Marathon T
After the high of the weekends race (and day/night out in London), it is back to training this week.
Monday was a deserved rest day – legs were a bit sore….
Tues:
Treadmill:
30 mins @ 7.5mph (8:00 min miles)
30 mins @ 8.0mph (7:30 min miles)
Weds:
Treadmill hill programme level 5
30 mins @ 8.0mph
I did go and buy the “Wii Fit” this week. So, my rest evenings have now turned into a selection of balance, yoga, strength and cardio games in the living room. The information is actually very good, I now know my centre of gravity favours my left side as I stand (and presumably run), and also I am a hula-hooping grand master!
We have also ordered a team kit for the race – a very tasteful Neon Green Asics top…We are still deciding what to have printed on them…
There is also big news from some of the other MoFo team regarding future running events. I have resolved to run the Jersey Marathon in October with Marathon T snr. It might be the old codger’s last Marathon (like every other one has been!) so I am looking forward to it – if not the training.
But the training continues for the half – 18 days and counting.
Marathon T
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Monday, April 28, 2008
It's Official, I'm a runner!!
Marathon S
Well, it was an awesome weekend consisting of Erdinger, Premiership football, chicken gyoza, Singapore noodles, salt beef sandwich, Shakespeare and of course my first ever run, namely the Clapham Common, Innovation Sport 10K.
You can read Marathon T's post to see just how ropey our preparation for the big day was, and my sleep before the big race was ruined by texts coming in all night from drunken friends, plus police cars ripping past the hotel window.
(Marathon T taking a call from BOC to see if he was available for Beijing)
Anyway, I woke to a ropey breakfast of a flapjack, a self contained cereal bowl thing and rank smoothie, packed my bag, pulled on my shorts, shirt and knee support and met Marathon T in the reception at 08:30 ready for the walk to Clapham common for registration.
There were a few hills on the way and I was blowing heavily with fear gripping me as I got closer to race time. As we entered the park you could see the route marked out by red and white plastic tape with a bandstand in the centre where registration took place. As I was walking towards the band stand I was uttering numerous expletives looking at just how big the park was, and knowing I had three laps of it to complete. And when I saw the cross country section consisting of some grassy humps I nearly "papped my trolleys".
We signed in, I was assigned the legendary number 304 and given a timing chip to wear around my ankle.
Nerves were starting to get the better of me and I need to piss like a racehorse even though I was really dehydrated so made my way to the portaloos where I lifted the whole thing up not just the seat and was greeted by some turd otters, barely keeping my crap breakfast down I hurried out and set about some stretching.
Myself and Marathon T did some light jogging (which nearly killed me) and joined the other 850+ runners for the official warm up, though this just consisted of what looked like a child telling us to jog one way round the bandstand, then run the other!! Oh, with some star jumps added in for good measure (Genius).
It was race time, so in a scene similar to the start of the Grand National we were asked to mill at the start, with that a strangulated horn went off and the race was on. I got into my 10 km/ph pace and noticed my heart rate race through 170 bpm. I was cut up on a muddy corner due to the bunching, then nearly taken out at the first water station after 700m (What was wrong with these people, surely you couldn't be thirsty already). Anyway, lap one was failry uneventful though I had the fear looking at just how far each lap was, but I set a steady pace, negotiated the cross country part and crossed the start line for the first time in 19:37. Now it got tough as I knew just how far it was!! I also needed to start spitting, something I had been practising along the front in Jersey and had become quite proficient at it. The first few spits were awesome, forceful, good grouping, arcing out the side. However, when I got to the cross country section for the second time I needed to spit again, as I was blowing hard, I spat, however, this time it fell short and landed on my wrist and watch!! The next 100m was spent trying to clean myself up before I rounded the bandstand for the second time and headed out on lap 3 taking 39:47.
I was a little delirious now with shivers rippling through my skull and the sensation of my brain bouncing up and down. I needed some motivation so engaged the "follow a fit womans arse" technique, this stopped me thinking about my painful knee and helped me overtake a few people, some of them looking far fitter and healthier than me. As I came to the bandstand for the final time I saw Marathon T smiling and clapping me on, telling me I could break the hour if I pushed on.
