Friday, March 16, 2012
Plodding On...
I haven't got an event planned this weekend, my next event is next Saturday's Charnwood Marathon which I haven't done since 2008 I think...
I have had some cashflow problems this month, so put off entering some events- with the result that some of the events I planned to do are full! Ah well, it's my own fault, it's good to see that these events are so popular as this means that the sport can only grow in future...
I have been training (honest!!) I have been building the running back up to around 3-4 miles at once interspersed with walking. The amount of time spent running has been getting longer and so far so good; no knee problems. I have also been walking and going to the gym so feels like I am getting back on track quite nicely.
Tomorrow I am planning on a 14-16 miler, possibly starting from Radcliffe-On-Trent, and then onto Shelford, East Bridgford, along the path at the top of the cliffs above the River Trent, and back to Radcliffe-On-Trent, Sunday will be a rest day as I will be cooking my mum lunch and finding a goldfish for her from somewhere (bizarrely enough this is what she wants for her present since the fish they had outside died!! Beats the usual flowers and chocolates I suppose...)
Hope everyone has a great weekend...
I have had some cashflow problems this month, so put off entering some events- with the result that some of the events I planned to do are full! Ah well, it's my own fault, it's good to see that these events are so popular as this means that the sport can only grow in future...
I have been training (honest!!) I have been building the running back up to around 3-4 miles at once interspersed with walking. The amount of time spent running has been getting longer and so far so good; no knee problems. I have also been walking and going to the gym so feels like I am getting back on track quite nicely.
Tomorrow I am planning on a 14-16 miler, possibly starting from Radcliffe-On-Trent, and then onto Shelford, East Bridgford, along the path at the top of the cliffs above the River Trent, and back to Radcliffe-On-Trent, Sunday will be a rest day as I will be cooking my mum lunch and finding a goldfish for her from somewhere (bizarrely enough this is what she wants for her present since the fish they had outside died!! Beats the usual flowers and chocolates I suppose...)
Hope everyone has a great weekend...
Labels: training
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Welsh Hills and Valleys
Descending into the valley
I had a lovely weekend last weekend- really great training and really great company! Nine of us descended on Pontypool in
Mike B very kindly gave me a lift, and we all set off for the first walk at around 3pm. Well- it was quite hilly!! Also very muddy in parts, and at times we found ourselves floundering through remaining snow drifts. At one point we found ourselves at the end of a track, and Andy pointed to a steep bank- covered in bracken, brambles and loose, slippery mud- and said "We need to go up there!"
I was well at the back as I am useless on that sort of terrain... we had a level scramble following loose rocks from a collapsed wall and more brambles, before another steep climb through loose mud! My pack weighed around 8kg and I was convinced I'd end up on my back, legs flailing, in true turtle fashion!
The Steep Climb!
We found a track, after crossing a few barbed wire fences and walls (thank goodness for strong blokes willing to heave my short legs over!) and followed this to the charmingly named village of Pantside, passing the 'Pant Social Club' and a group of not so friendly local youths.
As we descended out of the village darkness descended, so we donned headtorches and followed the tracks across the moor and down into the valley and Pontypool, getting back at around 9pm before a quick shower and descending on the Harvester Restaurant, who kindly agreed to stay open for us.
Saturday was gorgeous- warm and sunny all day! Andy had mapped out an 18 mile route, and I walked with Rach and Perks. We started off climbing the track we used to descend last night, before topping out onto the broad summit, and descending towards forest. We missed the track we should have taken into the forest, but managed to pick up another track and rejoin our route.
There then followed a lovely, gentle downhill on a forest track to a village with an unpronouncable name...
Rach and Perks On The Forest Track
Coming out of the village, we had a steep, long climb along the road back towards the head of the valley. As the road levelled out, we followed a track straight ahead before realising we should have taken a left turn, so retraced our steps- at least this meant we had made up for the bit we cut off earlier! Andy joined us and we had another even steeper road ascent.
Views Over The Valley
Eventually this became a track, then path back onto the broad hillside, and we gradually followed this over the moor and back to the starting point.
Welsh Mountains
We followed the same track we ascended back down to the road and village.
View Over Pontypool
It was a fantastic day, with plenty of climbing, which is what's needed! My rucksack weighed around 8 Kg both days which I was pleased with. After dinner (egg and chips! Heaven...) we all gathered in our room for champagne kindly supplied by Gilly. All I can say is- you know you are with a group of Ultra nutters when everyone whips off their shoes and socks and start comparing toenails, then asking how everyone's chaffing is...
Good fun though! I am off to my sisters today, the idea being to head up to the Lakes for some good mountain walking Thursday, Friday and hopefully Saturday!
