The Week of Realisation

This week I have realised two things. One; it is definitely getting cold/into winter running season now! Two; at some point before the year is out I need to give my body a bit more of a break - a real break. I have not really rested at all since September's Berlin Marathon, and whilst I am pleased I have been able to maintain a good base of fitness in terms of both endurance and speed, I also want to be refreshed for January when my training for the London Marathon starts. Running is such a massive part of my life though it is no secret I find it hard to rest, but am hoping the rapidly approaching festive season will bring me some down time. Lets be honest, I am not going to be putting my feet up for an entire week - but I think even a couple of extra days out of routine will do me well before the year is out.

MONDAY: Body Pump class

TUESDAY: it rained almost non stop today, and as I headed out for a cold, dark 6 mile run, prepared  for a soaking, I felt a little mad! At first as the cold rain droplets pelted my face and limbs (I always wear shorts!) I was leaning towards the fact I was actually insane, but then the running endorphins kicked in and suddenly it felt weirdly refreshing. I ran quick, as whilst feeling refreshing, it was still not quite the conditions for a gentle plod!

WEDNESDAY: the rain had disappear but today was simply cold, with a slight bitter edge. Again the conditions urged me to run quick, as opposed to this being a conscious decision, and I ran 5 miles at around 8 min/mile pace. Body Pump after at the gym. 

THURSDAY: after a week's break I returned to a Body Attack class, which I felt instantly on my body. The plyometrics particularly challenged my glutes and left me with noticeable DOMS for the rest of the week!

FRIDAY: Rest Day

SATURDAY: I walked to Lincoln parkun today and as I made my way down to the park I did not feel too energetic, and as I ran the first mile I was thinking this was going to be a bit of a tougher run. Unsurprisingly, my first split was not as quick as I can be and I nearly thought about just easing off. I didn't, and in that mental decision I found some strength in my legs. My final two miles were consistent and quick, and I pushed hard for the finish funnel, forcing a final demand from my legs. My time was 21:05 which I was pleasantly surprised by; I thought I had rescued a better time than I may have expected, but not that good! I really want to try to go sub 21 minutes again before the end of the year, and this was my closest yet!

SUNDAY: I did not feel very lively again today; I had not ran or exercised any more this week than the the past few weeks, but maybe it was a culmination of things. My body seemed jaded and I had suffered from restless legs overnight, which usually only strike during peak marathon training. This made me think about needing more of a rest before January, and I therefore also knew I should take today's run steady. It was a cold morning, with a strong wind that had a slight icy edge to it and made running feel extra tough at times. I  made my way around an 11 mile route and my average pace at the end was actually pretty respectable at 8.27 min/mile. I had ran to feel and this was a surprise as it felt much slower. So two runs this weekend where I have not felt my best, but performed ok - running is strange sometimes!