Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Getting Back Into It...
Just thought I'd fight my way through the layers of thick dust that have settled on my key pad and remove the nest of spiders who appear to have made their home under the space bar... just give me a second or two for the dust to settle so I can see my monitor screen again- cough cough- that's better!
Now where was I? Oh yes- taking a bit of an absence, eating far too much and doing hardly any of the activities collectively known as 'exercise'...
Well the wedding is history, my visitors are now back in Spain and so there is no excuse for me to get back out there and back into it!
Apart from a slight loss of motivation and a mind that keeeps trying to tell me it would much rather sit in front of the TV screen with a bar of chocolate thank you very much!
I know I need another stupid challenge to motivate myself to get off my bum and train but my finances just won't stretch to anything beyond a daily challenge walk at the moment (although I do have the Beacons Ultra in November) so I am just going to have to motivate myself without...
I have at least found my way back to the gym and did a fairly passable workout which left me aching for two days, and have ventured out for a few walk/ runs so I am getting there... baby steps!
Now where was I? Oh yes- taking a bit of an absence, eating far too much and doing hardly any of the activities collectively known as 'exercise'...
Well the wedding is history, my visitors are now back in Spain and so there is no excuse for me to get back out there and back into it!
Apart from a slight loss of motivation and a mind that keeeps trying to tell me it would much rather sit in front of the TV screen with a bar of chocolate thank you very much!
I know I need another stupid challenge to motivate myself to get off my bum and train but my finances just won't stretch to anything beyond a daily challenge walk at the moment (although I do have the Beacons Ultra in November) so I am just going to have to motivate myself without...
I have at least found my way back to the gym and did a fairly passable workout which left me aching for two days, and have ventured out for a few walk/ runs so I am getting there... baby steps!
Labels: Cross training, gym
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Another Good Week!
Not feeling too bad at all this week... I really feel like I am getting back into it despite feeling rough again over the weekend. I decided to go out Tuesday night for a 6 mile run/ walk around the next village, and ended up running all of it (although slowly!) I called into Tesco Direct for a few Christmas present ideas and got a few strange looks...
Wednesday I went to the gym, and although I didn't push myself too much, I felt really strong. The trainer who usually reviews my program with me- Helena- came over for a chat. Sadly (but not for her) she's been promoted, which means she will be on the gym floor instead of handling the reviews. I could use another trainer but I have quite a varied selection of workouts at my disposal, so will probably just mix and match as I go along. I am not working towards anything specific at the moment, the plan is to keep a good level of fitness ticking over to do various LDWA events and runs next year.
I need to save some money before I plan my next big jaunt!!!
Of course, that thing called Christmas is upon us once again (is it me or are the years getting shorter!) so everything kind of slows down but we also seem to get incredibly busy. I notice that the only day my gym is shut over Christmas is Christmas Day; it's usually nice and quiet between Christmas and New Year- then come Jan 1st it's bloody heaving!!
Sigh... suppose I had better set some fitness goals at some point to keep my current motivation up!
Wednesday I went to the gym, and although I didn't push myself too much, I felt really strong. The trainer who usually reviews my program with me- Helena- came over for a chat. Sadly (but not for her) she's been promoted, which means she will be on the gym floor instead of handling the reviews. I could use another trainer but I have quite a varied selection of workouts at my disposal, so will probably just mix and match as I go along. I am not working towards anything specific at the moment, the plan is to keep a good level of fitness ticking over to do various LDWA events and runs next year.
I need to save some money before I plan my next big jaunt!!!
Of course, that thing called Christmas is upon us once again (is it me or are the years getting shorter!) so everything kind of slows down but we also seem to get incredibly busy. I notice that the only day my gym is shut over Christmas is Christmas Day; it's usually nice and quiet between Christmas and New Year- then come Jan 1st it's bloody heaving!!
Sigh... suppose I had better set some fitness goals at some point to keep my current motivation up!
Labels: gym, motivation
Monday, November 09, 2009
Oh Dear
I really haven't been very good lately. I've struggled to find motivation to force myself away from the computer and out into the fresh air or the rather muggy, sweaty recycled air of the gym...
My efforts have been a couple of walks during the week. Although one was around 5 miles, that's hardly the stuff or endurance legend!
I had to miss two days of work last week because of this bl**dy migraine/ virus thing, which of course meant a few days of missed exercise too. Hopefully now though I've kicked that into touch.
I ventured into the gym Sunday (surprised they still recognise me...) and used the weights, rowing machine and elliptical trainer. I decided to test the knee so went on the treadmill and tentatively selected a 10 minute pre-programmed workout which consisted of slow jogging and walking uphill. The knee seemed fine, so I added 5 minutes gentle running. It was still ok- then- I have had a few twinges today...
... I think that the plan for the week is to see how it goes with some gentle walking and slow running. If it's still bad I may try swimming or using the bikes at the gym- I've got to do something or I will end up wedged in this chair!!
Hope everyone else is having more luck with their training...
My efforts have been a couple of walks during the week. Although one was around 5 miles, that's hardly the stuff or endurance legend!
I had to miss two days of work last week because of this bl**dy migraine/ virus thing, which of course meant a few days of missed exercise too. Hopefully now though I've kicked that into touch.
I ventured into the gym Sunday (surprised they still recognise me...) and used the weights, rowing machine and elliptical trainer. I decided to test the knee so went on the treadmill and tentatively selected a 10 minute pre-programmed workout which consisted of slow jogging and walking uphill. The knee seemed fine, so I added 5 minutes gentle running. It was still ok- then- I have had a few twinges today...
... I think that the plan for the week is to see how it goes with some gentle walking and slow running. If it's still bad I may try swimming or using the bikes at the gym- I've got to do something or I will end up wedged in this chair!!
Hope everyone else is having more luck with their training...
Thursday, October 01, 2009
Rejection!!!
I have been rejected... for next year's London Marathon. The ballot has been drawn and I was obviously surplus to requirements!
Still, at least I don't have the worry of getting to London, paying for accommodation, and of course the pressure of all that bl**dy training for the event.
Thought I might be coming down with something as I felt really knackered over the weekend, and started to get excited at the prospect of a few days in bed, doing nothing- but sadly it wasn't to be...
I have been a bit of a stranger at the gym lately, it's a wonder they still recognise me- although I did put in an appearance at Total Tone last night. It's getting so popular I can hardly find a space in my preferred location (right at the back!) and last night somebody nicked my spare weights so I was forced to use the heavier ones for all the arm workouts!
I am working my way up to going to the gym tonight...
Still, at least I don't have the worry of getting to London, paying for accommodation, and of course the pressure of all that bl**dy training for the event.
Thought I might be coming down with something as I felt really knackered over the weekend, and started to get excited at the prospect of a few days in bed, doing nothing- but sadly it wasn't to be...
I have been a bit of a stranger at the gym lately, it's a wonder they still recognise me- although I did put in an appearance at Total Tone last night. It's getting so popular I can hardly find a space in my preferred location (right at the back!) and last night somebody nicked my spare weights so I was forced to use the heavier ones for all the arm workouts!
I am working my way up to going to the gym tonight...
Labels: Body Toning, gym
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Tired- But Started Running Again!
I am so bloomin' tired this week- I don't know why and have even managed to get in some early nights! It sure hasn't been down to overtraining as I haven't done an awful lot. It was the Ponton Plod on Sunday, and I was sorely tempted, but was concerned about my knee- I also felt quite tired so decided it would be more sensible to give it a miss. I did kind of regret it all day though as it was an absolute stunner of a day!
I did actually go running again Tuesday night- around 4 miles, I managed to get a spurt on although I did feel a bit of a twinge in my left knee before the end of the run, so maybe it's just as well I decided not to do the Ponton Plod after all.
Tonight, I intend to brave the gym... I have been a bit of a stranger these past weeks!
I did actually go running again Tuesday night- around 4 miles, I managed to get a spurt on although I did feel a bit of a twinge in my left knee before the end of the run, so maybe it's just as well I decided not to do the Ponton Plod after all.
Tonight, I intend to brave the gym... I have been a bit of a stranger these past weeks!
Labels: gym
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Nothing Much Doing...
It's been a non event sort of week. I have been attempting to undertake some sort of training for the Robin Hood Marathon which is now looming large- 4 weeks to be precise!
I still haven't really build up the mileage like I should have done... I did 7 miles Tuesday night and went out yesterday with the intention of doing 10 in a double circuit round the next village. Rather stupidly I didn't bother taking water with me, and I quickly became very thirsty. As I didn't have any money on me either, I dashed into the public loos in Burton Joyce (trying to ignore the pools of sick some thoughtful person had decided to re-decorate the loos with) and gulped down a few handfuls from the cold tap.
