​Tomorrow marks the start of my 16 week training pursuit ahead of the London Marathon in April. It feels like a while since my last marathon training block ahead of Chicago Marathon in October, and mentally I feel refreshed and ready to work hard again – I am even prepared for those 5:30am training alarms! Physically the last couple of weeks have not been perfect prep though; I have been battling on with a cold/cough/flu like virus which seems to be widespread this winter. Over the festive season running has not been as consistent as I would normally like, although on the flip side, perhaps you could say if I had perhaps rested more from running then maybe I would have shaken my germs a little quicker... I could not resist the plethora of parkrun opportunities which were presented to me over the past two weeks though, and these have formed the majority of my harder intensity runs. In between I have managed a few runs, not much in distance and keeping the pace comfortable – mainly because the longer I tried to run the more my cough threatened to take over my body!

The highlights of my festive period of running have been my parkrun trips which included Ipswich on Christmas day – a festive blast around Chantry Park, which I remember well from Cross Country at School, and Bury St Edmunds parkrun in the ‘betwixmas period’ - the muddiest run I have possibly ever completed, with a sticky, boggy course creating some fun challenges whilst also highlighting my road running abilities!

On New Year’s Days I took on the parkrun double at Normanby Hall and Scunthorpe which both saw huge numbers, the latter 919 runners, which is the biggest parkrun I have been involved in. I ran well at Normanby, feeling like my cold was shifting, however got a bit stuck in the crowds at Scunthorpe and wasted far too much energy trying to catch up with the frontrunners and found it a tough little leg test. I was really pleased that my work colleague who lives near Normanby also challenged himself with the parkrun double; he normally swears that 5k is his max but proved himself wrong. In term of longer runs for myself, I have managed a 6.5 miler with my sister; when we both didn’t feel that great but each other’s company spurred us on, and a couple of 5 milers.

This weekend felt like a bit of a breakthrough with my virus though; I felt and ran better back at my home Lincoln parkrun in the first event of 2020, finishing in 21:30 – by no means my best time, but getting back closer. Today I then managed my longest run for a couple of weeks; 8 miles at a better pace too. The only niggle which still remains is a rather pathetic coughing induced injury. After relentless coughing, on New Year’s Eve I finally felt my body give up a little, as the muscles downs my right hand side strained and pulled. It hurt a lot at the time and at one point I debated whether I would actually make my New Years Day parkrun plans, but I have managed to keep running. I think the adrenaline of running overrides the pain slightly, although certainly not completely, however day to day the pain has often been very intense, like a sharp stabbing. Its not pleasant I have to say, and I can tell my body is not aligned right as I try compensate the muscle imbalance. Physio is booked for Friday needless to say!

Looking ahead to next week and the start of my training, it feels good to have a plan to follow, as whilst I have enjoyed some relaxed weeks, I am ready for structure again. My goal for the London Marathon will be to try and hunt for that PB again – so something in the 3:30 region! It will require hard work and determination, but I have been close before, so I have to remain confident, learn from the past and draw on the experiences of others around me. I will be committed to training and developing myself as a runner, whilst also continuing to develop my life around running - there is one I promise!
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The next adventure begins... ​

I was going to say that this week has been a bit of a running write off, and my heart does still feel a bit like that, but my head tells me I have still manged a fair bit despite feeling considerably under the weather. I am rarely ill (thankfully!) and I do not cope well when I am not 100%. Pretty much all week I have been struggling with a form of cold which has given me at times headaches, earaches, a feeling of never being able to be warm, nausea, loss of appetite and most annoyingly, a chesty cough. With this in mind I should be thankful I have logged the miles I have done and also managed to keep going into work each day! I think I only have myself to blame for succumbing to winter illness; its been a busy few weeks recently, not even particularly in a running sense, and I have simply worn myself out and allowed myself to become more susceptible. Lesson learnt - usually the hard way!

MONDAY: this was the one day of the week when I felt good and completed my usual Body Pump class as normal. 

TUESDAY: I enjoyed a nice run this evening, logging a comfortable 8 miles achieved through running to meet some members of my Run Club for a social run and then home again afterwards. However when I got home I began to sense things were not quite right; I could not get warm and was almost to the point of shivering in bed...

WEDNESDAY: I woke today feeling ok, but with ice on the pavements and no plans for the evening, I decided upon an evening run when I at least thought I would be able to run with a bit more freedom on the footpaths. It seemed a great plan at the time, however throughout the day I could feel myself deteriorating; a cough developed and my body temperature seemed all over the place. After walking home from work I literally had to jump into a hot shower and then straight into bed - which is not like me at all. No running needless to say.

THURSDAY: after succumbing to my bed for all of Wednesday evening, I tried a few miles this morning with no ambition other than just to see how I felt and assess whether I would be able to join in my Run Club session later that evening. I ran 3.5 miles very gently, and to be honest I could not up the pace even if I wanted to as my cough threatened to battle through my breathing as if to remind me I was not 100%. The run gave me confidence to join Run Club later though, which I really did not want to miss as it was our final session of the year and we had a social run planned to give Christmas gifts to residents at a local care home. It was only 2 miles, so I did not overdo things too much with a double run. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day - if I felt better I had toyed with the idea of making up for missing Wednesday with a few miles today, but I was honest with myself - I felt no better and also wanted to try and feel some improvement to be able to enjoy parkrun on Saturday, as well as my work Christmas party on Saturday night!

SATURDAY: I made it to a Christmassy themed Lincoln parkrun, but I did not feel great. It was still lovely to be there though and see people in their festive dress; I had my own Santa hat hair clipped to my head, which I am always determined I will keep on throughout my run! Running was ok for the first couple of miles; I was going steadily, not as speedy as I can be, but not as much as a struggle as I thought. The final mile however was really hard; I felt all my energy drain from my body almost instantly, which considering my food intake has been pretty poor all week, was not really surprising. I finished in 22:02, which was good all things considering, although my cough and body soon reminded me that maybe even that was a bit too much of an ask today as I spluttered next to the finish funnel trying to get rid of the taste of blood in my mouth. Delightful I know. I managed to wish most of my parkrun friends Merry Christmas though - so I was still pleased I had ran.

SUNDAY: when looking at my calendar a few weeks ago I had thought today's run may be shorter and easier due to Christmas festivities on Saturday night as part of my work Christmas party - but to be honest our party was not that wild or late and if it had not been for my illness I think I would have woken feeling virtually normal. My lurgy still remained though, and sadly it seems neither running or gin is a cure for a cough! I had very little energy today but felt like I really wanted to try some form of run. It was not great, my chest did not enjoy it and any demand on my legs other than a nice flat pavement felt like a huge test. I called it a day at 4.5 miles; it seemed pointless to try more as there was no real benefit. It bothered me a little as I want to try and keep some consistent mileage during this non training period; but I have to be realistic as to what is best and actually beneficial for my body. I have probably done too much this week as it is! 

I hope my germs will disappear quickly, especially as we head into Christmas week. My festive season features a lot of parkrun plans and I want to enjoy these runs, as well as simply Christmas itself! ​

Christmas craziness has hit me this week - its been very busy and full of lots of different elements; one of which still remains running of course! Work has dominated proceedings and I have worked a lot of long days, late evenings and had something work related on all seven days of the week. It is easy to see how you could let running slip from your agenda during times/weeks like this - but for me its the one constant that keeps me sane. 

