Hello biog lovers.
Well, this is the last week, no hard work left to do before the big day, what I have done is just going to have to be sufficient! I am going to just enjoy the day! And my running this week is just going to be fun filled!
I had plans yesterday to meet up with Bims and Wendimoo but I decided to spend the day with the Old Boy who had a this Sunday off from work, so a very enjoyable day at Brands Hatch was planned. Unfortunately the girls had plans of their own today, so I was running solo. Mind you, why Bims would want to go into a gym, pedal like the clappers getting nowhere on a day like this is beyond me! She should blow the cobwebs off her bike and get out there! After all that is why we exercise all through the winter to be able to enjoy the sunny days like this!
I had an errand to do so I was going to kill two birds with one stone today. Run through my local park, up to the chemist and pop in a 'script and then run on to Normans park. That was my plan. I wasn't going to do two loops of the Normans, or anything like interval running, this is just a nice leisurely, keeping the legs moving run. Just what is needed for the week before, that and pasta! It's a good job I love pasta!
Well, not a lot to say really, dropped off the 'script and headed to the park. Ooo there is one thing, now you know that I am not that much of a competitor, well, not much anyway, but I saw these two runners ahead of me, on the long straight (Parkrun route) of the park. I had them in my sights and when I first saw them I thought, "well I am not going to catch up to them, not with pace I am doing" So I just plodded on behind, keeping an eye on them. I realised that I was actually gaining on them.
Of course I just kept plodding along, just gaining a little each time. They got to the other car park, Hayes end, and the started to go up the next long straight. Another runner was just coming from the car park and over took them. But I kept gaining, little by little. I managed to over take them. I smiled, even when I shouldn't be 'racing' I was doing it. But then I got the bit between the teeth as I set my eyes on the next runner, the runner who had passed my last conquest. I noticed that I was gaining on her too! She was running a bit faster that the last two runners so I did pick up my pace a bit!
I managed to catch her right at the bottom end, before we got to the car park (Hook Farm end) and I smiled as I passed. I had to keep going until I was sure that my last 'race' couldn't see me, as she went around the park again, and I headed of towards the A21 and then back to the Chemist.
I had a little walk along the A21 and crossed over and started running again, nice and easy all the way to pick up my filled prescription. After that I just had a nice easy run back through the park, thoroughly enjoying just being out running.
Geeky stats.
I am loving running. I can say that with almost true conviction. After all, if I didn't love it, then I wouldn't still be writing this blog, right? So dive in, enjoy the ramblings of my open diary.
Monday, 20 April 2015
Saturday, 18 April 2015
Two for one
Hello blog lovers.
Although I am taking things easy for these last few days before the marathon I am in no means totally comatose on the sofa. On Thursday morning I met up with the Thursday crew. Richard was back from Table Mountain after running 36 miles, in all of that heat!
He had his crew of about 5 and in my group there were about 6 of us. I was going to do part of our 10k route, taking in a couple of the hills, helping to get us stronger, and hopefully to 'embrace' those hills and get to love them....well ok, at least to just like them!
We ran out of the Towncourt gate as our 10k would take our entrants. And up towards Hazelmere. We ran along the road until we got to Little Thrift and then ran along the path next to the railway lines. The group started to split into to two groups, ZippySherry ran ahead with the faster ladies and I ran easy to as to not lose anyone.
After running through Jubilee park we took a catchup break on the corner of Thornet Wood Lane and Blackbrook lane. We were going to need it, as Goss hill is next. I love this hill.......blimey, did I really just say that! Yes, yes I did. But I love it in a peculiar sort of way. I hate running up hills, as you all know, but this hill has become my favourite hill to hate! Every time I run up here I try and try and try to get further each time! I know there are all those other hills that I have conquered, but this one I have yet to do! I did it once before, when the Old Boy was with me, pushing me up the hill!
We had a faller at the top of the hill! There is a particularly cheeky tree root just at the top of the hill, just when you get to the top, all tired and exhausted, thinking that at least you are are the top, then you have to remember to pick your feet up to get over that last tree root! But in true PWR style, she just brushed herself off and after a few minutes we carried on!
I decided then to change my route and not do the extra hill that I had planned on. So after we ran along the back of the school we turned left to go up Botany Bay Lane and then turned right to run along the bridal path. I still had in mind to go a little bit further, maybe to run along to the Willet memorial, or even to the Chislehurst road, but that wasn't possible this time. Our pace had been a bit slower and time was against us. Maybe next time.
We ran down the middle path of the woods all the way to 'dog poo ally' and then made our way back to the rec. We still covered nearly 4 miles for a Thursday run, and it was most enjoyable!
Although I am taking things easy for these last few days before the marathon I am in no means totally comatose on the sofa. On Thursday morning I met up with the Thursday crew. Richard was back from Table Mountain after running 36 miles, in all of that heat!
He had his crew of about 5 and in my group there were about 6 of us. I was going to do part of our 10k route, taking in a couple of the hills, helping to get us stronger, and hopefully to 'embrace' those hills and get to love them....well ok, at least to just like them!
