I kept telling my friends, Jorgen and Zoe, that it might be a bit wet on the West Coast but it doesn't rain as much in the East so not to worry too much when we get to Newcastle. You guessed it! It was tipping it down on the final day!
The deal was that Dan and Jorgen would come with me and Zoe and small do would stay in the nice warm hotel and perhaps potter a bit. We set off for brekky at a cafe just a few hundred yards along he quayside, we got as far as the hotel door where the dog refused to go outside, he's a very sensible dog!
Having coaxed the dog out we probably shouldn't have bothered as the cafe would not let him in, Jorgen walked him a little then put him back in the room whilst we ate a big brekky - don't worry he did join us! Great coffee in the 'great coffe' cafe - very large sizes!
I had hatched a plan on seeing the weather when I woke, and revealed it to the team - to save us getting very wet then sitting shivering all the way home on the metro we would take a short walk to the station then get the metro to the coast and walk back. Same distance, reverse direction. Dan was not keen as felt it would be disingenuous but seeing as the point was to walk the path we were still doing what we had talked about.
Dan decided to go and get an extra pair of shorts as he'd borrowed a pair from Jorgen for the past two days and we'd not managed to wash them last night (we did the night before). Any excuse to go to the LD Mountain Centre! Plus he was looking for another pair of, more comfortable, Salomon shoes. I asked him to get me a cheap 'boil in the bag' waterproof as my lightweight shells were simply going to wet-out in the deluge. He got me a small but it was still huge - cue detour to LD for an XS on way to metro station.
Alighting a Tynemouth we looked at a few stall on the weekend market then headed off for the beach (a bit of confusion about which way to go but only 30 secs worth). On the beach we took some photos and got the lifeguard to take some too. There were some guys training on the stairs that go up and down to the beach - my H&S hat came out as some of them had shoes that were sooooo unsuitable for wet concrete! Quick loo-break and we were off on the last leg.
We took a few more piccies a the end marker of the path (I changed waterproof to the thicker one by now so when I get the photo's loaded it is the same day honest! We knew that today was to be the shortest day but the weather made it very unpleasant. Quick snack stop at a coffee shop in the Royal Quays outlet centre (dripped all over their seats and floor).
We're on home turf now and are really excited about giving Jorgen an industrial tour of the areas, starting with the Tyne Tunnel pedestrian tunnel complete with wooden escalators and separate cycle tunnel. Next was the location of the old steel works (gone!) and the weather, as we remarked, was improving.
Oh, yes we spoke too soon! If I was a little damp of foot before in the next 5 minutes my running shoes were squelching! The planned - 'this is where we used to live' detours became a 'it's up there' arm pointing. The rain was so bad the roads were flooding - I had to take a long detour up one street as my legs were too short to jump the puddles at the bottom and unlike Dan my shoes had not even the semblance of waterproofing.
Next came the Riverside park and Keelman's Way - more industrial tourism here. The weather was really improving now and we were able to stop to look at the Kittiwake tower and read the info. Quick text from Zoe came now and I let her know I though we were a few miles way only - strange how even if you know the area when you can't see many landmarks you lose certainty!
I had been explaining that the Tyne winds such a lot that it was not easy to follow it from the air- heck we werent' sure where we were and we were alongside it on foot! We could see St James Park but it looked like it was on the South side from where we were.
Around the next bend we would see the bridges again (well I got it wrong twice but third time lucky!). I called Zoe and let her know that we would be there in a few mins and she got ready to come over the Millennium Bridge to meet us at the Baltic.
Sitting eating cake and drinking a beer (hey, I deserved it!) I realised that we'd done it (well almost). Bath, bubbles, dinner with bubbles, comfortable bed!
Thursday, 21 July 2011
Day 6 - And now we are four!
We had been talking about when and if Zoe would be rejoining us and who to deal with the fact that 5-6 hours in the car travelling home would make her back worse. The idea of flying home came up and the receipt of a copy of her return flight details confirmed that she'd be back - hooray! I had been feeling a bit selfish as everyone had 'been there' for me but not for Zoe when she was ill.
At breakfast there had been some discussion of who would be running and who would be transporting the packs and dog to the next location. Although I would really have preferred Jorgen to be with me on this stretch so I could have run if I'd wanted too I was not going to upset my hubby by saying so, afterall he had stepped up to the plate the previous day. I was a little worried that his feet were a bit sore though.
So, Jorgen dropped us off in Castleside (we originally though we were in Consett but had not really checked and there was only about 1 mile difference on what was going now to be a 12/13 mile day). We set off from Morrisons - which strangely we found does not have a loo and we needed one! S'OK we found the facilities in the local park where they also had an interesting display about the old steel works.
Once on the Derwent Walk section of the path we kind of knew where we were as we used to cycle this a lot with one of the friends we had met the night before. The plan for today was 15 miles from Consett to the Tyne Bridges (final hotel being near the Millennium Bridge in Newcastle). Although we were walking we were still getting tired and slowing down and I could tell that Dan was really hungry and tired but he refused my offer of a protein bar or Kendal Mint cake. I managed to hold things together far better as I had someone else to worry about and when we hit the Metrocentre we took a detour to TGI Fridays of all places for a full sit down lunch! Even though I say it myself, my Quesadillas are far better than theirs!
After lunch we did manage to drag our heavy stomachs out again and it seemed that in no time we were seeing the bridges in the near distance - I had expected to get all emotional when I saw them but I didn't, I just took loads of piccies! We called Jorgen to let him know where we were at lunch and again once in sight of the bridges - he'd already checked us in and put out kit in out rooms, star that he is!
A relaxing bath and rest later and we headed up to the station to meets Zoe (train in, plane out). We got there early so we could have a pint in the Centurion where most of the clientèle came over to ask about the dog! Once Zoe arrived we headed back to the hotel for dinner and drinks.
Dan had worried that the last hotel (Malmaison) was an extravagance but it was worth it he agreed later. We made a plan for the next day including a lie-in til 9 and brekky at 10 in a local cafe and then the 3 of us would be setting off on the final leg.
At breakfast there had been some discussion of who would be running and who would be transporting the packs and dog to the next location. Although I would really have preferred Jorgen to be with me on this stretch so I could have run if I'd wanted too I was not going to upset my hubby by saying so, afterall he had stepped up to the plate the previous day. I was a little worried that his feet were a bit sore though.
So, Jorgen dropped us off in Castleside (we originally though we were in Consett but had not really checked and there was only about 1 mile difference on what was going now to be a 12/13 mile day). We set off from Morrisons - which strangely we found does not have a loo and we needed one! S'OK we found the facilities in the local park where they also had an interesting display about the old steel works.
Once on the Derwent Walk section of the path we kind of knew where we were as we used to cycle this a lot with one of the friends we had met the night before. The plan for today was 15 miles from Consett to the Tyne Bridges (final hotel being near the Millennium Bridge in Newcastle). Although we were walking we were still getting tired and slowing down and I could tell that Dan was really hungry and tired but he refused my offer of a protein bar or Kendal Mint cake. I managed to hold things together far better as I had someone else to worry about and when we hit the Metrocentre we took a detour to TGI Fridays of all places for a full sit down lunch! Even though I say it myself, my Quesadillas are far better than theirs!
After lunch we did manage to drag our heavy stomachs out again and it seemed that in no time we were seeing the bridges in the near distance - I had expected to get all emotional when I saw them but I didn't, I just took loads of piccies! We called Jorgen to let him know where we were at lunch and again once in sight of the bridges - he'd already checked us in and put out kit in out rooms, star that he is!