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: I am not really sure why, but Monday night's weights class really hit my body hard this week, and I woke with bad DOMs. An easy 5 miles was therefore in order trying to shake out my legs a little.

WEDNESDAY: after a late night working Tuesday and another long day ahead taking some young people bowling in the evening as part of their Christmas social, it was tough to get out of bed this morning. I wanted to push myself a little more on my run but knew I needed to find the challenge from somewhere other than my own motivation. On occasions when I feel like this, I like to take to the hills; you cannot hide from the challenge on the inclines! I logged 4 miles with 5 hills tests. 

THURSDAY: tonight's 6 miles were split into two runs; 3 by myself with some steady loops incorporating a couple of hills again, followed by three more sociable miles with my Run Club, taking part in a Christmas photo challenge (see image) ending in chocolate orange and drinks at the pub. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day - although working from 7:30am-9:30pm did not feel like much of a break, and after an already busy week, by the time I got home I was knackered. I had also felt a bit ill during the day, which is unlike me, but I certainly felt like I was struggling a little. 

SATURDAY: for the first time in what feels like forever, when my alarm went off this morning I did not instantly want to go to parkrun. The tiredness remained and the thought of just rolling over into bed and hiding in the covers felt very appealing. Of course, I still found myself stood in the chilly wind whipping across Boultham Park, and what motivated me to be there was getting my weekly hit of chatter and friends, not really the running! As I walked over to the start area with the other hundreds of runners I suddenly remembered I had set myself a goal for this week's run. Last week I had been chatting to a fellow runner I am often running near to at parkrun and had mentioned how I wanted to try and get back under 21 minutes before the end of 2019. My fellow parkrunner had told me to stick with him next week and he would try pace me under the time. I had forgotten his kind offer until he smiled at me from the starting line up this morning. 'Ready?' he asked. Well I wasn't. but I nodded anyway!

2019 is drawing to an increasing close, with just over three weeks left until we enter the next decade. I have found myself a little reflective this week, and thinking about certain things which have changed in my life this year did leave me feeling a little down on a couple of days. I can always rely on running to lift my spirits though, and this week has been boosted by some happy running and exciting forward planning for the new year...

MONDAY: the week started with my usual venture to a Body Pump class, however my working day featured some exciting new running plans for 2020. The charity I work for - Lincoln City Foundation - along with event organisers Curly's Athletes are holding the first Lincoln City Half Marathon event in September 2020, and entries launched today. It comes after a lot of months of hard work (which have truly opened my eyes to the behind the scenes aspects involved in organising running events) and is something I have become very passionate about. It feels special to be involved in delivering an event for my home city, which I know will have such a positive impact on so many people and communities. I never thought I would find myself in this position, and its an opportunity I am relishing. Feel free to take a look here www.lincolncityhalfmarathon.co.uk if you would like to find out more. 

TUESDAY: a quick 4 mile spin around the centre of Lincoln which ended up being a fartlek style session where I pushed the speed on some flatter sections, but also tested myself on a couple of hills - I did not plan it particularly, just went out and had a bit of fun!

WEDNESDAY: this morning's run was spent chasing after my Wednesday morning running partner - he was just too quick for me this week! Our first three miles were around 7:30 min/mile pace and this pace probably shocked my legs a little too much, and I found myself hanging on for the remaining 3.5 miles we completed. Trying to keep up with him was a motivation boost at least!

THURSDAY: tonight's Run Club session was a time trial on the track - however when we planned the session we probably did not expect it to be a very windy evening... A couple of warm up laps highlighted very obviously that the home straight and the preceding bend were pretty much into a direct headwind, which just added to the challenge ahead of us! Did I think running time trials would be as hard as it was - short answer, no! We all ran 800m, 400m, 200m and 100m distances trying to set the quickest time we could, and it truly wiped out my legs! 800m was first and it was disgusting; the second lap felt like 400m of running on empty, especially battling that head wind twice; my time was 2 mins 59 seconds. 400m seemed slightly more bearable and I managed it in 1 min 19 seconds, however coming off the track my legs felt almost like I had just run a marathon! For someone who prefers distance running, strangely I felt stronger running 200m and 100m, managing the former in 36:39 seconds and 100m in 18:58. I am not going to be breaking any track records in my lifetime, but I enjoyed the different test and also the camaraderie among our Run Club members as we cheered each other on from the track-side. 

I say this is the week of 'downtime' however it has in fact been incredibly busy, with lots of positive things happening professionally and personally. I use the term 'downtime' more to refer to my running this week - I gave my all in one final push around Doncaster 10k on Sunday, and I have just felt the need to press pause again these past few days. There are five weeks until my London Marathon training starts and I will then be back in full marathon mode. I need to enjoy the rapidly approaching festive season, relax and feel refreshed ready to tackle the training challenges, both physically and mentally, especially as I want to be chasing a big goal. I am not going to be slobbing out on the sofa for the next five weeks - I do not think I could ever do that! - but I am going to allow myself as much freedom as possible. 

MONDAY: I was sore after Doncaster 10k - a level of DOMs which shocked me at first, but then made me reflect on how much I must have challenged my body on the day. It was perhaps a good omen that my intended Body Pump class was therefore cancelled. 

TUESDAY: tonight was something very different for me running wise as I volunteered along with other members of my Run Club to support a local Hospice with an event they hold to remember loved ones during the festive season. As part of their planned Torchlight Procession they require a number of runners to run from a local church carry lit torches, to then light up the torches of the thousands of people gathered to take part in the procession. Running is only a very small part of the event, and I did not volunteer because I wanted a running challenge, it just seemed like a lovely thing to support, and  I ran to the meet point and home again after logging 5 miles of my own 'training' away. The event itself was wonderful, although a little scary at times carry what essentially are these massive wooden ticks which are set on fire! 

WEDNESDAY: with my legs still a bit sore from Sunday's race, this morning's 5 miles were taken easily, whilst squelching through huge puddles and embracing the downpours of rain.  

THURSDAY: after some pretty easy paced running so far this week, I was looking forward to some speed work at Run Club. On the agenda were minute reps completed as many times as possible during the time duration. It was a great session, with a mile warm up and cool down allowing me to catch up up with a few members, with then the 'all out' efforts in the middle. I managed ten reps, with a recovery jog in between, and despite completely messing up my Garmin programming, I was able to decipher later that I had been very consistent with the amount of distance I was able to achieve each time, averaging roughly 6.20 min/mile during the effort periods.

FRIDAY: Rest Day

​SATURDAY: when it takes you over ten minutes to de-ice your car you know it is pretty Baltic outside! This morning's parkrun was indeed cold and frosty, with a glisten of ice and frost on the paths and grass. 'Not a day for PBs' our Lincoln Run Director rightly warned us! I did not run too bad, finishing  in 21:38, but just did not feel confident enough with my footing to push myself fully at certain points on the course, especially as the footpaths become a bit slipper the more people had ran on them. I would of course rather run parkrun safely than not at all though!

