Alice's Adventures in Running Land
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Brighton Marathon 2019

4/16/2019

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‘Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go’ – that was the quote from T. S. Elliot which was written on the back of the Brighton Marathon finisher t-shirt. Collecting both my bib number and finisher t-shirt on the Saturday before the race, those words seemed to fit perfect for how I was going to approach my own Brighton Marathon race. The past 16 weeks of my marathon training had gone as well as I could have asked; I knew I had improved my speed over longer distances and I felt strong. If I ran well I truly felt I could be challenging a sub 3:40 time and a new PB, however I also knew that the marathon is an unknown beast no matter how prepped you feel. If I wanted to challenge and test myself, I needed to be prepared to take a risk.

After the scorching heat of last Spring’s London Marathon, I was pleased to wake on Sunday morning to a cool crispness in the air, with a gentle Spring sunshine appearing sporadically through the clouds. It almost appeared like perfect running conditions… almost (more on that to come!) My sister and her boyfriend had accompanied me for the weekend and were taking part in the Brighton 10k which precedes the marathon start, so I had company as I walked to the start village in Preston Park, set further into the centre of Brighton. I felt quite relaxed and the atmosphere at Preston Park seemed on a similar level; friendly and calm, which is very unlike the start of some marathons I have completed. I soon had to wave my race buddies goodbye as they took their spots in the 10k start pens – I hoped to see them out on route as they would be finished in time to assume spectating duties. As the 10k was started and I watched a stream of runners head towards the seafront, I suddenly felt quite emotional. I am not really sure why, it might have been the moment when it hit me that it was now my time, and the moment all the weeks of hard work had culminated for.

Time passed quickly and I was soon assuming my own spot in the marathon start pen. I felt calm again now, chatting to a few other runners and not letting nerves take over. It was only when they walked us to the start line and started the countdown timer that I felt some nervous energy suddenly bubble inside me; it was time to be brave.

The ‘go’ signal was given, and after I crossed the line, the course probably extended about 200m before it turned up a long gradual hill – what a start for my first impression of the Brighton Marathon! What also dawned on me very quickly in these early stages was that Brighton loves it’s marathon. Residents and supporters lined the streets throughout the race, even in parts I probably would not have expected, and it truly felt like something the entire city was on board with; I felt that passion.

After the hilly starting mile, the course then weaved down to the seafront for the first 5 miles, with a couple of other testing little hills thrown in for good measure. Entering the seafront almost adjacent to the famous Brighton Pier, the course then took a sharp left turn to begin the first long ‘out and back’ section to a place called Ovingdean. When making this turn it was instantly apparent that in the ‘out’ direction there would be a fairly strong headwind. At this point relatively earlier on in the race it felt bearable…

At 6 miles I spotted my sister and her boyfriend as planned, and their photos capture the beaming smile on my face (see image). I was running well at this point; my splits so far had been just over 8 min/mile pace. This was probably a fraction quicker than I had planned, but I felt good so kept with it. I maintained this pace until the turn point at around 9.5 miles, and then all the way back to the half way point just after the Pier. My pace pleased me as this ‘out and back section’ was also rather undulating along the cliff top, and the snake of runners in the distance had particularly emphasised each rise and fall. Despite the wind and the hills, it was a beautiful place to be running set next to the lapping sound of the sea.

After passing the half way point my quads tired a little, probably a combination of my pace and the hilly course so far. At fourteen miles the route then jutted inland slightly for another four-mile-long ‘out and back’ section. I slowed slightly here, my pace now hovering closer to 8.30 min/mile. My limbs felt a little weary, but also the ‘out and back’ nature demoralised me slightly. Seeing mile markers on the other side of the road evoked a bit of a ‘so near yet so far’ feeling. This section was also set on some gradual inclines too – in all honestly, I had underestimated the hilly challenge Brighton would present. I did not panic that my pace had dropped though, I knew I had banked a lot of time in the early stages, and just wanted to steadily keep moving. I hoped I may be able to draw on some grit to finish a few of the final miles strongly – well, that was the plan anyway!

Mother Nature can be cruel at times and from 20 miles onwards it seemed to hate us Brighton Marathoners. Miles 20-23 I had heard much about, another ‘out and back’ section with the turnaround point at a power station – let’s face it, it doesn’t sound that inspiring! The lack of inspiration did not bother me, it was the wind that now played a huge factor; it had built in momentum considerably and was now a true force to be reckoned with. It instantly sapped my tiring body, my pace heading closer to 9 min/mile. Just after 21 miles the course turned at said power station to start a long near 5 mile stretch back along the seafront, back to the Pier, and toward the finish line which was located shortly after. After all these ‘out and back’ sections it is probably hard to remember which way us runners were facing at this point – but these final 5 miles were set against that head wind again, which was now at a level I can only refer to as soul destroying. It was honestly brutal. My planned grit had to be drawn on, but not to pick up my speed, just to keep battling.

​I gave up on my pace soon after mile 22, it didn’t matter what my watch screen told me, I could not go any faster if I tried. I could sense the weather had hit everyone with the same crushing force, no one was overtaking me, it was not like I had overdone it, we were all just struggling to get to the line. A spectator tried to lift our spirits saying she wished she could turn the wind off – there was nothing anyone could do though except try and keep going. I read a newspaper report from the elite female winner after the race, she described the same feelings and sensations in this final stretch of the course, and this reassured me further that it was indeed brutal.
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With less than 3 miles to go, everything hurt, and I won’t lie, I hated it. 'Why do I do this to myself?' I questioned. A few miles back I thought I may just be able to hold onto a 3:39 finish, but with each energy sapping step, the seconds ticked away. My pace was very slow now and all I wanted was the race to be over! I was in a pain cave and was only awoken from my almost slumped running posture, which I guess was my body’s natural reaction to try and shelter from the wind, when my sister and her boyfriend shouted my name. My smile was more like a grimace now, and even their cheers could not lift my pace for a finish push. With one mile to go I had nothing else left to give – I mean nothing. As the finish arch loomed on the horizon and I entered the final few hundred metres, I could feel a natural urge inside me to push for the finish, however my legs just could not do it. They were gone. Crossing the finish line felt like relief, and I glanced through tired eyes at my watch to read 3:43 something, before the true feeling of exhaustion hit me like a tonne of bricks.

Stood at the finish I honestly had no energy to even move; I have never felt so spent at the end of a marathon. Stranded helplessly, a St Johns medic scooped me up and eased me to collect my medal, before lying me on the concrete with my feet raised in the air against a steel barrier. I closed my eyes and just lie there literally feeling a mixture of pain and fatigue pulsing through my limbs. I could have happily lay there forever if it was not for that flipping wind again. My clothes were wet from sweat and the occasional amount of water I had tipped over my head, and the wind in those final miles had not only drained me, but also chilled me. I was now shivering. I somehow stood up and tried to walk. My legs were a state, my quads painful and my left leg appeared to have become a plank of wood, seemingly unable to bend or move naturally. I dragged myself for what felt like forever to meet my sister and her boyfriend who were waiting on the beach. God knows what I looked like to them!

My sister guided me toward a deckchair, which I literally fell into, and I managed to remove my wet clothing and put some warmer layers on. This seemed to bring me round a little from my post marathon delirium and I was able to ask the ultimate question – what was my actual time?! 3:43:38 my sister replied. My reaction was honestly relief. At times on the final stretch I had wanted to give up and to finish felt like an achievement. To finish in my second quickest marathon time to date, and another sub 3:45 time which would qualify me for London Marathon ‘Good For Age’, felt almost unbelievable. I was sore, sunburnt and stuck in a deckchair on Brighton Beach – but I was happy.

I wanted to test myself at the Brighton Marathon and I definitely did that. Altogether the race was probably the toughest combination of course and weather I have faced; even though the London Marathon was hot last year, the route was still kinder on the limbs. Mentally I think you have to be quite strong to cope with the number of ‘out and back’ sections too – they are not always the easiest routes to run on. I was open about my goal of trying to go sub 3:40 and I am not disappointed I did not make it. I gave absolutely everything I could to try for it, my body at the end told me that and I know it in myself; the pieces of the marathon jigsaw just did not all quite fit together on the day. I am proud – I would have not been able to produce that performance in these circumstances a few months ago and that in itself shows progress. Do I have a quicker time in me in the future – I think so, and I will keep taking those risks to see how far I can truly go.
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I want to say a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to those who have supported my training again this time. This may have been my 9th marathon (how has that even happened?!) but it certainly does not mean I do not welcome or need that extra little bit of encouragement, those wise words and reminders, the people stood on the roadside cheering my name, friends who understand this 26.2 mile addiction I seem to have, and people around  who I know are looking out for me. The journey continues and I hope to keep sharing it with you. 
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Brighton Bound

4/12/2019

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Race week has arrived and today I travel down to the South coast for my next 26.2 mile adventure. I may not be flying across to the other side of the world for this marathon, and to some the adventure may be a little less impressive than exploring a new country - but it means a lot to me. 

Over the past 16 weeks I have trained hard - and by using the word 'hard' I do not just mean logging lots of miles. Looking back on my last block of marathon training leading up to Sydney Marathon in September, personally I was in quite a difficult place - I was hurting emotionally and my running was one of the main things which kept me going. I am stronger now, happier and I have had to learn to let go of certain things in my life. This has all meant I have had the energy and focus to train smarter. I have been sleeping far better, which is essential when my alarm goes off at 5.30am most days for weekday runs, and my diet has improved, whereas last year I was eating far too much chocolate to both fuel my running and to try and make me feel better. Thanks to some icy training weeks I have finally learnt the real benefit of taking those easy runs 'easy' - in fact I often look forward to them now. My long runs have been focused, and whilst my speed over shorter distances seems to have slipped a little, I have felt stronger than ever when running more miles. I have also paid attention to rest, particularly in the afternoon after those big training runs, and have learnt to cope better relaxing in my own company rather than trying to keep busy.

I know I have done all I can, and I guess the next big question is what does that result in a time. I have been asked what I am aiming for a lot this week, and I have been honest with my reply - I have trained with a PB in mind, which would be sub 3:40, and that's what I will be trying to achieve. It scares me; but I know deep down if I run well I can do it. If I do not go out and try run that time, I think I will be more disappointed than if I do not achieve it. A marathon is never a given, but if I never allow myself the chance to try, I will never know what could be possible. ​
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This week has seen a minor blip in my journey - typically during race week! I have had a sore back of my heel for a couple of weeks now, it does not hurt when I run, but often catches on shoes when I am walking. I thought I had bruised my heel through wearing a pair of smarter shoes for work one day, which at the time had hurt my feet a little (I usually live in trainers!) However, as I went for my final pre-race massage this week with my Sports Therapist, it turns out I have actually torn my Achilles slightly. It has been treated, taped and physically it all feels much better - mentally I just need to try and get it out my mind though and almost pretend it is just a bruise again!

As always before I sign off for a marathon weekend I would like to extend my thanks to those who have supported me throughout my training. I cannot stress enough how much messages, comments, thoughts, words of wisdom and support have meant to me across the past 16 weeks. Aside from being that girl who always runs around Lincoln in shorts, people often tell me I have a distinctive smile, and I promise to try and be smiling on Sunday whatever happens. Run happy!
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Lincoln 10k 2019

4/8/2019

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​Seven years ago an extremely nervous and naïve 20 year old version of me lined up at the start of her very first race. Wearing all the wrong gear but having trained hard (I always liked training!) I was ecstatic to complete my first ever race - the Lincoln 10k. Fast forward 7 years and I am yet to miss an event in my now home city. As the years have passed my confidence, knowledge and performance as a runner have enhanced in almost equal measure to how much I just love Lincoln 10k day. I think it is fair to say I now have a reasonably strong presence in the Lincoln running community, as well as being part of a number of other personal and professional networks across the City. Therefore, the more people I know who take part in the event, and who also line the streets to cheer on runners, makes it extra special, as I get to share my passion with others – Lincoln 10k day will always remain one of my favourites of the year.
 
Across my years of participation, the Lincoln 10k has seen a variety of performances; there have been PBs, triumphs of going ‘sub something’ for the first time, surviving the heatwave of last year, and some years when a Spring Marathon has often affected how I approach the race. This year it was the latter again. My mindset was different - with Brighton Marathon only a week away I did not want to race. I did not want to have the fear of injury/overdoing it spoiling my race enjoyment, and I also did not want to spend the next week trying to recover from a 10k race when I was supposed to be tapering and rebuilding ready to race 26.2 miles.
 