By the time I had done 8 miles I was feeling quite bad, and ran/ walked a further 1 1/2 miles back home for a few glasses of fresh cold water- where I was hoarse for at least an hour afterwards. I'm sure my problems were due to letting myself become too dehydrated. Lesson learnt!!
On the plus side I have been keeping up with the gym work since returning from the seaside and went back to my Total Tone class Wednesday- god it was tough!!
I have a gym review this morning, so it will be interesting to see what she says...
Hope everybody has a good week!
I still haven't really build up the mileage like I should have done... I did 7 miles Tuesday night and went out yesterday with the intention of doing 10 in a double circuit round the next village. Rather stupidly I didn't bother taking water with me, and I quickly became very thirsty. As I didn't have any money on me either, I dashed into the public loos in Burton Joyce (trying to ignore the pools of sick some thoughtful person had decided to re-decorate the loos with) and gulped down a few handfuls from the cold tap.
By the time I had done 8 miles I was feeling quite bad, and ran/ walked a further 1 1/2 miles back home for a few glasses of fresh cold water- where I was hoarse for at least an hour afterwards. I'm sure my problems were due to letting myself become too dehydrated. Lesson learnt!!
On the plus side I have been keeping up with the gym work since returning from the seaside and went back to my Total Tone class Wednesday- god it was tough!!
I have a gym review this morning, so it will be interesting to see what she says...
Hope everybody has a good week!
Labels: dehydration, gym, running
Monday, August 10, 2009
Back From The Seaside!
I am back from a really pleasant break with mum, little sis Katie and the dogs in mum's van at Wells-Next-The-Sea. We were really lucky with the weather- the only rain we had was overnight on Thursday night.
When we set off on Wednesday it was absolutely pouring, but by the time we got there Wells was bathed in sunshine and it was pretty warm. As usual the dogs were excited to be there; it is however impossible to go to the toilet quietly in the night in the van as Jake hears you get up and gets so excited to see somebody awake that he tries to get into the tiny toilet cubicle and wags his tail. Unfortunately his tail is approximately two thirds of his length and space in the van is somewhat limited, so he ends up beating a staccato against the bedroom doors and wakes everyone else.
We had a walk through the woods Wednesday, and I borrowed mum's bike later and went up the lane for 45 minutes, disturbing a baby hedgehog. Thursday we walked down into Wells and had a browse and bowl of salad and chips (a half healthy meal!) in The Globe, accompanied by wasps, which meant a great deal of dancing around from Katie as she is terrified of the stripy little b*ggers.
On Route To Wells
Friday was quite dull so we went for a look around nearby Fakenham, which seems to consist of craft shops, charity shops and a large Tescos. Everywhere seems quite dog friendly though and the dogs got a biscuit each at the first craft shop.
I had a walk out in the evening, down lanes which I later realised were marked as private land- oops! I saw a pair of tiny muntjac deer, but wasn't quick enough to photograph them- well I have a vague brown blob which could actually be anything. It was getting dark as I walked back down the footpath, and a small hollow had filled with mist, creating a most unusual effect as the footpath was completely clear.
Evening Mists
Saturday was a scorcher, so we packed up lunch and carried chairs to the beach, where we found a prime spot in the dunes. I had intended to go for a walk, but thought sod it, I don't often get chance to chillax on the beach. Jake decided to re-enact World War One by digging trenches in an attempt to bury his ball and we sat and read the papers.
Jake Digging For England
We played with the dogs in the water, and they were joined by a collie who just wanted to run with Jake but he wasn't really interested...
Jake In The Water
Gemma In The Water
Jake, Gemma And Friend
It was quite a lazy week, but I didn't feel too bad as I had done the Dovedale Dipper and probably needed a rest, well, that's my excuse!!
Perfect Sun, Sand, Sea And Sky...
I redeemed myself Sunday by hauling my ass into the gym and running for 30 minutes, covering 3 miles, so it's not all bad...
When we set off on Wednesday it was absolutely pouring, but by the time we got there Wells was bathed in sunshine and it was pretty warm. As usual the dogs were excited to be there; it is however impossible to go to the toilet quietly in the night in the van as Jake hears you get up and gets so excited to see somebody awake that he tries to get into the tiny toilet cubicle and wags his tail. Unfortunately his tail is approximately two thirds of his length and space in the van is somewhat limited, so he ends up beating a staccato against the bedroom doors and wakes everyone else.
We had a walk through the woods Wednesday, and I borrowed mum's bike later and went up the lane for 45 minutes, disturbing a baby hedgehog. Thursday we walked down into Wells and had a browse and bowl of salad and chips (a half healthy meal!) in The Globe, accompanied by wasps, which meant a great deal of dancing around from Katie as she is terrified of the stripy little b*ggers.
On Route To Wells
Friday was quite dull so we went for a look around nearby Fakenham, which seems to consist of craft shops, charity shops and a large Tescos. Everywhere seems quite dog friendly though and the dogs got a biscuit each at the first craft shop.
I had a walk out in the evening, down lanes which I later realised were marked as private land- oops! I saw a pair of tiny muntjac deer, but wasn't quick enough to photograph them- well I have a vague brown blob which could actually be anything. It was getting dark as I walked back down the footpath, and a small hollow had filled with mist, creating a most unusual effect as the footpath was completely clear.
Evening Mists
Saturday was a scorcher, so we packed up lunch and carried chairs to the beach, where we found a prime spot in the dunes. I had intended to go for a walk, but thought sod it, I don't often get chance to chillax on the beach. Jake decided to re-enact World War One by digging trenches in an attempt to bury his ball and we sat and read the papers.
Jake Digging For England
We played with the dogs in the water, and they were joined by a collie who just wanted to run with Jake but he wasn't really interested...
Jake In The Water
Gemma In The Water
Jake, Gemma And Friend
It was quite a lazy week, but I didn't feel too bad as I had done the Dovedale Dipper and probably needed a rest, well, that's my excuse!!
Perfect Sun, Sand, Sea And Sky...
I redeemed myself Sunday by hauling my ass into the gym and running for 30 minutes, covering 3 miles, so it's not all bad...
Labels: gym, Wells-Next-The-Sea
Sunday, June 28, 2009
A Productive Weekend!
This has been quite a productive weekend! I thought it was about time I went for a decent length walk/ run, so chose the two routes from 'Short Walks in Nottinghamshire'I last did in January- 8 miles round Lambley and 4 1/2 miles round Gunthorpe and Caythorpe.
It was warm and muggy and there was a few spots of rain, but nothing serious. I followed a bridleway, which in January had been really boggy, but was just overgrown. I thought I'd try to run most of the routes (well, jogged)even though this bit was uphill- I didn't fancy meeting any horses as it was so narrow!
Nottinghamshire Countryside
There was a long road descent to Epperstone and its Dovecote;
Dovecote At Epperstone
The route follows another attractive bridleway, climbing up to an ancient woodland.
Looking Over Woodborough
There was a long descent through fields, before crossing a church yard and main road back to Lambley. I was sweating buckets, but jumped into the car and drove to Caythorpe to start my second route. This went across fields to Gunthorpe, before returning to Caythorpe by the River Trent.
The River Trent
It was quite busy- loads of people round Gunthorpe locks, plus an ice cream van which I had to make myself pass. Apart from walking up the hill in the third photo and a couple of walks for snacks/ drinks, I did jog most of the 12 1/2 miles.
Today I had seen a 'Bingo Wings' workshop on the classes noticeboard which sounded interesting... so I waited by the entrance as instructed, and a girl called Carmen came out. I was the only one there, so she went through some bingo- wing blasting exercises with me. I confessed my fears that there appears to be no muscle in the bingo wing part of my upper arm to tone, and she told me that she used to be really heavy, but had lost loads of weight. It had left her with a load of loose underarm skin, which she hated and use to cover up.
She said that she even went to her doctor to ask for an operation to remove the skin, and he refused, saying she would just have to learn to live with it for the rest of her life.
But she decided to do something about it... and her arms are now really toned- no loose wobbly bits at all! She said that it was purely down to doing bingo wings exercises... if that isn't an inspiration I don't know what is! I'll be doing these on a regular basis now- so watch this space (and these bingo wings!!!)
It was warm and muggy and there was a few spots of rain, but nothing serious. I followed a bridleway, which in January had been really boggy, but was just overgrown. I thought I'd try to run most of the routes (well, jogged)even though this bit was uphill- I didn't fancy meeting any horses as it was so narrow!