Labels: Pontypool, training, Wales
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Feeling Unmotivated...
Yesterday was a novel session for me- I went to the gym but instead of using the cardio stuff, I warmed up on the treadmill and then concentrated on weights and core work. I have never done that before, and had to fight the urge to jump on the ellipticals. It was bloody busy though... New Years resolutioners!!
I had intended to do a fairly speedy 6 miler tonight, but suffered from complete lack of motivation. It was one of those nights when you feel really down, and would rather sit around, read and scoff loads of chocolate than force youself outside.
I could think of so many reasons NOT to go, and I kept putting it off... I'm too tired... my foot hurts a little... I'll just stay home and eat chocolate tonight and start from tomorrow... but then told myself I would just go out for a brisk 4 mile walk. Nothing more. Even when I was changing into my training gear I almost took it all off and put my pyjamas on instead, but mentally threw myself out the door.
I walked down the street, plugged in the MP3 player and actually started to jog- I ended up doing my fairly fast 6 miler with a few faster sprints thrown in! It was quite funny... the next village has those signs that light up and display the speed you are driving at, flashing a warning if you are driving too fast. There were no cars behind me when I approached one, and it suddenly lit up, displaying 7 miles an hour with a 'Thank you'!
Ok- I have still scoffed far too much chocolate- but at least I have done my training!
I had intended to do a fairly speedy 6 miler tonight, but suffered from complete lack of motivation. It was one of those nights when you feel really down, and would rather sit around, read and scoff loads of chocolate than force youself outside.
I could think of so many reasons NOT to go, and I kept putting it off... I'm too tired... my foot hurts a little... I'll just stay home and eat chocolate tonight and start from tomorrow... but then told myself I would just go out for a brisk 4 mile walk. Nothing more. Even when I was changing into my training gear I almost took it all off and put my pyjamas on instead, but mentally threw myself out the door.
I walked down the street, plugged in the MP3 player and actually started to jog- I ended up doing my fairly fast 6 miler with a few faster sprints thrown in! It was quite funny... the next village has those signs that light up and display the speed you are driving at, flashing a warning if you are driving too fast. There were no cars behind me when I approached one, and it suddenly lit up, displaying 7 miles an hour with a 'Thank you'!
Ok- I have still scoffed far too much chocolate- but at least I have done my training!
Labels: core, running, training, weights
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Off To The Sea Side...
I'm off to the caravan at Wells-Next-The-Sea today, with mum, for a bit of mother and daughter time, until Saturday...
I walked to Syston and back, yesterday, across fields- surprisingly, I don't ache too much, but although the feet weren't too bad whilst I was actually walking, they were rather sore afterwards. It's mainly the toes, or to be more precise, the big toes and the two middles toes on each foot. All a learning experience!
Feet permitting, I plan to have a little stomp around the dunes etc, and we will be walking the dogs anyway... whilst I am there, I will be taking a bit of time out to have a good think about where my training needs to go from here. We have a good 6 months training time left, so I really need to have a think about what I need to build on and work towards...
We are taking a lap top, but don't think we will be able to get online, so hope everybody has a good week!
I walked to Syston and back, yesterday, across fields- surprisingly, I don't ache too much, but although the feet weren't too bad whilst I was actually walking, they were rather sore afterwards. It's mainly the toes, or to be more precise, the big toes and the two middles toes on each foot. All a learning experience!
Feet permitting, I plan to have a little stomp around the dunes etc, and we will be walking the dogs anyway... whilst I am there, I will be taking a bit of time out to have a good think about where my training needs to go from here. We have a good 6 months training time left, so I really need to have a think about what I need to build on and work towards...
We are taking a lap top, but don't think we will be able to get online, so hope everybody has a good week!
Labels: training, Wells-Next-The-Sea
Friday, April 18, 2008
The Feet...
I have been giving some serious support to my feet, or proper care thereof... after all, if I am going to expect them to carry me 150 miles across scorching Saharan sands/ salt flats/ hills then I guess I am going to have to give them some TLC...
... my feet are terrible. I think I might have mentioned they have been deformed from birth, I still have the full set on each foot but they are odd sizes and sort of 'squashed in', with a huge gap between the big toe and second toe which I am convinced is going to turn into a lovely bunion one day... the big toes are already starting to lean over where they shouldn't be.
I am going to wear the little plastic 'toe separaters' I bought throughout the day, and may even try using a pumice stone on my plates (got a lovely one free in Marrakesh) and maybe even treating them to a nice bit of moisturiser.