We ran out of the Towncourt gate as our 10k would take our entrants. And up towards Hazelmere. We ran along the road until we got to Little Thrift and then ran along the path next to the railway lines. The group started to split into to two groups, ZippySherry ran ahead with the faster ladies and I ran easy to as to not lose anyone.
After running through Jubilee park we took a catchup break on the corner of Thornet Wood Lane and Blackbrook lane. We were going to need it, as Goss hill is next. I love this hill.......blimey, did I really just say that! Yes, yes I did. But I love it in a peculiar sort of way. I hate running up hills, as you all know, but this hill has become my favourite hill to hate! Every time I run up here I try and try and try to get further each time! I know there are all those other hills that I have conquered, but this one I have yet to do! I did it once before, when the Old Boy was with me, pushing me up the hill!
We had a faller at the top of the hill! There is a particularly cheeky tree root just at the top of the hill, just when you get to the top, all tired and exhausted, thinking that at least you are are the top, then you have to remember to pick your feet up to get over that last tree root! But in true PWR style, she just brushed herself off and after a few minutes we carried on!
I decided then to change my route and not do the extra hill that I had planned on. So after we ran along the back of the school we turned left to go up Botany Bay Lane and then turned right to run along the bridal path. I still had in mind to go a little bit further, maybe to run along to the Willet memorial, or even to the Chislehurst road, but that wasn't possible this time. Our pace had been a bit slower and time was against us. Maybe next time.
We ran down the middle path of the woods all the way to 'dog poo ally' and then made our way back to the rec. We still covered nearly 4 miles for a Thursday run, and it was most enjoyable!
Beginners Group
This morning was the penultimate lesson before Parkrun Day! We still had at least 20-25 runners left in the course. A couple of the other beginners actually join me on a Tuesday evening as sometimes Saturdays they are not able to get to the rec.
This week they were running for 10 minutes and walking for 2 three times. With that hill as their first part of the route it really is a challenge for them. I try and muster up all the encouragement I can, enthusing enthusiastically as I can about the love/hate relationship of those darn hills!
We had two reps of the hill in question and the lovely down hill of Birchwood, before finishing of the third 10 minutes run in the rec.
A great mornings run, and it's just so good to hear everyone still here say they didn't believe they could get to doing 10 minutes of running! Just over 6 weeks they are come so far, from running just one minute to running for 10 minutes. Soon that Parkrun will be next, 5k running!
Tuesday, 14 April 2015
Club Runs
Hello blog lovers.
You gotta love these light evenings, "Why?" I hear you ask, It's because of the woods! Introducing the group 0's to our very own woods is just brilliant! Although technically they all know the woods as of course they use them at the own leisure! But that is where I took them this evening!
We had a good group with us, plus Moy was with me too! The route I took them was in through 'Dog Poo Ally' and then turned right to run along beside the railway lines. Once at the top we turned left. With seven of us in the group today it was one of our largest for some time. I feel quite proud of our group 0's. And I like it that sometimes the group 1's come along just for the chat, or just because! It's great!
I led from behind so as to not lose anyone in the woods, as I said to the ladies, "It wont look good on my resume!.....ok my blog! They all kept perfect pace with each other, with the little breaks that we had to catch breath and catch up it all went pretty well. We got to the path that would lead us down the middle of the woods to 'Dog Poo Ally' but I knew they could all do just a little bit further.
I decided to take them a little further across the top of the woods to Botany Bay Lane and then we can run down towards the railway again. We had plenty of time as I don't do the warm up in the rec, our warm up is the little jog we do before we enter the woods, that way we can have a longer route and it's all great practice for when they want to move up to group 1.
I was smiling as I was running down the hill, feeling really happy, thinking of things, breathing in the clean air. Last week it was a different run, but today, it felt good to be out here, enjoying the freedom!
We ran just about 3 miles, which is only half a mile short of what group one do when we run a shorter routes! So really, in the next few weeks they will be 'fledging' into group 1.
Here's our geeky stats.
Her route today was one of her less hilly routes! I think she can safely say that this is a flatish route......well apart from the undulations of Great Thrift and Woodside, oh and of course St Johns road.....apart from those tiny little hills, then its flat!
I offered to sweep again, after all Group 0 had just done 3 miles!! So proud of them all! Janet was also sweeping as well. In fact there were about 5 of us in the back just chatting as we ran along, eagerly waiting for each rest stop! I think psychologically the usual places that we have stopped at really play on my mind, because each time I was thinking "Ok there will be a rest just after we run over the bridge" But when we got there I could see the pack heading down Southborough Lane! It was only another few meters or so, just on the green triangle, but I was still thinking "oh no" I just goes to show that it is good to mix up the routes just so that you don't know when your 'stops' will be.
After the stop at the green we headed down Chesham Road, all the way along until Shepperton. Again sometimes on our group runs we have had our 're-grouping' at the top of Shepperton, but our SingstarJo carried on until the off license, which is also another fav place for regrouping when we come from other directions. Running is not just about what your body can do sometimes its what your mind tells your body to do! It's a mental thing as well!