On race morning I walked to the start alongside my sister, who was visiting for the event, and my friend from work, who was also taking part. The 11am start time of the Lincoln 10k is always a strange one for me; living relatively close to the race start I do not need to leave my house with much time to spare, and it is all almost too easy. My friend had parked at my house and I was pleased when she arrived as the waiting time was starting to make both my sister and I begin to feel nervous for no real apparent reason! As soon as we arrived at the race village the Lincoln 10k buzz hit me though; faces I recognised were everywhere and I started to chat to a number of people I knew or recognised from the Lincoln running community. Since my friend had entered the 10k I had been offering to run with her – a cyclist first and foremost - her last 10k had been in a time just over an hour. I was really pleased when she took up my offer on race day; selfishly because it meant I knew I would not be racing, but also as I wanted her to achieve her goal and deep down I knew she could do very well.
 
The organisation of the event this year was a little less slick than normal (more on that to come) and as we shuffled to the start pens it was clear it was a bit chaotic trying to get runners in the pens. I pushed my sister into one right at the front – she had trained well and was chasing a sub 45-minute time and I did not want her to get caught up in any start confusion. I squeezed her arm as we left her and told her to be confident – again I knew she could do it and I just wanted her to believe. My friend and I then headed back to try and get in the pack a little further down; it was not the simplest of tasks, but finally we got amongst the starting crowds, ready for the ‘go’ signal to be given.
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As soon as we crossed the start line I already had a large smile on my face; I had worked out what pace we needed to run in order to go under an hour, but although I did not tell my friend this, I knew we could do better. A slight hold up in proceedings came very early on in the race as the route made its first turn. The bend is always tight, but this year it came to a complete bottleneck which forced the field to come to a total standstill. It widened out afterwards, but the stoppage definitely caused some frustrations, and I do understand why.

​Running side by side with my friend I felt at ease physically, as the pace was comfortable for me, but inside I felt full emotionally and mentally. Going a bit slower meant I really could appreciate the Lincoln 10k and the support from the sides. People I knew cheered me on, and I also was able to pick out faces I also recognised and shout out to them. I had not paced anyone running before – my friend must have had a lot of trust in me! – but I decided I did not want to keep telling her paces, times etc. I wanted her to enjoy the experience, so instead I chatted to her for most of the beginning sections of the race, pointing out key milestones, giving a few hints about the route ahead, and trying to generally keep encouraging her. I glanced at my watch occasionally and knew we were running very strongly, well ahead of target pace, and the more miles we ticked off, the happier I grew for how well my friend was doing.
 
The second half of the race my friend had to dig deeper, I knew I was asking more from her now, but as I actually said to her, I knew she has a strong mental character and could hold on. When her legs started to hurt I told her all she needed to do was keep moving, and I reinforced we were still running very well and not to worry if she needed to slow a little – just keep moving. She held strong. As we ticked off the final streets and the remaining miles became less, we then started a quest to spot the Cathedral – who we affectionately call ‘Cathy’ - on the horizon, which would also indicate the finish. When the structure appeared, I think the realisation hit that we were going to do it, especially as the final hundred metre markers also popped up at the side of the course. ‘Come on’ I urged my friend ‘last push!’ – and she duly began to sprint to the finishing arch almost catching me unaware! We did it – 55:01 and a massive new PB for my friend. I was so proud of her, it was almost a little overwhelming how pleased I was that she had achieved her goal, and in comprehensive fashion. We shared a delighted hug at the finish line, and I squeezed her with a mixture of emotion and enthusiasm at what she had just achieved.
 
As we walked from the finish, we met my sister who had patiently waited for us. ‘How did you do?’ I asked eagerly. ’44:04’ she replied – her own PB and her first-time going sub 45 minutes. I affectionately punched her arm a few times telling her I knew she could do it and I was proud – sisterly love. I say sisterly, I think the fact we are actually twins had confused a LOT of people throughout the race. My sister recounted the number of people who had cheered her on as ‘Alice’ and even people I know on the start line who were chatting to her without realising it was not even me – twin problems!
 
I absolutely loved the race, running with a huge smile on my face throughout, and another friend who had been spectating commented that it was good to see me looking so happy. I genuinely was. For my first time pacing I really enjoyed helping someone else achieve, especially a friend. My friend messaged me later in the day to thank me again, saying she would not have got the PB without me. I told her it was a pleasure to run with her, but that she needed to give herself credit for the PB - she did the running, I just did the talking!
 
Two PBs, three equally happy runners – another memorable Lincoln 10k. ​
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Brighton Marathon Training: Week 15

4/7/2019

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The first week of tapering and for the first time in many a marathon training cycle I have felt ready for this taper - I know I have worked hard in my training and now I need to reduce my workload to feel fresh ready to race. For this reason I was determined that although this week featured a race very special to me – the Lincoln 10k - I did not want to be racing.

MONDAY: a final Body Pump session before the marathon - I used to keep weight training right up until a few days before my goal marathon race, but I have gradually learnt that this has no benefit on my race performance and to give my body a break. 

TUESDAY: an enjoyable interval run - probably because of the fact it was only 5 miles and the rep length was tough, but not to a hideous level. I ran 10 x 400m reps with 100m recoveries and was pleased to see a few sub 7 min/mile paces amongst the interval efforts. 

WEDNESDAY: the lighter Spring mornings meant I could again venture on some more rural routes with my friend - although there was definitely a wintery chill in the air which meant I had to dig the gloves back out! Initially the pace felt quick for me, and for the first time I was worried I was not going to be able to keep up with my friend, but I settled and enjoyed. Reviewing our splits afterwards I could see we had ran relatively fast over the near 8 miles we ran, logging splits of 7.27, 7.14, 7.14, 7.35, 7.39, 7.35 and 8.22 min/mile - the latter a big long hill at the end!

THURSDAY: an easy paced 6 miles - my quads felt a little tired, possibly after two back to back harder run.

FRIDAY: with the Lincoln 10k at the weekend and planned volunteering at Lincoln parkrun on Saturday, I ran another easy run. It was 'only' 3 miles and it felt a little unnatural to run relatively short and steady, but I know it is what I need to do.

SATURDAY: Rest Day and volunteering at Lincoln parkrun handing out finish tokens with my sister who was visiting for the 10k. This was my 24th volunteer stint - one more to go to claim my purple milestone t-shirt!
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SUNDAY: Lincoln 10k day! 7 years ago I lined up for my first ever race in my now home city and I am yet to miss an event since. As the years have gone on, the more people I know who take part in the event has seen my love for it grow further - sharing your passion with others is always special. This year my mindset was different - with Brighton Marathon a week away I did not want to race. I did not want to have the fear of injury/overdoing it spoiling my race enjoyment, and I also did not want to spend the next week trying to recover from a 10k race when I was supposed to be rebuilding ready to race 26.2 miles. I was therefore very happy to be able to run alongside my friend from work and help pace and support her to try and run a sub 1 hour time.  Full blog to follow - but I absolutely loved the race, running with a huge smile on my face throughout, encouraging my friend and appreciating all the support I received from friends and people I knew who had lined the streets. Together we finished in 55:01 - a massive new PB for my friend; I was so proud of her and shared a very delighted and emotive hug at the finish line. I was also very proud of my sister, who we found at the finish and who had logged her own PB - although I think the fact we are twins had confused a LOT of people. Poor Sophie had been confused as me on a number of occasions! She has been training hard for this race though and deserves her own recognition. Another Lincoln 10k day which did not disappoint. ​
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Brighton Marathon Training: Week 14

3/31/2019

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A fellow Brighton Marathon entrant asked me how I was feeling this week - 'Excited... and scared!' - I replied. I am at that point in training now where the reason behind running all these training miles starts to feel real, and it evokes both these emotions! 

MONDAY: my legs were sore from Sunday's Ashby 20 race, but I knew I needed to get a run completed as I would be away with work from 6am until 8pm tomorrow - and although some do question my sanity, I was not going to get up any earlier to squeeze a run in! I waited until the evening to run today, in an attempt to give my legs a few more recovery hours, running from my gym to finish in time for a Body Pump class. My quads were tight and twangy, so it was very easy to keep my pace slow, averaging 8:49 min/mile overall across the 6 miles.  

TUESDAY: Rest Day

WEDNESDAY: an extra rest day had helped rejuvenate my limbs a little, which I was pleased about as I met my slightly speedier friend for our Wednesday morning run. He had planned out a new route for us to try, with the increasingly lighter mornings now meaning we can venture away from Lincoln's central streets. We ran 6.5 miles in total, in a quick but comfortable 7.46 min/mile average pace.

THURSDAY: looking at my plan I thought my planned interval run was going to be another of those truly hideous runs, which at the time you hate, but by the end you feel proud to have completed. It was hard, but I actually coped much better with the demand than I thought, running 9 miles with 10 x 800m reps and 200m recoveries. I have learnt throughout this block of training that my speed is not where I was this time last year; I cannot hit the same paces on intervals and my parkrun times are also slower. However, what I have noticed is my endurance is greater, and whereas a run like this would have virtually killed me off last year, today I felt like I could have done more. Body Pump class in the evening. 
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FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: I knew today would be my last Lincoln parkrun for a couple of weeks due to the impending marathon, so I really gave it my all to try and get a sub 21 minute time again. I ran hard, and I am sure my face showed this (see image)! Closing in on the final few hundred metres I couldn’t quite hang onto the couple of fellow female runners in front of me, I could feel I had nothing left to give in my legs; I just had to focus on chasing down the clock myself. I finished in 20:57 – mission accomplished.

SUNDAY: mentally the prospect of 15 miles felt manageable today – another sign of marathon training! It was a pleasant morning for running, and for the first 7 miles I just got lost in the run and didn’t really rein my pace in when I probably needed to. Reviewing my splits later I was hovering above 8 min/mile pace for this section. Between miles 7 and 10 I seemed to settle to a better pace, before suffering a dip from miles 11-13. During this stage my quads suddenly went very sore and stiff again and running just did not feel as natural. Thankfully the sensation eased and I was able to finish stronger, averaging 8.14 min/mile pace overall. I hope my quads return to feeling completely normal soon - I need them to! I think they will, and it is not really worrying me. The two week taper that lies ahead of me now will certainly help. ​
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Ashby 20 2019

3/25/2019

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Ashby 20 is a race I had heard lots about; I had seen the coloured hoodies at a number of other races, I knew it was a popular event for those in Spring marathon training mode, and I was also aware it sold out very quickly. Timing wise the race slotted perfectly into my Brighton Marathon training; it would form the final long, long run of my training cycle and would also offer me a change of scenery and some support when I was bound to need an extra training boost. I made it my priority to get a place and thankfully I succeeded.

The day before race day was not perfect prep wise, probably because I was not really treating Ashby 20 as a race but instead as training. I ran parkrun on Saturday and didn’t hold back, which was followed by four hours pulling rubbish out from a local river bank – I got home and was shattered! I found some energy to get my race stuff together and prep for my early alarm and drive to the interestingly named Ashby de-la-Zouch. 

I woke feeling much more refreshed, successfully navigated my way to Ashby-de-la- Zouch and after parking, I walked down to the race start at Bath Grounds chatting to another runner about the forthcoming course. Neither of us had taken part in the race before but both had been warned about the hilly profile… surely it couldn’t be that bad? The race village was bathed in sunshine as I arrived, and I sat soaking up the atmosphere watching huddles of runners gather as the clock ticked down toward the 10am start. Time passed quickly and before I knew it we were being guided to the start line on a small road just outside the Bath Grounds.

Stood waiting for the start gun to fire I briefly went over my race strategy in my head – I knew the course was formed of two ten mile loops, so I would try and treat the first loop steadily, see what challenges presented, and then hope to be able to push it a little more on the second. That was the theory anyway! I will admit that during the first mile I got swept up in the atmosphere; supporters lined the streets and runners around me were jovial and happy – I am not even going tell you what my first split was as it was ridiculous! I spotted this though and settled, just in time for the first hill – the first of many.

If someone would have told me I would enjoy a relentlessly hilly course I would have laughed at you – who would be that mad! But I did. It was a beautiful place to be running; countryside with small, quaint rural villages, and almost idyllic running weather; sunny but with a fresh, crisp air which kept me cool. I felt strong on the hills from the start, approaching each one carefully and consistently. Some runners around me appeared breathless, red faced and exerting a lot of effort, but I felt in control. Another factor which added to my enjoyment levels was the marshals – I can honestly say they were the best I have ever experienced at any road race. Every single one of them was enthusiastic, supportive and encouraging and simply made me smile; those around the villages of Swepstone and Heather in particular had energy that was almost infectious.

