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The End Of The London Marathon 2020 Road

8/9/2020

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There are several things 2020/lockdown/Covid has taught me, but in running terms it has been the realisation that I purely love running, the act of going for a run, which is even better when you get to share this with others (oh how I miss you parkrun!) I have not missed racing as such, but instead the shared experience, journey, enjoyment, achievement etc. of running these adventures with others. I have reflected on this a lot since the London Marathon news was (finally) delivered this week and we now know for definite that there will be no 2020 race happening.

Since the news broke late on Thursday I have been through a real spectrum of emotions. It felt different to back in March when, as the news came that the race was being postponed, I felt sad even though I knew it was the right decision. At the time I was really enjoying my training and was looking forward to sharing the event with friends from my Run Club. I did not instantly feel sad this time though, simply relieved. Although I had been training for the new October date, I did not think the race should be held nor did I want it to take place this year. Consequently I was growing to slightly resent my training plan in recent weeks; I felt almost a slave to it when I had no reason to be.

I still feel frustrated with how the London Marathon have handled things; I feel they have almost been ignorant to the commitment of marathon training and, more importantly, to the pandemic. Although they say it, sadly I do not believe they have always had runners’ best interest in mind. Apparently they had been investigating some Bluetooth technology which runners would use during the race and which would be able to log data about who they came into 2 metre contact with across 26.2 miles. This all sounds potentially very useful going forward, but let’s face it, the Government cannot even master a decent track and trace system, so what chance did the London Marathon have of nailing this in a matter of weeks? Its something they should be exploring, but they needed to be realistic it was not possible to master, practice and ensure it was reliable in time for October.

After my initial relief at hearing the race was cancelled for 2020, and then an almost renewed respect that they had decided to hold the event in October 2021, which seems a very sensible call based on the current situation, things quickly spiralled. On the surface level social media (which another frustration of mine is that this comms was released before runners received an official email – surely it should have been the other way round?) it appeared all runners would be offered a place in the 2021 event. However, as I delved deeper into the FAQs, here the uncertainty arose…

Considering we have spent the vast majority of this year attempting to following often vague and difficult to understand guidelines about how to live our lives, you would think the London Marathon would have learnt to make things straightforward and simple – but no. Some sections of the FAQs were more straightforward, however in relation to my area of concern – Good For Age qualification – it was unclear. Have a look at the guidance yourself and see what you think  - but I am pretty sure because the qualifying time I submitted was from September 2018 this means, in order to be eligible to run in 2021, I must take part in the virtual race on October 4th and I must also run another Good For Age time during this virtual run. If not, my place will only be valid for 2023. On reading this I will admit my gut reaction was to feel upset, I could almost feel myself wanting to cry. I had worked so hard to run a qualifying time and it had been a massive goal of mine to achieve this feat, and yet London Marathon were now almost seeming to disregard it. The 2020 race was also the first option I had to use my qualification time (I was too late for the 2019 event) and therefore it seemed unfair that I was being pushed back to five years after the qualifying time was ran.

Trying to swallow my feelings, I then spent time thinking more about the virtual race. How could I run 26.2 miles around Lincoln, on my own and, more importantly, fast? It would be Good For Age or bust... I was pondering routes, how I would manage aid stations, and how much more training I needed to do… Late Thursday night my mind was buzzing, including thinking about how on earth the London Marathon were going to police these virtual runs and ensure no cheating took place to log quick qualifying times. I am still unsure why they feel this should even be an option to qualify virtually when all the other World Marathon majors have omitted this from their virtual events. I was also fretting about the fact the London Marathon are not due to send an email out until September (more waiting) to confirm each runner’s individual options for rolling over their place – so if I have to do this virtual run do I need to keep training? Surely I need to if I am going to have to try run a Good For Age time?!

Fast forward to this weekend and my slightly more logical thinking has helped me make a more rational decision about the London Marathon. Firstly, I have no interest in virtual events, and personally would not feel that running 26.2 miles around Lincoln warrants a prestigious London Marathon medal. Secondly, the amount of pressure this virtual marathon would put on me is too much –  a finish time is not the only reason why I run marathons and yet this virtual run would be all about the clock. On the day if I failed to run the time I needed how would that make me feel? Thirdly, I feel I need a break from training for a marathon, it has been a physically and mentally long year and my body has had no real rest period. I saw my Sports Therapist this week had have been told I have slight tendinitis developing in my left knee – it is a warning sign and I need to take this chance to ease off mileage a little. Lastly, and going back to my starting point, racing is not just why I run and any form of ‘London Marathon’ during 2020 would be going against all that lockdown had taught me.

So, my decision now leaves me awaiting my email in September to learn if I will be given an option to run in October 2021 or if I will be pushed back until April 2023. I don’t want to read I have to run in 2023, but I cannot change it, and to be honest I am tired of the London Marathon playing with my emotions and maybe a break away from the event will be good? There are other marathons to run and experiences to be had out there too.

This means 2020 will be my first year without a marathon since 2014, and I am ok with it. I have gained a lot more this year than the races I have lost. This last week has emphasised this as I enjoyed numerous runs with Run Club/friends, some easy paced runs, some pushing harder, some exploring new places, and on Sunday felt fully free to enjoy a lovely long run with no pressure. I am no longer training but back to running, and whilst I have some small events still booked in for later in the year, I will look (hopefully!) forward to these days as chances to share experiences with friends again and just run happy.

My marathon adventures will undoubtedly return in 2021, I still have many ventures I want to complete, and I am also determined I will run the London Marathon one day as a Good For Age qualifier.
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London Marathon Training Week 6 #2

8/2/2020

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So this week obviously began with the latest London Marathon update (if you can call it that.) I have had my rant, which you are welcome to read again here, but I am sure you can imagine my feelings... 

Aside from the London Marathon hanging over me, this week has felt the most normal in my life for a long time; its felt good, really good, but also a little tiring as I found myself rushing around to fit things in once again. Lockdown really has made me realise how busy I often make my life! Things which have helped were actually being able to go into my office at some point each day of the week and see some colleagues. I was also single handily trying to deliver 2500 consultation letters to local households, which meant a lot of steps, but also much less time sat at my kitchen table – hallelujah! I even had my first day of annual leave during 2020 (which I somehow managed to coincide with the hottest day of the year!) which I used to have a post lockdown reunion with my sister and her boyfriend, and also made a return to the gym. This week makes me feel hopeful for the future, but I am also cautious; on reflection I am now mixing with quite a few different people, and whilst I am following the guidance, I can easily see how across the UK social contact must be sharply increasing and how local lockdowns are developing. Its such a tough balance, as I know how much better I feel in myself being able to do a few more ‘normal’ things again, but yet the threat of ‘the virus’ has yet to really go away…

MONDAY: Rest Day - with the knowledge I had a gym session booked for later in the week I thought best not to overload my body too much with any home workouts (plus I am getting bored of them now anyway!)

TUESDAY: despite the London Marathon news, I felt really motivated to run some intervals today, even with a rather tough looking 6 miles with 10 x 400m reps on the plan. I ran along the riverbank near to me, an out and back stretch which is great for intervals, but often catches you unaware with a deceivingly strong headwind. Today was one of those days and my reps ‘out’ were all well under 7 min/mile pace, whilst my reps ‘back’ into the wind were closer to 7 min/mile pace – I felt strong though despite the added challenge and enjoyed the feeling of pushing the pace.

