I will be honest, I am feeling a bit torn at the moment. Part of me wants to enjoy an easy spell of running, with no training, and relax a little generally, whilst the other side of me fears losing fitness and does not want to lose sight of the goals I am chasing. If I am honest I feel I probably need the former; over the past 18 months or so, physically I have achieved so much in my running, trained hard and raced in a number of events, whilst mentally I have continued to push myself not just in training, but in order to keep going on a personal level when at times life has really hurt me. This week has not given me too much choice in my rest/training debate as my body still feels very indifferent post Chicago Marathon. I feel tight in my muscles and a bit tired still - which probably confirms my thoughts about what my focus ought to be now. It is not always that easy though!

MONDAY: I returned to my Body Pump weights class today after a two week break. I knew the class would make me sore afterwards as it does not seem to take much for my body to lose any strength I gain. I was half tempted to lower my usual weights, but once stood in the class, my desire to try get back to where I was before fitness wise was too strong, and I whacked my usual weights on the bar. I actually managed to complete the class without problem, but the next day my body paid me back for my overenthusiastic approach...

TUESDAY: my DOMs were very bad today, not post marathon level DOMs, but still 'cannot bend down to tie my own shoe laces' level. My own fault really! I was covering the weekly social run which my Run Club hosts tonight; usually I find myself working late on Tuesdays and cannot make them, but this was quite well timed. I was able to run nearly 6 miles with friends at a nice and comfortable pace, which suited both the soreness in my legs and my post marathon recovery. 

WEDNESDAY: 'I will be slow!' I had warned my Wednesday morning running partner after we agreed to meet for one of our 6am runs. Although my soreness was a lot less, I still knew I was not up to pre-marathon speed levels yet. Our first mile ticked over at 7:45 min/mile pace - a bit quick for my limbs - but we then settled around the 8 min/mile region, which to be honest I was shocked to be able to hold. However the final mile of our route featured a long drawn out hill which my quads simply did not have the power to drive up. I plodded up it, pleased not to stop at least, but once flat path resumed it was clear the hill had wiped my legs out a little, and it was a slow finish for the final half mile or so. Our average pace was 8.11 min/mile - which although it was a tough ending, I was really pleased my legs had managed. I hoped it may have been a turning point. 

THURSDAY: yesterday's run had buoyed me, however I was conscious not to overdo things. Unable to make my Run Club in the evening due to work, I headed out for 5 easy solo miles. My pace was slow, and even though I was not zooming, it did not feel easy; my legs were tight and each stride just did not feel normal. I was a bit sad at how much of a contrast it was compared to yesterday's seeming progress, but tried not to let it bother me. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day

​SATURDAY: back running at Lincoln parkrun in the absolute pouring rain (see image). The conditions and World Cup Rugby on the TV meant for a much smaller field size to normal, and I must applaud all those who decided to come run today, as well as volunteer, as it was pretty hideous! I was absolutely soaked to the skin when I finished running, and the course even featured a very large water obstacle puddle, which emphasised the amount of rainfall we have had of late. I did not run very well to be honest, I gave my all, but my legs were just not there. My quads were so tight and I did not have my normal leg lift and ability to drive forward. My first mile was vaguely ok, but I faded badly, finishing in 22:15; which for me is a lot slower than normal. I was not too down, there is nothing I could do if my body was not ready to go any quicker, and I did try my best. It is also hard to feel too down after parkrun anyway with so many people to chat to and lift your spirits - despite the downpours I still found myself stood around the finish area in shorts and t-shirt chatting to people like a mad woman!

SUNDAY: my 'long run' last week was 6 miles, so this week I aimed for 8 - a sensibly steady approach. I set out to explore some new routes in Lincoln on a beautifully autumnal morning, and tried to let this take my mind off how my legs felt. It was real mixed bag of miles, some I ran well, in the 8.20 min/mile region, but there were a couple of much slower ones when it was like my legs just stopped working. Despite some pace improvements, I have to say it did not feel totally comfortable throughout. That tightness and limited range of movement in my limbs was still there. 