Nearing the end of the first lap I must admit it was a little disorientating seeing signs on the side of the road for Mile 17 etc. – at times my instinctive reaction was to think I was nearly there, before suddenly having to remind myself there was still another lap to go! I had ran the first lap well, even with the gradient, and glances at my pace had reinforced this, but I was a little nervous that the second lap I would suddenly crash. My quads felt a little sore, the hills demanding them to be working hard, but aside from that I still felt controlled. Any doubt about my ability slipped from my mind as I began the first climb of the second lap; I started to overtake a few other runners already and realised my own strength. ‘One hill down!’ the marshal at the top of the hill cheerily informed me ‘only about another 20 left!’ I joked back.
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This pattern seemed to continue for the miles ahead; one set of marshals had written in chalk on the road ‘one lap left!’ and I jested back that I would definitely not be running it three times! I also continued to gain ground on runners ahead of me, especially on the inclines. One marshal in particular boosted my self-belief; I could see he was studying me from a distance, and as I passed by, he informed me that my running form was looking great – a very good sign at around mile 15.

After the 15 mile marker it became a five mile countdown. I now knew what challenges were left ahead and most importantly I knew I could cope with them. Spurred on, my pace remained good and I was now overtaking a lot of runners. What was both lovely and supportive to hear was the number of runners who spurred me on as I passed them, telling me I looked great and to go for it. Although I did indeed feel good, I had to rein myself in a little, this was not my goal race after all, and I did not need to use every last ounce of my body to chase down a time. Instead I changed my mindset and used the fact I felt so strong still as a positive for the fact that in a few weeks time I would need to run further to reach my 26.2 mile goal.

The final mile featured a long uphill, quite cruel really, before the course turned back towards the Bath Grounds and the countdown markers began to appear. Passing the ‘800m To Go’ sign I gave in to temptation and found myself near on sprinting towards the finish arch – I felt amazing and crossed the line with a huge smile on my face. I had absolutely loved all of those 20 miles, and that was before I even looked at my finish time. My watch read 2:43:22, and whilst I knew my pace had been relatively quick, I admit I was not expecting to see an average pace of 8.10 min/mile. I had never ran that far that fast before - it felt very good.

I was already grinning from ear to ear as I walked through the finishing area and that was before I was handed the infamous Ashby 20 finisher hoody, which was a beautiful shade of purple - my favourite colour - and a goody bag which was filled with chocolate bars - another of my favourites – far better than a battered banana! With my head telling me this was training, I slowly made my way to the massage tent; I wanted to both reward and preserve my limbs! The volunteer masseuse gave my quads a much-needed massage, they had borne the brunt of that run and I could feel it, and I also was aware of the fact I still needed to drive myself home without my legs going into complete spasm!

Reflecting later, I was really pleased with how Ashby 20 had gone and how much I had enjoyed the entire experience – it could not have gone much better. Ashby 20 was training, my pre-race prep was not textbook, and effectively my body was in quite a tired state coming off the back of many weeks of training and before having a chance to taper. However, if I can run equally as well in Brighton, my predicted marathon finish time is something I can hardly believe. It scares me to even think it could be a possibility to be honest! Deep down I know I have to take the confidence from Ashby 20, but by no means be complacent and continue to focus on getting these final training weeks right. A marathon is never a given anyway.
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Brighton Marathon Training: Week 13

3/24/2019

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​This week my confidence wobbled a little. At times I have found running harder than it should be, paces more challenging to hit, and DOMs nearly ever-present in my limbs. This is the final push before the taper, so it could actually be quite logical as to why all these things have felt apparent, however it did start to make doubts creep into my mind. However, the weekend offered the timely boost I needed...

MONDAY: the final session in the current block of Strength and Conditioning for Runners. It has been another highly beneficial eight-week period for me, both physically and socially in terms of being able to train with like-minded people. After 22 miles on Sunday I was sore and tight for this session, but doing something did help to loosen me up a little. 

TUESDAY: with soreness still in my limbs the sole aim of my easy paced 9 miles was to try and freshen my legs up a little. The first few miles I was stiff and shuffly, but as my muscled warmed I grew into a more natural stride, albeit still keeping my pace under control and averaging 8.33 min/mile. Body Pump class in the evening.

WEDNESDAY: today my 5.30am alarm had gone off as usual to meet my Wednesday morning run friend, however just as I was pulling on the final piece of my run gear, he had to cancel. I was actually due in work a little later today, so rolled back into bed fully clothed for an extra hour sleep before facing my interval run. I was possibly also trying to avoid the challenge ahead of me as I knew it would be a hard run. I had 8 miles planned with 5 x 1 mile reps and 400m recoveries and opted for a nice run route 'out and back' along the river near my house. This route was a great plan in terms of being uninterrupted, but not a great plan with a headwind on the ‘back’ section which hit me when I was already tiring! This run felt very hard; I did not really hit the paces I wanted for the interval reps, and at times had to stop completely to catch my breath on the recoveries.

THURSDAY: my legs were back to being noticeably very sore again today and I was therefore somewhat pleased my plan's tempo run was 'only' 7 miles with the middle 5 miles at marathon pace. I knew I would not get any speed from my legs today, so tried to use the run to focus on feeling what my marathon pace should be like. I aimed for tempo splits between 8.15-8.20 min/mile, which I managed. However, the soreness in my legs meant this pace range felt nowhere near as comfortable as I hoped it would be. Body Pump in the evening. 
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FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: I approached Lincoln parkrun with no expectations today; after a week of fairly mediocre and at times hard running, I was not confident of suddenly knocking out a super speedy 5k. I chatted to friends pre-run and barely thought much about the actual running part of the morning, it was only really when the 'go' signal was given I suddenly focused a little. I thought I could sense that I was running much better than I anticipated, but I refrained from looking at my watch, as I did not want this to affect me mentally if I was wrong! As I finished, I was however actually very happy at what my watch read - 20:56. (I was later relegated to 21:01 by the official results – so the sub 21 slips away again for another week!) I chatted to more fiends at the finish (I struggle to get away from parkrun these days - in a very good way though!) and met my colleague who spontaneously gave me a post run hug. Not even a couple of hours and my love of running was back. 

SUNDAY: for my final long, long run of this training cycle I opted for a change of scenery and had entered Ashby 20. I had heard much about this 20 mile race but had never taken part, so I was interested to see what all the fuss was about. Full blog to follow, but I absolutely loved it; I loved the course even with its relentless hills, I loved the wonderfully supportive marshals who were simply fantastic across the entire route, I loved the weather which was virtually perfect, I loved the purple finisher hoody (see image), but most of all I loved how strong I felt from beginning to end. I finished in 2:43:22 with an average pace of 8.10 min/mile – confidence levels fully restored.  ​
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Brighton Marathon Training: Week 12

3/17/2019

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Otherwise known as the week it was permanently windy. It has not been ideal conditions for the highest mileage week of my training programme to say the least. Lets just hope the weather has provided some additional training gains - that's about all I can say!

MONDAY: Rest Day and a day in London with work enjoying a rare time being in the Capital and not actually running!

TUESDAY: it was very gusty today when I woke, and naively thinking the wind would not persist all week, I switched to one of the easier runs on my plan - a comfortable 10 miler. The wind did indeed make it feel a bit more like hard work at times. I also had slight soreness on the inside of my ankle; it had felt tight after my long run on Sunday but I assumed this was fatigue. It did not affect my running too much, but just felt like each time I planted my foot the impact was like knocking against a bruise. 

WEDNESDAY: lying in bed I could hear the wind howling outside; it was even winder than yesterday. I postponed intervals again - surely tomorrow would be better? - and headed out for 8 miles alternating 1 mile easy, 1 mile hard. The hard miles were tough, especially if they fell facing a headwind, and even more so when this was mixed with any form of gradient. Good training I just kept telling myself!

THURSDAY: more wind, and no escaping the interval run now. I had 8 miles with 15 x 400m reps and 200m recoveries, and at times I have to say it really was not fun. Some reps were almost draining, trying to run at speed into a swirling wind. I just had to tell myself to stick at it, not focus on pace but just try and keep my effort levels high. My reps were quite varied, ranging from 7.20 min/mile to 8 min/mile, literally depending on the conditions I faced. Body Pump class in evening and I also saw my Sports Therapist today and had some cupping treatment on my ankle. 
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FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: still windy - I was truly fed up of it now. I found parkrun tough today (see image); I think I was just tired of battling the conditions, and when the wind hit me I just did not have that extra 'umph' to push through. I ran 21:25, which is by no means awful, but after a couple of 21:00 runs I think it shows the impact the conditions had on me both physically and mentally. 

SUNDAY: with the long, long run of 22 miles ahead of me I was relieved that the wind had finally eased a little. It was still apparent, and probably on any other day I would have moaned about it being windy, but compared to some of the conditions I faced in the week, it was much improved. I aimed to keep today's miles steady; on my longest run of the plan I did not want to 'race' it;  it was all about the miles. Mother Nature still held a few surprises for me, and the conditions ranged from windy, to sunny, to wet and then some rather painful hailstones, but I made it to the big 22 with an average pace of 8.29 min/mile. The only minor niggle was that my ankle on a couple of occasions went a little tight again, and I had to slow my stride until it eased off. I will keep monitoring it and hopefully as the training load gradually starts to ease off now, it will too. 
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Brighton Marathon Training: Week 11

3/10/2019

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Last week training was tough; I felt a little bit like I was heading towards burnout. The fact I was able to identify and reflect on this is the most important thing though, and this week I have acted. These last 7 days have been focused on looking after myself; life has still been busy with my pattern of early morning running and long days at work still continuing, but I have put things in place to cope with this demand. I feel much better in myself, so I guess it has worked!

MONDAY: after Sunday's Cambridge Half Marathon I was sore today and decided that 'just' doing my Strength and Conditioning for Runners class was enough for this evening, and cancelled my booked Body Pump session - starting the week as I meant to go on in terms of being kinder to myself.

TUESDAY: my quads were still a little tight and sore from Sunday's race, so I was happy to keep my pace under control for today's easy 6 miles. It felt like a nice and needed 'shake out' of the limbs. 

WEDNESDAY: two days of gentle exercise demands had paid dividends and today my legs felt much better, which I was pleased about as I met my friend for our now seemingly regular Wednesday morning run. We ran a 7 mile loop and at the start I did fear I was going to struggle to keep up with my friend (I am learning he can be seriously speedy!), but I settled into a stride. We ran at a good pace, all splits sub 8 min/mile except for one with a big hill right at the end of the run, averaging 7.47 min/mile overall. 

THURSDAY: I had a 6 mile progression run on my plan - never my favourite. As is nearly always the case when I attempt a progression run, I made an uneasy almost nervy start, trying hard to keep my pace steady and avoid having to sprint the final few miles. I managed it though, and as the faster end miles hit I felt really strong, logging perfect splits of 8.44, 8.25, 7.56, 7.42, 7.29 and 7.24 min/mile respectively. Body Pump class in the evening. 
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FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: it was a blustery morning at Lincoln parkrun this week, with the wind blowing through a whole spectrum of weather conditions in quite a short space of time. As I stood at the start chatting to friends (see image) I actually feared I was a little under dressed as dark rain clouds edged closer towards us. The wind was apparent on some sections of the parkrun route, but not too significant, and I ran well. As I raced into the finish funnel and stopped my Garmin it read 20:59 - maybe I could had snuck a sub 21 minute time! I waited until my official email came through later in the day and literally laughed out loud when it read that my time was precisely 21:00! This was exactly the same time as my last 5k and again just 1 second away from being in that next time bracket - I will not be beaten by that little second!

SUNDAY: the prospect of 20 miles made me a little uneasy today. My last 20 mile run completed a couple of weeks ago had been hard work, mainly due to my head being all over the place, and I really did not want a repeat performance. I was already in a much better mindset though having spent an enjoyable evening with my old housemates Saturday night catching up and eating massive ice cream Sundaes (which I now think is perfect long run fuel!) My planned 20 miles were also split into two sections; the first 10 miles were to be easier, followed by 10 miles at 'marathon pace'. This also helped as I approached the run not as a 20 miler, but instead as two 10 mile runs. The first 10 miles were pleasant and felt like a warm up, and I logged an average pace of 8.30 min/mile overall for this section. The second 10 miles I then dug in and focused on my pace a little more, enjoying the new challenge. I had decided pre-run that my 'marathon pace' would aim to be around 8.15 min/mile and I was really pleased by how close I stuck to this, with splits of 8.16, 8.16, 8.17, 8.12, 8.12, 8.16, 8.07, 8.16, 8.16 and 7.42 min/mile. The final mile I went for it and was happy with how much I had left in my legs still; in fact my legs felt strong throughout and coped well with the distance, logging an overall average pace of 8.20 min/mile. However, the best thing was I actually enjoyed the run - which is the main thing after all!
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Cambridge Half Marathon 2019

3/4/2019

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​If I am honest, I was not truly feeling Cambridge Half Marathon in the days leading up to race day. It had been a tough week for all manner of reasons, more of which here, and I was simply very tired. The runner in me wanted a race day and the enjoyment, challenge and test it brings; but the other, perhaps you could say, more human side of me just wanted a rest. I had planned to run Cambridge Half Marathon in further support of my Brighton Marathon training, and because it also offers an opportunity to visit my parents, who live not too far away in Suffolk. Despite my reservations, it turned out that Cambridge Half Marathon was actually exactly what I needed…
 
Sometimes I wonder what my parents think of their running obsessed daughter – do they get what running means to me? I think they do; and I hope they know how special it is for me when I know they are coming to support me run. Waking up Sunday morning I did however feel a little guilty that I was dragging them out the house so early, in miserable March weather, to glimpse me a few times run through some streets…! It was not a pleasant day; cool and grey with a persistent rain in the air and the threat of gale force winds approaching. I was not sure what I was expecting from my performance; I didn’t want to put too much pressure on myself, but I also wanted to try and remain close to my time from a couple of weeks ago – a 1:35:23 at Leicestershire Half Marathon. My time at Leicestershire was in fact a new PB, but I think I knew deep down before I even ran that I was not going to be challenging that today. That was ok though; this was part of my training after all.
 