Well, training wise this week I have so far done; a fast (for me!) 7 miles Monday night, 7 mile cross country walk/ run with 5.3 kg pack Wednesday, 3 miles speed work on the treadmill at the gym last night, plus 1 1/2 miles run/ walk on inclination. I also went on the stepper for 10 minutes and the elliptical for 15, and didn't get too much sensation in my right knee so will continue to built this up.
It is amazing what a difference it makes running with a pack. I really felt it in the backs of my legs, and it felt quite a struggle to run. Then I was struck with the depressing realisation that in the MdS I will be probably be carrying over twice this weight, at least on the first few days... I guess it's just a matter of gradually building up pack weight until it becomes the norm to run with a pack.
No idea yet what I will do the rest of the weekend, but it will no doubt equate to 35 miles or more over the week. Just had chips and she gave me absolute loads, so it seemed rude not to eat as many as I can, but feel really fat and bloated now...
... my feet are terrible. I think I might have mentioned they have been deformed from birth, I still have the full set on each foot but they are odd sizes and sort of 'squashed in', with a huge gap between the big toe and second toe which I am convinced is going to turn into a lovely bunion one day... the big toes are already starting to lean over where they shouldn't be.
I am going to wear the little plastic 'toe separaters' I bought throughout the day, and may even try using a pumice stone on my plates (got a lovely one free in Marrakesh) and maybe even treating them to a nice bit of moisturiser.
Well, training wise this week I have so far done; a fast (for me!) 7 miles Monday night, 7 mile cross country walk/ run with 5.3 kg pack Wednesday, 3 miles speed work on the treadmill at the gym last night, plus 1 1/2 miles run/ walk on inclination. I also went on the stepper for 10 minutes and the elliptical for 15, and didn't get too much sensation in my right knee so will continue to built this up.
It is amazing what a difference it makes running with a pack. I really felt it in the backs of my legs, and it felt quite a struggle to run. Then I was struck with the depressing realisation that in the MdS I will be probably be carrying over twice this weight, at least on the first few days... I guess it's just a matter of gradually building up pack weight until it becomes the norm to run with a pack.
No idea yet what I will do the rest of the weekend, but it will no doubt equate to 35 miles or more over the week. Just had chips and she gave me absolute loads, so it seemed rude not to eat as many as I can, but feel really fat and bloated now...
Saturday, April 12, 2008
It's The Weekend... Again...
Wow. Where did that week go?!? Is it just me or are the years actually getting a little shorter each year??
Been quite a busy week, unfortunately had a family funeral on Tuesday, had arranged to meet up with a few friends (work and ex- work) Thursday night, had a takeaway night last night with my mate (mmm... pizza... ) plus my Dad and stepmum are here from Spain at the moment so want to spend a bit of time with them.
So it's been quite hard to try to fit in some training! I have been doing some thinking, after reading advice from this year's MdS finishers. The general consensus seems to be that a lot of folks end up walking a great deal of the MdS, which causes problems if they have mainly trained by running- increased aches, blisters etc. So I think I will put as great an emphasis on walking as well as running. I am also not too worried about increasing speed, but rather time on feet and endurance. Let's face it, I am not exactly going to be in the top 100 finishers. I am going to have to walk a lot, if not most, of it. My aim is to finish the event, hopefully not be last, and have an amazing adventure!
Monday I managed a slowish 10 miles carrying a 3.2kg pack. I have just worked out that the most effective way of weighing a pack is to set my scales to kilos, weigh myself and then weigh myself again wearing the pack. Durr Einstein I'm not!!
Tuesday was the funeral, Wednesday I walked to Body Toning class and back, around 5 miles, with pack. Thursday I missed my gym session, but did park quite a distance away and walk to meet my mates. In fact, I decided to try something a bit new; I wore my ankle weights all day Thursday and Friday. I don't know how much benefit they give, but got to be worth a try! I had a course Friday in Nottingham City, so again parked some distance away and marched there with my weights on. Kept 'em on all day too, so god knows what folks thought! Over the two days I guess I covered at least 3 miles, but I'm not counting it in my weekly total.
I packed my rucksack up to 5.3kg and covered 13 miles today, mostly walking with a little running. I did one of my usual routes, with a little add-on, and just about dodged the worst of the showers. It was great seeing loads of lambs in the fields, being called to safety by their mums when I got too close.
When I got to Rotherby though, it was apparent that they have filled most of the fields with cows. Now, I never used to mind cows, in fact I used to sit and sketch them in my college days. But something's changed, I reckon it's the reports of folks being trampled to death by cattle, but now I find it quite intimidating walking through a field of cows when they start following you... this particular field contained young bullocks... well I say young, but they were still blooming big... and they started jostling, mock charging, etc so I was so pleased when I got out there. I know I'm a wimp, but I may have to avoid this route for a few months, until they have met their sad but inevitable end anyway...