Nottinghamshire Countryside
There was a long road descent to Epperstone and its Dovecote;
Dovecote At Epperstone
The route follows another attractive bridleway, climbing up to an ancient woodland.
Looking Over Woodborough
There was a long descent through fields, before crossing a church yard and main road back to Lambley. I was sweating buckets, but jumped into the car and drove to Caythorpe to start my second route. This went across fields to Gunthorpe, before returning to Caythorpe by the River Trent.
The River Trent
It was quite busy- loads of people round Gunthorpe locks, plus an ice cream van which I had to make myself pass. Apart from walking up the hill in the third photo and a couple of walks for snacks/ drinks, I did jog most of the 12 1/2 miles.
Today I had seen a 'Bingo Wings' workshop on the classes noticeboard which sounded interesting... so I waited by the entrance as instructed, and a girl called Carmen came out. I was the only one there, so she went through some bingo- wing blasting exercises with me. I confessed my fears that there appears to be no muscle in the bingo wing part of my upper arm to tone, and she told me that she used to be really heavy, but had lost loads of weight. It had left her with a load of loose underarm skin, which she hated and use to cover up.
She said that she even went to her doctor to ask for an operation to remove the skin, and he refused, saying she would just have to learn to live with it for the rest of her life.
But she decided to do something about it... and her arms are now really toned- no loose wobbly bits at all! She said that it was purely down to doing bingo wings exercises... if that isn't an inspiration I don't know what is! I'll be doing these on a regular basis now- so watch this space (and these bingo wings!!!)
Labels: bingo wings, gym, running, walking
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Not Much To Report...
It's been a bit of a boring week after the excitement of last weekend... it's been 'that' time of the month, so I have eaten far too much chocolate and other rubbish. I always lose the motivation to train, so this week has been an effort.
But I did cover 7/8 miles yesterday, and ran- well, jogged- most of it. It incorporated the 'flasher' footpath but luckily there were no individuals indulging in dodgy pursuits (apart from birdwatchers!)
And I did run 3 miles on the treadmill today at 6 mph- so not a total wash out!
But I did cover 7/8 miles yesterday, and ran- well, jogged- most of it. It incorporated the 'flasher' footpath but luckily there were no individuals indulging in dodgy pursuits (apart from birdwatchers!)
And I did run 3 miles on the treadmill today at 6 mph- so not a total wash out!
Sunday, June 07, 2009
I'm Back!!! (Again!)
Well, in terms of training! I really feel as though I am getting back into it after a long time doing nothing much at all and feeling flabby and unfit.
I have been following a marathon training schedule I've found as well as my gym training, and ventured for a run outside for the first time in a long while on Tuesday night.
Nothing earth shattering happened, the ground didn't open up, I didn't even see the flasher, I just had a nice gentle 20 minute run- as per schedule. It felt tough at first, but after that it got much easier and I enjoyed it.
Wednesday me and me mate planned a meal out and a short walk, but it was so bloody cold we literally went 5 minutes up the road from the pub and back!!
Thursday was my gym session... and I was really pleased with myself. My new gym schedule calls for 3 miles at 6 mph, building up to 4 miles, but I had previously been struggling to run half a mile at 6 mph! I planned to try to run 1 mile at 6 mph, after running a mile between 5.1 mph and 5.7 mph to warm up. I felt good, so kept going, and ended up running 2 miles at 6 mph quite easily! Not too great still, but a real improvement.
I followed this up with 15 minutes walking on various inclines, plus the weights. The only thing is, the weight machines she has told me to use are the most popular ones with the body building contingent...
I even fitted in another cheeky 20 minute run Friday! So- I am off to the gym now to see if I can improve on Thursday's effort. Bloody weather though- I can't believe it can be so different from one weekend to the next!
I have been following a marathon training schedule I've found as well as my gym training, and ventured for a run outside for the first time in a long while on Tuesday night.
Nothing earth shattering happened, the ground didn't open up, I didn't even see the flasher, I just had a nice gentle 20 minute run- as per schedule. It felt tough at first, but after that it got much easier and I enjoyed it.
Wednesday me and me mate planned a meal out and a short walk, but it was so bloody cold we literally went 5 minutes up the road from the pub and back!!
Thursday was my gym session... and I was really pleased with myself. My new gym schedule calls for 3 miles at 6 mph, building up to 4 miles, but I had previously been struggling to run half a mile at 6 mph! I planned to try to run 1 mile at 6 mph, after running a mile between 5.1 mph and 5.7 mph to warm up. I felt good, so kept going, and ended up running 2 miles at 6 mph quite easily! Not too great still, but a real improvement.
I followed this up with 15 minutes walking on various inclines, plus the weights. The only thing is, the weight machines she has told me to use are the most popular ones with the body building contingent...
I even fitted in another cheeky 20 minute run Friday! So- I am off to the gym now to see if I can improve on Thursday's effort. Bloody weather though- I can't believe it can be so different from one weekend to the next!
Monday, June 01, 2009
300th Post!
300 posts! Can't quite believe that!! Quite a lot seems to have happened since I first put fingers to buttons...
I decided enough of the malingering at the weekend, and have kind of got back into an exercise routine! I went to the gym Friday, and followed my new program- but I am really struggling to run 3 miles at 6mph! I'm up to 2 miles at 5.3mph to 6mph and that seems really hard work... it's quite distressing to think that just a short while ago it would have been easy!
It was such as gorgeous day Saturday I went for a 7 mile stroll to Colwick Park, around the lakes and back.
Colwick Park
I lingered at the edge of the lake for a while, watching baby moorhens and baby geese, and a confrontation between an angry swan and protective geese parents.
Confrontation!
In the end the geese decided that discretion was the best part of valour and beat a retreat.
Baby Geese!
Colwick Hall
The evening was so lovely I decided to go for another short stroll, on paths nearby leading to Netherfield Lagoons Nature Reserve; I had a 4 miler planned out, but had a bit of a shock... I had completed my circuit and was walking back along the footpath, when I saw a bloke standing up on the path in the distance, with a push bike on the ground in front of him. Nothing unusual you may think... it was only when I drew nearer that a realised that he was completely naked, and, erm, lets just say he was enjoying an activity more appropriate to the privacy of his own bathroom...
I was in shock- not the usual thing you expect to see when walking, especially along a popular path! Then came the realisation that I was going to have to walk past him... I just marched past, looking straight ahead, fixing my gaze on the horizon- when I past him he said "Lovely evening!"
I did call the police as soon as I was out of sight, and a chap came round to file a report. He said that there had been similar complaints last year, and that this bloke doesn't seem to approach women... still, it's put me off using that path a bit, which is bloody annoying as it's a main route to a lot of walks!
After that shock I stuck to the gym Sunday and had quite a good workout- I have downloaded a marathon training schedule and am using a combination of that and my gym work outs plus a dash of imagination...
I am also going to eat less rubbish- it's definately not a good sign when you walk into the local chinese and they recite your order before you even open your mouth...
I decided enough of the malingering at the weekend, and have kind of got back into an exercise routine! I went to the gym Friday, and followed my new program- but I am really struggling to run 3 miles at 6mph! I'm up to 2 miles at 5.3mph to 6mph and that seems really hard work... it's quite distressing to think that just a short while ago it would have been easy!
It was such as gorgeous day Saturday I went for a 7 mile stroll to Colwick Park, around the lakes and back.
Colwick Park
I lingered at the edge of the lake for a while, watching baby moorhens and baby geese, and a confrontation between an angry swan and protective geese parents.
Confrontation!
In the end the geese decided that discretion was the best part of valour and beat a retreat.
Baby Geese!
Colwick Hall
The evening was so lovely I decided to go for another short stroll, on paths nearby leading to Netherfield Lagoons Nature Reserve; I had a 4 miler planned out, but had a bit of a shock... I had completed my circuit and was walking back along the footpath, when I saw a bloke standing up on the path in the distance, with a push bike on the ground in front of him. Nothing unusual you may think... it was only when I drew nearer that a realised that he was completely naked, and, erm, lets just say he was enjoying an activity more appropriate to the privacy of his own bathroom...
I was in shock- not the usual thing you expect to see when walking, especially along a popular path! Then came the realisation that I was going to have to walk past him... I just marched past, looking straight ahead, fixing my gaze on the horizon- when I past him he said "Lovely evening!"
I did call the police as soon as I was out of sight, and a chap came round to file a report. He said that there had been similar complaints last year, and that this bloke doesn't seem to approach women... still, it's put me off using that path a bit, which is bloody annoying as it's a main route to a lot of walks!
