Well we’re now well into March with the clocks changing and some lighter evenings, and Spring in the air (not in my step!) a real bonus. As far as I’m concerned I’m on the count down to the Marathon.
It’s been an interesting journey so far. Physically I’ve only had a few niggles, mind you now I’m running much longer miles my age is catching up with me as my arthritic big toe has raised its head and let me know it doesn’t much relish the pounding its getting on those long runs. After a trip to see podiatrist Mr Patrick who used to work with us… (great excuse for a catchup--- and he hasn’t changed a bit!) I’m resigned to taping, pain killers on the day. Anything to get through the Marathon!
As for the emotional side, there’s been highs and lows. From absolute fear about doing these hilly races, beforehand – and I’ve still got the hilly Oakley 20 mile to go – Ugh! To elation that I’ve conquered the Stamford 30K despite its hills! At times there’s been much gnashing of teeth when I’ve HAD to go and do a run and didn’t feel like it! Mind you I am now looking at only 2-3 long runs before I start the taper down after Easter – yay!
Just to spice up the training I’ve started some ‘Spinning’ classes - no, not the type with a ball of wool, but the exercise bike class as a quick way to get some cross training in. Definitely don’t feel the love for Spinning, so I won’t be continuing after the Marathon. However what I have also started, and will continue, is the Yoga classes. I love it, and my creaky back has been soooooo much better. Mind you until a few weeks ago I’d not heard of ‘Forrest’ Yoga, and no it’s not held in a forest, quite the opposite; it’s in a very hot room. Whilst I’m probably the oldest and the stiffest there, I could feel improvements even after the first session. Mind you I’ve got a long way to go before I achieve half as much as our lovely teacher Julie, but she is hyper – flexible, not that I’m jealous!
Two things I have learnt on this journey of discovery is that when you run these distances, you run it with your head not your legs. It’s all about time on your feet and being in the right mindset.
The other little gem I’ve discovered is that I’m constantly hungry. Hazel and Polly have never seen me devour so many biscuits. And don’t let anybody tell you that an apple will suffice cos it won’t! But it’s not just me, all of our little marathon girly group have found the same!
On one final note there’s one thing for definite- I’m NEVER doing another marathon. It’s taken over my life and body in the last few months, so just remind me of this in six months time!... but I do fancy doing the Belvoir Challenge – a 15 mile cross country route, but only because there’s tea and cakes at each of the check points, now that’s my kind of race!
If you'd like to sponsor me (I'm running for Sense: for the deafblind), you can can contribute here.
Or you're welcome to join me for a curry or chilli at my race night - see below.
It’s been an interesting journey so far. Physically I’ve only had a few niggles, mind you now I’m running much longer miles my age is catching up with me as my arthritic big toe has raised its head and let me know it doesn’t much relish the pounding its getting on those long runs. After a trip to see podiatrist Mr Patrick who used to work with us… (great excuse for a catchup--- and he hasn’t changed a bit!) I’m resigned to taping, pain killers on the day. Anything to get through the Marathon!
As for the emotional side, there’s been highs and lows. From absolute fear about doing these hilly races, beforehand – and I’ve still got the hilly Oakley 20 mile to go – Ugh! To elation that I’ve conquered the Stamford 30K despite its hills! At times there’s been much gnashing of teeth when I’ve HAD to go and do a run and didn’t feel like it! Mind you I am now looking at only 2-3 long runs before I start the taper down after Easter – yay!
Just to spice up the training I’ve started some ‘Spinning’ classes - no, not the type with a ball of wool, but the exercise bike class as a quick way to get some cross training in. Definitely don’t feel the love for Spinning, so I won’t be continuing after the Marathon. However what I have also started, and will continue, is the Yoga classes. I love it, and my creaky back has been soooooo much better. Mind you until a few weeks ago I’d not heard of ‘Forrest’ Yoga, and no it’s not held in a forest, quite the opposite; it’s in a very hot room. Whilst I’m probably the oldest and the stiffest there, I could feel improvements even after the first session. Mind you I’ve got a long way to go before I achieve half as much as our lovely teacher Julie, but she is hyper – flexible, not that I’m jealous!
Two things I have learnt on this journey of discovery is that when you run these distances, you run it with your head not your legs. It’s all about time on your feet and being in the right mindset.
The other little gem I’ve discovered is that I’m constantly hungry. Hazel and Polly have never seen me devour so many biscuits. And don’t let anybody tell you that an apple will suffice cos it won’t! But it’s not just me, all of our little marathon girly group have found the same!
On one final note there’s one thing for definite- I’m NEVER doing another marathon. It’s taken over my life and body in the last few months, so just remind me of this in six months time!... but I do fancy doing the Belvoir Challenge – a 15 mile cross country route, but only because there’s tea and cakes at each of the check points, now that’s my kind of race!
If you'd like to sponsor me (I'm running for Sense: for the deafblind), you can can contribute here.
Or you're welcome to join me for a curry or chilli at my race night - see below.
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