Cambridge Half Marathon is a well organised event and we arrived in good time on the efficient park and ride system. My parents were a little horrified by the lengthy portaloo queues (a sight us runners are quite used to!) but the lines moved quickly, and before I knew it, I was waving my umbrella clad supporters goodbye and heading to the start wrapped in a very unflattering plastic poncho. It was here it hit me just how many runners were taking part in the event, as masses joined the start line. I had ran the event last year, but after the infamous ‘Beast from the East’ I think some had stayed away (I later looked and saw that there in fact an extra 1300 runners this year). One in the start pens, one of my favourite athletes Jo Pavey gave us the starting signal, and I began to run.
 
I say I began to run, but in fact I began to weave, dart, jog, walk and even stop during the first 2 miles. The start was incredibly narrow on single side Cambridge roads and it was a little bit ridiculous at times; on a couple of turns we actually came to a complete standstill. This did not help me settle into the race, my pace was all over, and I felt like I was probably annoying other runners trying to get past when I needed to. After two miles the course thinned slightly, which I was extra pleased about as it meant I could focus on spotting my parents, who I waved madly at like an excited child.
 
After 3 miles the course left the city centre of Cambridge and headed out toward a village called Granchester. The roads widened here and I felt I could finally get some running rhythm. Although I found my stride, I could feel my legs were not as sharp as a couple of weeks ago when I last raced 13.1 miles. I did not let this bother me, and instead focused on running as well as I could and not obsess over pace differences. I liked the rural sections of this part of the course, which loops out before returning back to Cambridge city centre at about 9 miles, and it featured a nice mix of gradient and lots of pockets of supporters. Arriving back into Cambridge though I could feel the energy from my legs starting to fade.
 
Up until mile 10 my splits had all been reasonably consistent and below 7.30 min/mile pace, even with the slow start. I think the start rather than slowing my average pace had actually just made me run less efficiently, running in bursts rather than steadily conserving energy. As mile 10 ticked over on my watch I knew I was going to have to fight for the finish. Thankfully the course weaves back through the city centre at this point and the crowds lifted me, as did the knowledge my parents would be on the roadside around mile 11. My quads felt like heavy masses at this point with absolutely no power, and my pace felt like it had slowed much more than it had – just keep moving. I spotted my mum and dad and they brought a smile to my probably pained face. I gestured it was hard, but it was also equally hard not to be spurred on by their own smiles beaming back at me and the pride in their eyes.
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The final two miles was tough work, especially running over a relatively gentle bridge which at this point in time felt like Mount Everest to my limbs! As my watch hit 12 miles though I found that little bit of something, picking off runners until I turned into the finishing stretch. This part of the course reminds me of The Mall in the London Marathon. It’s a long road with supporters lining both sides, and like in London, the finish archway just never seems to appear on the horizon when you want it! I pushed hard down this section, somehow finding something more in my legs. I was relieved to make it to the line – although my body hurt a lot even when I stopped running!
 
I stumbled to the side barrier and waited for my parents who had made a swift move from Mile 11 to watch my finish. What they must have thought now of their daughter I do not know – I was an exhausted and slightly delirious mess! Their faces looked more like concern now, but I was actually alright – just very tired! My mum asked if I was happy and I instantly said yes; my finish time was 1:37:49, and I was very pleased to run another sub 1.40 half marathon, especially when I had not felt my best all week. It was a very pleasing result in fact.  
 
I slowly walked through the finish area to collect my medal and a jam packed goody bag, as well as carefully carrying a pint of the alcohol free beer that races seem to like to give out (I hate it!), which I thought I would reward my dad with! I met my soggy supporters again and posed for a few photos with my latest piece of running bling. After a tough week and a tough run the best part was that I now had people to look after me post-race. Arriving back at my parents house and after a warm shower, I relaxed with my feet up watching football on TV with my dad and then athletics, all whilst being fed some of my mums delicious homemade cooking and baking. I even got to lie in on Monday morning until the crazy time of 7.30am! I needed this weekend, I needed to share what I love with the people I love, and it sounds almost ridiculous, but I think I needed just to feel loved too. ​
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Brighton Marathon Training: Week 10

3/3/2019

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This week has been tough – I will not beat around the bush. Tired - I think that is the only word I can use to describe how I have been feeling; physically, mentally and at times emotionally. I had guessed this week might be challenging, with high running demands combined with a very busy few days at work, but it hit me harder than I expected. 5.30am alarms for running with some days not getting home from work until past 10pm – I love both my job and running - but it’s not a good combination. I have survived though, but I know I really need to look after myself this week ahead to avoid burnout and undoing all the good I have achieved so far.

MONDAY: following 20 miles on Sunday I was weary today. I had a double combination of Strength and Conditioning for Runners and Body Pump planned for the evening and really was not sure I had the energy for it. In the end I completed both, and felt better for it. Later that evening I then had quite an emotive personal situation, which affected me a little, and with lots of thoughts and reflections running through my head (and indeed for most of the subsequent week) I really did not sleep well.

TUESDAY: my word for how I was feeling today is drained – and it was only Tuesday. A tired body and emotional mind made me chose to switch to a slightly easier run on my plan – 5 tempo miles, with the middle 3 miles at marathon pace. What my marathon pace actually is, I am not sure, but I seemed to run around 7.45-7.50 min/mile. A shorter run was much better for me, although the tempo miles felt a little tougher than perhaps they should have been.
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WEDNESDAY: after getting home post 10pm Tuesday night, I was pleased I was meeting my friend from Strength and Conditioning for another run this morning, as it simply made me get up. The 5.30am alarm would not have been welcomed otherwise. I still felt fatigued, but chatting to my friend helped take my mind off it, and running at his pace meant we logged strong splits across 7 miles of 7.39, 7.25, 7.38, 7.35, 8.32 (a big hill!) 7.31 and 7.30 min/mile.

THURSDAY: is it boring if today I said I felt tired? The only run left I had on my plan was the 9 mile interval run I had postponed from Tuesday – safe to say the prospect of which did not fill me with absolute joy! The run went better than I feared, 9 miles passed quickly with 8 x 800m reps thrown into the mileage. It essentially paved out as a 7 mile interval run with a 2 mile cool down at the end. I felt spent during the cool down, but was pleased to see my pace remained steady, just over 8 min/mile. My interval reps were mainly sub 7.20 min/mile with a couple slowing as I tired. I then worked until 10pm at night again…

FRIDAY: with a race on Sunday and a planned Rest Day for Saturday, today should have been 3 easy miles. I did not run 3 miles; with another long day at work ahead, I knew there would be absolutely no benefit to my fitness or wellbeing. I rested. 
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SATURDAY: Rest Day and a lovely morning volunteering at my home Lincoln parkrun before heading back to Suffolk ahead of Sunday’s Cambridge Half Marathon. At this point I was probably looking forward to seeing my parents more than I was running a half marathon. Monday’s personal events were playing on my mind, and to put it frankly, I needed a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on.

SUNDAY: after a couple of days rest I felt fresher going into today’s race. The weather was a bit bleak with rain steadily falling, and I felt a bit guilty for my parents who were coming to watch! I loved having them there though, and it spurred me on (see images), especially towards the end. Run wise, as soon as I started I knew my legs were not as sharp as my PB at Leicestershire Half Marathon two weeks ago. I had also forgotten what a big race is like - 10,000 runners on narrow Cambridge roads meant the start was ridiculously slow. Full blog to follow – but I ran well for the first ten miles; sub 7.30 min/mile pace and consistent, if slightly slower than a few weeks ago. The final 3 miles were tough though – my legs just drained and I had to dig deep for the finish. My finish time was 1:37:49, and I was really happy to log another sub 1.40 half. I was knackered though – and as my parents found me at the finish arch, I was an exhausted mess! My mantra from Cambridge Half is - share what you love with the people you love, that is what matters most.  ​
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Brighton Marathon Training: Week 9

2/24/2019

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Training for a marathon can be just as mentally testing as it is physically; I do not think it matters how many times you have been through a training cycle, it still challenges you. This week I have experience a number of mental tests through my running...

MONDAY: after the Leicestershire Half Marathon on Sunday I was pleased to find my legs were not too sore, however, when it came to my evening strength double of Strength and Conditioning for Runners and Body Pump classes I could just feel my energy levels were low. I lacked power and I was a bit lethargic. This was to be expected really, and I focused on maintaining good technique and form despite my fatigue.

TUESDAY: after a race it is sometimes the case you can take things easier; you train and build up to a big event and then afterwards you have some rest and recovery. Not during marathon training! The prospect of 7 miles of intervals with 6 x 1000m reps did not grab me this morning; I was physically tired and mentally I was not sure I had the drive I needed - it was like I had used all my stores up during Sunday's race! I kept my expectations moderate, aiming for the intervals to be anything between 7 min/mile and 7.30 min/mile pace and just ran as well as I could. It was the hardest interval session I have ran for a while, but I managed it, with effort paces logging in the 7.20 min/mile region. 

WEDNESDAY: today's run was the mid week boost I needed. I met my friend from Strength and Conditioning for some more early morning miles and we ran a 7 mile loop around Lincoln. The company made the miles fly by, and as we also meet somewhere neutral, it means I get to run new routes rather than falling into the habit of running my usual paths. My friend is also a little faster than me, which is good, as it pushes me but without being ridiculously quick. Our pace was steady and consistent, averaging 7.53 min/mile overall. 

THURSDAY: after a good run yesterday this morning's solo ten miler before work seemed a bit of a slog. At times I felt ploddy, but I tried to keep my pace under control, averaging 8.22 min/mile overall. The positive at least was that after about 5 miles it started to get lighter, which boosted my spirits a little - Spring is coming! Body Pump class in the evening. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day
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SATURDAY: today was one of those mornings when I realised just how important parkrun is in my life. I woke up looking forward to the Lincoln parkrun even more than usual as a friend from work had messaged saying she was planning on coming with her family; it would be their first time at Lincoln and I knew they would enjoy it. Chatting around the Bandstand pre-run I nearly forgot about the whole running thing to come! I think this set me up well as I ran really relaxed, not even looking at my watch, and just to feel. I stopped the clock at 21 minutes dead – in hindsight maybe a glance at my watch could have shaved that extra second off!? I really was not bothered though; I had ran well and was happy. After finishing I then spent a wonderful half an hour or so just chatting to lots of other people I know or have grown to know through parkrun, as well as cheering my friend's finish. I was due at work and my post run socialising actually nearly made me late! For me attending parkrun is so much more than just a 5k (see image). 

SUNDAY: the first 20 miler of this training block. I have to admit I was not looking forward to it. The mileage did not scare me, it was simply the fact I did not relish spending near on three hours in my own company. I knew I would get into my own head and frankly I did not need that much time with my own thoughts! Unfortunately, I do not like listening to music when I run, so I just had to deal with myself! I started a bit too quickly and I could not really get into natural rhythm. The weather was so changeable too; a thick fog would engulf me at times making it quite cool and damp, only to emerge into a warm sunshine which made me suddenly sweat. It did not help settle me. At the half way point I was running well still, but I was tired of my own mind games. I just had to dig deep and tick off the final half somehow. My pace dipped a little between miles 16-18 - I think my legs suddenly realised I was asking more from them - but I recovered when the end goal became in sight. I made it to 20 miles, averaging 8.20 min/mile overall - a strong run. I have to admit I am not relishing the thought of further solo 20+ mile long runs at the moment, but hopefully I have got through the biggest challenge this week. ​
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Leicestershire Half Marathon 2019

2/19/2019

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Leicestershire Half Marathon – my first race of 2019. The evening before I was not sure how I was feeling ahead of racing 13.1 miles. It had been a long and busy day volunteering at parkrun and then heading straight to work, I had been on my feet most of the day and not eaten well. I was slumped on my sofa and had to force myself to get up and find the energy to start to think and prep what I needed for race day. Pinning my race number onto my chosen technical t-shirt it felt like a long time since I had last ‘raced’. In reality it was only a couple of months, however this would be the first time in a while I would be taking part in an event pretty much solo. Of late I have enjoyed my local Lincolnshire running scene, as it means that even if I attend a race on my own, there are always people I know to bump into and chat to pre and post event. When my alarm stirred me on Sunday morning, I felt a little lost heading somewhere unaccompanied, and the silence in my car as I drove was a little eerie. I was in a bit of a sombre mood you could say and did not feel particularly like I was prepped or motivated to perform exceptionally well.