After that shock I stuck to the gym Sunday and had quite a good workout- I have downloaded a marathon training schedule and am using a combination of that and my gym work outs plus a dash of imagination...
I am also going to eat less rubbish- it's definately not a good sign when you walk into the local chinese and they recite your order before you even open your mouth...
Friday, May 15, 2009
Life (And Training!) Goes On...
I seem to be getting over the virus now or whatever it was! I went back to work this week with no ill effects- just a little tired. I have been building up a bit of training- but not going mad! The thing is, I'm having trouble thinking what exercise regime 'mere mortals' do... if you think in terms of the population in general- then not always an awful lot!
Tuesday was a lovely day- one of those gorgeous sunny May days, if a little windy, so after I collected the car from the garage after its service (leaving my wallet considerably lighter- ouch!) I took advantage and walked/ jogged my 7 mile route around Stoke Bardolph.
Not having been out for a while, it was amazing how green and fresh everything looked; that lovely light spring green, with a smattering of white lady lace. If it hadn't been quite windy, it would have been quite hot. I took my camera and got a few shots;
I managed to jog a fair bit, quite slowly. I ran most of the route by the River Trent;
The River Trent Near Stoke Bardolph
Railway Arches
Happy to report no knee pain afterwards- not even a sensation!
Wednesday I had my training plan update at the gym with Helena. I thanked her for her program which I believed helped me a lot for the MdS, and she has drawn me up another one geared towards the Robin Hood Marathon; lighter weights, still some core work and speed work on the treadmill, starting off at 3 miles at 6mph and building up to 4 before our first review of the plan in June...
I didn't have much time Wednesday, so used the elliptical trainer for 15 minutes and went back Thursday to start the plan. The hardest thing about doing the weights is going to be getting on the machines! They seem to be quite popular with the body building clientele... I started running at 6mph but found it bloody hard work- come on, I haven't actually been running properly for bloody ages!! With the doctor's words about exercising like a 'mere mortal' ringing in my ears, plus the fact that I had that virus last week and maybe still recovering a little, I decided that discretion is the best part of valour and all that jazz, so better to build up slowly...
I ran half a mile at 6mph, half a mile at 5.5mph and 5.7 mph then another half a mile at 6mph, followed up with 5 minutes walking on the incline. Baby steps!
Today was a rest (and chinese!) day- but I did follow it up with some nice, fresh healthy berries...
Tuesday was a lovely day- one of those gorgeous sunny May days, if a little windy, so after I collected the car from the garage after its service (leaving my wallet considerably lighter- ouch!) I took advantage and walked/ jogged my 7 mile route around Stoke Bardolph.
Not having been out for a while, it was amazing how green and fresh everything looked; that lovely light spring green, with a smattering of white lady lace. If it hadn't been quite windy, it would have been quite hot. I took my camera and got a few shots;
I managed to jog a fair bit, quite slowly. I ran most of the route by the River Trent;
The River Trent Near Stoke Bardolph
Railway Arches
Happy to report no knee pain afterwards- not even a sensation!
Wednesday I had my training plan update at the gym with Helena. I thanked her for her program which I believed helped me a lot for the MdS, and she has drawn me up another one geared towards the Robin Hood Marathon; lighter weights, still some core work and speed work on the treadmill, starting off at 3 miles at 6mph and building up to 4 before our first review of the plan in June...
I didn't have much time Wednesday, so used the elliptical trainer for 15 minutes and went back Thursday to start the plan. The hardest thing about doing the weights is going to be getting on the machines! They seem to be quite popular with the body building clientele... I started running at 6mph but found it bloody hard work- come on, I haven't actually been running properly for bloody ages!! With the doctor's words about exercising like a 'mere mortal' ringing in my ears, plus the fact that I had that virus last week and maybe still recovering a little, I decided that discretion is the best part of valour and all that jazz, so better to build up slowly...
I ran half a mile at 6mph, half a mile at 5.5mph and 5.7 mph then another half a mile at 6mph, followed up with 5 minutes walking on the incline. Baby steps!
Today was a rest (and chinese!) day- but I did follow it up with some nice, fresh healthy berries...
Labels: gym, Robin Hood Marathon, Stoke Bardolph
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Back Into The Saddle...
Well, it's high time I stopped malingering and got back into the saddle as it were...
I have been taking it fairly easy- I stopped off at Ruddington Country Park yesterday and walked around there for an hour. It was lovely- the trees had a full set of lovely spring green leaves, and the May blossom was out everywhere. I saw lots of baby moorhen, plus a big water rat that ran away as I approached.
I decided to go back to the gfym today and do a fairly gentle work out- some weights, plus 20 minutes on the elliptical trainer and 10 minutes gentle running. I could tell I hadn't ran for some time, plus obviously am still getting over the virus as I felt pretty tired afterwards.
Then, in a nod towards healthier eating, I made a pasta and pesto salad, and followed it up with a bowl of strawberries, respberries and blueberries. I felt quite virtuous- until I remembered that I ate a load of chocolate for lunch! Ah well... baby steps...
I have been taking it fairly easy- I stopped off at Ruddington Country Park yesterday and walked around there for an hour. It was lovely- the trees had a full set of lovely spring green leaves, and the May blossom was out everywhere. I saw lots of baby moorhen, plus a big water rat that ran away as I approached.
I decided to go back to the gfym today and do a fairly gentle work out- some weights, plus 20 minutes on the elliptical trainer and 10 minutes gentle running. I could tell I hadn't ran for some time, plus obviously am still getting over the virus as I felt pretty tired afterwards.
Then, in a nod towards healthier eating, I made a pasta and pesto salad, and followed it up with a bowl of strawberries, respberries and blueberries. I felt quite virtuous- until I remembered that I ate a load of chocolate for lunch! Ah well... baby steps...
Labels: gym, Ruddington Country Park, Salad
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Phew!!! My Heart Is Fine... And I'm An Athlete!!
I braved the GP surgery- again- to have my ECG redone, then had to wait for ages as the doctor was running half an hour behind, and apparently had trouble getting his computer to print the data. But when I walked in he said it's fine- he said that my heart rate is low (60 Bpm) but this is perfectly normal given the training I've been doing. So he has signed, dated and stamped the ECG, and completed the certificate- although when I got back to work I noticed he didn't tick the little box on the form to confirm I 'have no objections' to undertaking a multi- stage race in arid conditions... d'oh!! Now, if he'd just used a normal black pen, I could have just added it myself, but no- he used a fountain pen with a shade of blue ink I could never hope to replicate.
Working on the presumption that as he wished me good luck for it when I left, he has no medical objections, I took it back and left it with the receptionist to get him to tick it. The amount of stress these bloody ECG's and medicals cause is beyond belief!!
My ECG states that I have 'Sinus Bradycardia'- I googled this, and it basically means 'abnormally' slow heart rate. It is common in athletes, apparently, so it is official- I have a bit of the athlete's heart syndrome! I'm quite proud of that, and am pleased that this training is showing somewhere!!
So- where am I at in terms of training? I have been taking it easier these past two weeks. I have been keeping up the gym work, and did shorter walks last weekend- last Saturday I fitted in 6 hilly miles in Bradgate Park between visiting mum and my mate in Loughborough. Sunday I originally planned a 7 miler along local routes but extended it to 12 miles by continuing along the River Trent to Colwick Park. The first half of the walk was absolutely sh*te; raining, hailing and freezing!
This week has been a combination of gym and walking; walked to Sainsburies about 4 miles away Thursday night but felt a bit of pain in my foot/ ankle yesterday so rested.
I have to pick up a parcel from the sorting office this morning, which I am hoping will be my velcroed shoes and gaiters, so will walk there- it's amazing, the amount of people who can't believe I would willingly walk 3- 4 miles to the shops; I reckon years ago folks would be quite used to walking those distances to the next village etc, and were a lot fitter as a result- the average person should be able to walk that distance without thinking anything of it... if people walked more and left their cars at home a wee bit more, we'd all be much fitter and less polluted!
Working on the presumption that as he wished me good luck for it when I left, he has no medical objections, I took it back and left it with the receptionist to get him to tick it. The amount of stress these bloody ECG's and medicals cause is beyond belief!!
My ECG states that I have 'Sinus Bradycardia'- I googled this, and it basically means 'abnormally' slow heart rate. It is common in athletes, apparently, so it is official- I have a bit of the athlete's heart syndrome! I'm quite proud of that, and am pleased that this training is showing somewhere!!
