's not much to break the wind before it hits us. Perhaps I could have worded that better...



And it was the kind of wind that comes filled with razorblades. I was glad I opted to wear a good jacket!

Definitely have recovered fully from the GNR. Legs felt fine and everything working okay. As you would expect, everything feels easier after a day of rest, and this was certainly the case. Even the toe was absolutely fine. It's just a little sore when I poke at it, so I'm trying not to poke at it! I do seem to have a slight pull on my inner calf on my right leg, but I imagine that with only easy running it should go off. It didn't get any worse while I was running so I'm taking that to be a good sign.

Once again, didn't manage very well at keeping the HR down as low as it should be, but it was my best attempt yet. As I have already mentioned, it is quite an undulating little route so that doesn't help, and of course, the wind today made it even harder. Never mind, I'm happy that it was a very easy run, I'm sure that's the main thing.

Wednesday 22 September 2010

Runners Toe

When I arrived home on Sunday from the Great North Run, I remember examining my toe very closely as it was throbbing like mad. It felt sore through the Monday and then yesterday when I was out walking with Jasper it gave me so much jip that I was almost limping.

Closer examination and much poking, prodding and manoeuvering of joints has led me to the conclusion that I have a case of Runners Toe. The nail is not black, but is definitely discoloured. Maybe not bad enough for the nail to part company, but I dunno. My main worry is that it is really painful, even just lying in bed seemed to make it hurt.

So this morning I have switched running shoes, the ones I used on Sunday were on their last legs anyway - so much so that I dithered over wearing em - and although these feel okay when I am not moving around, any pressure on the toe from above or below is very painful. Anyway I am gonna try to do another 3 miler, much like yesterday, and I will see how it feels. I don't think running on it is going to make it worse, just that it may be too painful. We shall see.


In fact, the toe was okay. I was aware of it, but it wasn't really a problem. Felt it more on the uphill bits, but that's not surprising I guess. Once again found it hard to keep the HR down, running in to the wind and uphill it's bound to be tricky. Also my legs are still feeling Newcastle a bit, so I imagine that has an effect too.

Quick three mile walk with Jasper to follow and the toe really protested at that. Obviously walking is more of a problem than running, ah well tomorrow is a non-running day, although I have the sit-ups to do, so maybe the rest will do it some good.

Tuesday 21 September 2010

Well, I can still feel the exertions of the weekend, but today it's back to it starting off with the Two Hundred Sit-ups Programme. I am just starting week 5 of this. The idea is that you build up the reps and at the end of week 6 you should be able to manage 200 consecutive sit-ups. Yeah right, seems a bit of a tall order, but the programme has steadily advanced from screaming agony to reach even ten sit-ups to where I am now, so it obviously is doing some good! Anyway, this morning I completed a total of 260 over 5 reps. Phew.

Next up it's time for a run. Planned just for 3 miles as I need to let my legs recover from the half marathon. My next run is a 15km trail run on 2nd October, so I am looking to just keep everything moving until then.

Also I have my eye on the long term training plan, and so the remainder of 2010 is going to be all about building distance - base training, you might call it. This is to be done with a low heart rate. The theory is that this teaches your body to become better at burning fat - important over the longer distances. So it's aiming to not go above 70% on these runs. Even for me it can be hard remembering to go that slow - so the beeping from the 405 is very helpful!


Well, it turned out to be quite difficult to keep my heart rate down, as it was much hotter out than it looked! Really sweating a lot and, in fairness, it is a pretty undulating route. The Garmin info on Heart Rate percentages is not right - they must use a different calculation, although the BPM is right. Anyway, my HR was higher than planned but still fairly low so I'm not unhappy. My legs felt okay, although as heavy as lead when I stopped!

What amazed me was that about one mile in to this run I spotted a cat on a wall eying up a little bird in the hedgerow, and it was my Carrera! They say Tom cats can have a fairly large territory - they ain't wrong. He legged it at first and then recognised me so came for a quick cuddle before I carried on!

Monday 20 September 2010

30th Bupa Great North Run



Got up at 4.15 to make sure I arrive in plenty of time to make it to the start of the race which is scheduled for 10.40. That may sound like overkill, but it worked out okay. Having taken part in this event before I was painfully aware of how much waiting around is involved. You have to queue for EVERYTHING and far, far longer than you would imagine.

So I arrived at the Foreshore at South Shields, after a two and half hour drive, at 0744. Queued for half an hour to buy a car parking ticket (£2.40) and then queued for the shuttle bus to take me to the start area (£3.00). Chatted to a guy on the bus (as you do) who told me that he had done no training whatsoever but had signed up for the run in aid of a Zoe's Place a baby hospice in Middlesborough. Apparently his employer said they would match-fund all sponsorship they raised, so there was a few of them had signed up for it. Fair enough then!

Got to the start area about an hour later, and felt that I had arrived at a reasonable time. There were a few people in each of the starting zones, but literally a few. Of course there were hundreds of people milling around, getting changed, peeing in hedges etc etc, and one or two celebs. I did my best to walk behind all  the people Jonathan Edwards was interviewing, but I didn't see any of the shots on the Beeb. Ah well, I tried.