So this week has been a bit of a mix bag in terms of running. Next week I feel I will just have to continue to listen to my body and see what I am capable of; I need to try accept the easy weeks I need. ​

This week has been a bit of a whirlwind - and I am only really now taking it all in. A week ago I was in Chicago having just completed my 10th marathon, and since this day I have travelled back to the UK, squeezed in a lot of hours at work, had post marathon therapy, celebrated running milestones, and caught up with friends post my America trip. It has been busy; but I have needed the focus. Post marathon blues can often hit me hard, and without structured running in my life I can feel very lost and empty. Running recovery has been my priority though; I have put my body through a lot this year, not just in the past 16 weeks, and I know I need to be sensible. The fact this week has been so busy has essentially helped distract me from lacing up my trainers too early...

MONDAY: this was my final day in Chicago, and I made the most of my last few hours in the city, walking and taking in some final sights. My legs were not too bad post marathon; now and again my troublesome quads would spontaneously give way on me, causing my legs to almost buckle, and there was some definite soreness in this muscle group, but I was generally ok. I had a long journey ahead of me in terms of travelling though and this would be the test. 

TUESDAY: today was a challenge in terms of my tiredness. Having flown at 4pm from Chicago on Monday afternoon, I landed today at 5am into London Heathrow, feeling like I just wanted to go to bed! I had a long tube traipse across London, and then a number of trains to catch in order to make it home to Lincoln, arriving just after lunchtime. I could have gone to sleep there and then - but I powered through, keeping myself as busy as possible in the hope I would sleep well that night.

WEDNESDAY: back to work and a long day finishing at 9pm - hello reality! Luckily I started work a little bit later as had booked a sports massage with my therapist first thing. My quads were very tender still and some therapy certainly helped to flush them out. 

THURSDAY: it felt hard today not being able to go and join my Run Club; I wanted to see people and to thank them for their support, but I also knew my legs were not up to running, especially not the hill session that was planned. I made myself work later and catch up on a few things as a distraction instead.

FRIDAY: another really long day at work, starting at 7.30am. I then had my sister and her boyfriend come to visit in the evening, so was able to essentially avoid logging some miles. My legs felt quite good by this point though, I was back to normal walking and only some slight soreness remained if I really contracted my quads. 

SATURDAY: it was great to be back at Lincoln parkrun today; I only missed one week whilst away, but as I attend pretty much every single Saturday, it felt strange missing an event! I had opted to volunteer, which was the perfect way to rest my legs a little more whilst still catch up with friends. My sister's visit was due to her completing her 50th parkrun, which she had chosen should be at Lincoln. I was really pleased to be able to witness my sister's 50th run; she will admit at first she did not get parkrun, despite me trying to convince her to go - why would she travel for longer than it would take her to run when she could just step out her door for a 5k? She gets it now though, and I am happy she feels a connection to our Lincoln community to have wanted to achieve her milestone run here. Being at parkrun ignited my desire to run again and I knew I would try a few miles on Sunday.

SUNDAY: for the past weeks Sunday has been about getting up and logging some very long runs, and I have had a very set routine in terms of setting alarms, eating etc. It felt a little strange this Sunday not to have this focus I will admit, but having my sister and her boyfriend staying helped me feel a little less lost. They accompanied me for my first test run of the legs; a 6 mile meander around parts of Lincoln. My quads were not exactly happy as I ran, which at first frustrated me as I had been so good at resting them this initial week. A weel may not seem long, but I have been known to go straight back into exercise/running pretty quick after a marathon! The tightness and tender sensation in my muscles was bearable though, but my pace had to be slow; perfect for some conversational miles at least, and I hope some active recovery will support long term. Later that afternoon I met with a couple of my friends, both non runners but both so keen to hear about my time in Chicago. It touched me how proud they were of me; I do not talk running with them too much as I know its not really their thing - however they know it is mine and what it means to me. The fact they cared made me feel quite humble. 

It is clear I am still very much in recovery and I need to remain patient. My mileage may have to be low for a while still, but I know I also need to find a way to keep my own spirits high. ​

Five years ago I completed the London Marathon - my first ever marathon - and I am sure like many, I had no real intention of doing another. It was my sole bucket list item and also my chance to prove to myself what I was physically capable of after some challenging years prior. I now sit here reflecting on my 10th marathon, completed across the seas in Chicago. I never imagined I would reach this milestone and it takes a lot for me to say it, but I am proud of myself. I was 23 when I crossed my first marathon finish line, and I have since devoted a large chunk of my 20s to running and marathon training. I am dedicated to my training; I work hard, I learn, and I also try and have as much fun as I can along the way. I have barely missed a training run in all these years and I have also religiously kept this blog up virtually every week (is that actually more impressive!?) I wanted my 10th marathon to be special, and thankfully Chicago Marathon did not disappoint...