WEDNESDAY: I met my friend this week for another 6am run just outside Lincoln. We ran 6 miles on mixed terrain and at our usual pretty speedy pace. Strictly speaking today was supposed to be a recovery run, but my affinity to my training plan was rather wavering, and I much preferred the idea of miles with a friend!
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THURSDAY: again my ‘plan’ went out the window a little today; on what was supposed to be some steady miles, I actually ran 5 miles with my Run Club which included 12 x 200m fast paced efforts – again far more enjoyable! Prior to my evening run, I also went back to the gym for the first time in four months, managing to get a slot at my favourite class, Body Pump. I was a little apprehensive as to how my gym would manage the whole reopening, and I probably had fairly low expectations. However, I have to say I was honestly very impressed by the lengths they had gone to. I felt safe and was able to thoroughly enjoy doing some strength training again; yes I have lost strength, particularly upper body, but it also feels exciting to be able to work hard to get it back again.

FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: I wanted to try test my speed this week during my ‘not Lincoln parkrun’ attempt, however my legs were still sore from my return to the gym – which I was not overly surprised by! I gave it a go though, purely aiming for some quicker miles, without expecting to feel super speedy. After my legs had warmed up a bit, I ran well and held a constant quick pace, which I extended to 4 miles. I was nowhere near parkrun speed, but it was a nice step up in gear.

SUNDAY: thankfully, my long run this week was a bit of a ‘cut back’ on my plan after last week’s 19 miles; I am not sure even I had the mental strength to log a really long run this week. 14 miles felt a nice distance though and after a number of quicker runs this week, I kept my pace easy. The warmth did make it slightly less comfortable and I also find it tougher when running with water, which although essential for long hot runs, the 2 litres or so on my back does slow me down a little!

Dare I even say that by next Sunday I should know where things stand regarding the London Marathon 2020…!? ​
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London Marathon Training Week 5 #2

7/27/2020

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​​Usually I sit and write a blog on a Sunday evening, reflecting on my week, consolidating my thoughts etc. Yesterday I ran out of time, which feels quite a joyous thing to say after recent months of finding almost ‘time filling’ activities. I logged a long run and then spent a long afternoon and evening visiting a friend and her family – actual people! – a simple thing which felt so wonderful.

I also almost instinctively held back on my blog due to the incoming London Marathon announcement which was due to arrive on Tuesday. I felt it would rather influence things so to speak! The announcement actually arrived today (Monday) and yet again it filled me (and it seems the overwhelming majority on social media) with frustration and almost anger. No update or definite decision on holding the race was given and instead a promise for another update by Friday 7th August.

At the last announcement I resolved in my head to focus on this five-week mini block of training, after which I thought I would know where I stand. I have tried to train as best I can, but to then find out I must prolong this uncertainty for further days and indeed runs felt exasperating. This is just me, lets not forget (as it seems the London Marathon may have) that we are still in the midst of a pandemic which has caused thousands of deaths and dramatic lifestyle changes for the entire population. Why is hosting the London Marathon even the right thing to do?

I will try not to rant; I just have to try and keep focused for a few more days. This past week of training has been tougher to do this though, and I have felt my commitment to the training plan being questioned by my logical mind – I have wanted to run, but why was I running what this piece of paper said? What is the point…? I did in fact deviate from my plan slightly, although still kept my weekly mileage as required, and it is perhaps telling that on the run where I really made myself adhere to the plan, I also really struggled mentally.

MONDAY: on what my plan told me was rest day - I enjoyed a near 7 mile run with a friend at a steady pace whilst catching up. It was a lovely start to the week, and I felt I did not need a rest day despite Sunday’s long trail miles. I did rest my legs on Tuesday though to prevent too many consecutive days of running.
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WEDNESDAY: this was a real struggle run, my plan was for 9 slow miles and it was an absolute slog. I did not really want to run 9 slow miles and therefore my mind never settled into the run, I never found my rhythm and I used any excuse to stop, which then led me to battle in my head about why I should keep going. Not one to remember!

​THURSDAY: I bounced back today; my training plan was for hill reps which coincided nicely with our planned Run Club session for the week. I split my run into two parts; a morning 5k on a hilly course to get some slightly quicker hill reps in, and then 4 evening miles of steadier continuous hills with my club mates. I love running hills with other people and that collective challenge and achievement.


FRIDAY: home strength work on my glutes and quads, motivated by the fact that this should be my final living room workout, as next week I have booked back into my usual (pre lockdown) strength class at the gym

SATURDAY: keeping with the hill theme of the week, I ran my hillier ‘not parkrun course’ pushing hard up the inclines. Next week I may be brave and attempt a flatter, faster time… I am just a little scared to try as fear I will be so far off my desired time!

SUNDAY: with actual plans on a Sunday and the forecast for a warm day I got up and out relatively early for my long run of 19 miles, which as the day heated up, I was very thankful for. With the warmth and distance, I took the run steadily from the start and the first ten miles passed relatively quickly. As I edged into the ‘teen miles’ however my legs lacked power; they did not feel like lead or ‘planks of wood’ as I described them a couple of weeks ago, I could keep running, but I had no drive and I could physically feel my quads tiring. Maybe it is in my mind now as I know I have lost strength over lockdown, but as I finished I felt a realisation dawn on me that if this marathon does take place, I may not be in my best physical condition regardless of how hard I try; I have catching up to do in areas that are not just pounding the pavements.
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So who knows what the next London Marathon announcement will bring and how this will influence my running and life over the next weeks/months… more waiting. 
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London Marathon Training Week 4 #2

7/19/2020

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Last week my body felt tired. I did some maths and worked out that so far this year I have ran 1,077 miles, which is definitely a lot more than my car has managed this year! Usually after a marathon training cycle I would have a bit of a break, people who know me will know this is definitely an ‘Alice version’ of a break, but I do tend to drop my mileage for a least a few weeks as my legs recover. This year I have gone straight from full on training for a marathon, to a consistent period of lockdown mileage of around 35 miles a week, and now into the start of marathon training again. I feel fit, there is no denying that, but at the end of last week my body also felt a little knackered.

Thankfully this week was a bit of a ‘cut back’ week in my training plan and I was also able to finally see my Sport Therapist, who confirmed what I already thought may be the case – my legs are struggling under my high mileage without any strength training. Yes, I have been doing weekly home exercise with body weight and resistance bands, but it doesn’t quite match up to the gym work I normally ensure I incorporate into my training. The gyms reopening gives me a chance to build some of this back up at least – I will need to make sure this is done steadily though, else I won’t be able to walk for weeks let alone run!

MONDAY: some adapted home exercise; my quads were still so sore from my long run on Sunday I tried to give them a bit of a break.

TUESDAY: a steady 5 miles – the first mile my legs felt really stiff still, but I loosened up with each mile, unintentionally getting quicker.

WEDNESDAY: although yesterday showed some promise, today my legs were stiff again, and an easy 8 miles definitely had to be taken easily. I was now practically counting down the hours until my Sports Therapy appointment on Friday!

THURSDAY: speed work this week was a little less demanding, with 8 miles of fartlek on my plan. This fitted well with the Run Club session we had planned, and I was able to incorporate my own miles with some leading my ‘running bubble’. For once working from home proved useful as I made myself close my laptop at 5:30pm and was out running within a few minutes. I ran four miles solo, with some quicker sub 8 min/miles, and then met my Run Club friends for another 4 miles including 5 x 1k reps. Running with others is a joy at the moment anyway, but it also really helped take my mind off my legs!

​FRIDAY: Rest Day – and ending my five month wait for a sports massage!
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SATURDAY: although my legs felt much improved after some treatment, I did not want to instantly push them, so kept this week’s ‘not Lincoln parkrun’ attempt ‘confortably hard’ and with a couple of gradual hills thrown in.