Having made myself dizzy walking round and round the BBC interviews, I grabbed a gratis Powerade and made my way down the length of the start area. to my appointed zone. I was allocated a spot in the White Zone but knowing that my training had gone all up the swannee I downgraded to the rear of the Green Zone which is further back in the field. Reached the entry point for the zone at 0930 and they close the entry points at 1010 so pretty good timing. Long enough to find a loo. Queued again for that and returned to the start zone at 1005. Phew, that was a bit tight.

The rain at this point was easing and you could convince yourself that the sun was trying to get out, but I hung on to my disposable cagoule a little longer. Excellent build up at the start area via the big screens, and as you would expect, everyone is really friendly and you just know it's gonna be a great day.

The screens showed the start of the womens race, and a big cheer went up for Mara Yamauchi, our lass. Watching the television coverage later, I learned she didn't do as well as we had hoped, but these things happen.

When the male elite runners were introduced though, you can't imagine the cheer that went up for Haile Gebreselassie - the ground shook - but no, wait that was the Red Arrows. As the lass next to me said - NOW it's started! It was 10.40, and they're off!

The 405 says I pressed the start button at 11.13. I could have got to the start line sooner but I couldn't forego the opportunity to slap Dec's hand - we were all pleased he was on our side of the carriageway, sorry Ant, but he is just that little bit cuter!

And now to the running...

I had told myself to take it easy and felt that as long as I took it at a steady plod I would be able to finish despite under-training. To this end I aimed to keep my heart rate below 85%.

Quite soon into the run the rain stopped and the sun came out big time. Suddenly we were getting bombarded with messages to 'take it easy' - I am doing, I thought to myself as my ipod treated me to a blast of Mr Blue Sky by ELO. Yay.

I felt as if I was going okay, no super time in the sights, but I reckoned on a 2::30 ish, which I would have been happy with. After all, I have been full of cold all week and really was happy to just finish in one piece. There are two more runs in the next three weeks so I didn't want to damage myself. when I did this run two years ago I ended up with a knee problem that put me on the sidelines for three months.

I remember seeing the halfway point and thinking that I felt okay and a glance at the 405 told me I was on for the expected finish time. And according to the Garmin data, this is where it all started to get harder.

1 00:11:41
2 00:10:13
3 00:11:17
4 00:11:33
5 00:11:56
6 00:11:25
7 00:11:37
8 00:12:26
9 00:12:52
10 00:13:48
11 00:12:58
12 00:13:54
13 00:11:38


The mile times for the first part of the run were okay, but then I seemed to get slower and slower and slower. Some of the time was lost to having to stop to apply vaseline - the rains returned and I was getting worn raw by my shorts in places I am not gonna tell you about. But there was worse - far worse, I was preoccupied with thoughts of needing the loo, and not the sort of thing you would nip behind a hedge for. Even Paula Radcliffe wouldn't do THIS in the street.

And at mile 10 I came to a stop. Keep going, I told myself. Shouted at myself, swore at myself, but could barely put one foot in front of the other. And then this little girl, can't have been more than 10, shouted out to me from the roadside - "Come on Sareybabes", and I said "Thank you" and set off again.

Slowly, slowly, but I managed to keep going. Bloody hard work and I still needed the loo really badly.

So, in conclusion, I was gutted at the finish time. I had settled for a two and a half hour which was very generous of me, but this was too much. Grrrr. And so I determined to make sure that next year I get a proper time. (Assuming I can get a place!) I do already have the first part of my training plan drawn up, so I am hoping that this blog will become a helpful part of that too.

The journey home was fine, although I had worried that my legs might stiffen up. It was fine and I was home in just three hours. Definiitely pays you to hang around after the run to let the traffic clear. That was just half an hour longer than it took for me to get there in the morning, and it is a little longer on the way out, so no traffic trauma, and on the way home I did manage to feel pleased with myself for making it to finish, albeit it very slowly.

Lots of ambulances coming up through the field today, and I was sorry to see so many runners needing the services of the NHS and St. Johns Ambulances. Hope they are all okay, and will make full recoveries.

And little girl... thank you so much. I have a medal that is yours by rights.
This blog starts with the Great North Run 2010. My chip returned a time of 2:42:28 which was staggeringly crap, so I decided that if I keep a blog of my training over the coming year it maybe will help. I

There are a number of reasons why my training was disrupted over the past year, and the year before that too, but now I need to regain my focus if I am to realise my ambition of running a marathon before I reach the age of 50.

I will be relying heavily on my Forerunner 405 for statistics and the cold hard facts of my running, and also Daily Mile website for more touchy feely stuff like how did I feel... There are links to this info over on the right of the blog page, so you can check up on me.

It's great to have the integration between these various devices and websites, so I am hoping to use all this super duper technology to help me improve that most basic thing of putting one foot in front of the other.

My Race Schedule

Distance Widget