So- where am I at in terms of training? I have been taking it easier these past two weeks. I have been keeping up the gym work, and did shorter walks last weekend- last Saturday I fitted in 6 hilly miles in Bradgate Park between visiting mum and my mate in Loughborough. Sunday I originally planned a 7 miler along local routes but extended it to 12 miles by continuing along the River Trent to Colwick Park. The first half of the walk was absolutely sh*te; raining, hailing and freezing!
This week has been a combination of gym and walking; walked to Sainsburies about 4 miles away Thursday night but felt a bit of pain in my foot/ ankle yesterday so rested.
I have to pick up a parcel from the sorting office this morning, which I am hoping will be my velcroed shoes and gaiters, so will walk there- it's amazing, the amount of people who can't believe I would willingly walk 3- 4 miles to the shops; I reckon years ago folks would be quite used to walking those distances to the next village etc, and were a lot fitter as a result- the average person should be able to walk that distance without thinking anything of it... if people walked more and left their cars at home a wee bit more, we'd all be much fitter and less polluted!
Labels: gaiters, gym, running shoes, walking
Thursday, February 05, 2009
Feeling Better... Weather Shite...
Well. I finally got rid of the lurgy and we end up with about three winters worth of snow in just under a week! It's the kind that quickly turns to slush and then decides to freeze, so less than ideal running conditions. I have been out for a slow march with my pack instead of the hill run I had planned... daren't even walk up hill... if I break a leg or something at this stage, it's game over...
... Seven weeks to go before we fly to Ouazazate!!
I have had my gym programme revised- she has changed the weights, and made them much more serious. I now have to squat with a 20 kg bar on my back, do lunges holding 5 kg weights and do deadlifts. I also have upper body stuff, in the form of circuits. She has promised me it'll change my body shape!
Had a good walk Saturday- it was the Tring 2 Town. This was originally a 40 mile route along the canal from Tring in Herts to Brentford in London, until it was made into a two day event. We decided to do the first day, which was Town 2 Tring. Well, when I say decided, I hadn't actually entered it- Perks and Tricia, who is doing the MdS next year had, and suggested that me and Rach go along to walk and keep them company.
We left Perk's car at Tring and took mine to the Premier Inn at Brentford, where we met Rach and settled for the night- although I didn't sleep well. The start was a civilised 9am, and me and Rach hung back during the pre race briefing, trying to look inconspicuous. I saw a few faces I knew, including Jo, who has just completed the Lanzarote Ultra and is in training for the Arch to Arc- amazing lady! Most people there seemed to be running it, except us so me, Rach, Perks and Tricia stuck together. We managed to maintain a fast pace, around 4 mph, for most of the day as the cut off times for the first three checkpoints was quite tight.
Not much I can say about the scenery... flat, canal on the right, flat, canal on the left, dodge the dog sh*t and used syringe on the ground... I managed to choose two wee stops next to a busy train line... and we found ourselves on the wrong side of the canal at one point, and had to traverse a lock...
My legs started to ache at 20 miles, and really felt them for the next 10. Probably cos my pack was the heaviest I'd had it, around 5kg- 6kg. I felt much stronger after 30 miles though so the nurofen had probably started to kick in! It was Tricia's first Ultra, she felt the cold a few miles before the end but we helped her put another layer on and make it to the end. We all got a t- shirt and medal, plus soup- even me and Rach! Best event I've ever gate crashed!! We finished in around 10 hours and 40 minutes, so a PB for us all.
we got back and tested expedition meals and pot noodles... I had experimented by piercing a bag of crisps, squeezing all the air out, crushing the crisps, leaving it for a few days before stuffing it into my rucksack for the day. The result? Crisp and perfectly edible, so I think crisps are on the menu for the Sahara!
... Seven weeks to go before we fly to Ouazazate!!
I have had my gym programme revised- she has changed the weights, and made them much more serious. I now have to squat with a 20 kg bar on my back, do lunges holding 5 kg weights and do deadlifts. I also have upper body stuff, in the form of circuits. She has promised me it'll change my body shape!
Had a good walk Saturday- it was the Tring 2 Town. This was originally a 40 mile route along the canal from Tring in Herts to Brentford in London, until it was made into a two day event. We decided to do the first day, which was Town 2 Tring. Well, when I say decided, I hadn't actually entered it- Perks and Tricia, who is doing the MdS next year had, and suggested that me and Rach go along to walk and keep them company.
We left Perk's car at Tring and took mine to the Premier Inn at Brentford, where we met Rach and settled for the night- although I didn't sleep well. The start was a civilised 9am, and me and Rach hung back during the pre race briefing, trying to look inconspicuous. I saw a few faces I knew, including Jo, who has just completed the Lanzarote Ultra and is in training for the Arch to Arc- amazing lady! Most people there seemed to be running it, except us so me, Rach, Perks and Tricia stuck together. We managed to maintain a fast pace, around 4 mph, for most of the day as the cut off times for the first three checkpoints was quite tight.
Not much I can say about the scenery... flat, canal on the right, flat, canal on the left, dodge the dog sh*t and used syringe on the ground... I managed to choose two wee stops next to a busy train line... and we found ourselves on the wrong side of the canal at one point, and had to traverse a lock...
My legs started to ache at 20 miles, and really felt them for the next 10. Probably cos my pack was the heaviest I'd had it, around 5kg- 6kg. I felt much stronger after 30 miles though so the nurofen had probably started to kick in! It was Tricia's first Ultra, she felt the cold a few miles before the end but we helped her put another layer on and make it to the end. We all got a t- shirt and medal, plus soup- even me and Rach! Best event I've ever gate crashed!! We finished in around 10 hours and 40 minutes, so a PB for us all.
we got back and tested expedition meals and pot noodles... I had experimented by piercing a bag of crisps, squeezing all the air out, crushing the crisps, leaving it for a few days before stuffing it into my rucksack for the day. The result? Crisp and perfectly edible, so I think crisps are on the menu for the Sahara!
Labels: gym, snow, Tring 2 Town
Friday, January 23, 2009
Bloody Illness!!
After a good result last week, I've had a much less productive week this week... Sunday I woke up with a sore throat, but as it went off I decided to push ahead with my second back to back 13 miler, so loaded up the pack and made my flask of coffee. The route I planned was a bit of a mish-mash; there was a 5 mile route round the next village in one of my walking books, and I figured I could walk from home to pick this up, and would just add bits on afterwards.
I set the Garmin, and set off along the footpath- it was another lovely day, unexpected after the downpour the night before. Before too long, I came to a path leading off to the left, but looking at the map I wasn't convinced it was the one I was looking for, so decided to press on and take the next path.
Big mistake. The path I took ended at a minor road, which took me to the road I wanted to be on, but much further down- it was the earlier path I needed! I ended up squeezing round a 'private' (oops!) sign and walking back up the road. Once I realised where I should have been, I back tracked across the fields back to my starting point- nearly having my Garmin eaten by an over excited Springer Spaniel!
After retracing my steps back to the road, I crossed it and found a path which followed a dyke in a loop back round to the Ferryboat Inn at Stoke Bardolph. I decided to stop and have my lunch by the river, and ended up sharing it with a load of geese.
The next stretch was easy but muddy walking along the River Trent- just before I needed to turn off, I noticed a nature walk around a couple of raised lakes, so decided a circuit of these would add more mileage. By the time I followed the track back to the starting point I'd done 9 miles, so got out the map, had a coffee and found a footpath past factories (worst bit!) to Colwick Country Park. My legs were aching a little by this point, but nothing major. I mostly walked today with a few short runs. By the time I got home, my Garmin told me I had done 13 miles, so mission accomplished! I then had my training program review at the gym; she got rid of the lunges on the half ball, as I have the balancing skills of a stork with no legs, and I can now do them on the floor... holding 7kg weights... she made me do quite a few of these so she could watch me and it nearly killed me! She has also increased a few of the exercises and added a couple more for balance (called Superwoman!) calves and shoulders. I had been increasing the treadmill and ellipticals anyway so she told me to continue with these.
I rested Monday, and felt rough again when I woke up Tuesday so had a fairly easy session in the gym. Well, when I say fairly easy, I mean 30 minutes on the elliptical at a high resistance and the training program...
Wednesday I woke up feeling even rougher with another sore throat- so did nothing (apart from work obviously- but this blog is about training!!) I went to see a mate who's just had a back operation Thursday so did nothing again apart from scoff a chinese.