SUNDAY: this week’s long run was a refreshing change which saw me run with someone else, leave Lincoln, and also run on trails! I ran as part of an organised trail run through my friend’s business Remarkable Running, and he had plotted out a 30k route starting in Woodhall Spa and venturing out into the Lincolnshire countryside. I loved getting out exploring, and the route had lots of different elements from tracks, to fields and woodlands, which were all cleverly mapped together. I switched off from pace and distance and simple enjoyed being outside. I would never be able to plan a route like this on my own, and part of the enjoyment was the fact I didn’t have to think about where I was running and could simple enjoy the experience. We finished back in Woodhall Spa around lunchtime, and on what was now a gloriously sunny day, enjoyed post refreshments in the town centre. It was a great day and adventure, and something I highly recommend others try if they find themselves a little lost or lacking with running focus at the moment what with everything going on in the world!
 
Next week should be the final full week of training before the next announcement from the London Marathon is due. I will approach it with focus, but I am very open about the fact I hope this is my last week of marathon training for 2020. ​
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London Marathon Training Week 3 #2

7/12/2020

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This week my running has fallen into one of either two camps – felt really good or felt really tough. There has been no middle ground! The tough runs my legs have just felt so tight; I bang on about a Sports Massage, but I am used to having one every month or so, and thus it’s been hard going without for nearly five months, especially when I have probably been running more cumulative miles than ever before during lockdown. I think my legs are hitting their limit! My prayers seem to have been answered though as the announcement this week regarding the further relaxing of lockdown restrictions means that Sports Therapists are now able to do hands on treatment. With my quads now at the ‘unbelievably tight’ stage I am literally counting down the days until my appointment, which I have managed to book for Friday.

MONDAY: home exercises and strength and conditioning - seems I may also be able to return to the gym soon!

TUESDAY: despite being ‘easy’ miles, this run fell into the ‘tough’ camp. My legs just had no energy, which meant that even though I was meant to be keeping the pace down, 8 miles still felt like a bit too much of an effort.

WEDNESDAY: I met my friend again this week for another 6am run out in the countryside just outside Lincoln. Considering how rubbish my legs felt yesterday I was a little doubtful if I would be able to keep up with him this week! However, my body felt like a totally different person, and I ran along strongly, keeping to the quick rhythm. A few times I glanced down at my watch and saw for sections we were even edging into sub 7-minute mile territory! We finished with 6 miles and an average pace of 7.18 min/mile – I could not have done that yesterday.

​THURSDAY: this was both a ‘good’ running day and a double running day, with the long-awaited return of my Run Club in the evening. My solo morning run was intervals; just over 4 miles with 6 x 800m reps. I actually ran these on a very small loop of streets near my house, logging laps almost like at a track – I prefer this approach for interval running as it means I can switch off thinking about where to run and put all my energy into just running. I was pleased with my splits, which logged 7:16, 6.50, 7.06, 6.26, 7.06, 6.50 respectively, and my legs felt powerful throughout.
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Then, after another day of the dreaded ‘working from home’, I could not wait to get out again and meet some of my friends from Run Club! It had been four months since our last Run Club session, and despite the fact we were all split into small groups across Lincoln (following Government guidance of course!) it was great to be able to run together again. A miserable, grey and damp evening brightened instantly by being amongst and running with friends! I have missed it, and I look forward to when we can become our bigger community again.  

​FRIDAY: Rest Day


SATURDAY: I woke this morning and even lying in bed I could feel my legs were heavy and tight. With a long run looming tomorrow, I did not even attempt a quick ‘not Lincoln parkrun’ and instead plotted a completely new 5k loop, with a couple of gentle hills, which I ran steadily. As I ran, I knew my decision was wise - my legs definitely had no speed in them!

SUNDAY: my slightly more cautious approach yesterday did not pay off today. Whilst my legs felt better pre-run, during the run they were not great at all. From mile one they were tight and never loosened – I likened them to planks of wood which I stiffly had to try bend and keep moving. At times my quads reminded me of the final few miles of a marathon; that heavy tightness that doesn’t get any worse but just makes each step feel like a monumental effort! Somehow, I got through 18 miles; there was just this little voice inside my head willing me to keep going on! At one point I was at a section of my route where I could turn for home and cut the run short at about 9/10 miles, or start another loop which would mean I was ‘all in’ for the full 18 miles. I paused for a second, but found myself heading for the loop – am sure others may have headed for home, especially with the fact that the marathon I am training for is by no means certainly going to happen! Whilst my legs felt rubbish, my pace was slow and it was a tough few hours out running, I am pleased my mental strength is still apparent. 

So that's Week 3 of this second version of training complete and another 43.5 miles in the legs. Two more weeks of training until the promised next announcement from the London Marathon… ​
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London Marathon Training Week 2 #2

7/5/2020

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​Despite the complete lack of certainty about whether the London Marathon will actually take place or not, this week I have continued to find myself motivated to follow my training plan and have ran well despite the distinct tightness in my legs (have I mentioned I REALLY need a sports massage!) Outside of running life, things have felt a little frustrating. Again I may have mentioned once or twice (!!) that I really do not enjoy working from home and there seems to be no end in sight in that respect, which feels a little suffocating, especially when other industries and offices are starting to move forward. Secondly, I realised that despite this week seeing the latest easing of lockdown restrictions from Boris, the things I really love still cannot happen – parkrun, going to races with friends, going to the gym and obviously being able to do my job normally. So, I have not met being able to go to the pub with any great euphoria at all! On the plus side though, we are starting a social distanced/bubble version of my Run Club next week, and whilst it will not be perfect being unable to see everyone and run altogether, I cannot wait for Thursday night.

MONDAY: some ‘at home’ exercises and strength and conditioning work.

TUESDAY: five easy miles to start the week; my legs felt like they wanted to go quicker, but I reined them in knowing I had some quicker runs ahead. Marathon training does require a bit more thought and discipline!

WEDNESDAY: I met my friend for a run today who I had not seen in months, we used to meet every Wednesday for an early morning run, but after my Chicago Marathon recovery period last year we slipped out of the habit. It was great to catch up and even when he mentioned he still needed to run early due to being at work it did not bother me; I welcomed some structure. Early did in fact mean 6am and I agreed to meet him where he lives just outside Lincoln. This meant I woke up at 5am and was running by 5:56am – most definitely the earliest in a long time! We ran nearly 6 miles mixing some country lanes with trails – my friend is still quick, so we averaged 7:46 min/mile which was conversational for him, but a bit more challenging for me, especially on trails!

THURSDAY: intervals this week were the same as last week; 7 miles with 4 x 1 mile reps. Thankfully it was nowhere near as hot as last week and actually had a fine drizzle in the air for some parts. Like last week I aimed for as close to 7 min/mile pace as possible on the reps and started well, kept the middle two reps fairly consistent, but again tired on the last, with splits of 7.08, 7.14, 7.15, 7.24 min/mile respectively. I was happy though and I had given my all; a passer-by seemed to agree with me and nodded approvingly saying ‘commendable running!'
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FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: my Garmin annoyed me during this week’s ‘not Lincoln parkrun’ attempt. I tried my luck on my flatter, faster course, and despite the wind, I felt I was running relatively strong. My Garmin just never grasped GPS properly though and I ran much further along my normal out and back loop than normal. My time was therefore a little disappointing compared to how it felt – but there’s always next week!
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SUNDAY: getting my things together ready to run I could hear a wild wind causing various disruptions outside my window; another wind battering long Sunday run beckoned – great! With my sensible hat on I started steadily, not wanting to tire myself out and end up battling the wind, and my strategy worked. Throughout the 16 miles I logged my splits were very consistent, hovering around the 8:30 min/mile region. Less consistent was the wind which seemed to blow in all manner of directions (I think my post run hair justifies how wild it was!) but to be honest I felt able to cope with it tests. The miles also passed quite quickly, and overall I was pleased with how I coped with the next step up in long run mileage.