But today I was feeling pretty good anyway, although I was slow, I can use some running jargon here, I am tapering! That's my excuse anyway! On the way running along St. Johns we did have one person just walking back with a limp, I walked back with her to the road where she parked her car, just opposite the rec.
I really enjoyed this run this evening. I love being out here running with my buddies!
Geeky stats.
You gotta love these light evenings, "Why?" I hear you ask, It's because of the woods! Introducing the group 0's to our very own woods is just brilliant! Although technically they all know the woods as of course they use them at the own leisure! But that is where I took them this evening!
We had a good group with us, plus Moy was with me too! The route I took them was in through 'Dog Poo Ally' and then turned right to run along beside the railway lines. Once at the top we turned left. With seven of us in the group today it was one of our largest for some time. I feel quite proud of our group 0's. And I like it that sometimes the group 1's come along just for the chat, or just because! It's great!
I led from behind so as to not lose anyone in the woods, as I said to the ladies, "It wont look good on my resume!.....ok my blog! They all kept perfect pace with each other, with the little breaks that we had to catch breath and catch up it all went pretty well. We got to the path that would lead us down the middle of the woods to 'Dog Poo Ally' but I knew they could all do just a little bit further.
I decided to take them a little further across the top of the woods to Botany Bay Lane and then we can run down towards the railway again. We had plenty of time as I don't do the warm up in the rec, our warm up is the little jog we do before we enter the woods, that way we can have a longer route and it's all great practice for when they want to move up to group 1.
I was smiling as I was running down the hill, feeling really happy, thinking of things, breathing in the clean air. Last week it was a different run, but today, it felt good to be out here, enjoying the freedom!
We ran just about 3 miles, which is only half a mile short of what group one do when we run a shorter routes! So really, in the next few weeks they will be 'fledging' into group 1.
Here's our geeky stats.
Group 1
SingstarJo was leading today. She and some of our other PWR's were total stars at the weekend, supporting all our Brighton Marathon PWR's on Sunday! Especially our WendiMoo! The Video of SingstarJo greeting Wendimoo on route was just totally amazing!!Her route today was one of her less hilly routes! I think she can safely say that this is a flatish route......well apart from the undulations of Great Thrift and Woodside, oh and of course St Johns road.....apart from those tiny little hills, then its flat!
I offered to sweep again, after all Group 0 had just done 3 miles!! So proud of them all! Janet was also sweeping as well. In fact there were about 5 of us in the back just chatting as we ran along, eagerly waiting for each rest stop! I think psychologically the usual places that we have stopped at really play on my mind, because each time I was thinking "Ok there will be a rest just after we run over the bridge" But when we got there I could see the pack heading down Southborough Lane! It was only another few meters or so, just on the green triangle, but I was still thinking "oh no" I just goes to show that it is good to mix up the routes just so that you don't know when your 'stops' will be.
After the stop at the green we headed down Chesham Road, all the way along until Shepperton. Again sometimes on our group runs we have had our 're-grouping' at the top of Shepperton, but our SingstarJo carried on until the off license, which is also another fav place for regrouping when we come from other directions. Running is not just about what your body can do sometimes its what your mind tells your body to do! It's a mental thing as well!
But today I was feeling pretty good anyway, although I was slow, I can use some running jargon here, I am tapering! That's my excuse anyway! On the way running along St. Johns we did have one person just walking back with a limp, I walked back with her to the road where she parked her car, just opposite the rec.
I really enjoyed this run this evening. I love being out here running with my buddies!
Geeky stats.
Sunday, 12 April 2015
Last Long Run!
Hello blog lovers.
What an absolutely glorious afternoon it was, ok, no ideal running conditions! But still, it was fantastic afternoon. First of I would like to say congratulations to one of my running buddies, WendiMoo, she has completed her marathon now! All over and done with, all those weeks and months of training, those long runs together, the flapjacks, coffee beans, chatting, dancing and singing is all done her proud as she crossed the finish line in Brighton today! 7 hours 8 minutes! Bloody brilliant!
I still have another two weeks to go! So this is my last long run! I was hoping to do 14 miles at least today! I set off after church, feeling bloomin good! The sun coming down was just gorgeous, if only I was lounging in my garden with a pina colarda, or a chilled lager! It wasn't until I was running through the Cinder Path that I realised I had fogotten my water and my sweeties, Dextrose! Now I could just go back and then chose a different route to get to the arranged place that I said I would meet Bims, or....I could call her and tell her to bring some water along! I chose to call her!
Running solo I am just not disciplined! When I have company I stick to my run a mile and walk a minute, so why can't I do it when I am on my own! I think I tend to just not think about time, I have my ear phones in and I jog to the beat! I sing out loud and punch the air! It's not a pretty sight! So I also think I may even run quicker than my pace, but maybe not, I shall check my stats out when I load up my Garmin.