I entered Leicestershire Half Marathon as part of my Brighton Marathon training, and had used the race for similar purposes last year when training for the London Marathon. Thankfully a year-round the conditions had vastly improved; 2018 had been a bitterly cold February morning with a harsh wind whipping across the exposed grounds at Prestwold Hall. The wind was still apparent today, but a Spring like sunshine bathed us runners as we huddled around the race start. Being among this familiar crowd of people fastening on pieces of paper to their chests, munching on bananas and joining snaking queues for portaloos made me feel a bit more at home shall we say, and it lifted my spirits – it was a familiar environment for me to be in. A man on a tannoy began to announce starting waves, asking you to line up according to predicted finish time – what was I aiming for? My mindset was open, this was a bit of a benchmark event for me to see where my training was currently at, so I shuffled to join the sub 1:40 group, which I think deep down I probably thought may be a little optimistic!

The race starts and finishes alongside Prestwold Hall, starting along the gravel drive (more on that later!) and then initially weaves around a racetrack located behind the Hall. I had started quickly, my pace logging around 7:15 min/mile, but this almost didn’t feel right as I seemed so comfortable and in control despite my relative speed. The first 5 miles always pass by quickly for me during a half marathon, and I was enjoying the smooth racetrack tarmac for running which allowed me to keep my stride. Conditions were pleasant, warm but not hot, although the wind made itself apparent on certain stretches – I knew it would play a role later in the race as I began to tire.

After passing 5 miles I broke the race down into smaller chucks – my aim was now to try and maintain my rhythm, get to 7 miles and then see how I was feeling. This section of the course leaves the racetrack and is set along some rural roads, which I remembered from last year features a few undulations. I think these types of hills actually suit me – if that’s possible – I prefer more longer steadier climbs that short sharp bursts, and I tend to note I often overtake people on these tests. Along this stretch I also spotted a fellow female runner in the distance, her blue hair made her striking to remember, and I vowed to try and keep her in my sights as a bit of an additional pacing marker.
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Passing 7 miles I still felt strong, and with my knowledge from last year, I knew I needed to be, as the course headed back to the racetrack with some tests ahead. The first challenge was a long stretch of tarmac which ran parallel to what look like disused lorries; it is not very motivating and the worst part of the course. I just focused on taking steps towards reaching 10 miles, which was my next milestone. To reach my magic marker I needed to get through mile 9 though, which was brutal last year, set against almost sheer wind resistance. As I turned the corner this year the wind hit me again; thankfully it was nowhere near as powerful as last year, but still enough to make my pace drop. This stretch is also slightly on an incline to make the challenge that little more tough. This was my slowest mile of the whole race, but I was shocked to see it was still sub 7.30 min/mile pace. This gave me the confidence I needed to know I could still kick across the final three miles.

​I began to drive for the finish from here; glances at my watch and quick mental calculations told me I was running close to PB pace, but I will admit I was too focused to waste energy working things exactly – I knew I just needed to keep constantly going and not fade. I also began to close the gap between myself and my blue haired runner marker. With a mile to go I fully went for it; an early kick. I was grimacing already, and it did hurt, but the feeling of being strong approaching a finish is much better than struggling to the line. With around 400m to go I caught up with my female marker and we exchanged a few words of encouragement to each other. The gravel drive then hit me again and it was so hard to run on. Tired legs trying to push powerfully off energy sucking stones; it felt like running on soft sand. I know my form went out the window at this point; I had been focusing hard all race on running well, but now all I needed to do was make it to the line. I crossed the line and before I even could look at my watch, I ground to a hault, hands on knees, catching my gasping breath.  When I felt able to look at Garmin I was so pleased to see what it read – 1:35:23 - a new PB.

A PB was not what I aimed for or expected from today, but I had taken a minute and a half off my previous record and over 4 minutes off my course record last year. I also placed 11th female overall. It felt great – well it did after I had slowly shuffled my tired legs to collect my medal and ill-fitting finishers t-shirt – and as I reflected on my splits, the consistency in my pacing is what pleased me most, and my final mile split simply amazed me. I ran exactly 7 min/mile to finish the race, a split I struggle to hit at a parkrun sometimes at the moment, but somehow had logged at the end of a 13.1 mile race. Is it possible I am more proud of that?!
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Leicestershire Half Marathon was a great start to the year; it has shown my training is going well, and I believe I am becoming both a stronger runner and more confident when racing. It still felt a little strange being ‘alone’ on race day, I much prefer chatting with people, but I am also learning how to adjust my race day mindset to this. I hope I can continue with this momentum for the rest of the year. ​
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Brighton Marathon Training: Week 8

2/17/2019

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The half way point - and I have kind of felt it a bit this week. Some of the undesirable effects of marathon training have started to creep in; I have been tired, at times my hunger has been insatiable, the day after my long run I felt jaded, and restless legs have kept me awake at night. These are signs I know I need to take extra care of myself. Running wise training has continued to go well though, with an extra PB bonus to finish the week...

MONDAY: Strength and Conditioning for Runners class in which I am already beginning to note my personal progress. 

TUESDAY: I switched things a little on my plan this week, and with a harder run planned for tomorrow, I kept today’s miles steadier. I ran 7 miles at a comfortably hard pace, which was around 8 min/mile. Body Pump class in the evening. 

WEDNESDAY: today I was joined on a run by a friend from my Strength and Conditioning class; he needed some motivation to kick start his training and I always welcome company - especially when they are willing to meet me at 6am for a run! My friend had planned a 10k route known locally as 'rolling hills'. I had heard of the route, but never tried it - probably for good reason! The route weaves around the centre of Lincoln going up and down most of the cruellest inclines the city offers (for those local think Michealgate, Steep Hill, Lindum Hill, Greenstone Stairs, Milman Hill etc) I really enjoyed the challenge and it is certainly something I would not have had the confidence to attempt alone. I also did not stop once, which I am sure I would have convinced myself I needed to if I had run alone.

THURSDAY: after the hill test of yesterday my legs were a little sore today. Keeping today's planned 10 miles at an 'easy' pace was therefore a little more straightforward. My legs were stiff at first, but once I loosened up I just let the miles tick off at a comfortable 8.24 min/mile average pace. Body Pump class in evening. 
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FRIDAY: with a race planned for Sunday I swapped this week's Rest Day around, heading out for a very easy 4 miles this morning, averaging 8.42 min/mile pace in the process. I nearly did not bother with the run, but I am pleased I did as it helped loosen off some remaining stiffness and also felt quite therapeutic running at a gentle rhythm and not having too many miles to log. 

SATURDAY: Rest Day - whilst still getting my parkrun fix through volunteering at my home Lincoln event. 

SUNDAY: my first race of 2019 - the Leicestershire Half Marathon (see image). My training plan has a couple of half marathons in and I like to use them to assess a little where I am in terms of progress. I have another race in a couple of weeks, so my mindset approaching today's 13.1 miles was to simply see what my legs currently had in them - almost like setting a baseline marker. It was a lovely day for running with an almost spring like warmth, although there was quite a strong, gusty breeze at the Prestwold Hall setting of the race. Compared to last year when I had completed the course, the weather was heavenly though! Full blog to follow; but in short, I ran a new PB of 1:35:23 - what I loved most however was how strong I felt; physically, mentally and against the at times windy conditions. My splits emphasise this, logging relatively consistent throughout, and to top it off my final mile was the quickest overall, registering at bang on 7 min/mile - even I do not know how I managed that at the end of a half marathon race! ​
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Brighton Marathon Training: Week 7

2/10/2019

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​It has been a busy week with a mixture of work commitments and fitting in marathon training; but I have managed it all. Marathon training is a commitment itself, but I guess like anything, the more cycles I go through the easier I find it to fit training into life - it is possible!

MONDAY: a double strength session to start the week, with Strength and Conditioning for Runners followed by a Body Pump class.

TUESDAY: the last (I hope!) of the ice lingered today and it meant I had to remain a little cautious on early morning intervals. I ran the same session as last week; 5.5m with 15 x 200m reps and 200m recoveries, and again managed to keep my pace for the interval efforts hovering just above 7 min/mile for the majority. 

WEDNESDAY: I wanted to run the 'easy' 10 miles I had on my plan 'easy' - recent icy conditions have helped me keep my planned easier miles at a comfortable pace, rather than tending to run everything a bit too quick, and I feel it has been beneficial. Despite there being no ice today it turned out it was actually very easy for me to slow things down - my legs were very lethargic. Tuesday had been a very busy and long day at work for me and I had not eaten properly at all; I do not think I actually had one proper meal all day. An early longish run was therefore a bit of an ask; it felt a slog and I averaged 8.42 min/mile. I know why I struggled at least and it is always good to learn. In the evening I enjoyed marshalling at a charity 'Dark Run' arranged to support the fundraising efforts of our Lincoln parkrun event director who is taking on the London Marathon.

THURSDAY: this morning was very windy - I could hear the wind howling before I even set out the door. The conditions made running tough at times and I knew I needed to adjust my pace expectations. As predicted, at times I did struggle to hit my desired paces against a headwind, so I instead tried to maintain my effort levels instead, logging 7 miles with the middle 5 miles aiming to be quicker/exerting more effort. My middle splits were nearly all sub 8 min/mile still, with one slightly over, which was both uphill and with a headwind so I will let myself off..! Body Pump in the evening.

FRIDAY: Rest Day
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SATURDAY: the wind had returned for today's Lincoln parkrun, with an added strength which had actually kept me awake at night. It was very gusty at Boultham Park and obvious that on the slightly more exposed expanses of the park it would play some effect. My sister was visiting for the weekend and I feel she tends to bring extreme conditions with her when she runs at Lincoln - previously it has been a heatwave! Against the wind I faded progressively across the three miles; on each of the three laps the headwind seemed to knock me out of my rhythm a little more. I finished in 21:10, which I was still happy with in the conditions, and with just enough time to catch my breath and go to cheer my sister through her sprint finish!

SUNDAY: a long run with some company - the benefits of having a keen running sibling! I had 17 miles on my plan and wanted these to be steadier after a few weeks of more testing long runs; so having someone to chat to was perfect timing. I was not expecting my sister to run the full 17 with me, but we planned to run 11 miles together, before I finished off with a solo 6 miles. Needless to say, the first 11 miles flew by and I enjoyed showing my sister one of my running routes. The final 6 miles were my own mental test - physically my body felt good with the steadier pace, but now I had to motivate myself to keep going without the support. Miles 11-14 were a bit tough, but I ticked off the final 3 miles more effortlessly, finishing with an average pace of 8.29 min/mile - which was almost exactly to my pre-run plan of 8.30 min/mile. Next week is the half way part of training – it is crazy how quickly the weeks are passing by!
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Brighton Marathon Training: Week 6

2/3/2019

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Wintery weather and icy conditions have been another feature of this week - I am starting to wish I was back marathon training in the middle of a summer heatwave again! Well, maybe not - but some above 0 degree running temperatures would be nice please mother nature!

MONDAY: the official start of my next block of Strength and Conditioning for Runners. It is always good to be back at these sessions, and I am constantly learning about my body and how to maximise my running, as well as enjoying being with a group of liked minded people.

TUESDAY: today I was out running before the street lights had even been switched back on along some of my local streets. My alarm had gone off at 5:10am as I had to squeeze my miles in before an early start at work. Intervals at least woke me up, and I ran 5.5 miles with 15 x 200m reps and 200m recoveries. Normally this number of intervals drains me, but this morning it felt manageable. Pace wise I literally just ran as fast as possible, with the majority of reps hovering around the 7 min/mile marker. Body Pump class in the evening. 

WEDNESDAY: another early start, not quite as harsh as yesterday, but I was out running before 6am again. The weather conditions were almost akin to last Wednesday, and an overnight frost had once more left very icy pavements to greet me. The 7 easy miles on my plan therefore had to be kept very easy again, averaging 8.46 min/mile. I can't say I enjoyed this run - it was so cold and I was fed up of tiptoeing cautiously - I just wanted to run carefree!