Chicago Marathon was a big deal for me - I never take running 26.2 miles for granted regardless, but it was more the fact that this would be the first time I would be running and travelling to a marathon alone. It scared me a little, and I think this impacted me slightly during my build up. I trained just as hard, but mentally I was quite reserved about the race, only telling a few people I was running or only when I was asked outright what I was training for. Going by myself made the event feel like quite a personal thing, but also when people asked the inevitable question - 'So who are you going with?' - and I answered - 'Just me...' - their reaction sometimes scared me even more! I am quite an independent person, but marathon running is not a low risk activity, and the fear of being abroad alone if something did happen to me was something I had to try override! 

Physically my marathon training could probably be split into two halves. The first 8 weeks flew by and I was running really well. However, after the half way point, things became a bit tougher and in particular longer runs really became a challenge for me. Some of the tests were down to my own lack of self care, others were just losing a bit of confidence in my ability to run longer at a good pace. Compared to my Brighton Marathon training earlier in the year, I knew I was not in the same shape. Prior to Brighton I was sharp and running very strongly, and this showed in my performance on the day, when I do not think I am being unreasonable to say I may have been able to dip sub 3:40 if it wasn't for the headwind in the final miles. I therefore was realistic about my time expectations for Chicago, and I was also mindful that I did not want this race just to be all about a time; Brighton was my 'racing' marathon, this was the 'experience' marathon of the year. I know my own body too, and I felt I should be aiming for sub 3:50 in Chicago, and the closer I got the the 3:45 marker the bigger the bonus it would be. I wanted to do myself justice, but I also wanted to have an experience to treasure. 

My trip to Chicago was to be a short 4 days in some senses, but also long in others. My scheduled time in the country was quite intense, leaving for the airport at 4am Friday morning to land in Chicago shortly after 10am the same day. My flight back was then on Monday afternoon, which would see my land back into London at 5am the next day. Throw into this mix a Sunday morning marathon start time of 7.30am and you can see how it played a bit of havoc with the body clock!  I had planned my weekend fairly well though, and I knew what I wanted to see in Chicago, as well as ensuring I did not over do things prior to the race.

After landing and checking into the hotel, Friday's mission was to go to the expo and collect my all important race number, as well as spending far too much money on Nike merchandise! Saturday I woke stupidly early so was out first thing exploring Chicago and its notable landmarks on a beautifully sunny and fresh day. I really liked Chicago; it had that American feel of the hustle and bustle city life, but at the same time with the beautiful Lake Michigan within walking distance there was also a sense of tranquillity and escape from the city life. As the day grew on I felt eager to run, as well as starting to feel a little bit nervous. I got prepped and took myself off to bed early, ready for my 4.30am Sunday race day alarm...

You know you are a little bit crazy when you are sat in full running gear eating breakfast at 5am... and I felt even more mad leaving my hotel and walking to the race start soon after in an eerie darkness. There was literally only marathon runners around, wrapped in layers and all heading to one focal point at the race village in Grant Park. The morning was very fresh and I was thankful for packing a few layers and the very glamorous bin bag which I wrapped myself in. It felt very surreal but also slightly magical as I entered the race village to see the sun rising on the horizon over Lake Michigan. The less magical part of this early start was having to use my phone torch just to be able to see to use a portaloo!

I joined the group of runners huddled around the bag drop, waiting for the last possible moment to relinquish extra layers before heading to the start pens. I felt emotional as I found my spot in the masses; I was shaking a little, possibly a mix of being a little chilly now and also nervous/excitement. Over the tannoy the commentator kept us jovial in the typically friendly, welcoming and passionate way you come to expect from an American. The American national anthem was also performed, and I will admit it made me a little teary; the passion was apparent and I just could not believe I was actually stood here as part of it. Finally the start countdown began and any remaining layers were strewn to the side ready to race. 