​SUNDAY: Saturday night was our Run Club Christmas Party and we had a wonderfully jammed packed evening, starting at an Escape Room, followed by drinks and nibbles at a Board Game Cafe, and then a few of us headed out for some more drinks in other bars across Lincoln. Somehow I did not get home until nearly 3am - I am not even sure how that happened but shows you how much i was clearly enjoying myself! Time just flew by and a fair bit of gin was consumed along the way.... needless I was not really feeling Sunday morning's longer run. I do not really drink much anymore and also seem to need my sleep - so a double whammy of too much of one and not enough of the other knocked me for six a little. I eventually got out for some miles - settling on an easy 8 miles quite quickly as it felt a bit of an effort to keep my legs moving. It was nice to have the freedom to be able to enjoy a night with my Run Club and not have the fear of things affecting a training programme or race. ​

This week I signed off my 2019 racing year with a final 10k blast around Doncaster. The days preceding this were busy; work is a little full on at the moment with some long days, in addition to me trying to stick to some form of running schedule (thank god I am not in full scale marathon training at the moment!) It has been tiring; but I find it hard to truly complain about it when I am doing things I love. 

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: I woke this morning to a glistening frost on the ground. Peering from my bedroom window I could see the footpaths sparkling and that car windows were quite thickly iced - real winter running time. I opted for a cautious 5 miles; the footpaths themselves were not actually too bad, but patches where leaves had accumulated and extra water remained were very slippery and could easily catch you out. Simply put, any form of speed was just not worth this risk!

WEDNESDAY: after a few weeks where our schedules had not quite fitted, I rejoined my friend for an early Wednesday morning run and we had decided to test ourselves with 10k of 'rolling hills' which is a fairly well known running route in Lincoln incorporating a lot of the city's steepest inclines, including the infamous Steep Hill. I had one aim and that was not to stop on any of the hills! I am pleased to say I accomplished this, and whilst it was a indeed a test, I actually felt stronger than I expected and was able to recover quickly between the hill challenges.  

THURSDAY: this week's Run Club session was planned for the track and I knew sensibly I should not take part; I have not run on the track for around 6 weeks now with marathon running and recovery, and with a 10k race on Sunday I knew it would just trash my legs! I was so tired after a long and jammed packed day on Wednesday, instead of a morning run I planned to run to the track after work and help with the session, then run back to work after to drive home; what I had not planned for was another very cold day, and after spending all day outside at work I just could not face being stood in the cold again. I chose to take part in the track session instead, but took it very easy, and it was more a case of me running laps to keep warm rather than to train! With my run to and from the track I accumulated 6 miles - along with some very cold hands!

FRIDAY: before resting ahead of Sunday's race I decided to give my legs a bit of a stretch with a quicker 5k. The run was not quite as speedy as I would have liked, hovering around the 8 min/mile mark, and I was just feeling a little drained. I think a busy week and the cold conditions throughout had took some of my energy from me; it was good to note this though, and I made sure I focused on having a quiet Saturday before Sunday's race. 

SATURDAY: Rest Day - including a soggy but happy stint of volunteering at Lincoln parkrun

​SUNDAY: my final race of 2019 - Doncaster 10k. This was my third consecutive year at the event, and on the previous two occasions I had ran a PB... no pressure then! I actually had no expectations about my performance today; my post marathon running had been fairly mixed and I was more looking forward to spending a morning with a number of members from my Run Club who were also taking on the event. I felt relaxed and happy at the start and by the finish my happiness still remained - with a little bit of added pain! 42:42 on the clock and my first sub 43 minute 10k (full blog to follow) I had amazed myself and was even happier that so many of my Run Club friends had also set new PB's and met their goals. I run better when I am happy - its a fact. ​

I am really enjoying my running at the moment; I always love running, but currently with no training pressure and having successful made it through the post marathon struggle period, I just feel very happy with how things are. Its a simple feeling, but a good one. 
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MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: I will soon be recommencing with a number of Tuesday evening work commitments, so am making the most of being able to join my Run Club's Tuesday social run whilst I can. This week's run was planned closer to my home, so I ran to join the group, enjoyed a lovely chatty few miles with friends, and then ran home, giving me a total of 6.5 miles at a nice mixture of paces. It is always enjoyable to run with others and also breaks up my normal 'training' routine of getting up early to run before work. I am therefore also enjoying some relative 'lie ins' at the moment, which is giving  my body another form of rest from peak training demands. 

WEDNESDAY: with a slightly longer run bagged yesterday, and the prospect of some tough hills on the agenda for tomorrow, I kept today's run shorter and steadier, aiming to hold close to 8 min/mile pace across the 4 miles. 

THURSDAY: I led my Run Club's session this week and had planned a hill session, with some tough hill repeats completed at maximum effort. I logged nearly 4 miles, but it wasn't the distance I was really after personally, but the intensity. I have been slowly incorporating a few more higher intensity runs back into my schedule lately, but nothing like this. I loved pushing myself up the hills, as well as looping around at times to support other members of the group. I had not tested myself like that for a while, and in the company of others, it was the perfect way to get back into it.

FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: today marked Lincoln parkrun's 6th birthday and it made for an extra special Saturday morning. I have spent the vast majority of my Saturday morning's over recent years at Boultham Park, running my weekly 5k, but also making friends and happy memories along the way. I openly refer to Lincoln parkrun as 'my happy place' and it is simply for the sole reason that it is there for me every week no matter what is going on in my life, and never fails to bring a smile to my face regardless of how I run, or even whether I run or volunteer. 

To mark the 6th birthday celebrations all runners were given a hankerchief which we waved at the local residents of the care home which overlooks the park. Every week our very own fan cub sits in the window of the care home and waves to us runners as we make the walk from the bandstand briefing to the start line, and its just one of the little things which makes our Lincoln parkrun community so special. As I completed my three laps I made sure to wave at the ladies each time, my show of appreciation for their ongoing support. In terms of ongoing support, it is on occasions such as this that I feel we have to say extra thanks to the core volunteer team we have at Lincoln parkrun who make our event happen each week (including those who have taken on the roles before), as well as the number of stalwart volunteers the event has - I hope days like this make them proud. Running wise I continued to shave a further few seconds off my recent running times and edge closer back to sub 21 minute territory, finishing in 21:04. I pushed myself, but I actually felt like I had something left in the tank at the end, so I was pleased to feel that strength returning again. 

SUNDAY: this morning's Sunday long run was a bit dreary; as I headed out the door the heavens opened, blowing cold rain into my face for the vast majority of the run. It would have been easy to cut my run short and head for home, but I wanted ten miles, so I stuck with it. I didn't focus on pace at all, just getting some consistent distance in, and the final few miles, when the rain finally stopped, were far more enjoyable. Next Sunday is my final race of the year - Doncaster 10k - I feel a lot more prepared to give it a good go then I did a couple of weeks back, and as ever, I am just happy to be running. ​

This week has been my best since Chicago Marathon; one month post marathon and I think I can say I am beginning to feel like myself again in running terms – slow and steady wins the recovery ‘race’…

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: I knew this week I was going to be incorporating some more higher intensity runs back into my weekly schedule, so I kept this morning’s 5 miler reasonably easy. The positive for me was my ‘easy’ pace seemed to be back to my perceived normal range, and it did not feel a slog.

WEDNESDAY: Tuesday evening I had enjoyed a slightly abnormal weekday evening, attending some fireworks with my friend, as well as enjoying a few accompanying gin and tonics – the perks of not being in training mode meant I felt no guilt about this! I woke feeling a little tired - I am still used to my 8+ hours of sleep each night! – so decided upon a short sharp run. Heading down to the river near me I made use of the fact the footpath was flooded in places to test myself with some uninterpreted 1k reps. I logged 4 miles in total, with a warm up and cool down, and was very impressed by how my legs responded to some speed work.