THURSDAY: with the forecast saying this morning would be -6 degrees I did not even bother setting an alarm for a pre-work run; I knew the pavements would be like ice rinks. A freezing fog never lifted all day, and by the evening I still was not confident running tempo miles on the streets. Reluctantly I headed for the treadmill. If I am running on a treadmill you know it is the last resort! I ran 7 miles with the middle 5 miles at a faster pace - it is difficult for me to assess exact pace on a treadmill as I very rarely use one and the settings are so different to what I am used to; so I simply ran to feel. Body Pump class after. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day 
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SATURDAY: drawing back my curtains I was very uncertain as to whether I would be running parkrun today - my street was white with frost and ice, and I could not imagine Lincoln parkrun's Boultham Park venue would be much better. I kept refreshing the website, but no cancellation was given, so I made my way to the park, half expecting to be the only nutter there. I was wrong, 267 people, plus the wonderful Lincoln parkrun volunteers, braved the elements for our weekly 5k. It was very slippy underfoot, and I think we all knew that not only were we running out our own risk, but that speed was not on the cards for today. As soon as I started running the skies opened with snowfall, it was like running in a snow globe as flakes tumbled around us (see image). I found a pace and rhythm I was comfortable with and navigated the course with care. I probably felt safer running here amongst a crowd of friendly faces than on some of my early morning solo ice runs! I finished in 22.36 - which was a lot better than I predicted in the conditions. Today was really not about time though, it was a memorable parkrun not just for the wintery weather, but for the dedication and care of the running community to make the event happen and to look out for one another.  

SUNDAY: a long run of two halves - quite literally. I had 16 miles on my plan; the first half to be steadier and the final half to be quicker. Whilst the ice was melting, it was still bitterly cold as I headed out, so much so, the freshness of the air made my eyes water. The cold got to me during the first 8 miles; although I was running around 8.10 min/mile pace, things felt slow and as if I was prolonging my exposure to the elements; I feared this was going to become a slog of a run. As the second half approached, I debated in my head if I actually had the energy, drive or desire to push myself - not a great mindset to be in! However, as my watch ticked over 8 miles it was like a spark was lit inside me; my legs woke up and my body suddenly felt warm and alive – I even had to take my gloves off as my hands were sweating! Where this spurt came from I am not sure, but my final 8 miles were all sub 8 min/mile pace, and I relished the sense of being strong at the end of a long run. I hope this strong feeling continues - just not the feeling of being cold please!
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Brighton Marathon Training: Week 5

1/27/2019

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This week has felt like a long week; which on reflection I think is due to the fact the past seven days have featured a few varied emotions (often self inflicted!), in addition to managing my training around winter weather conditions. I have also attempted to maintain a bit of a life outside of running - believe it or not I do try and have one!

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: this morning began the start of a cold snap of weather, and as I headed out for my early miles I was quick to identify the slight ice patches on the pavements. I had 6 miles with 12 x 400m intervals and 200m recoveries planned; conditions were not ideal but with a bit of caution it was possible. My splits were therefor not quite as fast as I would have liked, and I had to try really hard not to be harsh on myself post run and ignore the voice in my head telling me I should have pushed myself more. Logging my runs and keeping this blog helps me keep things in perspective though, and I now know in the conditions I did do my best.

WEDNESDAY: as I left work Tuesday evening it was snowing and it was also harshly cold. I was anxious about what the weather would bring overnight, as my only chance to run today was in the early morning before work. It did cause me worry and a lot of time spent analysing weather apps - again on reflection I needed to just accept I could not control mother nature! It was -6 when I woke, so I layered up and braced myself for a true winter run. The pavements were very icy, and I tentatively began running, assessing virtually every piece of pavement I placed my feet on. I had 7 miles to run, which thankfully were only 'easy' paced, so I at least had no pace pressure. I would say the paths were probably my absolute limit on which I would be willing to run on, I managed my miles, but I had to keep my pace very easy, around 9 min/mile. To be honest, I was more relieved just to make it home in one piece! In the evening I had a taster session for the next block of Strength and Conditioning for Runners sessions I have signed up to, and with a focus on endurance, I am very excited to begin this alongside my marathon training. 

THURSDAY: Rest Day - the ice remained today and after yesterday's run I knew there was no way I was attempting tempo miles on slippery pavements. My vague aim was to go out running after work when the ice should have melted. However, I finished work late, was hungry, tired, and deep down I just knew I was not going to log quality miles if I forced myself out. It took some convincing in my mind, but I told myself a rest day was best.

FRIDAY: I woke up ready to attack my tempo miles today. The weather was a somewhat tropical 3 degrees, and with no ice, I could run stress free. I ran a strong 6 miles, with the middle 4 miles aiming for 7.20-7.30 min/mile pace, and  was so happy I had - eventually! - decided to switch things around. 
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SATURDAY: on Friday evening personal things had cropped up again; but rather than let this upset me to the point of tears, as it probably would have done last year, I woke today with a sense of determination and strength. I am not saying this is the sole reason why, after many months of trying to go sub 21 minutes again for a parkrun, that I finally did it today, but I think having that personal self confidence rather than feelings of self doubt certainly helped. Wearing my shiny new pair of Nike Pegasus running shoes, I lined up on the Lincoln parkrun start and as soon as the 'go' signal was given, found myself running alongside a fellow female runner. We had been running near each other for a number weeks now and chatting afterwards at the finish, and in recent weeks she had begun striding ahead of me and setting some great new PBs. I slotted beside her and instantly my aim was to simply stick with her; I never looked at my watch, just trusted her pacing. As the final mile hit we shared a few words, pushing each other to keep going, which we did. Crossing into the finish funnel I was incredibly happy to read 20:50 on my watch face, with my new run buddy setting another new PB a second ahead of me (see image). I thanked her enthusiastically and extended a hand for a shake, which somehow turned into a spontaneous and joyful shared hug as we shuffled to collect our finish tokens. I loved sharing that feeling with someone else, a magic parkrun moment to add to the collection.

SUNDAY: to add more to an already quite complex week, Saturday night had involved drinking gin and dancing until the early hours with my work colleague. It was not ideal long run prep, but my colleague is also a good friend of mine, and we had this occasion arranged for a while and to be honest probably both needed a bit of an unwind. As much as I love running, I did not want my long run to become an issue. So today's long run happened a little later than normal, by which point the already strong wind had become incredibly powerful - typical! I had an easy 16 miles on my plan, so headed out with no pressure on pace and just to log the distance. The first 8 miles were really comfortable; I felt fine and knew I was running much better than my 'easy' pace. The final 8 miles however were pretty much all into an often brutal headwind (see image); it literally stopped me in my tracks at times. I kept my legs steadily moving, actually laughing sometimes when gusts would almost throw me off balance. It was a challenging finish, but it was a test I felt my body was able to handle - even when probably not at 100%! For gin fuelled, wind battered miles, my average pace was 8.11 min/mile, which whilst a very good result, is probably not something I would want to repeat frequently!
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Brighton Marathon Training: Week 4

1/20/2019

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Another week where my training has ventured away from my more familiar Lincoln streets, with a work trip to Birmingham adding this week's variation. I have enjoyed the mixture of locations in the first quarter of my training - it keeps it interesting - although I will admit I was a little anxious about finding routes I felt comfortable running in the dark in an unknown city. I made it work though, and my 'Brum' runs have added to a good week.

MONDAY: looking ahead to the fact I would be away for three days this week, I wanted to bank a run on home Lincoln soil to relieve some of the pressure whilst I was away. My legs felt tired from Sunday's long run efforts, so I knew I would only manage an easier run, and I also gave my limbs some extra recovery by running in the evening and not before work - every little helps! I chose the steady 7 miles I had on my plan, winding around Lincoln streets just letting my legs tick over, finishing in time for a Body Pump class. 

TUESDAY: Rest Day - the start of my trip away, and with travelling commencing at 6.30am and the first day of the course I was attending due to finish at 7pm, I knew running was not going to be viable. 

WEDNESDAY: the feeling of fear before a run is not a nice sensation, and to be honest I am not sure what I was really scared of as I headed out for an early morning run in Birmingham - the unknown I guess. I had plotted a 2 mile loop which started from the lodge I was staying in and followed a few busier, well lit roads, before ending back at the lodge. With 7 miles on my plan I knew I would need to run this loop 3.5 times. The repeated nature of the route would add to the mental challenge, but I felt happy and safe to be able to enjoy my running, and that was the main thing. I ran alternating miles, 1 mile easy followed by 1 mile hard; however what I did not realise when I plotted my loop was the fact it included two long gradual hills, which I would of course run repeatedly - the joys! By the end my legs were tiring on the hills, especially as both seemed to fall on fast miles, but it felt good training.

THURSDAY: still in Birmingham I ran my little loop again - this time I had 6 miles on my plan, so only the 3 loops at least..! Intervals were not ideal on the hilly nature of the terrain, but I gave it my best shot, running 6 miles with 5 x 1000m reps and 200m recoveries. Pace wise I just ran the intervals with as much effort as possible, and my paces were indeed quite varied ranging from 6.55 min/mile to 8.03 min/mile; basically depending if I was on a hill or not! 
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FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: last week I was disappointed with my run at Lincoln parkrun, however by contrast, this week I was really pleased with my performance. I started controlled, helped by a runner friend I have made who, when he is there, tries to rein me back in before I bolt optimistically away in the early stages! My pacing consistency showed with all my miles logging just under 7 min/mile pace, and when it came to the final mile I felt really strong and could push for the finish. I finished in 21:06, but felt I had more to give; maybe that sub 21 is in reach again soon. 

SUNDAY: a cold crisp morning and a chance for me to try something new on my long run. I had 14 miles on my plan; 7 of which were to be steady, with 7 harder miles to finish. I paced badly, but it actually turned out to be a very good run. For the first 7 mile I aimed for 8.30 min/mile pace, set off and felt as though I was steadily moving. I actually thought my watch as wrong when I caught the odd split tick over; I was running more like 8-8.20 min/mile pace. Despite running faster than planned, when the point came to up the pace I felt ready, and whilst before setting out I was hoping to be able to hold 8 min/mile at this point, I was now logging sub 8 min/mile splits. My final 7 miles actually were 7.46, 7.44, 7.53, 7.50, 7.38, 7.21 and 7.39 min/mile splits respectively. I have never attempted a longer run like this before, and I did have to focus quite hard to keep that pace at times towards the end, but I am pleased with how I managed the challenge and to finish with a 7.58 min/mile average overall (see image). A Lincoln week beckons next week and hopefully a little less running of loops!
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Brighton Marathon Training: Week 3

1/13/2019

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Whilst the first two weeks of this block of marathon training have been quite varied, mainly due to falling across the Christmas and New Year period, this week has been much more 'back to normal'. This is not without it's own challenges though, as like most people at this time of year, I am starting 2019 with some personal goals for the year ahead. My aims for 2019 are both running and non-running related, and it is already proving that perhaps the running ones are at least a little simpler to logically work towards! 

MONDAY: a tough Body Pump class - I am not sure why this class was especially challenging compared to normal, but by the end my body was visibly shaking with muscular fatigue. 

TUESDAY: as could have been predicted, my body was sore today following my Body Pump efforts, especially my quadriceps, which were even tender to touch. Intervals would test them at least, and I had 6 miles with 3 x mile reps and 400m recoveries on the plan. My aim was to run each mile rep as hard as possible; ideally improving on last week's tempo pace, which was 7.40 min/mile. Add a gusty wind to my achy quads muscles, and I had to push hard to log rep splits of 7.25, 7.33 and 7.29 min/mile pace. I was pleased with my times though in the conditions and considering how I was physically feeling. 

WEDNESDAY: my quads felt less sore but more stiff today, and this was apparent on my 6 mile run. My first two splits were slower until it appeared my legs seemed to loosen, and I then found a better stride, averaging 8.14 min/mile overall. The effect of going to Body Pump classes may be questioned by some, but the sessions have built so much strength endurance in my body and they also trains me to run through fatigue at times, which whilst tough, is beneficial.

THURSDAY: progression runs are not my favourite and not something I especially look forward to. I had 6 miles progression on my plan, starting at 9 min/mile and finishing sub 8 min/mile. Normally I go off much too fast to begin with and end up literally sprinting the final miles to try and keep my splits on track. I wanted to be disciplined today (and avoid a sprint finish!) so tactically planned a route which began with some steadier inclines to force myself to slow down a little. It worked, and I logged progressive splits of 9.02, 8.38, 8.14, 7.59, 7.50 and 7.39 min/mile. The benefit I found from executing this run better was that the final sub 8 min/miles felt comfortable, despite being a quick pace. Body Pump class in evening.
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FRIDAY: Rest Day

​SATURDAY: after a lot of parkrun tourism over the Christmas and New Year period, today I was back at my home Lincoln event. Whilst 'on tour' I had been running some good 5k times, so I felt optimistic that I may be able to run well at Lincoln, which is a lot flatter and a fully paved course compared to some parkruns that I have been running. A combination of my optimism and the fact that there was a record breaking turn out of runners meant I went out very fast; I wanted to start strong but also try escape the crowds a little. This led to a real final mile fade and a disappointing overall finish of 21:26. It was great to catch up with lots of familiar faces though, and although edging toward nearly 600 runners on a three loop course can be a little congested at times, I cannot complain about people wanting to be active, and Lincoln parkrun is certainly a great place for people to start this journey. 