My add on, a different footpath that was supposed to bring me further up along the road, turned out to be up a long, ploughed field, with no provision at all to walk along the side, so negotiating this was a little hairy. There is a road running through a large open meadow between Rotherby and Brooksby, and to my dismay it contained a herd of large bulls, but luckily they more or less ignored me.
I crossed the main Melton Road and munched an oat bar, and luckily the rest of the walk went without incident. At one point, I thought I saw loads of cows in the next field and my heart sank, but I realised they were actually sheep. I like sheep. At least they have the decency to be small and to run away! One ewe had an odd green plastic hood attached to her head, I assume she must have some kind of condition, but it looked for all the world as though she was wearing a green bonnet!
We are going out for Sunday lunch tomorrow but I should be able to get a gym workout in first. Obsessed, moi? I could even do a little gentle 3 miler tomorrow evening to make it a complete 35 mile week...
Been quite a busy week, unfortunately had a family funeral on Tuesday, had arranged to meet up with a few friends (work and ex- work) Thursday night, had a takeaway night last night with my mate (mmm... pizza... ) plus my Dad and stepmum are here from Spain at the moment so want to spend a bit of time with them.
So it's been quite hard to try to fit in some training! I have been doing some thinking, after reading advice from this year's MdS finishers. The general consensus seems to be that a lot of folks end up walking a great deal of the MdS, which causes problems if they have mainly trained by running- increased aches, blisters etc. So I think I will put as great an emphasis on walking as well as running. I am also not too worried about increasing speed, but rather time on feet and endurance. Let's face it, I am not exactly going to be in the top 100 finishers. I am going to have to walk a lot, if not most, of it. My aim is to finish the event, hopefully not be last, and have an amazing adventure!
Monday I managed a slowish 10 miles carrying a 3.2kg pack. I have just worked out that the most effective way of weighing a pack is to set my scales to kilos, weigh myself and then weigh myself again wearing the pack. Durr Einstein I'm not!!
Tuesday was the funeral, Wednesday I walked to Body Toning class and back, around 5 miles, with pack. Thursday I missed my gym session, but did park quite a distance away and walk to meet my mates. In fact, I decided to try something a bit new; I wore my ankle weights all day Thursday and Friday. I don't know how much benefit they give, but got to be worth a try! I had a course Friday in Nottingham City, so again parked some distance away and marched there with my weights on. Kept 'em on all day too, so god knows what folks thought! Over the two days I guess I covered at least 3 miles, but I'm not counting it in my weekly total.
I packed my rucksack up to 5.3kg and covered 13 miles today, mostly walking with a little running. I did one of my usual routes, with a little add-on, and just about dodged the worst of the showers. It was great seeing loads of lambs in the fields, being called to safety by their mums when I got too close.
When I got to Rotherby though, it was apparent that they have filled most of the fields with cows. Now, I never used to mind cows, in fact I used to sit and sketch them in my college days. But something's changed, I reckon it's the reports of folks being trampled to death by cattle, but now I find it quite intimidating walking through a field of cows when they start following you... this particular field contained young bullocks... well I say young, but they were still blooming big... and they started jostling, mock charging, etc so I was so pleased when I got out there. I know I'm a wimp, but I may have to avoid this route for a few months, until they have met their sad but inevitable end anyway...
My add on, a different footpath that was supposed to bring me further up along the road, turned out to be up a long, ploughed field, with no provision at all to walk along the side, so negotiating this was a little hairy. There is a road running through a large open meadow between Rotherby and Brooksby, and to my dismay it contained a herd of large bulls, but luckily they more or less ignored me.
I crossed the main Melton Road and munched an oat bar, and luckily the rest of the walk went without incident. At one point, I thought I saw loads of cows in the next field and my heart sank, but I realised they were actually sheep. I like sheep. At least they have the decency to be small and to run away! One ewe had an odd green plastic hood attached to her head, I assume she must have some kind of condition, but it looked for all the world as though she was wearing a green bonnet!
We are going out for Sunday lunch tomorrow but I should be able to get a gym workout in first. Obsessed, moi? I could even do a little gentle 3 miler tomorrow evening to make it a complete 35 mile week...
Labels: Marathon des Sables, training
Sunday, April 06, 2008
Chillin' On Sunday Afternoon...
Just chilling on Sunday afternoon, and really pleased to see everyone has finished the MdS, and will be cooling their heels in Ouazazate now and maybe haggling for those last minute souvenirs.
They are heroes. All of them! Rich has posted a fantastic photo of himself wearing his medal, can't wait to read all the details in his blog and everybody elses when they gets back. I am hoping to be able to put a similar pic on my blog this time next year!!