Onto Week 3... running well, but still not at all hopeful of the end goal! 
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London Marathon Training Week 1 #2

6/28/2020

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Week one of London Marathon 2020 training – take two. Its been hot, its been hard at times, but overall I have been impressed by how I have mentally applied myself to this second version of training; especially as I am still not optimistic that the race should or will be able to go ahead. The heatwave and a slight ramp in intensity has hit me a bit – this weekend I have been tired, not just in a running sense, but from lack of sleep and the general effort required to keep myself motivated and cool whilst working from my rather hot little house (this week has made me hate working from home even more!)

MONDAY: I switched up my home exercise routine a little this week, not only to relieve the monotony, but to focus a little more on some strength and conditioning exercises to compliment my running. I am missing the gym and also being able to have a sports massage, so I want to try and limit injury as much as possible.

TUESDAY: 5 very easy miles – the sudden rise it temperature caught me a little unaware and I realised I was running far too late in the morning to be able to do any of my other planned higher intensity sessions.

WEDNESDAY: I have not ran a tempo run since lockdown began, so initially I was a little nervous about this morning’s 7 miles, with the 5 middle miles aiming for 8 min/mile pace. I then reminded myself that I have actually been running a lot of my runs close to 8 min/mile without consciously trying during lockdown, so I had to be more confident in my current fitness level. The warmth did make the run a little more challenging, but I hit my target, with the middle miles all in the 7:50 min/mile region.

THURSDAY: this morning was a rather harsh introduction back into running some intervals; 7 miles with 4 x 1 mile reps is never easy, but at already nearly 20 degrees it was going to be an extra test. I was saved slightly by the fact the loop of streets I like to run intervals around was well shaded and I made sure to actively stop after each interval for a few seconds of the recovery period to try and keep both my composure and temperature down. Ambitiously I was aiming for the mile reps to be as close as possible to 7 min/mile pace, and I was quite pleased with my splits; 7.08, 7.00, 7.12, 7.17 min/mile respectively – my legs were feeling it on that last rep and on the cool down home afterwards!
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FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: my not Lincoln parkrun attempt this week was a struggle; I was just so tired. I could feel it all over as I tried to find some pace. Unlike last week where I felt real energy and power running along my hilly course, this week I had to battle up the hills.
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SUNDAY: whilst the heat had significantly reduced today, a gloriously gusty wind replaced it instead. Owing to how tired I felt yesterday and with the conditions I knew to keep today’s longer run steady. I had 14 miles on my plan, which was not too much of a jump from my usual Sunday half marathon I have been logging during lockdown. The first 3 miles were awful though; my legs felt energy-less and my little rucksack filled with water felt like a huge weight on my back. I feared a long slog ahead. I tried to keep positive though and I did in fact grow into the run, my legs feeling a bit more life. I would not say I felt amazing and during those initial miles a few thoughts flashed through my head about just cutting the run short. However, that lingering prospect of the London Marathon actually happening kept my head in the game. How long can I keep it up... or will I need to keep it up for?
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A Blog About It All...

3/15/2020

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This should have been a summary of week ten of my journey to the London Marathon, but instead I find myself reflecting on what is a very strange and uncertain time for the world. No one's lives are being unaffected by the spread of the Coronavirus, and as this week progressed, I knew the chances of the London Marathon happening were fading by the second. To be honest I am glad it has now been postponed; and postponed is the key word for me. A cancellation would have been devastating for myself and others, especially those who have longed to complete the London Marathon for many years. It was also starting to become a very anxious time waiting for announcements on the race, and every time someone mentioned the virus I felt my own anxiety levels rise, waiting to hear what the latest development had been and how it would affect me. Lastly, it was also the right decision to postpone the race for the well being of all; I would have not wanted to take part under such uncertainty and under the fear of putting others at risk; it would have tainted the experience.

Friday 13th March was a tough day for the news to hit as many Spring marathons were also postponed on this day. In fact marathons seem to fall like dominoes and I found myself messaging a lot of my friends throughout the afternoon as each of our respective races announced their postponement. I had not even had the chance to see the decision had been made on the London Marathon myself, as friends and family messaged me the news. Although not the best news to be passing on to me, I was touched at people's care that they knew this would mean something to me, and that they also had a desire to check I was ok. 

So am I ok? The truthful answer is yes; in marathon terms I am totally fine with the news. To be honest, how well I am coping with the fact my main focus in life has suddenly removed is a really big thing for me; had this happened maybe last year I think I would have slipped into a very sad place very quickly. It is a testament to how I have progressed personally these past months. I am sad of course about a few things, mainly being unable to share what would have been the next six weeks of training with my Run Club friends. I have honestly loved my last ten weeks of training, my own solo training runs and my recent running adventures with friends, and I do not feel my efforts have been wasted at all - I am developing as a runner but also have made a lot of happy memories along the way. I am also sad I will not be able to cheer my friends on at their own Spring marathons, and in particular we had planned to go on mass to spectate at Manchester where a large number of Run Club members were due to be running. Hopefully we may still be able to in Autumn. I am also sad for my friends, especially those who had their first ever marathon lined up - none of them are disputing the decisions which have been made, but there are still emotions they are feeling which they are entitled to have. I have tried to be there for people and offer as much positivity and words of encouragement and support. I would have needed those a while back. 
So where does this leave me? I will be taking up my place for the rearranged London Marathon date in October, and I am very pleased my fellow Run Cub friend who was also due to run London can also make the new date. I was looking forward to a race weekend together, and now it has just been shifted back a few months. In terms of training, I feel like at the moment until things become clearer in the world, there will be no races and I will not seek anything either. My next booked event is a local half marathon at the start of May, followed by a 20 mile trail event which we have entered as a group from Run Club later in the month. Therefore I have a need to keep some distance within my training, but I will undoubtedly scale back a little, especially without the drive of my big goal race. 

Personally, the uncertainty in the world across the next few weeks does scare me a little. Forget marathon training, but I do need to be able to run for my personal well being, and the thought of any form of 'lockdown' and being house bound is something I fear. Since Friday, I have also been instructed by my work that I must work from home for the next three weeks, and have to cancel virtually all face to face meetings and events I had planned. It was tough walking home on Friday having lost my marathon and what felt like losing my job; I love running and I love my job, so it was a double whammy almost. I also live by myself and it feels quite lonely to think of being at home for that length of time. I am being honest about how I feel with people though, and have already had offers from friends to join them for runs in the week so I can at least see and talk to some people! Its a very weird time, and I completely appreciate the need to try and protect vulnerable people in particular, but I do also want to try safeguard my own health and happiness as much as possible, especially after working so hard to feel good again. 

Anyway, enough 'virus talk' - I feel I need to sign off London Marathon training (part 1!) with a bit of what I achieved this week, as I most certainly did not give up! 

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: a tough session of 7 miles with 3 x 1.5 mile reps - a mile and a half is a long way to push the pace and it certainly asked a lot of me!

WEDNESDAY: after a very long day at work on Tuesday and a tough run, I was grateful of 'just' 5 steady miles today, although was shocked to see these averaged 8.15 min/mile and still felt comfortable. 

THURSDAY: a double run day with 8 morning miles at easy pace, followed by a precise 3.6 miles later during a continuous hill based session I led at Run Club.

FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: a very pleasing morning at Lincoln parkrun, as not only did I get to share my happy place with some of my colleagues and friends from work, but I also ran a sub 21 minute time (20:53!) and finished as first female, feeling strong and possibly running off Friday 13th's frustrations. 

SUNDAY: I was due to be running Ashby 20 today with a few friends from Run Club, however it was cancelled, and I instead I found myself heading out for a solo 20 miles of my own. The organisers of Ashby 20 had set up a virtual Facebook group encouraging people to log their own 20 miles, and to be honest that was enough of a challenge and incentive for me. I could not quite motivate myself enough to push the pace like a race, but I was pleased to see that I held 8:30 min/miles quite consistently throughout. There were a few slower miles in there, which directly correlated with when my motivation started to waiver, meaning my end average pace did end up at 8:40 min/mile, but it was my commitment that impress me the most. 

What a week... and I do not fully know what the future weeks will hold. I do know I am going to try and keep as positive as possible, and reach out to others if I feel I am struggling. The offer of my time and support will also be there to anyone out there too. Keep safe and keep running x
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London Marathon Training: Week 9

3/8/2020

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This week has presented more of a mental challenge than previous weeks, which has solely been due to the press coverage and constant debate surrounding a certain virus which is in the UK. I am not going to add to the talk too much here, however the speculation around the potential cancellation of the London Marathon is hard not to worry about, and I feel for everyone in the same boat as me with upcoming marathon events that they have dedicated so much time and passion towards. I know I have to just focus on what I can control, and that means putting all my energy into my running and remaining positive.

MONDAY: I was due to be away with work on Tuesday so knew I needed to fit a run in today, which I usually like to leave as a running rest day after Sunday's longer run. I chose the shortest option on my plan; 3 easy miles before my Body Pump class. 

TUESDAY: slightly annoyingly after rearranging my entire training week, my work trip was cancelled today..! I stuck with an interval session though, wanting to get my harder workouts logged early in the week to allow for maximum recovery ahead of the Cambridge Half Marathon on Sunday. This week involved hill repeats and I will admit the prospect of tackling these without my Run Club support (we incorporate regular group hill sessions into our programme) was a little less enthralling! I opted to run a well known route within Lincoln called 'Rolling Hills' which is 10k consisting of the major inclines within the city centre region. I chose this as I knew once I started I would make myself stick to the route! It was tough, some of the hill climbs it involves are very steep, but I was pleased I did not stop on any of them and that despite my initial unwillingness, my mental strength came through. 

WEDNESDAY: an easy paced 8 miles on a very chilly morning. The icy air meant I kept my watch well hidden under layers, and despite feeling like I was plodding along quite slowly, I was somewhat surprised to see at the end I was running around the 8:30 min/mile pace.  

THURSDAY: my Run Club session this week was at the track, and I knew I had to be strict on myself and not push too much as my legs would pay the price in the following days. Thankfully, we had a session which I could hold back a little on, with 2km repeats planned. I aimed to run these around 8 min/mile pace and just see how many I could log. In practice I seemed to naturally slot into the 7:45 min/mile region though, so chose to hold this pace across the reps I completed, finishing with 5 miles distance in total. I had ran steadily, but not stupidly. 
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FRIDAY: today's miles were just for me really; I did not want two consecutive rest days and also wanted to maintain a certain weekly mileage level, so laced up for 4 easy miles, again finding this to be around the 8:30 min/mile region.

​SATURDAY: Rest Day - and a lovely morning volunteering at Lincoln parkrun on a specially themed International Women's Day event (see image).


SUNDAY: Cambridge Half Marathon beckoned today and a chance to test myself over a slightly shorter distance than of late. I knew I wanted to race this event and give it my best shot, and I was pleased with how my body performed. I wanted a sub 1:40 time and met my goal by finishing in 1:37:53. This was my third Cambridge Half Marathon, but first on the brand new route, and I really enjoyed the fantastic support and atmosphere the new course offered. Full blog to follow - but a positive step forward in my training again. All about keeping positive. ​
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London Marathon Training: Week 8

3/1/2020

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Eight weeks of training under my belt means I have hit the half way point in my sixteen week training plan. This milestone feels a good time to be reflective, both of where I am in my running and also how I am feeling in general. Training wise I have absolutely no complaints; my focus for this plan was to build upon my endurance, get more longer runs in and feel strong and comfortable across longer distances. I feel I am achieving this so far; I increased my long run distances much earlier in my plan than normal, and at this half way point I already have two 19 milers and a 20 miler under my belt - on all three I felt strong too. In terms of my own personal feeling; I probably feel the happiness I have felt in quite a long time - this fact actually hit me this week. After a couple of years in which sometimes my big cheesy grin was a little less genuine that perhaps it appeared, this realisation felt truly freeing and a moment I feel quite proud to admit. 

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: today was a very long and busy day in which I crammed a lot of different elements in - someone at work even commented how many different hats I was trying to wear in one day! It started with my 5:30am alarm for intervals and ending getting home just after 10pm following my Run Club's AGM. It was a fulfilling and productive day, however it did knacker me and led to an unscheduled rest day on Wednesday. Running wise my intervals were strong and I headed to my now favourite paved circuit near my house to run 5 miles with 12 x 200m reps and 200m recoveries; a lot of my paces were in the low 7 min/mile region or just under.

WEDNESDAY: Rest Day - I had some easy miles on my plan, but waking up feeling tired, under fuelled and with a headache, I just knew there was zero point in putting my body through something which would probably only make it feel worse, rather than enhance my training. 

THURSDAY: after a break yesterday I came back strong today with a double run day; starting with 5 easy miles in the morning and adding a further 3.5 miles at Run Club in the evening. Our Run Club session was some very testing steep hill repeats, the kind you would really struggle to commit to unless running in a group! I have to admire everyone's determination to tackle the gradient - it certainly was not easy! - and my fellow club mates definitely inspired me to push myself. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day
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SATURDAY: as I crossed the finish line at Lincoln parkrun today I felt a little like I had missed an opportunity - my watch read 21:02 and I was so close to a sub 21 minute time again. I had not looked at my watch whilst I was running, instead using others around me as markers and running to feel. I felt I was running consistently but not necessarily that speedily, hence not paying attention to my watch! I had something left at the end and I feel I could have snatched those few seconds if I had pushed that little bit earlier! It is by no means the end of the world, and in fact I should really feel pleased that I was close to a sub 21 minute time without feeling like I was pushing myself 'all out.' One opportunity I did take today though was to run a Leap Year parkrun - the first ever one, and the next will not take place until 2048. I hope I will still be running laps around Boultham Park then. 

SUNDAY: my longest run of training so far - the first 20 miler. I did not feel daunted by this though; having a couple of 19 milers already banked it felt achievable and I knew I was ready for it. However, as has been the pattern for the past few weeks now, Sunday appears to be the day when Storm something-or-other decides to really batter the UK. Strong winds prevailed yet again today and certainly made the run tougher than it could have otherwise been. My absolute saving grace was running the full 20 miles with my friend from Run Club - we took it slow and steady, pacing according to the conditions and enjoying chatting. The miles passed so quickly, and I know if I had been out there battling away alone this would not have been the case. The toughest part was the final 5 or so miles which were almost all directly into the strong headwind. It felt like at times we were running literally on the spot and getting nowhere fast! I tried to keep the mood light at this point by finding as many positives about the situation as possible - I actually amazed myself how well I achieved this! The most obvious one though was that the conditions, although testing, were good training and will prove beneficial on what will hopefully be a perfectly still and tranquil marathon race day in eight weeks time...!
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London Marathon Training: Week 7

2/23/2020

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I started this week feeling a bit run down; a cough niggled, my head hurt and I was tired. After a 50+ hour working week previously, as well as 40+ miles of running I think my body was just telling me to slow down a bit. I listened, which meant taking the first few days of this week steady, especially as I knew I had a big weekend of work and running ahead. Managing life and training can be tough, and I am sure I have far less variables to juggle than some people do!