THURSDAY: this turned into a Rest Day as my planned return to track running with my Run Club was thwarted by flooding. I ended up staying at work later than intended, add to this the torrential rain and I just decided tomorrow may be better for running…

FRIDAY: today was indeed better for running. I headed out for another 5 miles on one of my routes that incorporates a long hilly start. I ran up this hill well, at a much better pace than previous weeks. I then just grew into the run, naturally picking up the pace to finish with some sub 8 min/miles, which importantly did not feel a test.

​SATURDAY: I spent this weekend visiting my sister in her new home in York – this of course meant the perfect chance for some parkrun tourism. We had intended to go to New Earswick parkrun, which is the event closest to my sister’s home. However, the extensive rainfall in the week meant this grassy course had to be cancelled; so we headed to York parkrun, which is held at the main racecourse in the city. We were joined by over 600 runners on a very chilly, slightly frosty but perfectly parkrun morning. The course followed one and a half circular half loops around the edge of the race course; it felt a little bit like running on a race track (ignoring the massive puddle to splash through!)

I can't quite believe it has been three weeks since Chicago Marathon already - time has absolutely flown. Looking at the positives, I would say I am doing well in avoiding too much of the 'post marathon blues' feeling which I have sometimes struggled with in the past; I have kept myself very busy - not just with running! - and it has helped. The one negative is however that my legs do not feel back to normal yet, and I am sure this is the longest it has taken me post marathon to feel a little bit more normal. This week things have seemed to begin to improve a little though, and I am happy with small steps forward, as long as things are progressing. 

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: as I was not at work this evening I managed to make my Run Club's Tuesday night social run for the second week in a row - unheard of! I really enjoyed 4 chatty miles, catching up with a few people and not even thinking about pace (see image). Run Club has given me a lot of new friends - people I had never met before, and people whose face I knew from the running scene, but had never spoken to before - and I am thankful for that. Our Thursday Run Club sessions still have a large social element, but tend to also be more structured with intervals, hills etc., so especially in this non training period, I am going to aim to make these Tuesday evening sessions whenever work permits. 

WEDNESDAY: my Wednesday running friend had to cancel on me last minute, so I was faced with trying to push my legs on a steadier run without his motivation. I managed 5 miles hovering in the 8-8:15 min/mile region, which I was pleased with, although it did feel much harder than it used to, which I took as a sign my legs were getting better, but are not quite there yet. 

THURSDAY: after pushing myself a little more yesterday, I aimed to ease off the effort today as I headed out for another 5 miles. Starting my run with a long drawn out hill - just to add a little bit of challenge! - it then turned into a slight progression run as my legs felt looser as the miles progressed. Again, more promising signs. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day

​SATURDAY: after a fairly slow (by my standards I know) reintroduction to running Lincoln parkrun last week, my aim for today was to try get back into the 21 minute region. It was hard, but my legs were much improved from the previous week, and I kept reminding myself this as I ran. My first mile split was actually akin to what I had been running pre-marathon and logged at sub 7 min/mile pace, but I couldn't hold it and slowed for the final two miles, although remained consistent with matching splits. I finished in 21:44, still nowhere near my best, but 30 seconds quicker than last week, so again I was happy. I then enjoyed a post run breakfast and chat in the famous Lincoln Bowls Club with a few members from my Run Club - I have ran Lincoln parkrun 131 times as well as 30 (I think!) volunteer stints yet this was the first time I have ever sampled a bowls club breakfast!

​SUNDAY: more steps forward today as I upped my Sunday long run to 10 miles and also ran at a good pace throughout. My splits were within the 8:10-8:25 min/mile region, and whilst like earlier in the week, this did feel tougher than it has done before, I felt my legs did have some strength back. 

On a slightly non running level, this week I was also recognised on Lincolnshire's 30 Under 30 List (more here) as one of the counties young rising stars (see image). My colleague/friend had nominated me and whilst I was extremely flattered to be included in the list, it was however the passage she had written about me which touched me the most. She had written something so genuine, that encompassed all that I try to do professionally and in my personal ethos in terms of trying to help and make a difference to people - as well as getting my parkrun and marathon addiction in there too! -  reading it just made me believe that little bit more in myself . A few things have shaken my self confidence in recent weeks, and this recognition was incredibly well timed. ​I am sure improved self belief can only help me in a running environment too. 

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 felt a bit like a final week of relative freedom, with more focused training for my next big running goal starting on Monday. With this in mind, I have simply enjoyed running what I have wanted and according to how I have been feeling - it has been nice!

MONDAY: Strength and Conditioning for Runners followed by Body Pump.

TUESDAY: a steady 5 miles with a hilly test thrown in at the start just to add a bit of variation and challenge!

WEDNESDAY: despite the weather significantly improving from last week’s rainfall, the river path I like to run on during Summer was still flooded, so this morning’s 4 miles consisted of a few laps up and down the section that was passable on the pathway. I did not mind this repetition, and it meant I could try a couple of faster miles, with the run resembling more of a short tempo run by the end.  

THURSDAY: my morning run was another instance of where I made up the challenge as I went along, starting steadily, throwing a couple of faster miles in, and then finishing with some steep hills. I ran 4 miles in total and then later on a further 3.36 (to be precise!) miles at Run Club. One of my fellow Run Leaders had planned an orienteering challenge for us working in small teams. It was great fun and my competitive side definitely came out a little bit!

FRIDAY: Rest Day

It is mid June; and yet I have spent most of this week running in squelching trainers, attempting to avoid the streams and lakes forming on pavements, and finishing my runs looking like I have literally just stepped out the shower – it has been very wet. On the positive, my hamstring injury is vastly improving and I am pleased my sensible approach to running is paying dividends.

MONDAY: a double strength session of Strength and Conditioning for Runners followed by Body Pump. I had to adapt a couple of exercises to account for my leg, but generally it felt much better.

TUESDAY: I woke today and I could instantly hear it was absolutely chucking it down. I tentatively got into my running gear and then proceeded to sit and stare out the window debating if I was really going to run in the downpour. I did; but I reasoned to do a brief 4 mile loop, as my vague logic was I might not get as wet..! Unsurprisingly, I was instantly drenched upon stepping outside, however my leg felt improved again when running. I kept the pace steady but did throw a couple of hills in at the end just for a tester!

WEDNESDAY: today’s planned run had to be dramatically re-routed as the path I was running along was flooded to the point where I think I would have had to swim through it in order to keep following it. Summer running madness. I managed an off the cuff 5 mile route though and picked up the pace slightly for the first time in a while.

THURSDAY: I logged a total of 8 miles today, split across two runs, both completed in yet more rain. The first was my own run in the morning and an easy 4 miles, then later 4 further miles as Run Leader at Run Club. I ran the majority of these evening miles with a fellow Run Club member, encouraging her to reach a new distance milestone. It is really fulfilling being able to support others achieve in running, but moreover, making them realise their own potential.

FRIDAY: Rest Day

This week will not go down as one of my greatest running wise - there has not really been much running to talk about! Obviously, this has not been through choice, and instead my lack of miles have been enforced after picking up an injury niggle. What I have been impressed with however is my ability to cope with this minor setback; I do not feel down about my reduced running or the need to keep things steady for a few more days. Fear of making things worse has actually led me to being rather sensible! This is progress for me.