A relaxing bath and rest later and we headed up to the station to meets Zoe (train in, plane out). We got there early so we could have a pint in the Centurion where most of the clientèle came over to ask about the dog! Once Zoe arrived we headed back to the hotel for dinner and drinks.
Dan had worried that the last hotel (Malmaison) was an extravagance but it was worth it he agreed later. We made a plan for the next day including a lie-in til 9 and brekky at 10 in a local cafe and then the 3 of us would be setting off on the final leg.
Day 5 - New balls please!
Dan had transported us to the next B&B the night before along with the poorly doglet. This one we'd stayed in before when we cycled the path and were looking forward to going there as it had been great. Key words there - had been! Suffice to say we were disappointed! Check out our reviews of Bee Cottage on trip advisor for more info - wish we had done so first!
Sitting in the pub eating dinner the night before (looked like a gastropub outside - was not inside but good honest and cheap food (we reviewed all the restaurants and pubs we could too), Jorgen pointed out that his foot was very sore and he was not certain that he could run or even walk the next day. A plan was hatched!
Dan was to run with me the following day then just in case Jorgen could not and so he could take the little dog to the vets. In the morning Jorgen was OK but we decided to stick to the plan. so there would be no running as Dan does not run and had not even got the right shoes to try. He also had no food and although he did have a Camelbak his rucksack was a bit large - so we would be walking.
Jorgen dropped us off at Rookhope and we headed to Stanhope. We had planned to have a quick coffee together in the local pub before starting but at 10:50 it of course was not open. Dan and I set off along the road as the off road route although open looked a bit rough. After a few mins Jorgen and Rascal (the dog) passed and waved (not the dog!) after a quick chat out of the car window!
At this point in my mind I was on the downhill part of the trek. Not really - there were some climbs to Stanhope (and some rather dodgy signage), we had a little 5 min rest when we reached the town before heading up a whole 2 miles of hill! It just went on and on and it was mostly straight so we could see that it went on and on! To keep us going we started a 'road kill count' which totalled 27 (possibly 26 as the last 2 could have been 2 a part of the same!) most of which were on this section.
At the top of the hill we found a cafe - Parkhead Station, what a lovely place, a welcome site (and sight) and they have a B&B - we took details for later use. Great coffee and cake in just the right place and the owners where like a comedy double act (they had 'retired' there, think I could too!).
After this it was downhill!! At last! Now were were on the moors away from the road and surrounded by sheep - sheep with lambs to protect, sheep that decided Dan was a threat - a few headed for him! Hilarious! I'd had three days of walking and running with Jorgen and the sheep ran from us - Dan they try to attack! I did the 'making myself look bigger' thing but stretching out my arms and the sheep though better of it!
The weather was beginning to look threatening with big black clouds but we had about 5 miles only left so we were not really worried. Plus it was downhill and again straight so we could see it! About 2-3 miles out from the B&B - which we were walking in to we saw a figure running up the path towards us. At first a speck moving faster than the other specks then a figure in black shorts and top with a recognisable gait - was it? Yep! it was Jorgen - he was going a bit stir crazy so he had come out for a short run and did not even realise that he was on the same path as us! We all walked back in together.
Had a great evening at the Derwent Walk Pub with some local friends - a great day all in all.
Sitting in the pub eating dinner the night before (looked like a gastropub outside - was not inside but good honest and cheap food (we reviewed all the restaurants and pubs we could too), Jorgen pointed out that his foot was very sore and he was not certain that he could run or even walk the next day. A plan was hatched!
Dan was to run with me the following day then just in case Jorgen could not and so he could take the little dog to the vets. In the morning Jorgen was OK but we decided to stick to the plan. so there would be no running as Dan does not run and had not even got the right shoes to try. He also had no food and although he did have a Camelbak his rucksack was a bit large - so we would be walking.
Jorgen dropped us off at Rookhope and we headed to Stanhope. We had planned to have a quick coffee together in the local pub before starting but at 10:50 it of course was not open. Dan and I set off along the road as the off road route although open looked a bit rough. After a few mins Jorgen and Rascal (the dog) passed and waved (not the dog!) after a quick chat out of the car window!
At this point in my mind I was on the downhill part of the trek. Not really - there were some climbs to Stanhope (and some rather dodgy signage), we had a little 5 min rest when we reached the town before heading up a whole 2 miles of hill! It just went on and on and it was mostly straight so we could see that it went on and on! To keep us going we started a 'road kill count' which totalled 27 (possibly 26 as the last 2 could have been 2 a part of the same!) most of which were on this section.
At the top of the hill we found a cafe - Parkhead Station, what a lovely place, a welcome site (and sight) and they have a B&B - we took details for later use. Great coffee and cake in just the right place and the owners where like a comedy double act (they had 'retired' there, think I could too!).
After this it was downhill!! At last! Now were were on the moors away from the road and surrounded by sheep - sheep with lambs to protect, sheep that decided Dan was a threat - a few headed for him! Hilarious! I'd had three days of walking and running with Jorgen and the sheep ran from us - Dan they try to attack! I did the 'making myself look bigger' thing but stretching out my arms and the sheep though better of it!
The weather was beginning to look threatening with big black clouds but we had about 5 miles only left so we were not really worried. Plus it was downhill and again straight so we could see it! About 2-3 miles out from the B&B - which we were walking in to we saw a figure running up the path towards us. At first a speck moving faster than the other specks then a figure in black shorts and top with a recognisable gait - was it? Yep! it was Jorgen - he was going a bit stir crazy so he had come out for a short run and did not even realise that he was on the same path as us! We all walked back in together.
Had a great evening at the Derwent Walk Pub with some local friends - a great day all in all.
Friday, 15 July 2011
Day 4 In which we ran a little and the dog got carried
After our little 'get real chat' the other night we decided to walk most of today and cut the distance short. This meant that we could walk the dog too giving Dan a rest day.
We started with a two stage plan – to get to Garrigill and if we felt OK to carry on to Nenthead. We left the B&B for Hartside Top cafe to start the walk there. At the top a few photos where taken the plan was 'approved' by the driver and we set off down the hill (my favourite direction!). After a few mins I was feeling so good that we started to jog with the little dog hurrying us along. This bit of the course is a little tricky due to the fact that it is alongside the road and there is no pavement.
We stopped running each time a car came towards us – safety first! We eventually gave up on the running not because we were tired or that it was dangerous but it was not ideal for the dogs paws' although he never complains.
We had a very nice chat with a dry stone waller chap on the roadside who kindly told us of the 'offroad' section coming up in mile (which turned out to be only half a mile – hooray!). Nice quiet road it was too and it was easy going.
It seemed like in no time we were in Garrigill after a few little hills climbs and the time we estimated to the driver turned out to be waaaaay over the top despite our chat stop and apparent tiredness earlier. We stopped the George and Dragon in the town (a pub that is lost in time with toilets that support their own eco-system, but they do a good cup of tea!). We had to use the payphone to call our driver to find out where he was as there was no signal on our mobiles and had not been for ages. Turned out he was still at Hartside Top enjoying coffee, cake and reading a book.