SUNDAY: a strong 13 mile run at times against an equally strong wind. Lying in bed I could hear the wind howling outside and I was not sure how much this would influence my plans of trying to run a faster long run. My aim was to stick between 8.10 and 8.20 min/mile pace, however I surpassed this, finishing with an average pace of 7.59 min/mile (see image). The wind was in my face and noticeable at times, but there were pockets of shelter, which helped. My legs also felt strong, and whilst I admit toward the end I was probably pushing a little more to hold my pace, a number of the miles felt comfortable and natural. After a disappointing 5k yesterday, 13 strong miles felt good, and when marathon training is probably more important right now!
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Brighton Marathon Training: Week 2

1/6/2019

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This week saw the start of a New Year and I began 2019 the only way I would want to - running! After welcoming the 1st January and surviving the return to work/normal routine, the weekend saw me head to Liverpool to watch my recently adopted second favourite football team, Lincoln City, take on Premier League Everton in the FA Cup. Here I was able to complete more parkrun tourism and run miles with my ever supportive sister and her boyfriend. Simply put, its been a good start to the year.

MONDAY: New Year's Eve Body Pump class. After a week away from any form of strength training over Christmas, this class tested me a little - it really does not take long for this form of my fitness to start to fade. 

TUESDAY: welcoming in 2019 with a New Year's Day double parkrun seemed a great idea to me, as it appeared thought many hundreds of other people, with record turn outs recorded at parkrun events across the country. I opted to 'do the double' at Normanby Hall parkrun at 9am, followed by Scunthorpe parkrun, which started at 10.30am. I had ran Normanby once before and really enjoyed the course, which is set in a beautiful country park. My work colleague also runs here, and he always encourages me and takes interest in my running, and this spurred me on more to go back. I did not hold back at Normanby, thoughts of another 5k to follow were far from my mind, and I pushed my legs hard through the enjoyable mix of woodland and tarmac course. On a section where its possible to pass other runners I spotted my colleague and his wife and waved enthusiastically at them - 'less waving, more running!' - came my colleague's reply in his typical no nonsense attitude. This made me laugh and simultaneously made me even more determined to sprint for the approaching finish. I crossed the line as second female in 21:04 - my best time for many months. Arriving at Scunthorpe parkrun I already knew I was going to have to dig deep to ask the same of my legs again, but I wanted to give it my best shot. At the start my legs felt jaded and the course, which is two loops of a park, tested me more than it should. Although virtually flat, there are a couple of minor inclines, which felt like full on hills to my legs each time I attacked them. I finished in 21:46, a time I fought hard for to keep in sub 22 minute zone. Scunthorpe was a new parkrun for me and I would like to go back and test myself there again one day - maybe with fresher legs!

WEDNESDAY: back to work and back to the 5:30am alarm call for early morning running. 5 miles at 8:30 min/mile pace were on the plan and I made sure I stuck relatively close to this, averaging 8.22 min/mile pace, as I could feel the slight tightness in my legs from effectively racing a double parkrun the day before!

THURSDAY: I felt slightly anxious about today's tempo run; whilst at the moment the mileage demands of my plan are not too much of a jump for me, speed work is something I have not been focused on a for a few months now. I ran 5 miles with the middle 3 miles aiming for half marathon pace, logging splits of 7.46, 7.53 and 7.44 min/mile. Maybe my anxiety was slightly caused by the fact I probably optimistically thought my tempo pace should be akin to my current half marathon PB pace - on reflection this is a little too ambitious right now, and I quickly stopped myself being too harsh on myself post run when I did not quite meet this target. 
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FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: in Liverpool and staying with my sister we headed to Croxteth Hall parkrun, another new parkrun tourism destination for me and my third parkrun of the week. A further new aspect was also the fact that this course is a 'one lap' route, something I have never completed before. I was looking forward to running here and it lived up to expectations; set at another country park type setting, the course wound through paths and woodland - I felt like I was truly exploring. I worked hard to keep my pace strong, my GPS was lost a little in the environment, so I simply ran to feel. Finishing by the hall itself, the final metres are a straight sprint along the drive to the funnel, which I loved pushing myself on. I finished in 21:05, another good time for me and as second lady, with my sister coming in third (see image). 

SUNDAY: long runs are always good with company and today I was spoilt with both my sister and her boyfriend joining me for 12 miles around Liverpool (see image) - they even planned the route for me! Chatting makes time fly by, particularly as we reminisced about my last ventures running around the city at the Liverpool Marathon in May last year - certain roads brought back distinct flashbacks! We kept the pace comfortable with my plan saying today's run should be 'easy', averaging just under 8.30 min/mile pace. Although running with my sister, who is in fact my identical twin, causes a few stares from passers by who clearly cannot get over the fact two people can look similar (this really does annoy me at times!) I love running with her and feel fortunate to be able to share something we both enjoy whenever we get the chance. ​
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2018: A Year Of Running

12/31/2018

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2018 can probably be summarised as a year of things happening that I probably never expected would – both good and bad! Needless to say, running has given me the ‘good’ unexpected outcomes of the year, and looking back at the races, experiences and PBs I have set across the last 12 months I am proud of where my hard work and dedication has taken me. Perhaps the standout of 2018 has to be my marathon PB in Sydney, the trip of a lifetime culminating in a finish time I am not sure I quite believed would ever be possible. Personally, the year has thrown some unexpected challenges; if you were to tell me at the start of 2018 that there would be a change in one of my closest friendships and the deep impact this would have on me, I would probably have not believed you. However, having gone through the past months, I now know that the loss of a friendship you value dearly can indeed cause a great deal of hurt and heartbreak. Throughout the hard times this year, running has been my constant, and alongside my family and friends, the running community of Lincoln has often been my reason to keep smiling and has offered me the support and encouragement to keep believing in myself. Although my legs do the miles, running is not a solo sport for me, and 2018 has shown me that more than ever.  

February
Leicestershire Half Marathon - 1:39:15
My first race of 2018 set on a bitterly cold and blustery winter’s day. The conditions were harsh at times with icy rain, hail, and one mile in particular set against a brutally strong headwind. Despite the weather, I felt strong running and set a new PB, recording my first ever sub 1:40 half marathon.
 
March
Cambridge Half Marathon - 1:36:51
The build up to this race was filled with uncertainty thanks to the arrival of snowfall in the UK. I had been chained to a treadmill all week and was therefore exceptionally happy the race went ahead. Set loose on the streets of Cambridge, running on tarmac felt like heaven, and with my parents cheering me on, I felt unstoppable. I raced hard and beat my half marathon PB again.
 
Milton Keynes 20 Miler - 2:47:33
Or as it is otherwise known - the training run that turned into a race! I entered this as part of my training for the forthcoming London Marathon with every intention of keeping it steady. Swept up in the race environment, I ran a lot faster than planned and definitely paid for this in the latter miles. It was a great experience though, and an achievement that felt like completing a marathon.
 
April
London Marathon - 3:54:06
A race I will simply never forget and one of the hardest experiences of my entire life, not just in running. The hottest London Marathon on record, and with no acclimatisation to running in heat whatsoever, it was a battle from the start. How we all completed 26.2 miles I am not really sure, but I do know that when I hugged my friend at the finish I have never felt so much pride at what we had both achieved and also relief just to feel we were both ok. Hugging my parents as I ran over Tower Bridge is also a memory I will treasure forever. Whilst I did not run the time I had trained for or felt I was truly capable of, in the conditions the finish medal meant the world.  

May
North Lincolnshire Half Marathon -1:41:28
Two weeks after the heat on the streets of London I put myself through nearly the same pain again – a hot half marathon. It was hard, as to be expected so soon after racing a tough 26.2 miles, let alone when running in heat again, but I really enjoyed the challenge. I think mentally the race was also what I needed to get back out there after the intense emotions of the London Marathon.  
 
Liverpool Rock'n'Roll Marathon - 3:48:39
This was probably my biggest challenge of the year – a marathon just four weeks after my last. I was very scared at attempting this race, and to make matters worse in the build-up I suffered from a bad cold, whilst race day itself was very warm – again! It felt a little like things were conspiring against me. However, I treated the race like a long run, savoured the wonderful if not slightly hilly course, embraced the support from my sister and her boyfriend, and ran a mere 35 seconds away from my marathon PB. I went from being unbelievably scared to unbelievably proud across 26.2 miles.  
 
​June
Woodhall Spa 10k - 43:57
More heat and more illness, with suspected laryngitis meaning I literally had no voice and slightly troubled breathing, but with a stronger mind and boosted confidence, I raced hard. Tactically definitely not my best 10k performance, but in terms of refusal to give up, one of my best. I gritted my teeth to a new PB.
 
Round Sheffield Run - 1:41:32
This event is growing rapidly in popularity and having taken part since 2016 I can easily tell you why. It is a test like no other and a concept like none I have seen before with timed stages combined with the ability to run as a pair ticking numerous new boxes. My friend and I took 5 minutes off our previous course PB and enjoyed a wonderful day out; it remains one of my happiest memories of the year and one of my favourite events.

July
Lincoln 10k - 44:29
If I thought Woodhall Spa 10k was hot, this race was like running a 10k on the sun; somewhat comical considering this was the rearranged date after snow had postponed the event earlier in the year. I love Lincoln 10k day, my hometown event, and as my sister pointed out, I know so many people running it has a special community feel. This year was another one for the memory bank.
 
August
​Newark Half Marathon - 1:38:23
A cooler day – hallelujah! – and after weeks of long solo training runs for my forthcoming marathon, the chance to race a half marathon distance excited me. I got into a real zone when running, I could feel the strength my training miles had given me, and I was really pleased to log another sub 1:40 finish time.

September
Sydney Marathon - 3:40:30
My fairytale marathon. The whole thing still seems surreal if I am honest. A massive new marathon PB, achieving my goal of running a Good For Age qualifying time for the London Marathon, running in Sydney, simply being in Australia… the list could go on. The emotion I felt at the finish line was so raw and so personal. Life had been tough before leaving for Australia and it seemed like I had earned this moment more than ever.

October
Hedgehog Half Marathon ​- 1:43:20
A new race for me and one I also completed with a new focus on what a ‘race’ actually meant. I approached this challenging course with no pressure to perform to any standard, pushing myself enough without caring what the clock read. A complete freedom run which I enjoyed immensely.

November
Doncaster 10k - 43:16
Another event in which I put no pressure on myself, but this time left with a shiny new PB. The strength of my performance and the consistency of my 10k pacing filled me with pride, as did seeing my friend’s mum complete her own 10k after struggling with injury niggles. I may have got a little competitive with a running ‘friend’ too which had spurred my running on even more!

December
Santa Fun Run, Lincoln
I won a race! Albeit a festive fun run, but it was a nice surprise to be crowned the speediest Mrs Claus in Lincoln and also share my love of running with work colleagues and friends.  
 
parkrun 2018
parkrun has changed my life and I could probably write a book about the amazing experiences, memories and the people I have met through a weekly 5k. This year's standout moments have been new tourist experiences at Ipswich, Southwark and Normanby parkruns, as well as unforgettable international tourism ‘down under’ at Coffs Harbour and Lawson parkrun. The latter was where I ran my 100th parkrun, and I probably never thought I would achieve this milestone wearing a sparkly cape bearing the numbers ‘100’ whilst running trails in the Blue Mountains! I also have set a new 5k PB of 20:22 – which again I am not quite sure how I ever ran that quickly, but I am determined to try challenge the marker one day soon! Meanwhile my home Lincoln parkrun goes from strength to strength and most importantly remains my happy place.
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Can 2019 match 2018? Running wise it has a lot to live up to, whilst personally let’s just say I hope so! I will end with a final thank you to everyone who has supported me this year; I feel privileged to know people who understand and share my passion for running, who I have collective memories with, who follow my running (online and in person!) and who seem to always give timely advice and encouragement when I am in need – this year more than ever it has been truly appreciated. 
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Brighton Marathon Training: Week 1

12/29/2018

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The journey to Brighton Marathon has begun - and it has been a fun start (perhaps emphasised by the amount of happy photos I have taken this week!) Commencing training on Christmas week has not been an issue for me, mainly because the mileage demands are relatively low at this point, but also because visiting family across the festive season has given me some new and different running opportunities. 