MONDAY: after Woodhall Spa 10k on Sunday my legs felt sore and I had some sharper pain toward the top of my left leg. To be honest I think I knew I had torn something, you get to learn you own body at times. I went to my Strength and Conditioning for Runners class and Body Pump, however, on the small stretch of running I was required to do, I could feel that sharp pain into my leg which made my running very difficult. Alarm bells were now ringing - this was definitely more than just DOMs. I already had an appointment booked to see my Sports Therapist on Wednesday anyway, so I knew I needed to try and make it to that without doing any further damage.

TUESDAY: with the above in mind, I rested today and hoped to give my leg some healing time.

WEDNESDAY: my appointment with my Sports Therapist was not until the afternoon today, however I woke with what I thought was no leg pain. I had already cancelled meeting my Wednesday running friend, but reckoned I could maybe manage a few easy miles. I was wrong; as I started to run with each step that sharp pain returned. I made it to 0.60 of a mile before I gave up and limped back home. The consultation with my Therapist later told me I had in fact caused a slight tear at the top of my hamstring close to the attachment. Some rather painful cupping treatment was used on the area and I was informed to rest until Saturday. 

THURSDAY and FRIDAY: Rest Days

SATURDAY: after virtually no running all week I was keen to run at Lincoln parkrun today. It was also the celebration of the end of the first 6-week block at my Run Club, so I wanted to support some of the fellow members. I was cautious in my approach to running; I literally had no idea how things would feel and was fully prepared to have to run very slowly or even stop if I needed to. As I gathered on the start line I found my friend, it was her birthday in the week and I wanted to give her a belated birthday squeeze before we set off. This did mean however as the 'go' signal was given I was probably a bit further forward in the masses then maybe I had planned. I went with it and slotted in behind my friend. Chasing my friend around the park was very good for me, it kept me at a steady pace which I was working hard to maintain, but I was not pushing myself to the maximum and straining my leg. There was something so familiar about running with my friend too; it felt natural and not like I was forcing myself to slow down. My leg was not perfect, I will not pretend it was; it twinged a bit and was a bit tight, but I could run and I was very happy! I finish in 22:27, a second behind my friend. As we finished, I thanked her for helping me with my run and gave her a proper post run/birthday hug. 

​Hindsight is a great thing - and looking back on this week I have realised I probably asked a little bit too much from my body. Ignoring running; work-wise it has been a busy but rewarding week, and the long days have left me feeling a little tired at times. From a health perspective, I have also been slowly recovering from my loss of voice, with a progressive return to vocal capacity occurring as the week simultaneously went on. It feels good to be able to communicate again, but the strain of trying to speak, and the niggling chesty cough which accompanied it, has also tired me a little. Now onto running; I started the week with all good intention of taking things easy, but ended doing almost the complete opposite! The benefit of hindsight is however, that I can try learn from my mistakes going forward.

MONDAY: feeling tired after an active weekend away with work and with virtually no voice, I knew that even with the Bank Holiday temptation of having a free day to effectively run, I had to be sensible. I reasoned with myself, and completed an easy 2 mile run to the gym for Body Pump, and then another 2 miles home afterwards.

TUESDAY: still not feeling my best, some more easy miles were on the cards, and I logged a 10k at 8.26 min/mile average pace.

WEDNESDAY: after a couple of days of easy running I still felt like I needed to take things steady, so agreed on an 'easier' run with my Wednesday morning running partner (note: his easy is definitely my steady!) My breathing seemed a bit laboured this morning, especially with the slightly quicker pace, and the final hill at the end finished me off a little. Despite this, I was pleased to average 7.49 min/mile and to log nearly 7 miles.

THURSDAY: today I simply forgot my aim of trying to be good to myself and my body. The draw of taking part in a Track running session with Run Club, with the chance to join in as opposed to being Run Leader, was simply too much. A Track surface is something I have never trained on and the prospect of pushing my limits running in circles strangely appealed to me. It was a hard but fun session featuring a pyramid of running 800m down to 100m, then 100m back up to 800m again, with recovery periods in between. Unaccustomed to track running I just let my watch keep going rather than perhaps recording each set distance as a different lap, so I have no real idea what my times were like. However, I do know I worked very hard, and as soon as I stopped I could feel the soreness and fatigue in my legs, especially my quads.

FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: despite a day off exercise yesterday, my quads were still very sore today and at a level where simply touching the muscle caused me to flinch a little. It was a beautiful sunny day though and there was no way I was missing Lincoln parkrun, so I convinced myself that maybe a run would help get some blood flowing and ease away the pain. As soon as I started running the tightness in my legs was apparent, but as the muscle warmed, they did loosen and I was able to set a very speedy first mile split. My legs soon tightened back up though and there was no way I could hold the pace, and I finished eventually in 21:21. My poor little legs were not happy with me afterwards, feeling extra sore and achy, and they still had a 10k race to run tomorrow...

SUNDAY: I really wanted to have my voice back for Woodhall Spa 10k after being practically a mute at the event last year, and thankfully I achieved this aim. However, what also would have been handy was not to be stood on the start line of a 10k with a pair of sore legs and quads which hurt to even move let alone run. Add to this a warm, muggy day, with an equally warm, gusty wind, and I think I knew the next 6.2 miles were not going to be a walk in the park. It certainly was not - in fact I found the 10k extremely hard work, but somehow managed to struggle home in 45:11. Full blog to follow, but simply put I was not in racing condition and paid the price a little for some unwise decisions mid-week, and probably in my approach towards the race. We live and learn! ​

This past week has been a bit of a blur to be honest - life is busy, which I like, but I still think it is important for me to find the time to reflect on my running. This is a relative 'down' period for me in terms of training, I have half an eye on a local 10k in a few weeks time, but I am also mindful that with Autumn goals to chase, I need to keep myself from overdoing things. 

MONDAY: a double strength session of Strength and Conditioning for Runners and Body Pump - it has been a while since I have managed both, so I knew I would probably feel the effects from it. 

TUESDAY: the soreness in my body was already developing as I woke this morning, and it is at times like this I am pleased to get a run in early before the real DOMs hit! I opted for the same intervals as I ran last week, 5 miles with 6 x 600m repetitions, as I had enjoyed it before. My legs took a bit of time to loosen up, but I finished quickly with some sub 7 min/mile reps. 

WEDNESDAY: my Wednesday morning running partner couldn’t make it this week, but I surprised myself by finding some motivation to attempt some solo hills without him. I could not quite face the entire 'rolling hills' route we usually do, but I mapped out a 5 mile circuit which still had five good hilly tests in. I am definitely feeling stronger from this type of running, it does take enduring some tough runs, but I think it pays offs. 

THURSDAY: an easy 6 miles just to ensure I am not constantly asking a lot from my legs, averaging around 8.20 min/mile. I logged maybe a mile or so at Run Club later on as Run Leader – probably not even that!  

FRIDAY: a vague Rest Day, although I did take a group of young people to a Trampoline park with work and ended up completing a two-hour jumping session!

SATURDAY: today I felt my strongest at parkrun for a while and incidentally it was also my quickest time for a good few weeks, logging at 21:01. I started well and found myself running behind a fellow female runner who seemed my pace. I hung onto her for the full three laps and the motivation to keep with her really helped me. I actually managed to out sprint her in the final few metres to stop the clock first, which I did feel almost a little guilty about after she had unknowingly helped me all the way round! I made sure to thank her and shake hands though in the finish funnel, as that’s the kind of running spirit I like to be regarded for having.  