He came down to meet us and we all had a chat about what was next – Nenthead we decided as we were feeling good. So we'd done about 8/9 miles and that would be another 3-4. We set off again (I used the nearby public loos as I could not face the pub ones again!) on the off road version but after about 1.5/2 miles we got a little worried as the dog although off the lead was not running on and looking closely we found he was limping. Being near a road at this point we decided to call our driver to come and collect the dog – oh-oh, no signal again. What to do? Jorgen carried the dog the rest of the way. At first he was a little unco-operative but eventually he settled down. I am happy to tell you that this is an English Toy Terrier so quite small and light and one who is used to walking long distances each weekend at least equal to what we had chosen today, so he was able to carry him – although his biceps may be sore tomorrow!
A few more rough uphills and a lovely decent and we could see some old mining sites – Smallcleugh – we popped over to have a look at the sign boards explaining the site and Jorgen took a few more photos. I called Dan and he was sleeping in the car park at Nenthead mine – just down the hill. Although we did have a little 'Michelle induced' detour where Jorgen carried the dog up a hill and down again on his shoulder!
Strangely I thought I heard someone whistling to call us back but he swears he didn't – weird eh?
Tuesday, 12 July 2011
Day 3 - Gung-ho - NO!
Hard a heart to heart talk over dinner last night. If we keep 'pushing on' like we have been we're gonna end up hurt, both of us. So we decided to take a tactical rest day today. Apart from wandering around the town of Penrith and walking the dog across the odd field we've done nowt!
In the end I need to finish in Tynemouth uninjured as I can't train clients and can't earn money to pay bills if I can't walk or run. So, if I leave some stretches of the run uncompleted this week I will run them next week - the distance that is not the location of course as I can't come back here next week/week after because I need to be where my clients are.
Today's distance would have been 18 miles - we probably did about 2-3 walking the dog and around the shops. There will be 15 to run next week already then. My legs hurt, I have a blister that is bigger than any compeed and I have shin splints just for good measure. Jorgen has blisters and some ITB pain.
I'm not as badly off as Zoe, who sadly had to gone home yesterday on the train as her back was too bad to allow her to travel each day of the run and walk any distance. I'm happy to say that she's OK (as long as she takes the painkillers at least). I hope her GP appointment improves the situation further. We're currently waiting to hear.
Blisters are really annoying - they sound like nothing but can cause real problems and even stop us from running or walking at all. Do not underestimate the blister folks! Do not underestimate the distance either. Trinity Booth are you listening? I have always respected your ability - I feel this even more now - Go Trin!
As I type this we are planning tomorrow and due to the pain/injuries we are thinking of a shorted day again leaving miles to do next week (I'm gutted by this by the way by I have to be realistic - I can't work if I can't move! Thanks Jorgen for being with me on the run and making me think about things from a professional point of view).
So, day 4 approaches - lets see what it brings!
In the end I need to finish in Tynemouth uninjured as I can't train clients and can't earn money to pay bills if I can't walk or run. So, if I leave some stretches of the run uncompleted this week I will run them next week - the distance that is not the location of course as I can't come back here next week/week after because I need to be where my clients are.
Today's distance would have been 18 miles - we probably did about 2-3 walking the dog and around the shops. There will be 15 to run next week already then. My legs hurt, I have a blister that is bigger than any compeed and I have shin splints just for good measure. Jorgen has blisters and some ITB pain.
I'm not as badly off as Zoe, who sadly had to gone home yesterday on the train as her back was too bad to allow her to travel each day of the run and walk any distance. I'm happy to say that she's OK (as long as she takes the painkillers at least). I hope her GP appointment improves the situation further. We're currently waiting to hear.
Blisters are really annoying - they sound like nothing but can cause real problems and even stop us from running or walking at all. Do not underestimate the blister folks! Do not underestimate the distance either. Trinity Booth are you listening? I have always respected your ability - I feel this even more now - Go Trin!
As I type this we are planning tomorrow and due to the pain/injuries we are thinking of a shorted day again leaving miles to do next week (I'm gutted by this by the way by I have to be realistic - I can't work if I can't move! Thanks Jorgen for being with me on the run and making me think about things from a professional point of view).
So, day 4 approaches - lets see what it brings!
Monday, 11 July 2011
Day 2 - 24 miles
Ok so lets be honest here, yesterday was damn hard and my legs, shoulders and brain took a beating. I'm going to finished this so we took an executive decision to walk the whole distance today in order to make sure we could complete it.
First few miles on the Keswick railway path were great, flat easy although a bit stoney. We cracked on at a fair pace and thought we'd finished by 16:30. Think again! Although I am eating and hydrating well whilst on the run (or should I say walk!) I just couldn't keep the pace up - especially when it got hilly. Felt great up to mile 9/10 when we stopped for a ginger beer (and one to take with us). Started to suffer at around mile 15 and only the thought of it being a 22 mile day kept me going - we did nearly 24 in the end.
In the last few miles we slowed a lot - staggering in places and at one point when we thought we might have made a navigation error I nearly sat down and cried! Called hubby about 3 miles from end and not really thinking he asked us if we could carry on walking the 3 miles to the hotel, I didn't swear at all! We'd arranged to meet at the station and this was what I demanded he did! 3 more miles??? No chance in this state!
Right near the station we saw a Morrison's and in need of more Compeed supplies we stopped and called Dan to meet us their instead. The hotel on the outskirts of Penrith is the White House - looked twee on booking site but again very lovely - I sank into a hot bath, not really ideal but I was cold and shivering.
Now in George and Dragon just 100 yard from hotel but we still drove, I can't walk!!!! Pea risotto - I reckon I deserve a cheat day!
First few miles on the Keswick railway path were great, flat easy although a bit stoney. We cracked on at a fair pace and thought we'd finished by 16:30. Think again! Although I am eating and hydrating well whilst on the run (or should I say walk!) I just couldn't keep the pace up - especially when it got hilly. Felt great up to mile 9/10 when we stopped for a ginger beer (and one to take with us). Started to suffer at around mile 15 and only the thought of it being a 22 mile day kept me going - we did nearly 24 in the end.
In the last few miles we slowed a lot - staggering in places and at one point when we thought we might have made a navigation error I nearly sat down and cried! Called hubby about 3 miles from end and not really thinking he asked us if we could carry on walking the 3 miles to the hotel, I didn't swear at all! We'd arranged to meet at the station and this was what I demanded he did! 3 more miles??? No chance in this state!
Right near the station we saw a Morrison's and in need of more Compeed supplies we stopped and called Dan to meet us their instead. The hotel on the outskirts of Penrith is the White House - looked twee on booking site but again very lovely - I sank into a hot bath, not really ideal but I was cold and shivering.
Now in George and Dragon just 100 yard from hotel but we still drove, I can't walk!!!! Pea risotto - I reckon I deserve a cheat day!
Day 1 - 28.30miles
So I started the run on Sunday with Jorgen as my support runner. Sadly Zoe had hurt her back and was unable to run.
We (eventually) found the start point in the car and took a few pictures for the scrap book (not uploaded any yet). We set off around 11:00 and right from the first interval I did not feel 100% and I still have no idea why but we soldiered on for about an hour before it became very difficult. Changed my interval length to add more walking and again we pushed on.
This day should have been 24 miles but we had a few little detours which meant the we ended up at 28.3 miles in total and really mashed legs and sore neck from getting tense. We walked a lot - the last 7-8 miles in total and most of the uphills all day. Started to stiffen at 20 miles and just could not get it going again. Gutted but I was going to finish even if it was on my hands and knees.
Right on the edge of Keswick by the Pencil Museum I spotted my hubby, Jorgen's wife Zoe and their cute little English Toy Terrier, they went around a bend before Jorgen looked up so he thought I was hallucinating! A giggle right a the point where I most needed it. Collapsed into hubby's arms and sobbed most of the final 0.5 mile back to the B&B.