I was really enjoying my run though, I just love the sun, I love being out running, and as soon as this little run is over I shall get back to running through the parks and the woods, and get back on my bike and ride to a pub lunch somewhere with some family and friends! Anyway, back to my run! It helps me on my way thinking of nice stuff.
I wasn't sticking at all to my plan, but I was taking some walking sections. Soo I was ready to run up Cardiac Hill. My legs were ready, my mind was ready I knew I could do it. Piece o piss! I think that's my motto at the moment, trying to convince myself that everything is going to go to plan! I got up the top and I carried on running!
When I get to the new bridge over the railway, Chislehurst Road, then I shall run a little bit longer and then give Bims a call. That should be about half hour away from where we said we will meet! Just as I was getting my phone out of my pocket she was ringing me "Where are you?" she said "I was just about to call you, so get yourself going and see you at the bottom of Summer Hill"
That downhill was just spectacular, I just had to go for it! I ran pretty darn fast....well for little old me! Under 10 minute mileing! Ridiculous, see what I mean about not sticking to plan! As I was running down the other side I was wondering if we both had planned it right that we would meet at the bottom at the same time! Well guess what! as I was getting to end of my down hill I looked across the road and saw Bims coming down on the other side! Perfect timing!
It was soo good to see Bims, mainly cos she had some fantastic chilled and iced water for me! I think now I should maybe have asked her to bring some chocs as well or the healthy stuff, a banana! But the water went down a treat! We chatted for a second, which was good because I needed to recover from the 'speedy' downhill, and then we looked up "Ok, lets do this thing" we said.
We both took a deep breath and then started to run up the hill. It was bloody tough, I am sure I was running slower than I could walk it! But I didn't want to stop the momentum, I didn't want to go into walking strides to try and get the hill out of the way, I just kept at it! The sound of the pain escaped my mouth as I dug deep to get up this blasted hill! I did it! 6 ish miles and only a mouth full of water! Not bad! I am sure I would have had a bit more energy if I had my sweeties!
After the high fives and well dones, and more swigs of ice cold water we carried on with the planned route. It was going to be the one that me and Wendimoo and Bims have been doing. The same route that Hilary ran with me, which is down Blackbrook, Oldfield road and then through the park.
Although we were still heading away from my home some how it felt like the run was coming to an end, I was feeling pretty tired so maybe that is what is making me think that I should be heading on home. We ran through Whitehall rec and the on to the A21. Our water was nigh on gone and it was also warm! I was a pity my brother in law don't work on Sundays, we could have popped in to fill our bottles up!
When we started running down Hayes Lane I didn't notice that someone was outside their house! People really are kind, and I am sure they wouldn't refuse us some water if I asked nicely! And they didn't! Didn't refuse I mean, he was most pleased to refill our bottles for us and asked us how far we had to do.
I was really feeling very deflated by the time we got to Normans park. The mind was willing but my legs just refused to get going! It took a lot of nagging from Bims to get me to run some more! Welcome back Nagging Sister! But then I started to think about things again, like you do when you get tired, think of things that may just help you to stay focused, or in my case to justify my walking sections! And that was simple, I was hungry! Or at least I was lacking energy! You need fuel and my tank was running on empty now! Another thought I had was that if I have to walk more then so be it! after all my running is still all fun!
But I also was thinking I still got at least four more miles to do, I just knew I wouldn't do it, I was going to do a short route and get home via Southborough Lane! I didn't feel bad about it, it was just one of those things. My new route was from Normans park and then run down Crown Lane into Southborough Lane. Turn right into Holbrook and then through my local park!
I got back home, and still kept to my no walking down Whitebeam (it's the same as Farringdon, the road I dare not stop on) I just wanted to make sure I kept running till I got home, it's my 'thing' that I just have to do.
I ran for 12.5 miles today, ok, so it wasn't quality running, and it wasn't 14 miles, but it was still something. And so now to just keep the legs plodding along, stay injury free and keep everything fun! This time in two weeks time I will be a lot more tired than what I am now!
By the way, my running gear was fine, except that I got chaffing on my left arm! I think its because I got these 'batwings' going on and they don't like to be out in the open! Everything else seemed to be just fine!
Geeky stats!
What an absolutely glorious afternoon it was, ok, no ideal running conditions! But still, it was fantastic afternoon. First of I would like to say congratulations to one of my running buddies, WendiMoo, she has completed her marathon now! All over and done with, all those weeks and months of training, those long runs together, the flapjacks, coffee beans, chatting, dancing and singing is all done her proud as she crossed the finish line in Brighton today! 7 hours 8 minutes! Bloody brilliant!
I still have another two weeks to go! So this is my last long run! I was hoping to do 14 miles at least today! I set off after church, feeling bloomin good! The sun coming down was just gorgeous, if only I was lounging in my garden with a pina colarda, or a chilled lager! It wasn't until I was running through the Cinder Path that I realised I had fogotten my water and my sweeties, Dextrose! Now I could just go back and then chose a different route to get to the arranged place that I said I would meet Bims, or....I could call her and tell her to bring some water along! I chose to call her!