SUNDAY: after a full on week I struggled a little today on a longer run. It was not horrendous, but I just felt a little tired. It was warmer than I anticipated too and I do not feel I am quite adjusted to running in that kind of weather yet. For the first time in while I also found myself wishing I had someone to talk to on the run, especially as I was just taking things quite steady. I ran an out and back route to the top of a hill - I can’t seem to get way from hills at the moment! - and back down again, which gave me 11.5 miles in distance. I was testing the hill for a future Run Club session, so the purpose to the run did help me keep a bit more focused.
 
I have some more busy weeks ahead as May finishes and throughout June – a mix of running and social commitments. I am looking forward to the mix, and it has rather helpfully all fallen quite well, as my shift in focus for Autumn races will begin at the end of June. I therefore hope I will feel more free and able to enjoy my time in the weeks ahead, before I can reveal and start to work towards my next goal.  ​

This week has been great - simply put. I am really enjoying my running despite the fact I have no real schedule or plan to follow, which can sometimes leave me feeling a little lost and logging seemingly 'pointless' miles. I have challenged myself, but under no pressure, and I have also been sharing some miles and my passion for running with others - which always makes me happy. 

MONDAY: a Bank Holiday rest day following Sunday's North Lincs Half Marathon - although I did manage a ten mile walk - so some active recovery!

TUESDAY: I woke up today and really fancied giving some intervals a try - strange I know! My next race is a local 10k, so I found a few suggested sessions from a training plan and decided to opt for one with 6 x 600m reps and 200m recoveries, which with a warm up, gave 5 miles in distance. It felt good to feel some speed in my legs and also some consistency too, with all my reps hovering around the 7 min/mile marker. 

WEDNESDAY: my Wednesday morning running seems to be turning into a weekly hill session at the moment, which I am enjoying and which is something I most definitely would not be motivated to do without some company. My usual run buddy's friend joined us again and suggested we try some hill repeats, which for some reason I agreed was a good idea! This involved running uphill at maximum effort, walking the downhill as recovery, and then jogging to the next hill. It was hard work, but good.

THURSDAY: yesterday's hills had left me with some soreness and with Run Club in the evening I logged an easy 10k as my morning run. Later at Run Club my role as Run Leader saw a few more miles added to this daily tally, however I did not turn my watch on, so I am not entirely sure by how much! The session is not about my miles though and it was really satisfying to be able to support others through some interval work. 

FRIDAY: a few more miles in the form of a brisk 3.5 mile run, which I logged since I was not running at parkrun on Saturday.

Without following a specific training plan, I can sometimes lose track a little of what my ‘running week’ has looked like. This week has been a good example of that, and sitting here reflecting on the past seven days I have realised I have achieved quite a lot, especially during a period when I was in the mindset that it was ok to take things a little easier! I feel like I am truly 'getting back on track.'

MONDAY: a double dose of cross training with the start of the next block of the Strength and Conditioning for Runners and a Body Pump class.

TUESDAY: I had debated trying a few intervals this morning, but to be honest, I woke up and did not feel sharp or particularly motivated enough to test myself in this way! I opted for a 5 mile tempo run instead, with the middle 3 miles all sub 8 min/mile pace. This felt enough of a challenge and I also actually quite enjoy tempo running!

WEDNESDAY: I re-joined my Wednesday morning run buddy for the first time since Brighton Marathon for a 6am run today. To ease myself back into things we obviously opted to run 6.2 miles of ‘rolling hills’…! This week we were also joined by two of my friends other running buddies and it felt good to have a group of us out on the streets. They are all training for a Skyrace in Italy – which sounds brutally beautiful – so hill training is essential for them, whilst for me it was a good test to see where my body was at. The verdict – not too bad! I completed all of the hills, but did have to stop to shake out the lactic acid at the top of a couple!

THURSDAY: after the hills of yesterday, my body needed a few easy miles. I completed a comfortable 4 mile loop in the morning, before logging a few miles as Run Leader at Run Club in the evening.

FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: the start of a double weekend of running in Scunthorpe, with a trip to Normanby parkrun. The course is my work colleague’s local event and I like to join for a run when I can – it is probably my favourite place for some parkrun tourism. This time I was joined by my sister and her boyfriend who were visiting for North Lincs Half Marathon on Sunday. Set at the beautiful Normanby Hall Country Park, we were greeted by blossom, sunshine, peacocks and a few people in Star Wars fancy dress - Normanby parkrun were fully embracing the fact it was ‘May the 4th’ and it added to the friendly feel. Despite a race tomorrow, I decided to give my all across the 5k, as I enjoy running there so much. From the start I went off fast and within the first few yards I knew I was in First Female position. From then on, I knew my challenge was to try hold onto this position – parkrun is not a race – but it gave me a focus. I find the Normanby course goes by so quickly, passing the grand hall a number of times and weaving through woodland, and before I knew it the final sections were approaching. I held strong, my colleague shouting encouragement as we past each other on the course, finishing in 21:25. Naturally, this earned me the title of ‘Princess Leia’ from the wonderful friendly Run Director.
​
SUNDAY: back to Scunthorpe today for North Lincs Half Marathon. I was not really sure what today would bring – I knew I would not be challenging a PB and I also knew I wanted to enjoy the run and not give myself 13 miles of utter pain! I think I succeeded in the latter pretty well, running a consistent and strong race to finish in 1:41:02. Full blog to follow -  but on the Brighton Marathon comeback and after a pretty full week of running, it is a race I both enjoyed and am proud of. ​

What a difference a week makes... Last week was tough, and after the joy of completing my 9th marathon in Brighton, I hit the post marathon blues, which were also combined with the fact I was in a lot of discomfort from my legs still. This week I feel like I have actually been able to start to recover properly from my latest 26.2 miles, physically and mentally, and writing this blog I feel a lot happier in myself than I did seven days ago.

MONDAY: at this point in the week, my quads were still not my friend. I ran 2 careful miles to the gym for Body Pump and then 2 miles home again - I only really ran to the gym as it was another beautiful Bank Holiday day and it seemed a shame to waste it. My quads still felt restricted, but the pain was slightly less, which boosted me a little. 

TUESDAY: I had two further boosts today; firstly I had an appointment with my Sports Therapist for a much-needed massage. The verdict was that my troublesome quads were still very inflamed from the marathon, but they were flushed out, and instantly felt better. My second boost was actually being back at work; I love my job, and at the moment my colleague and I are involved in something very exciting (the fact I am writing about it on my running focused blog gives some vague hints about what it could be connected to..!) and that additional focus helps keep my mind from overthinking running/recovery. I actually rested from running today, but went to Body Pump later and enjoyed being able to actually use my legs properly.

WEDNESDAY: not many people can say they are excited to set a 5:30am alarm, but I was. Being able to get up and run before work felt amazing. Although my legs felt vastly improved, I did not want to push things today, sticking to a comfortably paced 5 miles. My body was pain free, but I felt quite tired still - this emphasised to me that I was still in recovery phase. 