On the subject of the B&B - lovely place called Rivendell, perhaps a bit twee in decoration but most are and the owners were friendly, rooms good and breakfasts fab (will review on tripadvisor later).
Dinner was a whole other issue - we suffered form the usual provincial problem of pubs stopping serving at 9 and some even running out of food. Eventually - I got half a cow pie, that helped!
We (eventually) found the start point in the car and took a few pictures for the scrap book (not uploaded any yet). We set off around 11:00 and right from the first interval I did not feel 100% and I still have no idea why but we soldiered on for about an hour before it became very difficult. Changed my interval length to add more walking and again we pushed on.
This day should have been 24 miles but we had a few little detours which meant the we ended up at 28.3 miles in total and really mashed legs and sore neck from getting tense. We walked a lot - the last 7-8 miles in total and most of the uphills all day. Started to stiffen at 20 miles and just could not get it going again. Gutted but I was going to finish even if it was on my hands and knees.
Right on the edge of Keswick by the Pencil Museum I spotted my hubby, Jorgen's wife Zoe and their cute little English Toy Terrier, they went around a bend before Jorgen looked up so he thought I was hallucinating! A giggle right a the point where I most needed it. Collapsed into hubby's arms and sobbed most of the final 0.5 mile back to the B&B.
On the subject of the B&B - lovely place called Rivendell, perhaps a bit twee in decoration but most are and the owners were friendly, rooms good and breakfasts fab (will review on tripadvisor later).
Dinner was a whole other issue - we suffered form the usual provincial problem of pubs stopping serving at 9 and some even running out of food. Eventually - I got half a cow pie, that helped!
Friday, 8 July 2011
It was the night before....
The long drive to the Lake District and although the house were anguished cries of 'I can't get it all in the bag!'
You see as we are travelling 4 adults plus on small dog in a mini clubman we have to be careful about how much we take. Thank goodness for Merino is all I can say, it packs small, doesn't smell even if you wear it all week and so you don't need a lot.
I've managed to pack my clothes OK but it's the toiletries et al that seem to be causing problems - the First Aid kit, the Compeeds, the icepack...argh! It will all go in eventually but I may have to reduce the number of items a bit, hey don't start thinking make up, I've only packed lip gloss and mascara!
My right knee is still a bit sore - not sure if it's the knee cap again or if it's actually the calf or hamstring that is stopping my leg from straightening. Seems to abate with a bit of Ibu gel on the back of the knee or maybe it's the manipulation whilst applying it? Oh well we'll just have to see how it goes and hope.
You see as we are travelling 4 adults plus on small dog in a mini clubman we have to be careful about how much we take. Thank goodness for Merino is all I can say, it packs small, doesn't smell even if you wear it all week and so you don't need a lot.
I've managed to pack my clothes OK but it's the toiletries et al that seem to be causing problems - the First Aid kit, the Compeeds, the icepack...argh! It will all go in eventually but I may have to reduce the number of items a bit, hey don't start thinking make up, I've only packed lip gloss and mascara!
My right knee is still a bit sore - not sure if it's the knee cap again or if it's actually the calf or hamstring that is stopping my leg from straightening. Seems to abate with a bit of Ibu gel on the back of the knee or maybe it's the manipulation whilst applying it? Oh well we'll just have to see how it goes and hope.
Wednesday, 6 July 2011
3 days to go
Our hotels are all booked and the itinerary is almost finished. The reality is beginning to set in - but only every now and then, most of the time I'm not worried. First two nights are in a B&B in Keswick, then 2 in a Penrith B&B, 2 in Castleside (Consett) in the cottage annexe of a B7B and the final two in the relative luxury of the Malmaison on the Newcastle Quayside.
A little bit of a hiccough last week when both kneecaps decided to be a little off centre making even walking either difficult or at times, impossible! Luckily with a little bit of manipulation and some easy exercises/stretching got them back to where they should be. Some extra gym work with Graham at MyLife PT and a massage there with Chris and I think they'll be OK.
Now is the time that you wonder if you've done enough training - I usually haven't but I finish most races/challenges although not always to my own satisfaction. This time I've done plenty of long runs day after day although they may not have been as long as I hoped. I have a week and the final days are planned to be very short (it's all relative) so there is some wiggle room, just not much!
I'm not the only one with niggles at this point though - one of my support runners (who seem to be fitter than me - oh dear) has an inflammed lumbar spine and is taking meds. We may be slower than planned - but we will be there.
A little bit of a hiccough last week when both kneecaps decided to be a little off centre making even walking either difficult or at times, impossible! Luckily with a little bit of manipulation and some easy exercises/stretching got them back to where they should be. Some extra gym work with Graham at MyLife PT and a massage there with Chris and I think they'll be OK.
Now is the time that you wonder if you've done enough training - I usually haven't but I finish most races/challenges although not always to my own satisfaction. This time I've done plenty of long runs day after day although they may not have been as long as I hoped. I have a week and the final days are planned to be very short (it's all relative) so there is some wiggle room, just not much!
I'm not the only one with niggles at this point though - one of my support runners (who seem to be fitter than me - oh dear) has an inflammed lumbar spine and is taking meds. We may be slower than planned - but we will be there.
Monday, 16 May 2011
Extract from an email sent to my support team...
I propose;
We travel to Keswick on 9th for overnight stay (if we can get away 8 then we could stop off part way).
Runners to be dropped off in Workington on 10th and run back to Keswick (so 2 nights in Keswick) 25 miles
Day 2 - all travel from Keswick to Penrith on 11th stay in Penrith - 22 miles
Day 3 - Penrith to Hartside Top for runners - car pick up, 18 miles. Stay in Alston or Nenthead or Garrigill that evening to be dropped off at cafe next day for restart.
Day 4 - Hartside to Allenheads (18/19 miles). Stay over in Allenheads.
Day 5 - Allenheads to Consett (22 miles). Stay over in Consett.
Day 6 - Consett to Tynemouth, a really big but mostly downhill day (might increase day 4 and include pick-up/drop off for easier final day) 28 miles or Sunderland option 24 miles then car to Newcastle for 'posh' hotel and a bit of a party!
Hilliest days have been kept short deliberately.
Let me know what you think.
It's getting closer!
Saturday, 23 April 2011
The Virgin London Marathon 2011
The Big Day
Slept OK until about 5 am then hubby started twitching as he dreamt and only dozed until 6 when the alarm went off for the first time, snoozed it and got up on the second.
Checked race day bag (ruck sack with food and liquid/energy drinks that I was running with) and warm kit bag (bag for the lorry). Took out arm warmers as prob not necessary and also drank off about 500 ml of my water to make bag a bit lighter! Had ½ my juice and one muffin, got dressed and packing other muffin into bag for later woke up hubby to rub ibuprofen on my neck and walk to station with me.
When we got to reception the lovely staff wished us luck then as if we had been given our runner breakfast bag – no? Here you go – banana, raisins, water and juice box, perfect! Quick walk to station and on early (7:10) train to Blackheath, whilst hubby headed back to the hotel for brekky. Chatted most of the way there and up to start with a guy called Jamie.
Got settled, still chatting to Jamie, on my bivvy bag (part of my pack for my long run so I’ve been carrying it on all long runs even this one for months) and ate the raisins and nana and juice. After a bit we spotted the time on the screens – 7:45! We must be mad to be here this early but better early than not at all. Chatted, watched TV, popped to loo. After an hour or so Jamie went off to find friends and I popped to get a cuppa.