MONDAY: training started on Christmas Eve with a fast-ish 4 miles, aiming for 8 min/mile pace, around my familiar Lincoln streets. I then began my typically festive and slightly cliche 'drive home for Christmas' heading back to Suffolk where my parents still live.

TUESDAY: Christmas Day and a trip to Bury St Edmunds parkrun with my sister for a special festive event. Last year I had also started the 25th December with Bury St Edmunds parkrun and had been amazed to see so many others beginning their own celebrations with a 5k - for me, it epitomised the parkrun community and the influence it has had on peoples' lives. This year was no different, with an even bigger crowd gathering at Nowton Park, where I also managed to bump into a familiar face from my home Lincoln parkrun event. I knew from last year that the course was a trail route, and I had my trail shoes on in preparation, however this year's challenge appeared to be the severe overnight frost. The ground was virtually white (a white Christmas?) and quite hard and slippy underfoot. Nevertheless I was excited to begin running, and as I stood at the start next to my sister with Santa Hats pinned to our heads, the crowd spontaneously burst into a rendition of 'Jingle Bells' before the clock struck 9am - it made me smile even more. Running was challenging at first; the gradual trail climb and the icy, uneven ground presented difficult footing, plus the cold and low winter sunshine was making my eyes water. The freshness and crispness of it all seemed fitting though, and I powered on regardless. The course is two laps, gradually climbing at the beginning and then lowering back to start the second loop. A large section of the downhill stretch is set in woodland, and the muddy ground here actually sucked more energy from my legs rather than providing relief; I was relishing the challenge though. After conquering the winter terrain I made for the finish funnel, which is set up a short, sharp final climb. I crossed the line - Santa Hat still on my head - in 22:16, which was a new course PB. Another good start to Christmas. 

WEDNESDAY: Boxing Day miles with my sister, 4 miles with 2 faster tempo miles in the middle at 7.40-7.50 min/mile pace. I enjoyed pushing myself a little whilst still chatting comfortably to my sister, it told me my base fitness is good. 

THURSDAY: after a week of faster miles so far, I kept my run steady today. Although it is only the start of training there is no point overdoing things so early on. I logged 5 miles again with my sister, at a comfortable 8.32 min/mile pace. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY:  still in Suffolk, the opportunity for new parkrun tourism was one I could not turn down. I headed to Ipswich parkrun based at Chantry Park. Growing up close to Ipswich I knew Chantry Park well, having spent a few years using it at a base for football training with my team, and also being sent there with my school to run Cross Country. In my school years I was very sporty, and therefore my fitness would usually see me qualify for regional Cross Country competitions even though I did not participatory relish spending all day in a cold muddy field. Now I was back in the same cold, muddy field but this time through my own choice! ​My memory told me Chantry Park was hilly with minimal footpaths, and my trail shoes were thus out again. ​
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​During the run briefing I was furthermore warned of undulations, delivered with a wry smile from the volunteer marshal, which we all know means HILLS! As soon as we started running I loved the course, one big winding loop with undulations and hilly challenges galore. I was running hard and being tested by every step, legs burning, heart pounding. The marshals spurred me on, as did my mum who had come to watch, and who popped up around the route. I beamed a big smile at her each time, even when she was stood at the top of the toughest, longest climb, which even I debated needing to walk on! Along the finishing stretch I pushed myself for the final time battling against a gusty wind. As I reached the finish funnel I was spent but very happy with a 22:01 time and to finish as 3rd lady. I did not remember school Cross Country being that hard, but I loved this parkrun so much more. 

​SUNDAY: my final run back in Suffolk, and a longer 8 mile loop around my childhood hometown of Stowmarket. The town was again a lot more undulating than I remembered when growing up, but I ran well, too well really, finishing with an 8.08 min/mile average pace. I always begin marathon training long runs a bit too quickly, and I know when the miles build my pace will settle a little. With talk of building miles, I am excited for the challenges ahead during this training, and want to remain enjoying my running as well as striving for new goals. ​
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The Calm Before the Storm...

12/23/2018

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I am not sure I can really call this week 'calm' - it has been busy with lots of festive activities at work and some much needed end of year socialising/letting my hair down. It has however been my final week of 'non training' as my sixteen week journey towards Brighton Marathon begins on Monday - the incoming storm! With this in mind, I have kept my running relatively easy this week, and embraced the other elements of my life a little more; it has all been quite well timed really.

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: an easy 5 miles averaging 8.27 min/mile. My legs were also a little sore in places today, which I can only presume was from my efforts charging round the Santa Run on Sunday!

WEDNESDAY: another steady 5 miles before work. I was pleased to get out early today as Tuesday night had been the first instalment of my work Christmas party at an Escape Room, and I had thus gone to bed much later than my normal, often embarrassingly early bedtime! My slight tiredness did help me keep my pace in check though. 

THURSDAY: 5 more miles in the morning, followed by a festive themed Body Pump class in the evening. 

FRIDAY: a vague Rest Day - that's if you call being part of a coaching team delivering a Christmas holiday club to 180 very loud and excitable children a rest! 
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SATURDAY: the last Lincoln parkrun before Christmas. This is always one of my favourite events of the year as there always seems to be that extra warmth and friendliness in the air, as well as Santa hats and fancy dress aplenty (see image). I pulled mine own Santa hat on, and as I do each year, prayed it would both stay on my head but equally not make me too hot in the process! I actually barely noticed the hat until I finished and then the sweaty seam seemed to suddenly feel claustrophobic on my head! Whilst running though I felt strong, and I managed to pick up my pace for the final mile, which is always a good sign. I finished in 21:13; creeping that tiny bit closer back to sub 21 min territory again. Today was also my friend's 100th parkrun and at the end I gave her a card to celebrate the milestone accompanied by a big hug. 

SUNDAY: Saturday night had been the second part of my work Christmas party - the more traditional type of meal and drinks festive celebrations. With more free Prosecco consumed than probably advisable, my dancing shoes were out, and by the morning my legs and head were both very sore. I debated not even running at all today, but I got itchy feet by lunchtime and headed out for some miles just to clear my mind. Out in the refreshing air my legs came alive, and whilst I kept the run shortish at 5 miles, my pace was good at 7.48 min/mile average. Prosecco power!

Next week is both Christmas week and when my marathon training begins - the question is, which am I actually more excited about?! ​
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The Week of First Finishes

12/16/2018

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As Christmas gets ever nearer life always seems to get that little bit busier, and for someone who is quite tuned into how their body feels, I notice the effect this has. I have had a busy festive period at work and my sleeping and normal eating routine has slipped a little - one night I worked late and actually just had Quality Street for my tea (definitely not recommended)! It is a wake up call that is needed sometimes, especially as my Brighton Marathon training starts very soon. Although Christmas may be getting close, I do not feel especially festive, however a Sunday spent with hundreds of other Santas did help a little..!

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: my legs were unusually very sore following Monday night's Body Pump class; I do not normally get DOMS that bad from the session unless I have missed a few weeks, and I was already a little worried about my body's reduction in normal recovery rate. This morning's 5 miles were therefore quite steady at an 8.17 min/mile average pace. 

WEDNESDAY: the soreness in my legs had faded a little today, but my energy levels were low. I did not feel particularly strong or powerful when running, and throwing in a long hill did not help things either. I ran 5 miles slower than my time yesterday, when I was consciously trying to take things easier - this was when I knew I needed to look after myself a bit better. 

THURSDAY: after some focused refuelling and a good nights sleep, I was rejuvenated, running 5 miles at a better average pace of just over 8 min/mile and feeling comfortable. Body Pump class in the evening. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: after a fairly cold week all round, today at Lincoln parkrun it shifted to a new level of bitterly cold. My iphone informed me it felt like -6 degrees... lovely! Despite the baltic conditions, I ran much better and I felt happier with how I performed; finishing in 21:15. I was spurred on throughout my run by fellow females, one I was chasing down for most of the course, and the other who I knew was on my tail. Somehow I managed to dig deep in the final half a mile or so and gain the ground needed on the leading female, pipping her to the post in literally the final yards to finish 1 second ahead, and as First Female. That was my 11th time as first lady finisher at Lincoln parkrun - not too long ago my goal was to get the accolade just once! parkrun is not a race, and I think that is proven by the fact I spent time after the finish shaking hands with and chatting to both the ladies I ran with; its a friendly run sometimes with friendly competition!
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SUNDAY: sat in a staff meeting at work a few weeks back the question was posed about who would be interested in running the Lincoln Santa Run to raise funds and awareness of our charity - all eyes looked at me! Obviously I signed up, along with a fair few of my other colleagues, and I was looking forward to the event as a bit of festive fun involving running. The weather had cheered itself up for the day, and in welcomed winter sunshine hundreds of red Santas descended on the Bailgate in Lincoln - it really is a wonderful sight! I lined up with my colleagues, donation bucket in hand, ill-fitting Santa suit somehow pinned and pulled into place, and when the 'go signal was given just ran like a child let loose. I did not wear my Garmin, this was simply a fun run out for me. I must have looked a sight as I weaved around the course, my Santa suit falling apart around me, bucket swinging wildly in my hand, but I was loving it. The course is a short, sharp 3.5k and before I knew it the finish arch was upon me. As I crossed the line a man with a microphone grabbed me; 'the first female Santa' he announced. I did a little interview, smiled for a few cameras, and collected a trophy and a voucher for some free trainers, all the while trying to name drop my work as much as possible! It felt quite sweet to be treated so wonderfully, I was almost a little embarrassed! I waited for my colleagues to finish and in doing so felt really proud of all their efforts; none of them are particularly runners, and the pride from some of their children who had joined us was wonderful. Christmas is about togetherness - and I think that is why the event gave me a slight festive feel, because together we had all achieved something. Shedding what was left of my Santa suit, I headed out for a solo 8 miles later in the afternoon, just a steady run, which I am sure my colleagues will think I am crazy for doing when I arrive in work on Monday morning - I must maintain the mad runner reputation somehow!
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The Week of Winter Weather

12/9/2018

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This week the weather has added a lot of variety to my running, even though my general mileage and weekly structure has remained quite consistent. As long as no snow appears and any icy conditions are kept to an absolute minimum, I can adapt to most other winter weather, whilst still wearing my shorts of course...!

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: the run with the ice - this morning's run had to be kept very steady due to glistening footpaths. I knew it was cold outside, but it was only as I started to run that I realised the full extent of the overnight frost. I instantly adapted, slowing down and focusing on logging 5 safe miles rather than at any speed. 

WEDNESDAY: the run with the rain - I worked late Tuesday evening, getting home at virtually 10pm, therefore when my early alarm woke me accompanied by the sound of rain splattering my window, I was very close to staying in bed. I laced up my shoes though, and although at first I did question my sanity as icy rain drove into my face, endorphins kicked in and I enjoyed a faster 5 miles. 

THURSDAY: the run with the warmth - after the week so far, I did not trust the iPhone weather app when it told me it was 11 degrees outside at 6am in the morning - surely not. I layered up and as soon as I started running instantly regretted my mistrust; it was so mild! These 5 miles were thus completed with sleeves rolled up, gloves stuffed into the hem of my shorts and finished with me being a sweaty mess. Body Pump class in the evening. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day
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SATURDAY: the run with the wind - the gusty wind woke me early Saturday morning and I thought to myself this is when the power of parkrun is proved, the fact that people will get up on their weekend to run and volunteer outside in this, when they might have rolled over in bed otherwise. By the time 9am came round, conditions had thankfully eased a little, and there were only a few pockets of stronger wind at Lincoln parkrun's Boultham Park setting. I tried to run to feel today, sticking with a couple of other runners rather than focusing on my watch. I felt vaguely optimistic this might keep me closer to 21 minutes again, but I was wrong, finishing in 21:36 (see image). I am not sure why this week was back to being on the slower side for me - sometimes you just do not know what factors are influencing!

​SUNDAY: the run with the perfect winter weather - the weather this morning was beautiful, a crisp air, but with winter sunshine and clear blue skies; perfect for Sunday running. I felt less than perfect however after a Saturday night spent celebrating Christmas early with my work colleague before she heads away on holiday. There was gin involved, I did not get to bed until the early hours of the morning, but it was mainly my secret love of dancing which seemed to hit me hard, combined with the fact I rarely wear heels anymore. On Sunday morning my quads felt like they had had a workout and the balls of my feet were battered - I think my feet have actually felt better after a marathon! I did not mind though, it was a bit of escapism I needed and I had already fully accepted it would affect my running. Therefore today I went out with no expectations. I hid my watch under my sleeve and just enjoyed an out and back 10 miler along the local riverbank. I thought I was running slower than I actually was, which was pleasing that even with less than ideal pre-run prep, I could still manage an 8:25 min/mile average. ​All about the balance. 
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    Alice's Adventures In Running Land

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