THURSDAY: today was the launch of Lincs S&C Run Club - a new development from the Strength and Conditioning for Runners sessions I have been attending for the past year or so. I have never been part of a running club before, but for a number of reasons this has felt right for me, and I have also volunteered to be a run leader. Aspects such as attending the S&C sessions and being an increasing part of the parkrun community have emphasised the benefits of having the social support in my life, whilst pacing my friend around the Lincoln 10k a few weeks ago also made me feel so happy that I have realised how much I also want to help others achieve their goals. Before the Run Club session in the evening I completed 4 miles early morning before work, picking up the pace a little. It felt good to turn my legs over a bit quicker, but I did wonder how I had ran 26.2 miles at an even quicker pace! A sign I still need the recovery. 

FRIDAY: my colleague invited me to join her at charity Fitathon this evening - so I signed up for a Yoga class with her (see image). My flexibility is shocking, so I was well and truly shown up by her 7-year-old daughter (who can casually drop into the splits!) but I enjoyed myself. 

SATURDAY: the real difference a week can make can be seen in my Lincoln parkrun today. I decided to test my legs and I tried to run as fast as possible, managing a 21:26 time. This is not my speediest 5k, but it was a million times better that last week when I had no choice but to complete 3 easy loops.

SUNDAY: I got out early today for 10.5 miles, making sure I was home in time to watch the London Marathon on TV (see image). Having ran the London Marathon in 2015, 2017 and 2018, and been on the streets supporting my friend in 2016, it was a little strange at first the thought of not being part of the event this year in some capacity. I loved watching it on TV though, and it made me very excited about the potential of running in 2020 (I am praying my Good For Age time is quick enough to get me a place!) I also loved my run beforehand; 10.5 miles with no pre-planned route, just winding through the quiet streets of Lincoln wherever my legs wanted to take me. I will not pretend my legs felt their best, and some tiredness crept in again, but it was just pleasant to be running and enjoying it. 

Two weeks post marathon and naturally, the 'what next Alice' question has started to creep in again, and whilst I do have things planned for later in the year, my focus for the next few weeks is on a couple of local events. I may even try and do a bit of focused 10k work for a local race I have entered - see what that could produce time-wise! However, my overarching focus is still on recovering; I have big goals to chase, but I cannot even try and reach them if I am a broken. ​

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! 

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?! ​

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

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. 

The past seven days have flown by for me, as it seems has the year, with this week entering into December. I have felt a little tired this week, a kind of weary haze I have not been able to fully shift. I think this has been due to being busy at work, which I enjoy nevertheless, but also being unable to switch my head off from other personal things, which I do not enjoy! Running remains my constant though - as always...

MONDAY: Rest Day - after Sunday's Doncaster 10k my legs were a little achy and my body generally felt fatigued, so I listened to it and rested. 

TUESDAY: rising early I managed to avoid the monsoon like downpours that arrived during the day and logged a steady 5 miles, easing my legs back into things. Body Pump class in the evening.

WEDNESDAY: feeling a little more energised I opted for one of my hillier 5 mile routes. This proved to be a good choice, as I could feel the strength had returned in my legs, and I logged an 8:15 min/mile average pace.

THURSDAY: another wet and wild day, which this time I was unable to avoid. It was mild though and the rain actually felt quite refreshing on my 5 miler, and I remained close to 8 min/mile pace throughout. Body Pump in evening. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: after a full on week I woke today feeling a little down and deflated, which is when I know I really need my parkrun fix. It seemed fate that today I bumped into so many people I knew at Lincoln parkrun at literally every point of my morning; from arriving at the car park, to finding my jacket on the bandstand at the end, I had someone friendly to chat to - I loved it. In running terms it was also quite a good morning for me, I managed my best time for a while, 21:17, and also finished first lady again. I was helped when running by a friendly chap who has been trying to pace me back to sub 21 minute territory for a few weeks now; we ran together for the majority of the course and using him as a marker helped keep my pacing quite consistent. I now just to regain that little bit of extra speed from somewhere!

SUNDAY: I was unsure of how to approach today's planned 10 miles; I knew I had been running well at the distance over the past few weeks and that my legs could be tested, but I did not know if I had the mental energy to commit to that. I think if I am honest this was a day when I would have preferred some company on a longer run, and to enjoy some 'chatty' miles. Sometimes when you are on you own though that's when you can really test your strength, and I think I did that instead. I set out at an optimistic pace and just kept going. It was a unseasonably mild December day, and even wearing just shorts and t-shirt I was sweaty and warm! At mile 7 I started to consider slowing down and comfortably making it home instead, but that was when my determination really kicked in. I kept going, finishing with a 7.55 min/mile average pace (see image). My Brighton Marathon training starts in three weeks, and whilst I will be slowing down on my longer runs to avoid burning out and especially as the miles get longer, for now I am enjoying these Sunday tests. I also hope these miles will provide good foundations going forward. ​

Celebrations in running terms often mean PBs, whether that be distance or times, however this week I have been celebrating the success and achievements of two of the running communities I am part of...

MONDAY: a double hit of Strength and Conditioning for Runners followed by a Body Pump class.

TUESDAY: throughout Monday I had noticed how tight my legs had become, especially my left hamstring, which was now so tight I could barely straighten my leg fully - I think my limbs knew they were overdue a Sports Massage. Thankfully I had one booked for Thursday, however I still had a few runs I wanted to complete before then. With my legs feeling as they were I kept things steady on today's 5 miler; it took my legs nearly the entire run to feel loose anyway! Body Pump class in evening.

WEDNESDAY: the tightness in my legs remained, but there was slight progress during today's 5 miles as it only took 2 miles this time for my legs to feel a bit more flexible! 

THURSDAY: another morning 5 miler, practically counting down the steps to my massage later in the day! I had some cupping treatment on my hamstring - a strange sensation - and it sorted it out instantly, the relief when walking was enough let alone for running purposes!

FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: today was my day of celebration, kicking off - where else - at Lincoln parkrun. It was Lincoln parkrun's 5th birthday (see image) and the cheerful, friendly atmosphere that brightens up my Saturday morning every week seemed to be exacerbated. Large '5' balloons floated around the sky, some of our dedicated volunteer team were given special thanks for their marshalling commitments, which even as a regular parkrunner I had not quite realised just how many high-viz stints had been racked up amongst them, and special mention was given to those who had helped make Lincoln parkrun a possibility to start with and who without we would never had made it to five years - it was perfect. My run - not quite as perfect! I worked hard, still managing to beam a smile at the marshals cheering me on even though I was gritting my teeth inside, but time wise I still stuck in that 21 minute region; finishing in 21:29. I was first lady home though, which felt quite nice on the birthday event! 

After parkrun I headed to a Hot Pod Yoga session, which had been arranged for members of the Strength and Conditioning for Runners group I belong to to celebrate a successful year of classes. Hot Pod Yoga is essentially a yoga class completed in a dome heated to 38 degrees, yet despite this rather warm temperature I did not sweat a single drop (see image)! I am not sure what is wrong me, as everyone else was dripping - maybe all that summer heatwave running has acclimatised me...!