Bumped into a clubmate on the way and had a chat – he’d been parachute jumping the day before, nutter!
Spotted the fetchie group on my way for tea so came and sat with them on my return. Crikey, Enthusiastic is isn’t she!!! Also remember talking to John66, Mykey, Sioux and K8, there were loads and did not get all names.
Dropped bag on lorry with my water in it ready for making up my recovery drink at the end and greeted a few lone fetchies and another clubmate on way back to throng. Time passed quite quickly, then it was one last loo visit and the long walk to the start – Pen 9!
I cried a bit on the way round the course – couldn’t believe I’d made it without injury and at points couldn’t believe I was still going without breaking something. Had started with a sore neck/shoulder, 2 sore calves and the pain at the top of my leg that I’ve had for 8 weeks! I planned to run with headphones on to take my mind off the pain and I did (not music but an audio book) but at times I could not hear anything but the crowd. London
Saw hubby at about 8 miles – had to run back to give him a kiss of course. Did not see him again until 23 miles as we missed each other at 13 but he did see one of the tri club and cheered them there at least. First half was not bad although I did forget to sip my drink at 12 and paid for this at 14-16 when I got hungry!
Passed Fetchpoint on the way out and was very excited about going passed on the final few miles. Slowed right down and could not seem to get started again at 16 but think that was due to getting too excite to remember to fuel-up earlier on so concentrated on drinking water and energy drink from now on. I did get a little warm at times but did not overheat and when I felt that I might I just sipped from my camelback.
Passing Fetchpoint on the ‘way home’ was terrific – sooooo noisey! So fab! I ran sideways blowing kisses! I was going to make it now. However, I was not going to PB, but this was not my plan from the start really.
Final few miles were hard work (of course!) and garmin run/walk plan was thrown away (had been suspect since mile 16) and second strategy of run to mile marker then rest for 2 mins walk was also ditched for scouts pace (100 jog/100 walk is my favoured version).
Even at 800 to go I couldn’t keep the legs running – but at 385 it was a different story and I did pass some people in the finishing straight! Once over the line the legs rebelled but I got my bag and got my compression tights on and my recovery drink made up and drunk and another 500 ml water drunk (camelback ran out just after finish and 1.75 bottles of energy had been consumed along with 1 protein bar). Switched on phone with google maps already set up to lead me to Chandos and plodded off.
Just before I got the pub I spotted hubby sitting on a bench – could not get near door to Chandos nevermind the bar sadly so we toddled off towards the hotel stopping for cider at the Lyceum Theatre Bar and the Anchor on the way!
16th April Resting and eating
So Saturday dawned and my Dad had filled the fridge with lovely stuff for me to eat (to me that’s meat!) so after a cooked breakfast we repacked to toddle into town and our hotel in Southwark.
Dad dropped us at Sutton station we traveled to London Bridge – short walk to drop bags at Premier Inn, Southwark (great location, fab staff) then back to London Bridge to get Camelbak from On your Bike. Got excited, new camelbaks have push fitting valves making changes of pipe easy (great if you take it skiing and need an insulated pipe fitted every winter. Guy at cash desk thought I was a weird geek I’m sure!).
Pop to Covent Garden/Soho for Tapas at Pix – found this place last September and love it. Few beers later we popped to the Unthink exhibition and giggled at the art. Last stop boots for ibuprofen gel as my neck had been very sore and stiff since Thursday – not sure what I’d done. Then a wander back to the hotel.
Had a quick check to see if breakfast service would open early for the marathon but not the case – receptionist set about ringing around to see if she could find any place open early enough for my planned escape. Just in case she didn’t I popped to the Café Nero at the Golden Hinde to get orange juice and 2 muffins.
Dinner at Wagamama (could chu-chee curry be a mistake?) even had rice which I’d normally ask them to leave out. Beer in Anchor pub under hotel and resting and packing race bag was the order of the evening. Reception catches on way in to tell us that we can transfer our breakfasts to Tower Bridge branch if we wish but I’d rather not walk there and back and then set off so I declined – but nice thought from a supposed budget hotel chain, well done.
Little bit noisy outside at times in the night but think I slept OK.
The big day follows next
Dad dropped us at Sutton station we traveled to London Bridge – short walk to drop bags at Premier Inn, Southwark (great location, fab staff) then back to London Bridge to get Camelbak from On your Bike. Got excited, new camelbaks have push fitting valves making changes of pipe easy (great if you take it skiing and need an insulated pipe fitted every winter. Guy at cash desk thought I was a weird geek I’m sure!).
Pop to Covent Garden/Soho for Tapas at Pix – found this place last September and love it. Few beers later we popped to the Unthink exhibition and giggled at the art. Last stop boots for ibuprofen gel as my neck had been very sore and stiff since Thursday – not sure what I’d done. Then a wander back to the hotel.
Had a quick check to see if breakfast service would open early for the marathon but not the case – receptionist set about ringing around to see if she could find any place open early enough for my planned escape. Just in case she didn’t I popped to the Café Nero at the Golden Hinde to get orange juice and 2 muffins.
Dinner at Wagamama (could chu-chee curry be a mistake?) even had rice which I’d normally ask them to leave out. Beer in Anchor pub under hotel and resting and packing race bag was the order of the evening. Reception catches on way in to tell us that we can transfer our breakfasts to Tower Bridge branch if we wish but I’d rather not walk there and back and then set off so I declined – but nice thought from a supposed budget hotel chain, well done.
Little bit noisy outside at times in the night but think I slept OK.
The big day follows next
15th April a day of travelling
Today was travelling day. Travel to Dads to stop over before VLM and visit expo. We planned to set off around 9 and be there at say 11:30. New car so not pushing it too hard but seeing what it can do on the motorway.
Eventually set off at 9:45 after watering the allotment, forgetting toiletries and having to go back to house to get them. Did not stop of coffee on way and got to Dad’s (Belmont, Surrey) at around 12:45. Quick ‘hello’ drop off food, check times for dinner and head to expo dropping into corner shop to get Dan a new Oyster card on the way he only remembered that he’d forgotten to pack at Reading!
Bus, train, underground, underground, DLR, feet – straight in no messing at expo by 3, no time to look around really as the casserole I planned would take few hours and I wouldn’t have too long to get it going once I got back – aarrrggg! Knew I should have done some prep the night before! Hugged number a goody bag most of the way home to Dad’s.
Did manage to speak to the lovely Dave from 2:09 (He says hi Bandit – you know who you are) before leaving via a quick sandwich grab then DLR, underground, underground, train, bus again. Casserole started late – oven a littler too hot, nearly ruined both meat and the hasselback potatoes but saved at last minute ad mostly all well except for Dad’s wife who got picky about meat being tough (well it was a little!).
Slept well enough after a few more glasses of wine than I should be hey! Episode 2 follows shortly!
Eventually set off at 9:45 after watering the allotment, forgetting toiletries and having to go back to house to get them. Did not stop of coffee on way and got to Dad’s (Belmont, Surrey) at around 12:45. Quick ‘hello’ drop off food, check times for dinner and head to expo dropping into corner shop to get Dan a new Oyster card on the way he only remembered that he’d forgotten to pack at Reading!
Bus, train, underground, underground, DLR, feet – straight in no messing at expo by 3, no time to look around really as the casserole I planned would take few hours and I wouldn’t have too long to get it going once I got back – aarrrggg! Knew I should have done some prep the night before! Hugged number a goody bag most of the way home to Dad’s.