Running solo I am just not disciplined! When I have company I stick to my run a mile and walk a minute, so why can't I do it when I am on my own! I think I tend to just not think about time, I have my ear phones in and I jog to the beat! I sing out loud and punch the air! It's not a pretty sight! So I also think I may even run quicker than my pace, but maybe not, I shall check my stats out when I load up my Garmin.
I was really enjoying my run though, I just love the sun, I love being out running, and as soon as this little run is over I shall get back to running through the parks and the woods, and get back on my bike and ride to a pub lunch somewhere with some family and friends! Anyway, back to my run! It helps me on my way thinking of nice stuff.
I wasn't sticking at all to my plan, but I was taking some walking sections. Soo I was ready to run up Cardiac Hill. My legs were ready, my mind was ready I knew I could do it. Piece o piss! I think that's my motto at the moment, trying to convince myself that everything is going to go to plan! I got up the top and I carried on running!
When I get to the new bridge over the railway, Chislehurst Road, then I shall run a little bit longer and then give Bims a call. That should be about half hour away from where we said we will meet! Just as I was getting my phone out of my pocket she was ringing me "Where are you?" she said "I was just about to call you, so get yourself going and see you at the bottom of Summer Hill"
That downhill was just spectacular, I just had to go for it! I ran pretty darn fast....well for little old me! Under 10 minute mileing! Ridiculous, see what I mean about not sticking to plan! As I was running down the other side I was wondering if we both had planned it right that we would meet at the bottom at the same time! Well guess what! as I was getting to end of my down hill I looked across the road and saw Bims coming down on the other side! Perfect timing!
It was soo good to see Bims, mainly cos she had some fantastic chilled and iced water for me! I think now I should maybe have asked her to bring some chocs as well or the healthy stuff, a banana! But the water went down a treat! We chatted for a second, which was good because I needed to recover from the 'speedy' downhill, and then we looked up "Ok, lets do this thing" we said.
We both took a deep breath and then started to run up the hill. It was bloody tough, I am sure I was running slower than I could walk it! But I didn't want to stop the momentum, I didn't want to go into walking strides to try and get the hill out of the way, I just kept at it! The sound of the pain escaped my mouth as I dug deep to get up this blasted hill! I did it! 6 ish miles and only a mouth full of water! Not bad! I am sure I would have had a bit more energy if I had my sweeties!
After the high fives and well dones, and more swigs of ice cold water we carried on with the planned route. It was going to be the one that me and Wendimoo and Bims have been doing. The same route that Hilary ran with me, which is down Blackbrook, Oldfield road and then through the park.
Although we were still heading away from my home some how it felt like the run was coming to an end, I was feeling pretty tired so maybe that is what is making me think that I should be heading on home. We ran through Whitehall rec and the on to the A21. Our water was nigh on gone and it was also warm! I was a pity my brother in law don't work on Sundays, we could have popped in to fill our bottles up!
When we started running down Hayes Lane I didn't notice that someone was outside their house! People really are kind, and I am sure they wouldn't refuse us some water if I asked nicely! And they didn't! Didn't refuse I mean, he was most pleased to refill our bottles for us and asked us how far we had to do.
I was really feeling very deflated by the time we got to Normans park. The mind was willing but my legs just refused to get going! It took a lot of nagging from Bims to get me to run some more! Welcome back Nagging Sister! But then I started to think about things again, like you do when you get tired, think of things that may just help you to stay focused, or in my case to justify my walking sections! And that was simple, I was hungry! Or at least I was lacking energy! You need fuel and my tank was running on empty now! Another thought I had was that if I have to walk more then so be it! after all my running is still all fun!
But I also was thinking I still got at least four more miles to do, I just knew I wouldn't do it, I was going to do a short route and get home via Southborough Lane! I didn't feel bad about it, it was just one of those things. My new route was from Normans park and then run down Crown Lane into Southborough Lane. Turn right into Holbrook and then through my local park!
I got back home, and still kept to my no walking down Whitebeam (it's the same as Farringdon, the road I dare not stop on) I just wanted to make sure I kept running till I got home, it's my 'thing' that I just have to do.
I ran for 12.5 miles today, ok, so it wasn't quality running, and it wasn't 14 miles, but it was still something. And so now to just keep the legs plodding along, stay injury free and keep everything fun! This time in two weeks time I will be a lot more tired than what I am now!
By the way, my running gear was fine, except that I got chaffing on my left arm! I think its because I got these 'batwings' going on and they don't like to be out in the open! Everything else seemed to be just fine!
Geeky stats!
Thursday, 9 April 2015
PMSL - Track Session!
Hello Blog lovers!
These last two weeks have take a toll on my running! Not only that but I have been ravenous! Just wanting to eat everything I see! It's not as if I have got the miles in my legs like some of my other marathon running buddies! They are all tapering down now! But I know this time round I am mentally prepared more, I know what to expect and I know what to do, and more importantly I know what NOT to do!