MONDAY: Rest Day - I felt fatigued today, and with some flexibility in my usual working schedule, decided to shift my weights class to tomorrow and have a complete day of recovery. 

TUESDAY: a day of rest meant I felt far more prepared to tackle today's interval run, which was 6 miles with 10 x 400m reps. Perhaps it is down to the track work I have been doing in recent months with my Run Club, but I am finding intervals far less intimidating than previous training cycles, and I actually look forward to them! I ran well and logged a few sub 7 min/mile paces for some of the interval reps. Body Pump class in the evening. 

WEDNESDAY: with less evening work commitments this week I chose to allow my body some extra time in bed in this morning and went running after work. I still much prefer morning runs, but I felt any chance to maximise extra rest was needed. I had 7 miles on my plan, suggested to be at 8 min/mile pace. For now the third consecutive week, the wind was rather blustery and made the first few miles a real challenge to hit this pace. Turning away from a direct headwind, I managed to find some rhythm though, and some quicker miles meant I finished the run with an 8:05 min/mile average pace - I will take that!

THURSDAY: 8 easy miles, made a little tougher by (you guessed it!) the wind. I had ten miles on my plan, but 8 miles felt enough today, and I was also conscious I was increasing my mileage more than my plan suggested at the weekend due to taking part in the Stamford 30k. In the evening I led a track session for Run Club, which I thoroughly enjoyed, and I was grateful of the personal rest from any further miles. 
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FRIDAY: a steady 3 mile progression run, starting at closer to 9 min/mile pace and finishing nearer to 8 min/mile pace, shaking the legs out a little in preparation for a Sunday's race.

​SATURDAY: Rest Day - in which I was pleased to still be able to squeeze in volunteering at Lincoln parkrun before heading to work. I hate to miss parkrun in any capacity!


SUNDAY: my first race of 2020; Stamford 30k. After the event was rearranged due to storms last weekend, I was really pleased to gain a space in the race, and had opted to run it instead of a half marathon I had originally entered. I felt the longer distance was more suited to my current training stage, I had never tried the event before, and I also had a few friends from Run Club I could share the day with (see image). The wind still prevailed (honestly - enough of the wind now!) and the hilly course profile I had been warned about certainly lived up to its expectations, but I was really pleased with how strong I felt. I didn't push myself 'all out' but ran steadily, logging the full near 19 miles running alongside my friend from Run Club. Considering the wind and the hills I was very happy with an 8:23 min/mile average pace and the distance flew by with my friend's company. Full blog to follow - but I really enjoyed another long run and sharing the experience with friends; I cannot emphasise how good this feels compared to the relative struggle I faced with long runs during my last marathon training block. A happy ending to a tough start to the week. ​
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London Marathon Training: Week 6

2/16/2020

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'I love running in the wind' said no one ever - this has been one of my favourite quotes of the week. If anyone truly likes running in the wind then fair play to them! I personally hate the way the wind makes everything feel so much harder, and especially when training for a marathon, I do no think any runner needs that! After Storm Ciara last week, the windy weather remained throughout this week, and by the weekend Storm Dennis decided he wanted a piece of the action..! Despite the disruption I have managed to log 43 miles for the week and am feeling strong and happy; just no more storms now please!

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: this was the worst day of the week in terms of battling against the wind. It was very strong and meant I had to dig deep to produce a tempo run. I had 6 miles on my plan, with the 4 middle miles at half marathon pace. Ideally I wanted closer to the 7:30 min/mile region for the tempo section, but it was such hard work, and I settled for just trying to log some sub 8 min/mile splits. I managed this feat; but even that was not easy, and it felt at times like I was running against sheer resistance!

WEDNESDAY: a midweek ten miler is always a sign for me that marathon training is getting serious. The wind persisted, although slightly less strong, which meant a few miles were a bit more challenging than they should have been. I kept my pace easy though, focusing on mileage and form rather than speed. 

THURSDAY: my interval session for the week was a due to be hill repeats and this coincided perfectly with a hill session we had planned at Run Club. After a mile warm up it was then into a very challenging block of hill repeats, sprinting as fast as possible up a steep incline and recovering on the downhill. We completed four sets of 8 minutes and as each set passed I could feel my legs tiring and having to push myself more to maintain pace. It was tough and certainly not a session I would have attempted without the support and motivation of being in a club environment. A recovery jog home left me with 5 more miles in the legs - and ready for tomorrow's rest day! 
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FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: my efforts during Thursday's hill session were still in my legs today; I was a little tight and stiff. I gave parkrun my best shot, but I think I knew I would need fresher legs to really be challenging a good time. The wind was also starting to build again and the rain started to lash as I made my way around Lincoln's Boultham Park - Dennis the Menace announcing his arrival! I finished in 21:21, which I think was the best my body was capable of this particular week. 


SUNDAY: during the night I had been woken by the wind howling and rain splattering violently against my window, and as I buried deeper into my duvet I thought to myself that planning a long run on Sunday was probably a stupid thing to do. The only reassurance I sought was from the fact I knew I would be running with some of my friends from Run Club; their planned race had been postponed, so their loss had actually meant I gained some much welcomed long run company (and a place at the rearranged Stamford 30k for next week!) Meeting up with my long run crew on Sunday morning the wind had actually settled a little and the rain had stopped; maybe we were not so crazy after all! In fact, throughout the vast majority of the 19 miles we completed, the weather was far kinder than we could ever have hoped; some sections were windy, some rain did fall, and certain paths were very wet and boggy, but it could have been so much worse! 19 miles is my longest run yet of this training cycle, but it did not feel it; the company and chat meant the miles flew by, and my legs really felt strong. By the end of the run I was tired, but still had more to give. My overriding emotion was actually contentment rather than fatigue; it is amazing what an enjoyable few hours chatting and doing what I love with like minded friends can result it. Dennis certainly did not defeat us!
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London Marathon Training: Week 5

2/9/2020

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Another week has passed, and I will be honest, it has flown by! It has been a very busy week for me work wise and I knew I would need to make conscious effort not just to get my running in, but also to make sure I looked after myself. It is something very easy to let slip in the whirlwind that is life - let alone when you throw in running 40 odd miles a week into the mix!

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: rather than a form of interval run, this week my plan specified 7 miles of fartlek aka 'speed play' (I learnt this way back in GCSE PE!) On runs like these I tend to plan a hillier route which naturally demands my body to work harder on different gradients/run at different speeds. I quite enjoyed the change, and I personally find it much more effective way of approaching fartlek training than just running and trying to make myself go faster on certain streets etc. 

WEDNESDAY: Tuesday had a been a long day work-wise; I got to work for 8:30am and arrived home just before 9pm. When my alarm went of this morning to run I just did not feel refreshed, physically I probably could have ran, but mentally I was tired. I was not due to be working in the evening, so decided to try an evening run. Post work it was then a different story, mentally I felt much more recharged to take on 8 miles, but physically I was weary from a busy day. My 8 miles were supposed to be slow/recovery, and it was just as well, as I could not have upped my pace from a steady plod even if I wanted to!