Did manage to speak to the lovely Dave from 2:09 (He says hi Bandit – you know who you are) before leaving via a quick sandwich grab then DLR, underground, underground, train, bus again. Casserole started late – oven a littler too hot, nearly ruined both meat and the hasselback potatoes but saved at last minute ad mostly all well except for Dad’s wife who got picky about meat being tough (well it was a little!).
Slept well enough after a few more glasses of wine than I should be hey! Episode 2 follows shortly!
Monday, 11 April 2011
Taper madness?
I'm currently tapering - that is not running as far for a while before a race/event in order to conserve energy, build energy reserves and let muscles repair and be in 'top form'.
So next Sunday I will run in the London Marathon if all goes to plan. Would like to get a better time than before but after all it is really only one step on the road to Tynemouth and as such just a training run. So finishing will do, won't it?.....
In other news (don't read this next bit if you're sensitive about bodily functions) I bought a Sheewee a little while ago, a device to allow ladies to 'go whilst standing up' and have been practicing with it in the shower as it suggests. Very useful for dirty Portaloos on races and lack of facilities on moors. It will be in my running pack for London and the 'long run'.
After London I will take some days off from long distance running and I'm also trying out a detox diet just for a few days - will blog it here and in my PT blog to watch my progress/thoughts.
So next Sunday I will run in the London Marathon if all goes to plan. Would like to get a better time than before but after all it is really only one step on the road to Tynemouth and as such just a training run. So finishing will do, won't it?.....
In other news (don't read this next bit if you're sensitive about bodily functions) I bought a Sheewee a little while ago, a device to allow ladies to 'go whilst standing up' and have been practicing with it in the shower as it suggests. Very useful for dirty Portaloos on races and lack of facilities on moors. It will be in my running pack for London and the 'long run'.
After London I will take some days off from long distance running and I'm also trying out a detox diet just for a few days - will blog it here and in my PT blog to watch my progress/thoughts.
Tuesday, 5 April 2011
A few stressful days
The last few have been so. I have been waiting for my London Marathon pack for weeks now and was getting concerned - posted on www.fetcheveryone.com to see if everyone else has had theirs and they have. Looked on VLM website and found a number to call but it was too late in the evening to call then so called on Sat am - of course they only work Mon to Fri, hence the stressful weekend!
On Monday when I called at 9:10 a slightly bored sounding but just as informative lady asked for my name and DOB and informed me that I had not paid for the race so was not in it. Cue shocked me. I asked if there was anything I could do - git an unexpected answer and an email address to try.
Sent slightly begging email and waited, and waited, 'til just after 6pm as I was on the way out to a PT client, hubby swung into action finding a cheque book, envelope and printing the email whilst I was out so that I could put it all together and send special delivery today to reach tomorrow at latest.
I can't believe my luck - second chances for a big city race do not often occur. I suspect that they may have many deferrals as many may want to run in 2012 but I could be wrong. Currently just waiting to here that they have got the cheque and then I will really relax.
Too stressed to do one more long run - but many people are already tapering so not so far behind afterall. I have never been so ready, it would be a shame not to run this year and a massive disappointment too. Running a little with a client tonight that will help me relax I hope!
On Monday when I called at 9:10 a slightly bored sounding but just as informative lady asked for my name and DOB and informed me that I had not paid for the race so was not in it. Cue shocked me. I asked if there was anything I could do - git an unexpected answer and an email address to try.
Sent slightly begging email and waited, and waited, 'til just after 6pm as I was on the way out to a PT client, hubby swung into action finding a cheque book, envelope and printing the email whilst I was out so that I could put it all together and send special delivery today to reach tomorrow at latest.
I can't believe my luck - second chances for a big city race do not often occur. I suspect that they may have many deferrals as many may want to run in 2012 but I could be wrong. Currently just waiting to here that they have got the cheque and then I will really relax.
Too stressed to do one more long run - but many people are already tapering so not so far behind afterall. I have never been so ready, it would be a shame not to run this year and a massive disappointment too. Running a little with a client tonight that will help me relax I hope!
Friday, 1 April 2011
An email to my support team
Here is the text of my support team email - I'm not setting them strict plans but just giving advice for them to fit training around their busy lives;
Hi Mrs X,
Please see attached C2C website for your perusal - can you forward to Mr X (I have few contacts saved as it seems to generate spam if I do).
Also, some notes about the trip as I currently envisage it (I've copied my coach in, in case he thinks of others!);
We WILL;
Run for around 4-6 hours per day
(Your feet will swell so get compression socks or have no toenails after day 2!)
Need to carry waterproofs, water and food for the day.
Need to carry safety gear - space blanket, whistle, map compass, bivouac bag, phone (may not always work)
Book accommodation in local B&B's ahead before leaving for the trip
Travel at run/walk most of the time at an average (on the flat) or 11:30 min/mile overall
Walk up some hills - they are serious and frequent in the first few days!
Probably have dinner in local pubs each night
Not feel like running the next day - every day until - we've done about 3-5 miles.
Have ice cream and alcohol at the end!
Run in tarmac (bike paths) and rough ground
Get wet - this is the North West and just as wet as the South West
We might;
Meet friends at a few points along the way and have dinner with them
Hate everything and everybody by day two!
Experience sudden changes in weather - the area from the lakes up to Consett is renowned for this
We WON'T
Have my hubby at our beck and call all of the time. He will transport gear then rest/be a tourist/read/surf the web
Be able to take a day off or take it slow as rooms will be booked - unless we get injured and can't continue
Be able to stop talking about it when it's done!
So this months general running plan?
Keep up the regular running, be aware that it does not have to be quick and do a couple of days back to back and a couple of days run twice a day. That's a couple per month only. In May we get really serious! Also start running with a backpack - and put the stuff you think you need into it, gradually over a few runs. Get to know how to pack it so that it does not move or rub - vaseline or body glide the areas where it does it needed or try another back pack.
Enjoy!
Sunday, 27 March 2011
Round and round the Harbour loop!
Miles run today -19.99
Time on feet - 4 hours
Trips to loo not in this time - 4
Water drunk - 1 ltr
Energy drinks on run - 500 ml
Protein bars on run 1/4
Recovery drinks after run - 500 ml
Blisters sustained - one on hee
Jog done! Or Job done!
So here we went again for the weekly long run, 20 was the plan and round and round Bristol was the route. Set off up towards the fire station for the first mile then down to Ashton Gate and across the park to get to the Harbour for first loop. Up Jacobs Well Road and managed to run up part of it this week. Feeling good!
Got to Downs and looped around the water tower bit before heading on the lower section and down onto Bridge Valley road (I will run up it one day but I also need down practise!). Along Portway towards Harbour again and round we go again. Then back to Portway for another 2 miles there and back for half a Harbour then head for home but take a detour to add in more miles.
I was getting tired around 15 miles like last week but I kept it together longer this week. Some friends and acquaintances can't imagine how I do this with no music to keep me occupied but I have to concentrate and that keeps me going, music makes me run off too fast and get worn out earlier.
Feeling tired but having plenty of fuel on board from both drinks and also last two days where I have been fueling up, breakfast (wholemeal pancakes with maple syrup) was planned carefully, I allowed myself a longer rest after my running interval - not a good idea as when I stop and walk it's hard to get started again. Change of tactic needed then.....scouts pace.