After crossing the start line the first mile was a blur of just trying to warm up and feel my hands again! During the second mile I began to feel my body a little more, and it was then I became more conscious of what I had been warned about - the shocking GPS signal. Chicago's endless skyscrapers play havoc with it, and I was not even two miles in when apparently I had logged a 5 min/mile. From then on all of my splits were out, as well as my distance; there was not much point referring to my watch and I did not have the capacity during a marathon to do mental maths calculations of my own! I just had to run to feel.

​I felt pretty good in the first half and was massively enjoying the Chicago course for a number of reasons. Firstly, the American supporters and their sheer enthusiasm and at times randomness (men on a stage doing majorette style routines with guns anyone?!) Secondly the lovely, long straight roads on the course which just felt a joy to be running down; and finally the space on the course to actually be able to run freely in, which I had not expected in a World Marathon Major event. 

I passed half way and the positive thing in my mind was I distinctly remember thinking - I know I can run this distance again. I just knew I would complete the marathon. In fact although I think I slowed a little as a few muscles started to twang, I felt fairly strong up until the 20 mile point. 20 miles is my big goal in a marathon, from then on its a 6 mile countdown to the end, just ticking the miles off. I knew I had it left in my legs, however it was my stomach that had different ideas.

I had practiced drinking Gatorade at home on my training runs, but I guess nothing truly prepares you for the strain of a marathon. After 20 miles I knew I needed to take in some extra fuel and my 'Shot Blok' sweets were no longer going down. I took regular sips of Gatorade, but I could feel it not sitting well in my stomach. I tried to ignore the sensation, but it got to the point where I felt like I was actually slowing down, not because my legs could not go on, but because my stomach did not feel right. It is also not very enjoyable running lacking confidence in your GI tract! I had to remind myself at this point - this is a race for you Alice, do not hate these final miles for the sake of a few seconds lost using a portaloo. I was not on for a PB at this point, so what did it really matter? With about 2 miles to go I therefore darted to a portaloo and did ultimately lose probably about 60-90 seconds worth of time. However, as I dashed back onto the course I felt so much better. Despite its inaccuracies, glances at my watch and using the course markers now told me the sub 3:50 was still on, I just had to dig deep. 

I ran strong up to 25 miles and as I entered the final 1.2 miles I gave my absolute all. I felt like I was sprinting, gritting my teeth and fighting the seconds on the clock. It was hard but equally I loved that determined feeling in my body. One thing that did shock me a little was an almighty gust of wind which came through one of the street blocks; it was so strong it nearly took my feet from beneath me! The 'Windy City' had actually been very kind to us runners; the temperature had risen from the very chilly start, but to nothing unbearable, and there had been some wind in some sections, but nothing to affect performance dramatically. That gust was just seemingly freak! Gathering my legs again I now drove for the finish, and with the archway tucked around a couple of corners, I just had to keep pushing until I literally crossed the timing mat. 3:49:50 on the clock - mission accomplished!

My instant emotion when I stopped running was happiness  - as well as the obvious pain in my legs! I then stopped for a moment just to take it all in and suddenly almost froze; physically and mentally I did not know what to do with myself. It seemed almost fate at this point that a fellow female runner tapped me on the shoulder and broke me from my trance. She had been following me as a pacemaker and what had drawn her to me was we were wearing exactly the same running shoes - somehow it was just meant to be. I am gutted to have completely forgotten her name, but she was from London and was so lovely. We made our way through the finish area together, collecting our medals, posing for photos, and admiring the customised beer we were given (which I couldn't quite drink and had to tip away, but saved the can!) I think what I was least looking forward to about running on my own was having no one at the end to look out for me, congratulate me, or to just be there in some capacity. Unknowingly this woman filled that gap - thank you. 

Whilst the wind may not have been overly noticeable whilst running, as I stood waiting to collect my bag it was very strong and I fought to try keep my foil blanket wrapped around me. I was shaking in the cold again now and could not wait to find some layers! Eventually collecting my things, I found a sheltered spot tucked behind a kiosk back in Grant Park where a few other runners had also huddled. Warming up I sat there for a while taking in the scene - it felt crazy to think a few hours previous I had been here in the darkness, and now here I was again, a marathon under my belt and a stunning medal around my neck. I also was able to reply to some messages on my phone, pleased to have some signal. Every time I had crossed a timing mat out on the course I had thought of people at home tracking me, and I guess I never felt truly alone out there. Pre-race it was really quite heartwarming to read some of the good luck messages I received from family, friends and the running community. I hope I did you all proud. 