THURSDAY: it was track night at Run Cub tonight, so I was pleased to allow my body the extra recovery and to be able run in the evening again. I am much more of a morning runner, but with club it is different as the inspiration and motivation of others pushes me. Having said this, after another full on day at work, as I sat in my car at the track I felt I had no energy, a weary mind and it was also flipping freezing! I did not feel 'up' for the session, and even less so when the pyramid set we were running was outlined to me; it was tough. This is when the magic of running kicked in though; as soon as I started to run everything was forgotten and suddenly I became focused on just me and my strides. I slotted in with a few other club mates and  we tackled a 1600m, 1200m, 800m, 400m, 200m, 100m descending pyramid, with 400m recovery in between each distance. Together we kept a strong pace throughout and I was really pleased with my splits. I left the track feeling energised and strong, very different to how I arrived. 

FRIDAY: Rest Day
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SATURDAY: my original plan for this week was to, as usual, run my long run on a Sunday. I was already dreading this a little though as I was due at work for 10am, which would mean needing to be out the house for 6am and getting up at 4am to eat... slightly crazy I know. I was then alerted to the predicted arrival of Storm Ciara on Sunday with a threat of 'danger to life' winds. It was all sounding a little dire! Thankfully I was saved by the offer of a long run on Saturday; and it turned out to be a really good alternative in many ways. Some of you may have read in past blogs that my workplace, Lincoln City Foundation (who I love working for even though sometimes I am very busy!), have partnered with Curly's Athletes to hold the Lincoln City Half Marathon in September 2020 (more info here: www.lincolncityhalfmarathon.co.uk) On Friday, one of the guys at Curly's said they were coming to Lincoln to try the parkrun and did I fancy doing a recce of the half marathon route after wards. It may as well have been a rhetorical question! So that is what I did; I ran my Lincoln parkrun (in a conservative 24 minutes, which was actually really enjoyable) and then headed out for 13 more miles testing out the event route - which will all be revealed in the forthcoming weeks! I loved running with someone and the distance flew by, and it was also exciting to imagine thousands of people running these steps in a few months time. I ran quicker than my normal long run pace of late, around the 8:20 min/mile marker but felt really strong. I loved the route too - but maybe I am slightly bias!

SUNDAY: with 3 miles left to run this week I had the intention of getting these logged before going to work. However, Storm Ciara sounded scarily violent outside my window and I decided to wait until later in the day and review the conditions. When I got home later on it was still very windy, however I was mentally a bit worn out from a sixth day at work and I really just needed some form of release and I guess some 'me time'. I laced up for 3 easy miles, with my pace very much dictated by the wind direction! It was what I needed and a nice way to end a busy but rewarding week. ​
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London Marathon Training: Week 4

2/2/2020

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Four weeks of training logged and 40 more miles of running achieved this week.  A few people have asked me how my training is going and I can only speak positively. I also feel a change in myself this marathon cycle; I feel more relaxed about training, and whilst I am pushing hard in the physical running sessions, away from pounding the streets, I am calmer in my mind, more content and just generally happier. It is a balance in past years I openly admit I may have lacked a little. 

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: I was eager to attempt my intervals today as I was giving my new trainers their first run out. I had 6 miles with 6 x 800m reps on the plan and really enjoyed it; I have found a nice stretch of pavement which I can run in loops, and whilst some may find this boring, I like being able to just focus on the session. My trainers felt great and I hit good splits for the interval reps, the majority sub 7:30 min/mile pace.

WEDNESDAY: I was joined by my sister and her boyfriend for this morning's just over 7 mile recovery run, as they were staying with me in Lincoln to deliver a sport science presentation to my Run Club. It was good to have company, especially over chatty, easier miles, and it helped to make recovery miles feel a little less laborious and was much easier to keep pace under control. 

THURSDAY: a day of two runs; up first, my own 5 mile tempo run, with the middle 3 miles hitting half marathon pace. Later it was my turn to lead at Run Club and I had a hill session planned, incorporating loops to challenge all members (see image). I love taking my turn to lead; it is not abut my own miles (although I do log some of course!) and I genuinely get real joy from supporting and encouraging others to achieve and progress in their own running goals. 
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FRIDAY: Rest Day

​SATURDAY: a breakthrough in parkrun terms, as I logged a sub 21 minute time again, finishing in 20:53. Importantly, I felt really strong in doing so. For me this shows my training is coming together; time is one thing, but the feeling of power and strength in my body is more satisfying. It is always helped being encouraged by the parkrun volunteers on the course too, and I was lucky to have support on a number of twist and turns around the Lincoln parkrun course today, which helped give me an extra push.


SUNDAY: I am keen to build my endurance base more than ever during this training cycle, so today was another 16 miler, trying to get my body comfortable with running for longer. I felt strong for the vast majority of this run, which pleased me, and I did not look at my watch and just let my legs turn rhythmically around. I had a couple of miles where my legs tightened, but towards the end I felt like I could even have pushed the pace a little more. I averaged exactly the same time as last week, 8.30 min/mile, and the consistency in my longer runs is also a marker of progress in my mind. ​
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London Marathon Training: Week 3

1/26/2020

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It may only be the third week of my training, however the demands have already started to increase. I am following a new training plan for this sixteen week block, and have made some tweaks and changes from the previous plans I have followed. As part of this, I knew to expect things to 'ramp up' a little sooner than maybe I am used to. I have coped well this week though, and I can feel my body adapting, which is what I ultimately want to happen!

MONDAY: Rest Day - due to work commitments I had to switch my usual strength session to Tuesday.

TUESDAY: so far, this winter has been relatively kind to us runners; however it does mean when a cold spell hits it does shock and frustrate me a little! I woke feeling refreshed and motivated to attack some intervals, however stepping outside early before work I was disgruntled to see sparkling icy paths and some white patches. I stuck with my intervals; running 7 miles with 4 x 1 mile reps, but had to be cautious, pushing when I felt safe to do so, and reining things in a little when I was unsure. My paces were not what I would have liked, but I think they were realistic in the conditions. Body Pump class in the evening.

WEDNESDAY: another cold morning, but thankfully no frost or ice. 7 more miles were on the plan, this time at an easy pace. Easy pace running can be tough sometimes in the real cold weather; you almost feel like you want to go quicker to try warm up! I kept disciplined though, letting my legs turn round steadily; easy miles are just as important. 

THURSDAY: today was track night with Run Club and with a tough session of 400m reps planned, I rested in the morning rather than running a handful of 'junk' miles. I also wanted to keep my legs fresh to test myself on the track. I felt able to push hard; and was really pleased with the consistency and speed I managed across the 12 x 400m I ran; logging splits of 6.04, 6.04, 6.08, 6.04, 6.04, 6.04, 6, 6.04, 6.16, 6.12, 5.56 and 6 min/mile. I would not have ran as well without the support of my club mates though; the first 8 reps I ran with a fellow female, who is quicker than me, but we worked together to pace the laps and time the rest periods, and she both challenged me and kept me consistent. She rested after 8 reps, and I aimed to do 'just' 2 more. Without someone to run with these next two reps felt harder, and my pace dipped by a few seconds. I was going to call it a day at 10, but a few other guys convinced me to run another two reps with them; in a pack of runners I found some pace again and I actually ran my quickest 400m of the lot. A tough session, but I enjoyed the challenge and camaraderie. 
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FRIDAY: Rest Day

​SATURDAY: lining up on the start line of Lincoln parkrun today a fellow parkrunner I usually run close to asked me if I was 'going for it' today; 'yes' I answered confidently. After a few weeks of being a bit off the pace, I really felt like I had to try attack parkrun today and wake my legs up! My first lap was very quick and although I tried to hang onto some other runners, I knew I had to slow down. I did, but gritted my teeth to hold my pace for the final 2 miles, finishing in 21:06. This was my best time for a while, over a minute quicker than previous weeks and was also enough to see me finish as first female. This week was also my friends 100th parkrun - I love seeing people reach their milestone achievements at parkrun; I know how much my weekly 5k fix has changed my life and seeing others reach a milestone I guess it feels like a bit of a celebration of how it has impacted their life too. 