The final 2 miles or so were in scouts pace (not at but in seems to work better). That is 100 steps of running and 100 or walking. Eventually I was running 200 and walking 100 and this seemed sustainable, I even challenged myself to run further i.e. to a lamppost or corner when one presented itself. Near to home (0.1 miles to be almost precise) I spotted my neighbour with their lovely little toy terrier and caught up with and walked with him into the street. I did charge away from him as I noticed the time ticking to 4 hours and managed 19.99 out of my planned 20!
Could probably have made it in just under the four if I'd not stopped to chat with Jorgen and the little dog (Rascal) but happy with my efforts today. Refueled with recovery drink. rested in a salt bath and have now just had my own version of special fried rice with my Char Sui pork, peppers, egg, and green beans in the rice. Nom!
Off to stretch now - it may hurt!
Time on feet - 4 hours
Trips to loo not in this time - 4
Water drunk - 1 ltr
Energy drinks on run - 500 ml
Protein bars on run 1/4
Recovery drinks after run - 500 ml
Blisters sustained - one on hee
Jog done! Or Job done!
So here we went again for the weekly long run, 20 was the plan and round and round Bristol was the route. Set off up towards the fire station for the first mile then down to Ashton Gate and across the park to get to the Harbour for first loop. Up Jacobs Well Road and managed to run up part of it this week. Feeling good!
Got to Downs and looped around the water tower bit before heading on the lower section and down onto Bridge Valley road (I will run up it one day but I also need down practise!). Along Portway towards Harbour again and round we go again. Then back to Portway for another 2 miles there and back for half a Harbour then head for home but take a detour to add in more miles.
I was getting tired around 15 miles like last week but I kept it together longer this week. Some friends and acquaintances can't imagine how I do this with no music to keep me occupied but I have to concentrate and that keeps me going, music makes me run off too fast and get worn out earlier.
Feeling tired but having plenty of fuel on board from both drinks and also last two days where I have been fueling up, breakfast (wholemeal pancakes with maple syrup) was planned carefully, I allowed myself a longer rest after my running interval - not a good idea as when I stop and walk it's hard to get started again. Change of tactic needed then.....scouts pace.
The final 2 miles or so were in scouts pace (not at but in seems to work better). That is 100 steps of running and 100 or walking. Eventually I was running 200 and walking 100 and this seemed sustainable, I even challenged myself to run further i.e. to a lamppost or corner when one presented itself. Near to home (0.1 miles to be almost precise) I spotted my neighbour with their lovely little toy terrier and caught up with and walked with him into the street. I did charge away from him as I noticed the time ticking to 4 hours and managed 19.99 out of my planned 20!
Could probably have made it in just under the four if I'd not stopped to chat with Jorgen and the little dog (Rascal) but happy with my efforts today. Refueled with recovery drink. rested in a salt bath and have now just had my own version of special fried rice with my Char Sui pork, peppers, egg, and green beans in the rice. Nom!
Off to stretch now - it may hurt!
Monday, 21 March 2011
Running on tired legs
need to get in practice. Yesterday I did my own mini tri session so legs suitably tied but not battered.
After leasts week awful run I wanted to get 18 but from the start things were not going well. I had plenty of fuel on board but found myself to be under hydrated but that I could fix and did it was the extreme lethargy in my legs that got me as well as in the first 20 mins no being able to get my breath even running downhill!
Had a word with myself after my first to walk breaks (I'm on run/walk or I'll never make it!), took inhaler had water and went a bit better. At least I was now going to give my self one hour before bailing if it still was all too much. Had a few good miles but generally it was all just trying to keep myself going and I almost let myself off with 16/17 except for the little voice that said I was going to make 18 if I had to crawl.
Luckily it did not come to that although the final 0.5 mile became my cool down walk and potter round our housing estate checking for problems (I'm a director of the management co so I'm s'posed to now and then.).
All in all 18.01 miles in 3:45 - slower than last 3 long ones but 18 down!
After leasts week awful run I wanted to get 18 but from the start things were not going well. I had plenty of fuel on board but found myself to be under hydrated but that I could fix and did it was the extreme lethargy in my legs that got me as well as in the first 20 mins no being able to get my breath even running downhill!
Had a word with myself after my first to walk breaks (I'm on run/walk or I'll never make it!), took inhaler had water and went a bit better. At least I was now going to give my self one hour before bailing if it still was all too much. Had a few good miles but generally it was all just trying to keep myself going and I almost let myself off with 16/17 except for the little voice that said I was going to make 18 if I had to crawl.
Luckily it did not come to that although the final 0.5 mile became my cool down walk and potter round our housing estate checking for problems (I'm a director of the management co so I'm s'posed to now and then.).
All in all 18.01 miles in 3:45 - slower than last 3 long ones but 18 down!
Thursday, 10 March 2011
Ow that hurt!
Today's run was to be around 3 hours 10 or seventeen miles. Double fail!
First 10 miles were great, along the Bath/Bristol cycle path slightly uphill. I thought that when I turned around (about 7 mile mark) it would be easier as it would be a little downhill but there was a strong wind to cope with that must have been pushing me on for the first bit! I also took my headphones off a little before this too - they were irritating my left ear.
That would explain why I was well ahead of my usual timings. It all went slowly worse after that. Each 10 minute running section got slower and slower and I was wishing for the walking breaks to happen faster every time. Then I couldn't manage the whole 10. Then I was running scouts pace, then I was walking everytime I encountered the slightest incline or lost concentration.
Why? Probably I went off too quick - I had my ipod on for once and that following wind. I think a bigger breakfast would have been good, too fast and not enough energy I think. I did manage just over 16 miles in just less than 3:05. OW!
First 10 miles were great, along the Bath/Bristol cycle path slightly uphill. I thought that when I turned around (about 7 mile mark) it would be easier as it would be a little downhill but there was a strong wind to cope with that must have been pushing me on for the first bit! I also took my headphones off a little before this too - they were irritating my left ear.
That would explain why I was well ahead of my usual timings. It all went slowly worse after that. Each 10 minute running section got slower and slower and I was wishing for the walking breaks to happen faster every time. Then I couldn't manage the whole 10. Then I was running scouts pace, then I was walking everytime I encountered the slightest incline or lost concentration.
Why? Probably I went off too quick - I had my ipod on for once and that following wind. I think a bigger breakfast would have been good, too fast and not enough energy I think. I did manage just over 16 miles in just less than 3:05. OW!
Monday, 7 March 2011
Positively Powerful
I've been 'working' with my new coach for over a year now. He's different, he's an NLP practioner and we do NLP sessions for my training as well as talking training.
He's always positive - he never criticises my goals, no matter how stupid they seem....running from Whitehaven to Tynemouth, completing the Goofy challenge. His role is to help me see how I can achieve these. Very different from the last guy - he was negative about the Goofy and made it clear.
I am now enjoying my running more and although I may not be any faster I feel better about it all and more in control as I set my training timetable (well I do know how!) and just discuss it and breakthrough strategies with Coachy Matt. He's part of our very inclusive Tri club. I think he's really helping me, plus he's cheaper!!!!
So positive is good, negative is bad - Hooray for Matt!
He's always positive - he never criticises my goals, no matter how stupid they seem....running from Whitehaven to Tynemouth, completing the Goofy challenge. His role is to help me see how I can achieve these. Very different from the last guy - he was negative about the Goofy and made it clear.
I am now enjoying my running more and although I may not be any faster I feel better about it all and more in control as I set my training timetable (well I do know how!) and just discuss it and breakthrough strategies with Coachy Matt. He's part of our very inclusive Tri club. I think he's really helping me, plus he's cheaper!!!!