My notoriously painful quads did not seem to hate me too much post race; I was stiff but I could walk. I therefore stuck with my plan and took my medal out for the evening to see the city lights from Willis Tower, one of Chicago's skyscrapers with an observation deck and glass floor viewing platform. The staff there treated us runners like royalty, letting us jump the queue where possible and congratulating each of us on our achievements. This kind of response continued as I flew back on Monday afternoon. The flight attendant upgraded all runners to better seats on the plane with more leg room - much appreciated! - and shook our hands as we boarded. As the pilot gave the flight briefing he also congratulated and specifically welcomed aboard all marathoners, which was met by applause and cheers from the plane. It just all felt a bit special.

When I say Chicago Marathon was a memorable experience from start to finish, I think that is what I truly mean; it was not just about those 26.2 miles I ran, but it was the whole weekend that I shall never forget. I also challenged my own comfort zones and explored and ran in a fabulous new place. Marathon number ten will be one to always remember. ​

As I ticked off the first of a two week taper, the weather has offered a timely reminder as to the weeks of effort and many miles I have logged during this journey. Whereas I started training in July during the long, warm summer days, I now find myself lacing up in darkness, with the chilly morning air making my hands hide under long sleeves until I have warmed up enough for them to emerge. Marathon training is not easy; and I think I sometimes forget the commitment and drive it requires just to get to the start line. The Chicago start line is within touching distance now though, and I am beginning to focus more on the race - a mere 26.2 miles amongst the hundreds I have logged this year!

MONDAY: Body Pump class - my last strength session before the marathon. 

TUESDAY: an easy 5 miles to start the week, just trying to flush out any of the remaining soreness from weight training and my final longer run on Sunday. 

WEDNESDAY: today was a good run; my legs felt strong, my paces were pleasing and I enjoyed a catch up with my mid week running partner after we missed our run last week. Having someone to run with particularly during these colder, darker days is really motivating - 5:30am alarms can be easy to snooze otherwise! The first few of our 6.5 miles were quick, in the 7.40 min/mile region. We then had a long gradual hill to climb towards the end which slowed us a little; however I did make it to the top of this hill, whereas a few weeks back during my peak tiredness, I had to stop. A bit of a confidence booster!

THURSDAY: two 4.5 mile runs, both involving some speed work. I left my own interval run until today to coincide with some planned intervals at Run Cub later; I wanted today to be one of the final high intensity days before the marathon, so opted to double up rather than splitting the two runs. My solo intervals in the morning involved 10 x 400m, with a brief 100m recovery period. The recovery did feel short, but I hit some good splits with some low 7 min/mile reps in there. At Run Club I really messed up my watch again in terms of logging splits accurately (shock!), but I enjoyed some speedier stuff with friends, using them to push me rather than numbers on a screen. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: it was parkrun's 15th birthday today and in the lead up to the weekend they had published a video which summed up perfectly how this weekly 5k is about so much more than just the running. It rang so true to me; yes I love my running, but heading down to Lincoln parkrun virtually every week of the year is not about the miles for me - lets face it, I am motivated enough to log these myself! parkrun is about the friends I have made and the community I feel part of - it is my happy place. This week I wanted to run well, but also not push myself to the absolute max so close to the marathon. I logged a quick first mile and then eased off slightly for the second. When one of our regular Lincoln parkrun marshals told me I was in first female place this then became my goal; do not worry about a time, just focus on trying to enter that funnel first. My mind was set on this target, and therefore as I entered the final mile and another marshal informed me second female was just on my shoulder, I kicked for a very strong final mile. My female follower kept with me all the way, making me work hard and testing my mental resolve. I knew I had a kick left in my legs though, and I managed to create a few seconds cushion in the final sprint to finish first female. I turned in the finish funnel and extended a hand to the second lady, a face I now recognised from parkrun but had never really spoken to in length. We shook hands; she was thankful of me pushing her to a new PB, and I was equally as thankful for an enjoyable challenge. We chatted some more about running before finally remembering we still needed to scan! Community first - finish times second. 

SUNDAY: a steady 10 miles in which I spent a large chunk of the time trying not to think about having to run another 16.2 miles further! It was an ok run; this final run a week out from the race is always hard trying to avoid the mental games! 

A few taper miles now remain, along with a flight to Chicago; race week beckons...