Running totals for this week then... 7 1/2 miles Monday night, 5 miles with heavy dumbells in my pack Wednesday, 4 1/2 miles running and walking up an incline at the gym Thursday, a slow 9 1/2 miles last night and another 4 miles in the gym today... what's that... 30 1/2, slightly down this week but last week was quite tough. I still did the weights and used the stepper and ellipticals at the gym, but they are still affecting the right knee which is annoying! I have found them really useful and now can't seem to use them...
I have been working on a website about the treks/ etc I have done, plus the MdS of course (as that does kind of dominate my every thought at the moment!!) it should hopefully be on line soon.
Gotta give some serious thought as to where my training goes from here on!
Note to self;
They are heroes. All of them! Rich has posted a fantastic photo of himself wearing his medal, can't wait to read all the details in his blog and everybody elses when they gets back. I am hoping to be able to put a similar pic on my blog this time next year!!
Running totals for this week then... 7 1/2 miles Monday night, 5 miles with heavy dumbells in my pack Wednesday, 4 1/2 miles running and walking up an incline at the gym Thursday, a slow 9 1/2 miles last night and another 4 miles in the gym today... what's that... 30 1/2, slightly down this week but last week was quite tough. I still did the weights and used the stepper and ellipticals at the gym, but they are still affecting the right knee which is annoying! I have found them really useful and now can't seem to use them...
I have been working on a website about the treks/ etc I have done, plus the MdS of course (as that does kind of dominate my every thought at the moment!!) it should hopefully be on line soon.
Gotta give some serious thought as to where my training goes from here on!
Note to self;
- Drink more water
- Drink less caffeine
Labels: Marathon des Sables, training
Monday, February 18, 2008
Another 30 Mile Week...
Can't believe how quickly this week's gone!! It's just passed by in a blur of housework, cleaning, selling old stuff on eBay, and training...
Tuesday's run was a steady 8 1/2 miler (makes it so-o much easier no I can chart my mileage with accuracy!) Wednesday I did my usual body toning class- she is making it harder each week and it actually made my legs ache! Still, good for muscle strengthening I guess, and I need as much of that as I can get... I wore my small rucksack with full 1 litre water bottles and went for a short run after, 6 miles in all.
Thursday I was feeling lazy, so walked to Syston and back with a few bags of shopping- 3 miles roughly.
Friday was a gym session; 25 minutes on the ellipticals, increasing resistance, strength training and 4 miles on the treadmill- speed and inclination work. I'm a bit reluctant to do much on the stepper at the minute, particularly as I could feel my knee a little after the elliptical.
Saturday was a no- train day, as one of my oldest friends from school was having a party to celebrate her and her fella's 10th anniversary of being together. She lives in Stockport, so I picked up our other school chum, who lives near me, and went for the day. We realised we should have maybe got them a card or something, so picked them up a dog mask each from McDonalds instead!
Yesterday was another gorgeous day, so I went for a run... I did a route I thought was about 9 miles, which turned out to be 8 1/2, but did run to my mum's house and back to feed their cat, which is a mile. It was perfect for running- crisp and clear, with the remains of the night's frost crunching underfoot and the morning sun throwing everything into a golden light. I regretted not bringing my camera. I had my rucksack on and had increased the weight a little.
I will be going to the gym again today, probably, but this week will be a lower mileage week as I am off to Blackpool at the weekend with Katie, to see our older sis so won't get much opportunity to train. It will mean missing the Belvoir Challenge which is a shame but I am entering the Grindleford Gallop and probably the Norton 9. So I will just have an easier week, and may start to increase to 35 miles per week from the week after next.
Back to work tomorrow- will be a shock to the system getting up at 6am!
Tuesday's run was a steady 8 1/2 miler (makes it so-o much easier no I can chart my mileage with accuracy!) Wednesday I did my usual body toning class- she is making it harder each week and it actually made my legs ache! Still, good for muscle strengthening I guess, and I need as much of that as I can get... I wore my small rucksack with full 1 litre water bottles and went for a short run after, 6 miles in all.
Thursday I was feeling lazy, so walked to Syston and back with a few bags of shopping- 3 miles roughly.
Friday was a gym session; 25 minutes on the ellipticals, increasing resistance, strength training and 4 miles on the treadmill- speed and inclination work. I'm a bit reluctant to do much on the stepper at the minute, particularly as I could feel my knee a little after the elliptical.
Saturday was a no- train day, as one of my oldest friends from school was having a party to celebrate her and her fella's 10th anniversary of being together. She lives in Stockport, so I picked up our other school chum, who lives near me, and went for the day. We realised we should have maybe got them a card or something, so picked them up a dog mask each from McDonalds instead!