So, as I said, after a very lazy (for a marathon training runner like me) two weeks, kids school holidays are finally coming to an end! I turned up for track session ready to work real hard! Penance for being lazy! But of course, always keeping it fun and enjoyable and making sure I don't pull or over stretch any muscles!
Hels was on duty today, PhysioMike had his running shoes on! He was going to joining in todays session after doing the Kent County XC just a little earlier on! In fact there was another chap here as well who had also raced! Crazy! Or just hardcore PWR's Todays session was 6 to 10 800m laps with 90 secs rest between each 800 lap! Running slightly faster than our park run pace!
Well let me tell you, I did! I am still feeling tired come evening time, this 'old lady syndrome' as big son calls it, is getting me down! I am not liking it one bit! The oil of evening primrose has no effect so far, vitamin B6 is next thing to try!
Anyway, track was good today, we followed Hels and PhysiMike in the warm drills and then the session started. There were quite a few people here this evening, quite a few in the first group, the speedies, and then there was the second group, about 6 or 7 in that one, and then there was another group, with just a couple in there, and then there was me and another young lady, and I am sure I knew her name but it has escaped me. I heard PhysioMike say that she should aim for about 5:30 mins for each lap, so that is what I shall aim for.
The first lap of course we all start together, and of course I run out with the big boys, watching as they stretch out in front of me. It's quite difficult trying to judge how fast you are supposed to run to keep on the target pace, when you are watching everyone run ahead of you! It's a good job I have my Garmin, as I noticed I was running way to fast, under 10 min mileing!
I was determined to finish my 6 laps, I knew I wouldn't be doing the 10 laps, that is deffo for the speedies, but these 6 laps, they are mine! I will do it, and I will do it in style! I need to just push that little bit harder. I know that we take the 90 seconds or so between each lap, but I make sure that I pause my Garmin and then start it! I want to know what my moving time will be.
My fastest ever Parkrun is 33:53 mins, It has been such a long time since I did that! I still find it amazing that I could have ever run that fast, but I must have done! And I know on when I run the Parkrun then I don't actually have that stop to catch my breath either. But just look at the stats now! I was totally amazed by the time! I was totally amazed by the speed I finished that last 50ms too!
Now, all I have to do is to try and emulate that (without the stops) to a Bromley ParkRun and I shall have a shiny new PB! You never know! Anyway, this session was brilliant! I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I seemed to have 'ran off' that tired feeling!
Oh and todays Title......., all I can say is I've kept it secret!
Oh and todays Title......., all I can say is I've kept it secret!
Here's my geeky stats
Tuesday, 7 April 2015
First Evening Woody Run!
Hello blog lovers.
Well today was rather an emotional day. I said a final farewell to a man I have known for over 40 years! It was his sister, Yvonne, that is my best friend from way back. We went to school together. But on mothers day this year, Charlie lost his battle with cancer! His send of was a very emotional time, with his kids around and his grandchildren and Yvonne, his sister, and other members of his family.
After I came back from the funeral I sat in my chair and just dozed. I felt so tired. I was amazed that I woke up in time to actually get ready to go out. But I knew I had to get out as my group 0 people will be waiting! I hadn't arranged for anyone else to take it, I think psychologically I didn't arrange backup as I needed to get out and do a run.
I had sent out an e-mail to all group 0 members, to tell them that I was going to do the Birchwood Road route. But when I got to the rec, the sun was still visible, the temperature was just perfect and the woods were calling out to me! I didn't know how the group would feel about running through the woods, and so I gave them the idea!
They all jumped at the chance! I was so pleased. Because of the nature of the type of running that we will be doing in the woods, the warm ups would actually be the jog along to 'Dog Poo Ally' because going up the paths will be slightly different. We will be a little slower, one thing is that we will be watching out for the roots of the trees and then there is off course those huge muddy puddles which will be drying out nicely but will still be sticky!
We entered the woods and ran straight up the middle, Kelly, Jacob and his mum Kathryn, I believe that is her name (I just checked my email list!) and Kimberly. Although some of them had been in the woods walking with dogs, this would be the first time any of them had ran through the woods. I hoped they were going to enjoy it.
When we got to the top of the woods we turned right and ran along towards the main road. Jacob was in front, he was running pretty good! If he knew the way to go then I would imagine he could run this route in twenty minutes or a lot less. Thankfully he waited at each junction, where paths went two or three ways, I was pleased with that, I didn't want to lose any of my Hero group, not on our first venture into the woods......well not at any time really!
Listening to the sounds of the woods, the birds and the animals as they scatter when we get close to them really helped to lift me. The fresh air, the cleanness of the woods really is the best medicine for when you're in need of a pick me up. I am sure I could 'smell' rain, you know the way it is sometimes when you can just smell it in the air. But I think now it is just the 'cleanness' of the woods that I can smell. No running along with the cars fumes and noises. The cleanness, the rain smell, is actually the fresh air!
