Still in Training...

I’m feeling pretty pleased with myself after my recent marathon. After my first marathon I could hardly walk for a week, and had nasty aches and pains for 6 weeks. Unsurprisingly I didn’t train during that time, and by the time I was running again it was at a lower level. Second year I recovered faster and was able to do a very stiff, short run within a week of my marathon. But I let myself rest up, and once more my fitness slipped back and I had ground to make up by the time I started seriously training again.

This year I’ve made a big effort to dig my heels in and get out there in spite of feeling tired and having niggling pains. And it’s working. A month on I’m feeling pretty fit and actually making progress in some areas. It’s not easy. I do frequently go out stiff and achy to start a run, as I do have arthritis. But with me I now have learnt that often the run will actually help the stiffness. Other times it will make it a little worse. It’s hard to know, and in the past I’ve been perhaps too cautious, but on the whole I know running helps manage the chronic pain I have. Anyway I’m working to increase my speed over short runs. Last Monday I did 6 miles in the rain as well. Aching like mad to start (rainy weather…), but it was great fun to go out and not bother about getting wet, and dodge puddles and mud patches.

Another factor is that I HAVE to train as I already have another target. Or rather 2 targets in one! If you’ve read my fundraising website you’ll know I have 4 targets to complete by my birthday towards the end of July. I’ve done 2, and I’m hoping to tick off another 2 at a 10k in a few weeks. I’m hoping to both get a personal best by 4 seconds per mile, and run the whole way! For many I know running the whole 6.2 miles wouldn’t be a major target. But considering less than 3 years ago I could run at most 20 seconds at a time its major progress for me! I’ll be running for over an hour. I’ve also tended to do a run/walk strategy for the simple reason that as yet I go faster like that. As such if I do get a PB as well it will be amazing. I do admit to a back up plan… I’m pretty certain I’m going to make the running all the way bit, but I will be able to fit in a chance at a 5K PB if I don’t get the 10K PB…

I am certainly working bloomin hard to make both happen at once though.

Still collecting sponsorship…