Yesterday was another gorgeous day, so I went for a run... I did a route I thought was about 9 miles, which turned out to be 8 1/2, but did run to my mum's house and back to feed their cat, which is a mile. It was perfect for running- crisp and clear, with the remains of the night's frost crunching underfoot and the morning sun throwing everything into a golden light. I regretted not bringing my camera. I had my rucksack on and had increased the weight a little.
I will be going to the gym again today, probably, but this week will be a lower mileage week as I am off to Blackpool at the weekend with Katie, to see our older sis so won't get much opportunity to train. It will mean missing the Belvoir Challenge which is a shame but I am entering the Grindleford Gallop and probably the Norton 9. So I will just have an easier week, and may start to increase to 35 miles per week from the week after next.
Back to work tomorrow- will be a shock to the system getting up at 6am!
Labels: training
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Marathon Des Sables Seminar
I received an email informing me of a of seminar run by Luke Cunliffe, who has completed the MdS. I couldn't get to the first date, but am off to London tomorrow for the second!
I thought it would be a good idea to get as much advice/ info as possible if I am going to be doing this mad thing!!! According to the website, topics covered include
I thought it would be a good idea to get as much advice/ info as possible if I am going to be doing this mad thing!!! According to the website, topics covered include
- About the MdS
- Training
- Nutrition
- Injury Prevention
- Charity Fundraising
- Personal Admin in the Desert (not filing or checking emails, but stuff like hygiene, cooking, blister treatments...)
- Equipment
- Q & A With Former MdS Runners
Sounds pretty impressive, hey- I'll be taking plenty of notes. Be interested to find out if anybody else is going/ has been??
The downside is that I will have to get up at 4am and won't be home until 11pm, which is why I've taken Monday off work... to sleep... I really have a problem getting up these cold, wet, dark mornings... work isn't the problem, it's just the rigmarole I have to go through to get there- dragging myself out of my nice warm bed, getting dressed in the freezing cold and fighting my way through the traffic. I wish I could just zap myself to work, dressed and ready!!
Training wise, this week and next week have been hectic- I've been out two nights this week, and with the seminar it's been tough to fit training in... Monday I ran 5 miles, Tuesday I intended to do a long slow run but a friend wanted a chat, so I ran the first 3 miles and speed marched another four with the phone glued to my ear. In the pouring rain, I got absolutely soaked and it's a wonder the phone didn't die!
Wednesday was Body Toning, but I ran there with a very light pack, plus part of my usual route to make it around 8 miles (I really need a Garmin!!) Thursday and Friday were my nights out- tricky as I still want a life and to not turn into a totally obsessive freak- just a partially obsessive freak will do!
Went to the gym this morning, and as well as the usual strength training, did some work on the ellipticals as well as 3.3 miles running with a further 1.8 miles running 'uphill'. If I go out later and do another 6 miles, possibly with back pack, I'll have hit my 30 mile target for this week.
Next week looks to be busy- It's my birthday Thursday, I will be, ahem, 38... but will have to socialise Thursday and Friday, plus am going out for the day Saturday so will need to fit in the training around that. It's all go...
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Good News!
I have some good news; I went into the gym, and the manager (I think she is) recognised me and asked how things were going. We chatted for a few minutes and I told her about the MdS, and she asked if I intended raising money for charity. I said that I would like to, and she offered to hold a 'stepathon' event or similar to raise money for it! She said to just speak to her later when I am ready, and said that they like to hold money raising events!
This will be a major boost, I must have a look to see if they have a web site I can out a link to- it's The Engine Room in Thurmaston.
This week has been fairly quiet, I went for a 5 mile walk/ run New Year's Day with Katie. Then 8 1/2 miles at a steady pace Wednesday evening, I felt quite good so managed to pick up the pace.
Thursday I was out so went to the gym Friday instead; I have had to be careful with the ellipticals and stepper due to the odd knee pain I was experiencing (but not affected by running/ walking). I did 3 miles on the treadmill running up to 6.7 mph plus another 10 minutes inclination walking, plus the other usual stuff.
Yesterday I really didn't feel like going for a run- physically I felt fine, I just couldn't be ar*ed so had to practically shove myself out the door- does anybody else get days like that or is it just me!?! I did 7 miles cross country with a fairly light pack, although running with a pack does make a difference. I did manage to slip over but only dented my pride! I couldn't wait to get home though as I felt quite lazy!