SUNDAY: a sixteen mile run in week three of training is certainly a step up for me; however I felt pleased with how I coped with today's long run. Considering a few weeks ago I was struggling to run more than 3 miles without coughing my lungs up, and a couple of weeks ago I ran with stabbing pain in my side - its all good progress! My legs felt a little tired from the week so far, so I aimed to log some easier miles. Again what really pleased me was my consistency in pacing; I ran splits with only a few seconds variation throughout, sticking close to 8:30 min/mile. Passing 13 miles my legs tightened for a short period, but mentally I was strong enough to stay calm and head for home. I want to log a few more longer runs this block to build my endurance, and this was a good start. ​
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London Marathon Training: Week 2

1/19/2020

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Entering the second week of training and I am already starting to feel some small improvements in my running. It may only be week two of training but I have also logged 39 miles of running, which is quite a step up. I feel good for it though and have even manged to balance some non-running life 'stuff' within the week. I am proud of this too - in the past I would sometimes let marathon training dominate my entire life, but as I become more experienced as runner, I am also learning to find that balance.

MONDAY: a return to Body Pump after a few weeks break. This week my coughing has virtually gone (thank goodness!) and whilst some soreness remained in my side at the start of the week, I felt able to return to doing some strength work.

TUESDAY: a return to strength training felt good, however inevitably I also felt the effect of it today. DOMs hit almost instantly - forget any delay! I had 5 tempo miles on the plan, but found it tough to hit my desired half marathon pace for the middle three miles. I did scrape under the 8 min/mile marker at least, and I was no too hard on myself due to the soreness I was feeling in my legs.

WEDNESDAY: 6 easy miles, which felt needed for my legs and I easily kept the pace toward the 8:40 min/mile region.

THURSDAY: with my muscles feeling less sore I attempted a double run day, with my own interval run planned for the morning and a Run Club session in the evening. Despite messing up using my watch on the intervals (it has been that long since I last did any I was out of practice!) I was really pleased with how I ran. I ran 6 miles with 4 x 1 mile reps; I focused on effort rather than pace for the reps and logged some respectable splits of 7.33, 7.15, 7.18 and 7.39 min/mile repeated along a circular loop which did include a slight hill! Later at Run Club I added 5 more miles during an 'out and back' route battling some interesting headwind!

FRIDAY: Rest Day
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SATURDAY: this week Saturday became long run day as I had a friends birthday Saturday evening with the promise of homemade cocktails. I wanted to celebrate my friends birthday, I wanted to drink cocktails, I wanted to have some fun and I simply did not want marathon training to stop this. Amongst my own demands I also did not want to miss parkrun! The solution was to incorporate parkrun into my long run - something I have never actually tried before. I ran 4 miles down to Lincoln parkrun, completed parkrun, and then 7 miles home after. It certainly made 14 mils go by very quickly, and was a bit of a new challenge. I tried to keep the 4 mils down to parkrun steady, and the fact it was a very icy day helped me keep my parkrun pace in check a little (I am not very confident running on ice at the best of times!) The post parkrun miles were not as comfortable and I could feel that fact I had some extra pace exertion in my legs. I dug in though, embracing what was turning into a lovely day, and finished with an overall average pace of under 8:20 min/mile. With my long run banked, I was then able to enjoy my evening (which did include a lot of cocktails!) 

SUNDAY: after a lovely Saturday night it felt good to 'only' have 3 miles to run today. I enjoyed these later on, when I felt a bit more myself, keeping it easy paced and shaking the legs out a little. 

As you will see in the photo included, this week I have also been looking after my friend's kitten at my house. Through my cat sitting, I have learnt that if you want some procrastination for getting out the door and running a kitten playing with your shoelaces is certainly a good one!
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London Marathon Training: Week 1

1/12/2020

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There have been a few 'London Marathon Training Week One's' in my life across the past years; of which I am really grateful for. This latest 'Week 1' did feel a little different though with the remnants of a four weeks worth of illness in my body, as well as painful ribs on the right side of my body brought on from relentlessly coughing. I was therefore not going into Week One of training feeling physically at my most prepared. This has meant what normally has been seen by me as quite a 'light' week of training has felt a little more challenging than normal as I fight my way back to full fitness. I know I am not far from it though and I just need to be prepared to work that little bit harder, endure a bit more discomfort and keep my goals fresh in my mind over the next few weeks. If anyone has a cure for a cough though please also let me know - my ribs would certainly appreciate it!

MONDAY: Rest Day - I wanted to go back to Body Pump this week, but I knew it was not wise with my ribs. I did not feel assured in my physical ability and also was scared of making myself worse. 

TUESDAY: an easy paced 4 miles to kick start the running element of training - it was not hard for me to run easy for once, as this pace has formed the majority of my running the last few weeks!

WEDNESDAY: this run felt a little more like marathon training; 7 steady miles. I wanted to run sub 8:30 min/mile pace, but at first I struggled to hit this, which worried me. I did find my stride though, averaging 8.22 min/mile overall, although it took more effort than I would like. Reflecting I think it was a combination of my recent pattern of just running easy pace, and also the fact 7 miles is the longest I have ran early morning for a while - so the run was a little bit of a shock to my system. 

THURSDAY: back at Run Club and back at the track. As many members were beginning to restart their running after a bit of a Christmas break, we had opted for a slightly lighter session on the track, focusing on form and with some repeated reps at the end. This was good news as I am not sure my body would have coped with all out track efforts! I had 3 miles on my plan, and almost to perfection, logged just over this throughout the session averaging around 7 min/mile pace.
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FRIDAY: Rest Day and an opportunity to visit my Sport Therapist to look at my ribs. As I had correctly guessed, the muscles on my right hand side were strained and in a state of spasm from my cough, and she worked her magic (in a fairly painful way!) to help relieve this and restore a little bit of postural correctness. The area is still sore, and the fact I cannot rid myself of this cough doesn't help it recover, but its improved. 

​SATURDAY: a struggle of a run around Lincoln parkrun. It was a blustery day and I just did not have the strength to fight the wind; each time we met it on the course I just felt it push me back - I could barely even muster a sprint finish which I usually am able to find from somewhere even when I think I am dying! I ran over 22 minutes, which for me is far from my best. The run emphasised to me the strength/power I have lost in the past weeks; not enough for running to be impossibly hard, but enough to mean when met with challenges like this I am not quite back to top form yet.


SUNDAY: after yesterday's hard run I kept my expectations for today's longer run realistic. I would also be taking on 12 miles; my longest run for weeks. I got off to a tough start; my rib area hurt badly, stabbing into me as I breathed - it really was quite awful. My muscles needed to warm up so I knew I just had to try and override the pain and allow the muscles to relax a little and then I would be ok. Easier said than done! It did work though, as well as me massaging the area (and trying to hide the pain on my face) as I stopped at traffic lights. I have to say the run really exceeded my expectations; I ran along comfortably (ignoring my ribs!) and didn't look at my watch much, and was therefore surprised that the odd glance I did take saw a few sub 8:20 min/mile splits being logged. I maintained this consistency throughout the run, and whilst passing ten miles my legs did feel a little heavier as I asked that bit more from them for the first time in a while, I was really happy overall with how the run went. I finished with an average pace of 8:20 min/mile - which felt natural, despite being much quicker than I imagined and probably should have ran! 

Next week the mileage picks up a little more - lets hope my ribs do too!
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    Alice's Adventures In Running Land

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