When we got back to 'Dog Poo Ally' I noticed that we had done really well on the time. I could have taken them on a little bit more road work, heading up one of the roads and then down Towncourt Road to go in through the other entrance of the rec. But the woods were just perfect. I asked the group if the could run for a little bit more through the woods, I told them about the other side, running along the side of the railway line and then going up over the bridges and then back on the road.
Well, I think I have some converts to trail running as they all agreed to run the extra bit through the woods! The bottom end though would be a little bit more stickier than what we have just experienced but I feel sure that it is all drying up just nicely! I was right! We made good time to the bridges and then headed off back to the rec down the roads to run off any mud that we may have captured on our trainers.
A great run, a great first time through the woods run, a great first time trail run for the hero group! My mood was lifted, but I was still very tired! Group 1 will have to have another sweeper with Janet this evening, I was ready to go home.
This run is dedicated to Charlie Pugh!
Well today was rather an emotional day. I said a final farewell to a man I have known for over 40 years! It was his sister, Yvonne, that is my best friend from way back. We went to school together. But on mothers day this year, Charlie lost his battle with cancer! His send of was a very emotional time, with his kids around and his grandchildren and Yvonne, his sister, and other members of his family.
After I came back from the funeral I sat in my chair and just dozed. I felt so tired. I was amazed that I woke up in time to actually get ready to go out. But I knew I had to get out as my group 0 people will be waiting! I hadn't arranged for anyone else to take it, I think psychologically I didn't arrange backup as I needed to get out and do a run.
I had sent out an e-mail to all group 0 members, to tell them that I was going to do the Birchwood Road route. But when I got to the rec, the sun was still visible, the temperature was just perfect and the woods were calling out to me! I didn't know how the group would feel about running through the woods, and so I gave them the idea!
They all jumped at the chance! I was so pleased. Because of the nature of the type of running that we will be doing in the woods, the warm ups would actually be the jog along to 'Dog Poo Ally' because going up the paths will be slightly different. We will be a little slower, one thing is that we will be watching out for the roots of the trees and then there is off course those huge muddy puddles which will be drying out nicely but will still be sticky!
We entered the woods and ran straight up the middle, Kelly, Jacob and his mum Kathryn, I believe that is her name (I just checked my email list!) and Kimberly. Although some of them had been in the woods walking with dogs, this would be the first time any of them had ran through the woods. I hoped they were going to enjoy it.
When we got to the top of the woods we turned right and ran along towards the main road. Jacob was in front, he was running pretty good! If he knew the way to go then I would imagine he could run this route in twenty minutes or a lot less. Thankfully he waited at each junction, where paths went two or three ways, I was pleased with that, I didn't want to lose any of my Hero group, not on our first venture into the woods......well not at any time really!
Listening to the sounds of the woods, the birds and the animals as they scatter when we get close to them really helped to lift me. The fresh air, the cleanness of the woods really is the best medicine for when you're in need of a pick me up. I am sure I could 'smell' rain, you know the way it is sometimes when you can just smell it in the air. But I think now it is just the 'cleanness' of the woods that I can smell. No running along with the cars fumes and noises. The cleanness, the rain smell, is actually the fresh air!
When we got back to 'Dog Poo Ally' I noticed that we had done really well on the time. I could have taken them on a little bit more road work, heading up one of the roads and then down Towncourt Road to go in through the other entrance of the rec. But the woods were just perfect. I asked the group if the could run for a little bit more through the woods, I told them about the other side, running along the side of the railway line and then going up over the bridges and then back on the road.
Well, I think I have some converts to trail running as they all agreed to run the extra bit through the woods! The bottom end though would be a little bit more stickier than what we have just experienced but I feel sure that it is all drying up just nicely! I was right! We made good time to the bridges and then headed off back to the rec down the roads to run off any mud that we may have captured on our trainers.
A great run, a great first time through the woods run, a great first time trail run for the hero group! My mood was lifted, but I was still very tired! Group 1 will have to have another sweeper with Janet this evening, I was ready to go home.
This run is dedicated to Charlie Pugh!
Sunday, 5 April 2015
Easter Solo Run
Hello blog lovers
It seems to be a long while between this run and my last run! And yet today I still hadn't time to do a long run, so it was just have to be a quality, hard, 'interval thrown in' style run. So I planned a 10k ish distance, to Normans park, once around then thrown in that interval running, and then back. That should work out to a 10k!
After church I came back and got myself changed, looked for my ipod (which wasn't charged!) and then got out as quick as I could. I had the family coming over for dinner, lamb, what else for an Easter dinner! Once outside I started up my Garmin and then set off for my run. I was going to run as much as I could, this was going to be like a Thursday session, but twice the distance! I think I was running quite well, maybe the enforced rest has done some good, added with the track sessions. I don't suppose the booze and food has helped though!
I had thought that I would be doing three laps of the park, my maths is really not brilliant! How I came up with run 2 miles to the park + 3 laps of the park @ 1 mile per lap + run back 2 miles = 6 miles ish! Mmmm, I think I should have paid more attention in math class! I guess I could have done the extra lap, but being on a schedule I really needed to get back home. My house was a mess!