I still feel a bit bluerrgh today, but thought I'd better make the effort, so threw on a 2 kg pack and headed out for my hill run. I did the same as last Friday- up to the top of Arnold Lane (hilly) over the other side and back up. Only with a slight twist, as instead of running straight back home I turned round and fast walked back up the steepest climb again.
Tomorrow I am going to try to pretend I'm not turning 39, and will probably need to go out and do something to mark the occasion or help me forget, and will no doubt have to fit some training in there somewhere too...
... roll on the taper!!!
I set the Garmin, and set off along the footpath- it was another lovely day, unexpected after the downpour the night before. Before too long, I came to a path leading off to the left, but looking at the map I wasn't convinced it was the one I was looking for, so decided to press on and take the next path.
Big mistake. The path I took ended at a minor road, which took me to the road I wanted to be on, but much further down- it was the earlier path I needed! I ended up squeezing round a 'private' (oops!) sign and walking back up the road. Once I realised where I should have been, I back tracked across the fields back to my starting point- nearly having my Garmin eaten by an over excited Springer Spaniel!
After retracing my steps back to the road, I crossed it and found a path which followed a dyke in a loop back round to the Ferryboat Inn at Stoke Bardolph. I decided to stop and have my lunch by the river, and ended up sharing it with a load of geese.
The next stretch was easy but muddy walking along the River Trent- just before I needed to turn off, I noticed a nature walk around a couple of raised lakes, so decided a circuit of these would add more mileage. By the time I followed the track back to the starting point I'd done 9 miles, so got out the map, had a coffee and found a footpath past factories (worst bit!) to Colwick Country Park. My legs were aching a little by this point, but nothing major. I mostly walked today with a few short runs. By the time I got home, my Garmin told me I had done 13 miles, so mission accomplished! I then had my training program review at the gym; she got rid of the lunges on the half ball, as I have the balancing skills of a stork with no legs, and I can now do them on the floor... holding 7kg weights... she made me do quite a few of these so she could watch me and it nearly killed me! She has also increased a few of the exercises and added a couple more for balance (called Superwoman!) calves and shoulders. I had been increasing the treadmill and ellipticals anyway so she told me to continue with these.
I rested Monday, and felt rough again when I woke up Tuesday so had a fairly easy session in the gym. Well, when I say fairly easy, I mean 30 minutes on the elliptical at a high resistance and the training program...
Wednesday I woke up feeling even rougher with another sore throat- so did nothing (apart from work obviously- but this blog is about training!!) I went to see a mate who's just had a back operation Thursday so did nothing again apart from scoff a chinese.
I still feel a bit bluerrgh today, but thought I'd better make the effort, so threw on a 2 kg pack and headed out for my hill run. I did the same as last Friday- up to the top of Arnold Lane (hilly) over the other side and back up. Only with a slight twist, as instead of running straight back home I turned round and fast walked back up the steepest climb again.
Tomorrow I am going to try to pretend I'm not turning 39, and will probably need to go out and do something to mark the occasion or help me forget, and will no doubt have to fit some training in there somewhere too...
... roll on the taper!!!
Labels: gym, hill running, Stoke Bardolph
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Weekend Thoughts!
The weeks seem to fly by! It won't be long before a certain frolic in the desert is upon us...
I have had a productive week this week- after Tuesday's speedy 6 miler I followed it up with a gym session Wednesday and forced myself to do the most boring of my suggested sessions... the 3 mile run at 2% incline. This seems absolutely interminable, there's nothing worse than watching the tenth miles tick off slo-o-owly... I am supposed to do this at 5 mph but would quite frankly be there all sodding night, so tend to cheat a little and up the pace to 5.3 mph, 5.5 mph and some faster (short!) bursts at 6 mph and 6.3 mph. I did my usual core work and finished up with 10 hard minutes on the stepper.
I have my program review tomorrow at 6pm which should be interesting!
I had tea with mum and stepdad Thursday, and we watched the MdS documentary which had been on a few nights before. My mum couldn't watch the blister treatment bits (and there were lots!) and said "Did you know what it would be like when you entered?" (Yes!!)
She did ring me the next day to say she thinks I will be ok as I am determined!
I did the hill run Friday, with a bit of a twist in that when I reached the top of the last, and worst, hill, I walked down the other side and ran back up for another steep ascent.
I have decided to try two shortish back to back walks this weekend, with a heavyish (8 Kg) pack, as I haven't really done this... I put two walks together from my book of short walks; the first was an 8 miler from Lowdham to Epperstone, Woodborough and back to Lowdham. I'd done some of the route before, on a longer walk, but some of the tracks (bridleways) were glutinous mud so I was cursing rather loudly. The later part was good though, down good tracks; it was sunny and I was having a chat to my cousin's husband on the mobile, as my cousin has just undergone a back operation (she's recovering well). I had a few slow shambling jogs when it wasn't too muddy- mostly downhill!
I finished at 2pm so headed off to Caythorpe Village just down the road, for a 4 1/2 miler. I have been here before- for the Millenium 10k. It's quite a pretty village, and I jogged most of the way through fields and tracks to Gunthorpe, where I joined the River Trent. I had to find a footpath from the river through fields back to the road, and with sinking heart realised that the first field contained bulls with rather large horns and rings through their noses... I saw a runner coming up behind so mentally decided to sacrifive him if needed, but they didn't turn a bovine hair.
I reached the road and started walking back to the car, but decided to detour off on another footpath to make the distance up to 13 1/2 miles (plus I needed a wee and the footpath had been a little exposed!)
It was cloudy when I got back, and quite windy so I was glad of my flask of coffee. I am not sure where I will go tomorrow yet, but it will be a similar distance and no doubt just as muddy.
Oh, yeah- I have paid the final installment for the MdS- so no backing out now...
I have had a productive week this week- after Tuesday's speedy 6 miler I followed it up with a gym session Wednesday and forced myself to do the most boring of my suggested sessions... the 3 mile run at 2% incline. This seems absolutely interminable, there's nothing worse than watching the tenth miles tick off slo-o-owly... I am supposed to do this at 5 mph but would quite frankly be there all sodding night, so tend to cheat a little and up the pace to 5.3 mph, 5.5 mph and some faster (short!) bursts at 6 mph and 6.3 mph. I did my usual core work and finished up with 10 hard minutes on the stepper.
I have my program review tomorrow at 6pm which should be interesting!
I had tea with mum and stepdad Thursday, and we watched the MdS documentary which had been on a few nights before. My mum couldn't watch the blister treatment bits (and there were lots!) and said "Did you know what it would be like when you entered?" (Yes!!)
She did ring me the next day to say she thinks I will be ok as I am determined!
I did the hill run Friday, with a bit of a twist in that when I reached the top of the last, and worst, hill, I walked down the other side and ran back up for another steep ascent.
I have decided to try two shortish back to back walks this weekend, with a heavyish (8 Kg) pack, as I haven't really done this... I put two walks together from my book of short walks; the first was an 8 miler from Lowdham to Epperstone, Woodborough and back to Lowdham. I'd done some of the route before, on a longer walk, but some of the tracks (bridleways) were glutinous mud so I was cursing rather loudly. The later part was good though, down good tracks; it was sunny and I was having a chat to my cousin's husband on the mobile, as my cousin has just undergone a back operation (she's recovering well). I had a few slow shambling jogs when it wasn't too muddy- mostly downhill!
I finished at 2pm so headed off to Caythorpe Village just down the road, for a 4 1/2 miler. I have been here before- for the Millenium 10k. It's quite a pretty village, and I jogged most of the way through fields and tracks to Gunthorpe, where I joined the River Trent. I had to find a footpath from the river through fields back to the road, and with sinking heart realised that the first field contained bulls with rather large horns and rings through their noses... I saw a runner coming up behind so mentally decided to sacrifive him if needed, but they didn't turn a bovine hair.
I reached the road and started walking back to the car, but decided to detour off on another footpath to make the distance up to 13 1/2 miles (plus I needed a wee and the footpath had been a little exposed!)
It was cloudy when I got back, and quite windy so I was glad of my flask of coffee. I am not sure where I will go tomorrow yet, but it will be a similar distance and no doubt just as muddy.
Oh, yeah- I have paid the final installment for the MdS- so no backing out now...
Labels: gym, Marathon des Sables, MdS, walking
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Yet Another Overdue Update...
Once again I have managed to miss updating this for over a week... well, after that good 17 miler I came down with a chesty cough and then a cold, so last week was kind of written off...