So positive is good, negative is bad - Hooray for Matt!
Saturday, 5 March 2011
Long run 3 and some fab technology in the post
Third long run on Friday as I can't run this weekend due to work. Hard work but got through it. Even completed the 14.6 miles in less than the 3 hours I planned.
Even better than this I got my chest pouch to attach to my lightweight rucksack for the long run. What a clever piece of kit! Map pocket on the back but can easily be flipped up to read the map whilst still firmly attached. Some many fixings too, so easy to use. Nearly ran out of time for the run because I was raving over this new toy!
Ok - back to work now.....
Even better than this I got my chest pouch to attach to my lightweight rucksack for the long run. What a clever piece of kit! Map pocket on the back but can easily be flipped up to read the map whilst still firmly attached. Some many fixings too, so easy to use. Nearly ran out of time for the run because I was raving over this new toy!
Ok - back to work now.....
Wednesday, 2 March 2011
The little-big test
Today I put some more of the kit that I think I'm going to use on the run into the backpack and took it for a little run - just under 2 miles to the gym. It still feels light and holds in place well. I know that there will come a time when I'll have so much kit in it that I'll have to start rationalising to get it to work but it's not now!
I also got hold of some protein bars to try on the run. I will be carrying water and carb drinks but to reduce weight and that annoying 'sloshing' noise I'm thinking bars. I've also been shown some gels today thay come in a toothpaste type tube with a lid so that will be the next test along with a new carb drink with less 'processed rubbish' in it than my current choice.
Keep on Running folks!
Michelle
I also got hold of some protein bars to try on the run. I will be carrying water and carb drinks but to reduce weight and that annoying 'sloshing' noise I'm thinking bars. I've also been shown some gels today thay come in a toothpaste type tube with a lid so that will be the next test along with a new carb drink with less 'processed rubbish' in it than my current choice.
Keep on Running folks!
Michelle
Sunday, 27 February 2011
Legs 0 Head 1
Today is my second proper long run and was planned to be 2 hours 30. Due to various issues this week;
Asthma playing up
Sore knee after wearing heels
Ongoing sore glute
Bad planning
this is the only run so far since last weeks long run (unless you call 5-10 mins of warm-up jogging with clients). So, it was not going to be easy to get back to it and my head was struggling to get round the idea plus as I walked home from the cinema last night I managed to blister a toe!
Card/protein brekkie eaten I taped up my toe to cover and cushion the blister and set off with 2 hours 30 in mind and new rucksack on back. I've now discovered that although it is comfortable it may chafe my neck after a few hours if I don't have a collar or buff around my neck but at least it's good to know that early on.
As I ran/walked I started thinking of my kit list and it's great to run with the pack on but I've got to try the full kit in it to not just a drink and a waterproof. So that's food bars, map, phone, waterproof, drinks, emergency blanket, bivvy bag.......then my mind wandered as it does when I'm running.....to anything and everything.
I'm beginning to get a bit bored just running around Bristol for these long ones so may have to resort to getting Hubby to drop me off or pick me up from somewhere soon - I will encourage with the offer of coffee and cake or lunch at a pub of course! Or maybe I need to get my mp3 player stuffed in the bag.
At about 1 hour 30 it began to rain slightly and as I was approaching a bridge that I could shelter under I used that cover to strip off my t-shirt and replace it with my waterproof - if you don't take off the shirt you'll just fry in the waterproof shell even if it breathes. I had hummed and harred about this but glad I made the choice to stick on the 'boil in the bag' jacket afterall as within 2 minutes the light rain began rather large hailstones!
Getting near the 2 hour mark my legs felt completely mashed - far more than they would usually do at this stage in a race and I think my mind was wandering a little too much. However, the head talked to the legs and the legs muttered something about being near home and how we could be there in 5 mins but whilst the legs mithered on about pain the head 'accidentally' missed the turn and added another block or two on and 10 more mins!
A grand total of 12.35 miles in 2:20 and some seconds. Believe it or not faster than last week!
Asthma playing up
Sore knee after wearing heels
Ongoing sore glute
Bad planning
this is the only run so far since last weeks long run (unless you call 5-10 mins of warm-up jogging with clients). So, it was not going to be easy to get back to it and my head was struggling to get round the idea plus as I walked home from the cinema last night I managed to blister a toe!
Card/protein brekkie eaten I taped up my toe to cover and cushion the blister and set off with 2 hours 30 in mind and new rucksack on back. I've now discovered that although it is comfortable it may chafe my neck after a few hours if I don't have a collar or buff around my neck but at least it's good to know that early on.
As I ran/walked I started thinking of my kit list and it's great to run with the pack on but I've got to try the full kit in it to not just a drink and a waterproof. So that's food bars, map, phone, waterproof, drinks, emergency blanket, bivvy bag.......then my mind wandered as it does when I'm running.....to anything and everything.
I'm beginning to get a bit bored just running around Bristol for these long ones so may have to resort to getting Hubby to drop me off or pick me up from somewhere soon - I will encourage with the offer of coffee and cake or lunch at a pub of course! Or maybe I need to get my mp3 player stuffed in the bag.
At about 1 hour 30 it began to rain slightly and as I was approaching a bridge that I could shelter under I used that cover to strip off my t-shirt and replace it with my waterproof - if you don't take off the shirt you'll just fry in the waterproof shell even if it breathes. I had hummed and harred about this but glad I made the choice to stick on the 'boil in the bag' jacket afterall as within 2 minutes the light rain began rather large hailstones!
Getting near the 2 hour mark my legs felt completely mashed - far more than they would usually do at this stage in a race and I think my mind was wandering a little too much. However, the head talked to the legs and the legs muttered something about being near home and how we could be there in 5 mins but whilst the legs mithered on about pain the head 'accidentally' missed the turn and added another block or two on and 10 more mins!
A grand total of 12.35 miles in 2:20 and some seconds. Believe it or not faster than last week!
Sunday, 20 February 2011
And so it (really) starts...
OK, so I've been training since the start of the year and thinking about this even longer but I needed to get two early holidays out of the way before really feeling that training had started and Friday was the day......
I've been carrying a niggling glute injury for weeks and it's not really improved during my time away so was a bit worried about running at all and making it worse. Started with little short run of 3 miles on Friday which felt comfortable and quick given the speed I plan to run Coast to Coast at. Today was my 2 hour run/walk and well it did not feel too bad afterall.
The glute aches with every step but stayed in one piece for the whole session (10 mins run/2 mins walk for 2 hours), the new lightweight rucksack that I plan to complete the challenge with was comfortable and carried gels, phone, waterproof, bottles well. Now I've refuelled - starting with chocolate milk (great post run recovery drink) and bathed I need to stretch otherwise tomorrow I'll not make it to my early client!
I've been carrying a niggling glute injury for weeks and it's not really improved during my time away so was a bit worried about running at all and making it worse. Started with little short run of 3 miles on Friday which felt comfortable and quick given the speed I plan to run Coast to Coast at. Today was my 2 hour run/walk and well it did not feel too bad afterall.
The glute aches with every step but stayed in one piece for the whole session (10 mins run/2 mins walk for 2 hours), the new lightweight rucksack that I plan to complete the challenge with was comfortable and carried gels, phone, waterproof, bottles well. Now I've refuelled - starting with chocolate milk (great post run recovery drink) and bathed I need to stretch otherwise tomorrow I'll not make it to my early client!
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