Had a good session at the gym today though, my brain must have wanted to make ammends! I ran about 3 1/2 miles, top speed 7.5mph, did resistance work on the ellipticals and decided to try the stepper for 10 minutes on a fairly gentle setting. Apart from a very slight sensation which wore off very quickly the knee was fine. Oh, finished up with 1/2 mile running on incline...
Total mileage for this week; 28 miles, next week I will do 30! It will be so much easier now Christmas and New Year are out the way although I have loads of chocs and biscuits left! Hmm, maybe I should just scoff them all and do 100 miles to burn it all off... my willpower is less than impressive and the box of Thorntons is calling to me right this minute...
This will be a major boost, I must have a look to see if they have a web site I can out a link to- it's The Engine Room in Thurmaston.
This week has been fairly quiet, I went for a 5 mile walk/ run New Year's Day with Katie. Then 8 1/2 miles at a steady pace Wednesday evening, I felt quite good so managed to pick up the pace.
Thursday I was out so went to the gym Friday instead; I have had to be careful with the ellipticals and stepper due to the odd knee pain I was experiencing (but not affected by running/ walking). I did 3 miles on the treadmill running up to 6.7 mph plus another 10 minutes inclination walking, plus the other usual stuff.
Yesterday I really didn't feel like going for a run- physically I felt fine, I just couldn't be ar*ed so had to practically shove myself out the door- does anybody else get days like that or is it just me!?! I did 7 miles cross country with a fairly light pack, although running with a pack does make a difference. I did manage to slip over but only dented my pride! I couldn't wait to get home though as I felt quite lazy!
Had a good session at the gym today though, my brain must have wanted to make ammends! I ran about 3 1/2 miles, top speed 7.5mph, did resistance work on the ellipticals and decided to try the stepper for 10 minutes on a fairly gentle setting. Apart from a very slight sensation which wore off very quickly the knee was fine. Oh, finished up with 1/2 mile running on incline...
Total mileage for this week; 28 miles, next week I will do 30! It will be so much easier now Christmas and New Year are out the way although I have loads of chocs and biscuits left! Hmm, maybe I should just scoff them all and do 100 miles to burn it all off... my willpower is less than impressive and the box of Thorntons is calling to me right this minute...
Labels: fund raising, training
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Weekend Update
It's the weekend again, can't believe how fast the year's going! Well, so far this week I have done another 6 miler, completely Achilles heel problem free! I really think I can start to build up the distances now, but will take it slowly. I am planning to build back up to half marathon distance.
I have also done the usual work out at the gym, and quite a lot of walking. Plus multi tasking; using my mini stepper whilst watching telly!
I am planning a longer walk for next weekend, after my Dad and stepmum have returned to Spain. I have a route plan for a 34 mile Challenge walk around the Charnwood area in Leics which I'm thinking of doing.
I think my plan will be to build up a good endurance base this year, building up the long walks and runs up to half marathon distance, then next year concentrate on building distances and gradually increasing pack weight. I will also need to try out equipment too, and drinks/ powders etc. I will really need to up the distances over Christmas/ New Year 2008/9 and taper in the weeks leading up to the event.
Rich came up with a good suggestion- duathlons! I am definately going to look into this. I am going to try with the swimming, too, but cannot ever imagine being able to swim a mile front crawl! I couldn't even make a pool length without nearly drowning!
It's a lovely day for a change... think I will make the most of it and go for a walk later!
I have also done the usual work out at the gym, and quite a lot of walking. Plus multi tasking; using my mini stepper whilst watching telly!
I am planning a longer walk for next weekend, after my Dad and stepmum have returned to Spain. I have a route plan for a 34 mile Challenge walk around the Charnwood area in Leics which I'm thinking of doing.
I think my plan will be to build up a good endurance base this year, building up the long walks and runs up to half marathon distance, then next year concentrate on building distances and gradually increasing pack weight. I will also need to try out equipment too, and drinks/ powders etc. I will really need to up the distances over Christmas/ New Year 2008/9 and taper in the weeks leading up to the event.
Rich came up with a good suggestion- duathlons! I am definately going to look into this. I am going to try with the swimming, too, but cannot ever imagine being able to swim a mile front crawl! I couldn't even make a pool length without nearly drowning!
It's a lovely day for a change... think I will make the most of it and go for a walk later!
Labels: Challenge walks, training, walking
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Updated Links
I have just spent an age updating the links to my past events, and touch wood everything seems to be working ok...
Another fairly quiet week, I was going to go for a 5 mile run Monday but the left knee pain I get occasionally started to make an appearance, so I did the sensible thing and cut it to 4 1/2, walking the last half mile. I think my muscles were still tired from the gym Sunday as I did a good workout.