I took it quite easy; just a 4 mile walk on the Tuesday, and a gym session Thursday but didn't push myself too much. Saturday I filled my rucksack to around 5kg, and headed along the pavements to Colwick Country Park, venue for one of the Grand Prix series races. I had a natter to my sis whilst marching around, it was bigger than I thought and I got a little lost! It was only when I passed a half chewed trainer for the second time that I managed to find my way out! It was quite a nice walk though- crisp and clear, with paths through trees and around lakes. By the time I got home I'd done 7 miles.
Sunday my entire exercise regime involved seeing Cliff Richard at Birmingham as part of his 50th Anniversary Tour with mum (god, I can't belive I just admitted to that!) and dancing in our seats to old favourites like 'Bachelor Boy' and 'Living' Doll'...
I had my personalised training session Monday night at the posh new gym with 'Helena'. I wasn't sure what to expect, as my needs are rather, umm, specialised... she hadn't heard of the MdS, but when I told her what it entails, she did give me some good pointers. She said that as I am aimimg to complete rather than compete, the onus should be on building up strength in the legs, rather than speed, which does make sense. She wants me to run on incline on the treadmill- all the time! We then moved on to the ellipticals and she asked me what I'd been doing on them... now, I have usually done 20 minutes, gradually working up to level 9, thinking I was doing pretty well. She said that she expects me to do 30 minutes, and mentioned that the resistance level needs to be much higher.
I tentatively put it up to 9, and she said that she was thinking of 'double figures'. I pushed it up to 11, and she moved it to 15, saying 'I think this will do it'. Do it... I did 30 minutes at level 15 and it damn near killed me!! But that's the beginning... she wants me to build up my time on there!
The exercises she gave were back and stomach strengthening exercises using a ball, plus squats done against the wall, with the ball against my back and a 7 kg dumbell in each hand- you can really feel this! She also wants me to do lunges in something that looks like half a ball, and is really difficult to balance on. Then ski squats on the power plates- these are small platforms which vibrate, and holding a ski squat for 60 seconds is excrutiating!! She also recommended the leg extension machine, the Tricep dip for bingo wings (ok ok, this was vanity rather than MdS related...) plus finally the infamous 'plank'.
My legs were aching Tuesday but that is probably a good thing... I shall follow her advice anyway.
Last night was a 6 mile walk with 5.5 kg pack (bloody freezing!!) but my right knee felt a little tender so I'm sciving, sorry, resting tonight!
Tomorrow will be back in the gym... the Beacons Ultra is just over a week away!!
I took it quite easy; just a 4 mile walk on the Tuesday, and a gym session Thursday but didn't push myself too much. Saturday I filled my rucksack to around 5kg, and headed along the pavements to Colwick Country Park, venue for one of the Grand Prix series races. I had a natter to my sis whilst marching around, it was bigger than I thought and I got a little lost! It was only when I passed a half chewed trainer for the second time that I managed to find my way out! It was quite a nice walk though- crisp and clear, with paths through trees and around lakes. By the time I got home I'd done 7 miles.
Sunday my entire exercise regime involved seeing Cliff Richard at Birmingham as part of his 50th Anniversary Tour with mum (god, I can't belive I just admitted to that!) and dancing in our seats to old favourites like 'Bachelor Boy' and 'Living' Doll'...
I had my personalised training session Monday night at the posh new gym with 'Helena'. I wasn't sure what to expect, as my needs are rather, umm, specialised... she hadn't heard of the MdS, but when I told her what it entails, she did give me some good pointers. She said that as I am aimimg to complete rather than compete, the onus should be on building up strength in the legs, rather than speed, which does make sense. She wants me to run on incline on the treadmill- all the time! We then moved on to the ellipticals and she asked me what I'd been doing on them... now, I have usually done 20 minutes, gradually working up to level 9, thinking I was doing pretty well. She said that she expects me to do 30 minutes, and mentioned that the resistance level needs to be much higher.
I tentatively put it up to 9, and she said that she was thinking of 'double figures'. I pushed it up to 11, and she moved it to 15, saying 'I think this will do it'. Do it... I did 30 minutes at level 15 and it damn near killed me!! But that's the beginning... she wants me to build up my time on there!
The exercises she gave were back and stomach strengthening exercises using a ball, plus squats done against the wall, with the ball against my back and a 7 kg dumbell in each hand- you can really feel this! She also wants me to do lunges in something that looks like half a ball, and is really difficult to balance on. Then ski squats on the power plates- these are small platforms which vibrate, and holding a ski squat for 60 seconds is excrutiating!! She also recommended the leg extension machine, the Tricep dip for bingo wings (ok ok, this was vanity rather than MdS related...) plus finally the infamous 'plank'.
My legs were aching Tuesday but that is probably a good thing... I shall follow her advice anyway.
Last night was a 6 mile walk with 5.5 kg pack (bloody freezing!!) but my right knee felt a little tender so I'm sciving, sorry, resting tonight!
Tomorrow will be back in the gym... the Beacons Ultra is just over a week away!!
Labels: Beacons Ultra, Cliff Richard, gym
Sunday, November 16, 2008
A Seventeen (And A Bit!) Miler...
Had quite a good week training wise... Tuesday I went along to the fitness evening, which turned out to be a promotional event for the personal trainers. I opted for the Cardio fitness test, which involved stepping up and down for three minutes and then having my pulse taken... then he announced that I have 'average' cardio fitness! Average!?!?!?! I was gutted!! Ok, he did say that the test wasn't really accurate, but he seemed to expect me to be pleased with that! Average- bloody hell!! The one good point is that my upper body strength (measured in press ups) is 'good'.
I pushed myself on the treadmill, covering 5 miles in all- a combination of fast running, walking on incline and then 15 minutes jogging on incline. I went back to the gym Friday and pushed myself again, running fast for 35 minutes. I also tried out the stepper for 20 minutes and went on the ellipticals for 20, making sure I increased the resistance every few minutes. Huh... average...
The fixed weights seem to get quite busy; I love the bingo wing blaster!! Have been making sure I concentrate on the weights as well as the cardio. I feel I am at a bit of a crossroads with my training... general consensus is that it does little good to keep churning out long, slow runs along the pavement; it is better to do less mileage over more 'quality' sessions. I have also done a 6 mile fast walk this week, and the hilly run again, which was 5 miles, plus of course the 'speed' (and I use that term very loosely!) sessions on the treadmill.
As I hadn't done a long walk/ run for some time, and the Ultra I have entered in the Brecon Beacons is now only 3 weeks away, I decided to do a 17 miler today, starting in the next village- Burton Joyce. This was one out of my John Merrill 'Long Walks in Nottinghamshire' book. I didn't want to run it all, but was a bit concerned about running out of daylight, so thought I'd better get a bit of a shift on. Fortunately it was a lovely day, and I regretted not taking my camera- I still haven't got round to getting a new battery for the little camera though- how disorganised is that!
I loaded my pack to about 5 kg, parked up by the recreation ground and headed down to the river Trent. The first 7 miles are along the Trent, and it is quite scenic. It was a combination of easy grassy tracks and thin muddy paths until Gunthorpe Locks, where it became wide grassy banks. I ran most of the river path, well, more of a slowish jog if I'm being honest! At one point I had to pass close by some bulls; I was rather concerned, as they were huge beasties with wide raking horns, rings through their nose, the works!! Luckily they were totally disinterested and just kept a beady bovine eye on me as I shuffled past.
The instructions advised me to leave the river, finally, at the Hazelford Ferry Hotel, which is now an old folk's home. A bit of road walking brought me to the village of Bleasby, where I bought a fruit drink, and then I followed a footpath through fields and over a railway line to the village of Thurgarton. I got a little confused here as the book told me to turn left at the junction and turn right to the church and priory 20 yards later. I saw a road signed to the church opposite, so took it, but couldn't find the bridleway I was supposed to be looking for. I started to retrace my steps, and passed a lady who informed me it was a little further down the road.
The bridleway went uphill quite steeply, and was rather muddy. I nearly went wrong again, but saw people walking down the field and realised I should have taken a left turn. I followed a muddy track along the ridge to a wood, and stopped for my cheese and pickle sandwiches. I had been mainly walking along the bridleway as it was so muddy under foot. That didn't change! It was just after this that I got a bit confused again... I found the correct track to and then round a small coppice, and then reached a minor road, where the instructions told me to turn left to the village of Epperstone. It seemed to take ages to reach the village, and when I read the instructions again, they mentioned passing a farm and turning right. The farm had been across the road when I reached it- so, I retraced my steps, back to the bridleway, and went the other way- to discover that the road eventually reached a dead end in a farmyard! Cursing, I retraced my steps, and asked a rather nervous horse rider (must be the rucksack that scared her!) if I was on the road to Epperstone.