The run to the park seemed to be over so quick, just the laps of the park to do, and remember, even then I was thinking 3 laps, not 2. The first lap was still part of the run as much as I can, with the second lap being the interval running! There were lots of people in the park, kids on bikes with the parents, and off course the dog walkers. But it was nice to see whole families out there, just for a walk, probably walking off their Easter Sunday dinner!
On my way round the first lap I was taking note of where I was going to run my intervals from. I chose bins and trees and the buildings. Run hard and fast as I can, that was my plan, then walk or jog to the next point before running my ass off again. I was doing pretty well, I passed a cyclist about 3 times on the way around the park, I think she is practising in a safe environment, it's always good to see people getting out there and doing things that will keep them fit and healthy! On the last time I saw her she called out to me "There must be an easier way to work off the chocolate!" If there is I don't know it!
And so the interval running! My targets chosen and I ran out, fast and furious (maybe there should be a film with that title!) From the beginning of the long straight to the bin! I fixed my gaze on the bin, not stopping until I got there, run as fast as I can! That's the plan, try and run hard and feel like I have run at least 10 miles and not 10k! All the way around the park I ran fast, avoiding the kids on their scooters, groups of people, dogs, the bumpy pathways. I ignored the looks I got from the people as I huffed and puffed past them in pure speedy fashion(?) I need to work hard today, for the marathon is not that far at all now!
It was when I was on the recovery walk to the long straight that I realised that I didn't have to do another lap to make it 6 miles done, I can get on home! So I turned left and jogged walked, and ran the rest of the way back to my house. I still use that 'road where I dare not stop running' section. It's a good psychological section for me. It's the end of each running session, whether it's 3 miles or 13.4 miles.
I pushed it a little harder down the road, I wanted to really feel as if I had done a good work out. when I looked at my watch when I got back to my house I noticed that I was under 11 min miling! I was pleased with that, I just hope it will be enough this week as part of my training!
Geeky stats.
It seems to be a long while between this run and my last run! And yet today I still hadn't time to do a long run, so it was just have to be a quality, hard, 'interval thrown in' style run. So I planned a 10k ish distance, to Normans park, once around then thrown in that interval running, and then back. That should work out to a 10k!
After church I came back and got myself changed, looked for my ipod (which wasn't charged!) and then got out as quick as I could. I had the family coming over for dinner, lamb, what else for an Easter dinner! Once outside I started up my Garmin and then set off for my run. I was going to run as much as I could, this was going to be like a Thursday session, but twice the distance! I think I was running quite well, maybe the enforced rest has done some good, added with the track sessions. I don't suppose the booze and food has helped though!
I had thought that I would be doing three laps of the park, my maths is really not brilliant! How I came up with run 2 miles to the park + 3 laps of the park @ 1 mile per lap + run back 2 miles = 6 miles ish! Mmmm, I think I should have paid more attention in math class! I guess I could have done the extra lap, but being on a schedule I really needed to get back home. My house was a mess!
The run to the park seemed to be over so quick, just the laps of the park to do, and remember, even then I was thinking 3 laps, not 2. The first lap was still part of the run as much as I can, with the second lap being the interval running! There were lots of people in the park, kids on bikes with the parents, and off course the dog walkers. But it was nice to see whole families out there, just for a walk, probably walking off their Easter Sunday dinner!
On my way round the first lap I was taking note of where I was going to run my intervals from. I chose bins and trees and the buildings. Run hard and fast as I can, that was my plan, then walk or jog to the next point before running my ass off again. I was doing pretty well, I passed a cyclist about 3 times on the way around the park, I think she is practising in a safe environment, it's always good to see people getting out there and doing things that will keep them fit and healthy! On the last time I saw her she called out to me "There must be an easier way to work off the chocolate!" If there is I don't know it!
And so the interval running! My targets chosen and I ran out, fast and furious (maybe there should be a film with that title!) From the beginning of the long straight to the bin! I fixed my gaze on the bin, not stopping until I got there, run as fast as I can! That's the plan, try and run hard and feel like I have run at least 10 miles and not 10k! All the way around the park I ran fast, avoiding the kids on their scooters, groups of people, dogs, the bumpy pathways. I ignored the looks I got from the people as I huffed and puffed past them in pure speedy fashion(?) I need to work hard today, for the marathon is not that far at all now!
It was when I was on the recovery walk to the long straight that I realised that I didn't have to do another lap to make it 6 miles done, I can get on home! So I turned left and jogged walked, and ran the rest of the way back to my house. I still use that 'road where I dare not stop running' section. It's a good psychological section for me. It's the end of each running session, whether it's 3 miles or 13.4 miles.
I pushed it a little harder down the road, I wanted to really feel as if I had done a good work out. when I looked at my watch when I got back to my house I noticed that I was under 11 min miling! I was pleased with that, I just hope it will be enough this week as part of my training!
Geeky stats.
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