I am going to the gym again tonight, and will probably try for the 5 miles between now and the Dovedale Dipper Sunday; if things go according to plan, I can start to slowly build up my running mileage from next week!
My Dad and stepmum have come to stay for a month, it is unbearably hot in Spain, up in the 30's during the night! They are using mine as a base, so will be good to spend some time with them. Training sure takes up a lot of my time!!
Another fairly quiet week, I was going to go for a 5 mile run Monday but the left knee pain I get occasionally started to make an appearance, so I did the sensible thing and cut it to 4 1/2, walking the last half mile. I think my muscles were still tired from the gym Sunday as I did a good workout.
I am going to the gym again tonight, and will probably try for the 5 miles between now and the Dovedale Dipper Sunday; if things go according to plan, I can start to slowly build up my running mileage from next week!
My Dad and stepmum have come to stay for a month, it is unbearably hot in Spain, up in the 30's during the night! They are using mine as a base, so will be good to spend some time with them. Training sure takes up a lot of my time!!
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Just Chilling...
Just having a chilled time, in preparation for the Norton 9 tomorrow! My mum informs me that it gives lashing rain and gales tomorrow- great!!
It's a fairly long drive, so good job it doesn't start until 11. The information on Runners World informs me that the second half of the race is 'undulating' (ominous word!) with the 'worst' hill at about 7.5 miles...
Should be fun! I haven't ran that distance before so have no idea what my time will be. My work colleague is running too.
I have been lax about posting weekly work out totals, so must get back into that. I went to the gym last night, and didn't do too much (although there is always the temptation to just do that little bit more!) I did some strength training - how come the machine I leave until last suddenly becomes the most busiest when I want to use it!!
The problem with having an event every weekend is that during the week you are always needing to taper, and can never seem to build up to a good work out! I plan on stocking up on valuable carbs for tomorrow- me and a mate are having pizza tonight! (good excuse!)
It's a fairly long drive, so good job it doesn't start until 11. The information on Runners World informs me that the second half of the race is 'undulating' (ominous word!) with the 'worst' hill at about 7.5 miles...
Should be fun! I haven't ran that distance before so have no idea what my time will be. My work colleague is running too.
I have been lax about posting weekly work out totals, so must get back into that. I went to the gym last night, and didn't do too much (although there is always the temptation to just do that little bit more!) I did some strength training - how come the machine I leave until last suddenly becomes the most busiest when I want to use it!!
The problem with having an event every weekend is that during the week you are always needing to taper, and can never seem to build up to a good work out! I plan on stocking up on valuable carbs for tomorrow- me and a mate are having pizza tonight! (good excuse!)
Labels: gym, running, training
Saturday, February 17, 2007
A Change...
Right, I've made the change to the new Google account so lessee how easy this will be...
I am very premenstrual and for some unknown reason 4 cadburys cream eggs just jumped into my arms and whispered that they are 4 for 99p... so I had to bring them home really, it was the kindest thing to do...
Right, I haven't written my exercise account for last week, partially as this was my first week of working in the new team and has been rather stressful.
Running
5 miles on treadmill over two sessions, top speed 7mph.
6 miles slow (due to ice!)
Walking
Approx 5 miles
Uphill on treadmill, for 10 minutes
Other
40 minutes on elliptical trainer (fairly fast)
20 minutes on bike
40 minutes on stepper fairly hard
10 minutes on rower
All over 2 sessions.
So, not great, but getting back on track after my illness.
I have the Tamworth Heart 10k tomorrow (also stepdad's birthday and the present I ordered for him hasn't arrived... bummer) and have received my race number for a 9 mile race in Doncaster.
I am going to try to list my future events in the left hand column... you will know if I've succeeded as they will be there... if I've cocked it up they won't be...
I am very premenstrual and for some unknown reason 4 cadburys cream eggs just jumped into my arms and whispered that they are 4 for 99p... so I had to bring them home really, it was the kindest thing to do...
Right, I haven't written my exercise account for last week, partially as this was my first week of working in the new team and has been rather stressful.
Running
5 miles on treadmill over two sessions, top speed 7mph.
6 miles slow (due to ice!)
Walking
Approx 5 miles
Uphill on treadmill, for 10 minutes
Other
40 minutes on elliptical trainer (fairly fast)
20 minutes on bike
40 minutes on stepper fairly hard
10 minutes on rower
All over 2 sessions.
So, not great, but getting back on track after my illness.
I have the Tamworth Heart 10k tomorrow (also stepdad's birthday and the present I ordered for him hasn't arrived... bummer) and have received my race number for a 9 mile race in Doncaster.
I am going to try to list my future events in the left hand column... you will know if I've succeeded as they will be there... if I've cocked it up they won't be...