​SUNDAY: Saturday night had also involved a some social drinks with the Strength and Conditioning group, nothing too wild, but still a few G&Ts and an early morning bedtime - which on reflection is actually quite wild compared to my usual Saturday nights! I thought I would just see how I felt running but on a beautiful autumn morning, things felt good. I headed out with a ten mile route in mind and ran the first 5 miles strongly, which then led to me challenging myself to try hold onto my pace for the next 5 miles. I stuck at it, but by the final mile and half I really was holding on! I held strong and finished with an average pace of 7.58 min/mile - I was very happy; however I was also nowhere near my house, so opted for a steady 1.5 mile 'cool down' run home... you would think after all my running in and around Lincoln I could plan routes by now! ​

This week has been a bit of a mix in terms of running, maybe a reflection on the mixture of emotions I have also felt personally this week. The consistency of running in my life remains key though; I think I shocked a lady I was chatting to at parkrun on Saturday when she asked how many times I run and train a week even when I do not have a race I am particularly focusing on. 'Its my life' I think I said to her, 'I am lost without it'. Her response was simply - 'good for you'. 

MONDAY: I was faced with the box jump again today in Strength and Conditioning after my slight falling out with the piece of equipment last week! With the support and encouragement from my fellow class attendees I managed to put my fears behind me and complete some plyo jumps - I definitely would not have done this alone! 

TUESDAY: aside from box jumps, last night's Strength and Conditioning class also featured some sprinting exercises and I could feel the exertion in my legs as I began this morning's run. I was tired and did not even need to tell myself to keep this run easy paced; logging a gentle 5 miles. I nearly did not go to my Body Pump class in the evening as I just felt a little bit lacklustre still, but I dragged myself there as I figured it would mentally make myself feel better - and it did. 

WEDNESDAY: after taking it easier on my run yesterday, today I felt refreshed and even in swirling wind and rain I kept good pace for 5 miles, averaging just over 8 min/mile pace. I think this reminded me the importance of easy runs being part of my running regime still; I find it more logical to do when I am in 'training mode', but with the amount of miles I still do in what I guess you could call 'off season', easy sessions still have great value.

THURSDAY: my body felt a bit tired again today, with some tightness in my muscles, so I kept my run to a brief 4 miles, with a Body Pump class in the evening.

FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: on a beautiful Autumn morning I headed to Lincoln parkrun - where else! There was a fabulous turn out of 478 people taking part, and I enjoyed catching up with familiar faces. My run was not so great, I just did not get into my stride at the start and it felt like I was running unnaturally, with a stitch then threatening to form as I tried to keep some pace. It was not pretty, but I stuck at it to finish in 21:39 (see image). After a good parkrun last week I was a little disappointed at the contrast in my performance, however looking around at the hundreds of people enjoying their Saturday morning, as ever it is always hard to let the time bother you too much outside of those few seconds of post run reflection in the finish funnel!

SUNDAY: 10 miles appears to be my distance right now, and today marked another consistent longer run, with a near 8 min/mile pace held throughout. I feel more powerful over 10 miles than I do on a 5k at the moment - which as a marathon runner I probably should feel pleased about! I think I was especially satisfied with today's run as I set off with the notion that I may feel like taking things a bit steadier after a bit of fatigue during the week, however this seemed to still be a comfortable zone for me. How I wish I could keep this pace up over 26.2 miles! Never say never... ​

The clocks have gone back, its dark, noticeably colder - but I am still running, even with a minor bump at the start of the week..!

MONDAY: said bump happened tonight during my Strength and Conditioning class after the wooden box jump and I had a little falling out... Whilst completing plyo-jumps onto the box I got slightly distracted mid-jump, which meant my attention was not on my landing and, as you can probably guess, I clattered the edge and side of the box. It was a complete accident but it still hurt a lot! I soldiered on, but as I completed Body Pump afterwards I could already see I was developing a rather bruised and swollen shin. 

TUESDAY: Rest Day - my shin was badly bruised and the swelling meant I had slight pain every time I took a step. I knew it was only a superficial injury, but at the same time I also knew that running was not going to be a comfortable or particularly enjoyably experience, so I rested.

WEDNESDAY: on a very cold morning I wrapped up and tried a 5 miler - I think the cold helped numb some of my shin pain to be honest, and I quite happily completed the distance at 8.23 min/mile pace. I really enjoyed the run as it was my first morning run since the clock change and I was able to run alongside a beautiful rising sun - a perk of a 5.30am morning alarm!

THURSDAY: another 5 miler at around 8.20 min/mile pace, followed by a Body Pump class in the evening.

FRIDAY: on this morning's run the footpaths were glistening in places, with an overnight frost threatening to take hold. I did not like this, as the thought of ice reminded me of having to resort to the treadmill! Today the patches were small though and living quite centrally in the city meant that some roads/paths had actually been gritted, which pleasantly surprised me, and I ran another 5 miles at 8.21 min/mile average pace.

SATURDAY: during the week my home parkrun, Lincoln, had been recognised as being Physical Activity Programme of the Year at a regional sports awards ceremony (for the second year running!) I may be slightly bias as an avid parkrunner, but I feel this is truly deserved, and as 400+ runners and volunteers joined me at Boultham Park to complete a morning 5k run, jog or walk, I do not think I was alone in this thinking. My run was good today, I felt strong throughout and my first 2 miles were both at sub 7 min/mile pace for the first time in a long while, leading to a finish time of 21:15, and a bonus of being first lady home.

SUNDAY: ignoring the small glitch at the start of the week, today I completed a positive week of running by logging a very pleasing ten miler (see image). Even though I chose a slightly hilly route I found I was running consistently with a lot of my splits just under 8 min/mile pace. It is hard to describe how I was feeling when running; I was not pushing myself unnecessarily, but I just felt like I was in a powerful zone. People often ask me what I think about when I am running, and when running solo as I have been a lot over the past months, to be honest I simply allow myself to get caught up in the run itself, and that's what it felt like today. ​

​I am still sporting a very bruised shin, but thankfully without any pain now - think my box jump days may be over for a while!

As I sat reflecting on this week it dawned on me that so much has happened across the last 7 days personally, professionally and in running. Generally it has been a very positive week; I finally decided on and booked my Spring marathon - Brighton (more on that to come in a blog soon), I am fortunate to love my job and whilst this week has been very busy it has also been extremely rewarding, and my running seems to be settling quite nicely to a consistent level which I know I can build on. There are still a few personal challenges that have been rearing their head, and amid the positivity there have been moments where I have sat and just wished I could fix/change certain things going on... but I have to try remain focused on what I can control. 

MONDAY: my usual Strength and Conditioning class was cancelled tonight due to a flood, however I was still able to take part in Body Pump and get my strength fix. I also had an exciting meeting. In recent weeks I have been working as a coach for Lincs Injury delivering further Wednesday night Strength and Conditioning sessions for fellow runners, and we met to discuss future plans. My background is in sports coaching and being able to combine this with seeing runners progress has been a real highlight since getting back from Australia. I feel I have become part of another running community.

TUESDAY: a steady morning 5 miler averaging 8.26 min/mile pace. The niggle in my ankle from last week was still apparent at the start, but the uncomfortable sensation faded quickly; hopefully it is sorting itself out?!

WEDNESDAY: on Tuesday night I had got home late after watching the mid-week Lincoln City F.C. match (which is where I work!) and this meant I did struggle to get out of bed early this morning to run. I had evening plans again with work though, so knew if I wanted to run I had to get out there. I logged another steady 5 miles, averaging 8.23 min/mile pace. At work we had visitors from Poland spending time with my colleague and I on a study visit, so in the evening we took them out to see the wonderful sights of Lincoln! It was another late night with some wine consumed and I already knew that setting my morning alarm for a run was a little optimistic...