She assured me I was, so I retraced my steps- again- and jogged right down to the village. I was getting a bit concerned now that I may not be back before dark! I had a bit of to-ing and fro-ing in the first field out of Epperstone- there was a sign to say that this was a 'turf' field, and strips of turf had been sliced away, but the exit wasn't obvious. I finally managed to locate the stile and footbridge, and crossed the road to another footpath to Woodborough.
I was now on another muddy bridleway, which wound uphill quite steeply, past some old propellor planes standing in front of a small hangar, and into the village of Lambley. I followed a funny little path behind the houses, being forced disconcertingly close to an electric fence, before walking down a field, passing a mysterious mound right in the middle of it.
The last bit of the walk was along a bridleway from Lambley to Burton Joyce- there was another steep climb- I made myself run part of it, then the path gave way to a tarmac track, then road, running right down into Burton Joyce. I did it in 5 1/2 hours, was easily back before dark, and probably ended up doing more like 18 miles! The terrain wasn't particularly challenging, although there were a few steep climbs, but at least it's a long walk in the bank. I even managed to clean my filthy running shoes and clean up the resulting mess in the sink before my mate got home (it was a close call though!)
I am really going to have to sit down this week and revise/ devise a training plan for the rest of the time I have left until the MdS! Oh, and find some money so I can actually afford some equipment!!
I pushed myself on the treadmill, covering 5 miles in all- a combination of fast running, walking on incline and then 15 minutes jogging on incline. I went back to the gym Friday and pushed myself again, running fast for 35 minutes. I also tried out the stepper for 20 minutes and went on the ellipticals for 20, making sure I increased the resistance every few minutes. Huh... average...
The fixed weights seem to get quite busy; I love the bingo wing blaster!! Have been making sure I concentrate on the weights as well as the cardio. I feel I am at a bit of a crossroads with my training... general consensus is that it does little good to keep churning out long, slow runs along the pavement; it is better to do less mileage over more 'quality' sessions. I have also done a 6 mile fast walk this week, and the hilly run again, which was 5 miles, plus of course the 'speed' (and I use that term very loosely!) sessions on the treadmill.
As I hadn't done a long walk/ run for some time, and the Ultra I have entered in the Brecon Beacons is now only 3 weeks away, I decided to do a 17 miler today, starting in the next village- Burton Joyce. This was one out of my John Merrill 'Long Walks in Nottinghamshire' book. I didn't want to run it all, but was a bit concerned about running out of daylight, so thought I'd better get a bit of a shift on. Fortunately it was a lovely day, and I regretted not taking my camera- I still haven't got round to getting a new battery for the little camera though- how disorganised is that!
I loaded my pack to about 5 kg, parked up by the recreation ground and headed down to the river Trent. The first 7 miles are along the Trent, and it is quite scenic. It was a combination of easy grassy tracks and thin muddy paths until Gunthorpe Locks, where it became wide grassy banks. I ran most of the river path, well, more of a slowish jog if I'm being honest! At one point I had to pass close by some bulls; I was rather concerned, as they were huge beasties with wide raking horns, rings through their nose, the works!! Luckily they were totally disinterested and just kept a beady bovine eye on me as I shuffled past.
The instructions advised me to leave the river, finally, at the Hazelford Ferry Hotel, which is now an old folk's home. A bit of road walking brought me to the village of Bleasby, where I bought a fruit drink, and then I followed a footpath through fields and over a railway line to the village of Thurgarton. I got a little confused here as the book told me to turn left at the junction and turn right to the church and priory 20 yards later. I saw a road signed to the church opposite, so took it, but couldn't find the bridleway I was supposed to be looking for. I started to retrace my steps, and passed a lady who informed me it was a little further down the road.
The bridleway went uphill quite steeply, and was rather muddy. I nearly went wrong again, but saw people walking down the field and realised I should have taken a left turn. I followed a muddy track along the ridge to a wood, and stopped for my cheese and pickle sandwiches. I had been mainly walking along the bridleway as it was so muddy under foot. That didn't change! It was just after this that I got a bit confused again... I found the correct track to and then round a small coppice, and then reached a minor road, where the instructions told me to turn left to the village of Epperstone. It seemed to take ages to reach the village, and when I read the instructions again, they mentioned passing a farm and turning right. The farm had been across the road when I reached it- so, I retraced my steps, back to the bridleway, and went the other way- to discover that the road eventually reached a dead end in a farmyard! Cursing, I retraced my steps, and asked a rather nervous horse rider (must be the rucksack that scared her!) if I was on the road to Epperstone.
She assured me I was, so I retraced my steps- again- and jogged right down to the village. I was getting a bit concerned now that I may not be back before dark! I had a bit of to-ing and fro-ing in the first field out of Epperstone- there was a sign to say that this was a 'turf' field, and strips of turf had been sliced away, but the exit wasn't obvious. I finally managed to locate the stile and footbridge, and crossed the road to another footpath to Woodborough.
I was now on another muddy bridleway, which wound uphill quite steeply, past some old propellor planes standing in front of a small hangar, and into the village of Lambley. I followed a funny little path behind the houses, being forced disconcertingly close to an electric fence, before walking down a field, passing a mysterious mound right in the middle of it.
The last bit of the walk was along a bridleway from Lambley to Burton Joyce- there was another steep climb- I made myself run part of it, then the path gave way to a tarmac track, then road, running right down into Burton Joyce. I did it in 5 1/2 hours, was easily back before dark, and probably ended up doing more like 18 miles! The terrain wasn't particularly challenging, although there were a few steep climbs, but at least it's a long walk in the bank. I even managed to clean my filthy running shoes and clean up the resulting mess in the sink before my mate got home (it was a close call though!)
I am really going to have to sit down this week and revise/ devise a training plan for the rest of the time I have left until the MdS! Oh, and find some money so I can actually afford some equipment!!
Labels: gym, John Merrill, walk
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Another Overdue Update!!
Yep, I am doing really badly updating!! Well, I am settling into Nottingham ok... since my last run I have found another one... a brilliant hill run! I did this one on Thursday, it's one long road, and basically a series of slow gradual climbs, with a few steep ones, culminating in an absolute killer- which I managed to complete without stopping!
Friday was my new posh gym induction! Sadly, it was just a safety briefing and introduction to the equipment ('Have you used a gym before... etc etc) so was very basic. I am apparently entitled to a session working out a personal program tailored to my needs, so I have booked this for Monday 24th November. Be interesting to see if they can meet my needs! I went today and pounded the treadmill for 20 minutes, concentrating on speedwork, then 20 minutes on the ellipticals- these have tellies!! Seriously, I cannot get used to having rows of treadmills and ellipticals! No summit trainer, sadly, but something I think may be a bit similar if I can get the hang of it...
I found substitutes for all the fixed weights I have been used to using, and got very excited over a tricept machine- yippee, a bingo wing blaster!!! Finished off with a 15 minute incline run, then an inaugral shower- note to self, next time remember bloody comb!! I had to get petrol looking like a reject from Glastonbury.
I noticed that on Tuesday they have a free 'fitness' evening, where you can get your fitness questions answered (' How do I do the MdS...') and have a fitness test apparently, so I may wander along to that. Handy when the gym is only 10 minutes walk away!
I haven't done a long walk for a while though... I have one in mind for this weekend that's now fairly local. Just need to obtain a map for this area!
Friday was my new posh gym induction! Sadly, it was just a safety briefing and introduction to the equipment ('Have you used a gym before... etc etc) so was very basic. I am apparently entitled to a session working out a personal program tailored to my needs, so I have booked this for Monday 24th November. Be interesting to see if they can meet my needs! I went today and pounded the treadmill for 20 minutes, concentrating on speedwork, then 20 minutes on the ellipticals- these have tellies!! Seriously, I cannot get used to having rows of treadmills and ellipticals! No summit trainer, sadly, but something I think may be a bit similar if I can get the hang of it...
I found substitutes for all the fixed weights I have been used to using, and got very excited over a tricept machine- yippee, a bingo wing blaster!!! Finished off with a 15 minute incline run, then an inaugral shower- note to self, next time remember bloody comb!! I had to get petrol looking like a reject from Glastonbury.
I noticed that on Tuesday they have a free 'fitness' evening, where you can get your fitness questions answered (' How do I do the MdS...') and have a fitness test apparently, so I may wander along to that. Handy when the gym is only 10 minutes walk away!
I haven't done a long walk for a while though... I have one in mind for this weekend that's now fairly local. Just need to obtain a map for this area!
Labels: gym, hill running