I hung on, gritted my teeth and did a 7m sprint finish with an unofficial time of 59:55.
An awesome experience, topped with a t-shirt and medal.
Great experience shared with Marathon T and a day I will never forget.
Feck, it’s gonna hurt in the half though
Well, it was an awesome weekend consisting of Erdinger, Premiership football, chicken gyoza, Singapore noodles, salt beef sandwich, Shakespeare and of course my first ever run, namely the Clapham Common, Innovation Sport 10K.
You can read Marathon T's post to see just how ropey our preparation for the big day was, and my sleep before the big race was ruined by texts coming in all night from drunken friends, plus police cars ripping past the hotel window.
(Marathon T taking a call from BOC to see if he was available for Beijing)
Anyway, I woke to a ropey breakfast of a flapjack, a self contained cereal bowl thing and rank smoothie, packed my bag, pulled on my shorts, shirt and knee support and met Marathon T in the reception at 08:30 ready for the walk to Clapham common for registration.
There were a few hills on the way and I was blowing heavily with fear gripping me as I got closer to race time. As we entered the park you could see the route marked out by red and white plastic tape with a bandstand in the centre where registration took place. As I was walking towards the band stand I was uttering numerous expletives looking at just how big the park was, and knowing I had three laps of it to complete. And when I saw the cross country section consisting of some grassy humps I nearly "papped my trolleys".
We signed in, I was assigned the legendary number 304 and given a timing chip to wear around my ankle.
Nerves were starting to get the better of me and I need to piss like a racehorse even though I was really dehydrated so made my way to the portaloos where I lifted the whole thing up not just the seat and was greeted by some turd otters, barely keeping my crap breakfast down I hurried out and set about some stretching.
Myself and Marathon T did some light jogging (which nearly killed me) and joined the other 850+ runners for the official warm up, though this just consisted of what looked like a child telling us to jog one way round the bandstand, then run the other!! Oh, with some star jumps added in for good measure (Genius).
It was race time, so in a scene similar to the start of the Grand National we were asked to mill at the start, with that a strangulated horn went off and the race was on. I got into my 10 km/ph pace and noticed my heart rate race through 170 bpm. I was cut up on a muddy corner due to the bunching, then nearly taken out at the first water station after 700m (What was wrong with these people, surely you couldn't be thirsty already). Anyway, lap one was failry uneventful though I had the fear looking at just how far each lap was, but I set a steady pace, negotiated the cross country part and crossed the start line for the first time in 19:37. Now it got tough as I knew just how far it was!! I also needed to start spitting, something I had been practising along the front in Jersey and had become quite proficient at it. The first few spits were awesome, forceful, good grouping, arcing out the side. However, when I got to the cross country section for the second time I needed to spit again, as I was blowing hard, I spat, however, this time it fell short and landed on my wrist and watch!! The next 100m was spent trying to clean myself up before I rounded the bandstand for the second time and headed out on lap 3 taking 39:47.
I was a little delirious now with shivers rippling through my skull and the sensation of my brain bouncing up and down. I needed some motivation so engaged the "follow a fit womans arse" technique, this stopped me thinking about my painful knee and helped me overtake a few people, some of them looking far fitter and healthier than me. As I came to the bandstand for the final time I saw Marathon T smiling and clapping me on, telling me I could break the hour if I pushed on.
I hung on, gritted my teeth and did a 7m sprint finish with an unofficial time of 59:55.
An awesome experience, topped with a t-shirt and medal.
Great experience shared with Marathon T and a day I will never forget.
Feck, it’s gonna hurt in the half though
The first race.....
Marathon T
Well, after all of the winter training Marathon B and I got the chance to stride out in the sunshine of south London this weekend at the Clapham Common 10k series. But not before we also strode around London for the day and did our very best to scupper ourselves for the run.
We left Jersey on Saturday morning in determined mood, absolutely convinced we would take it easy all day and give ourselves the perfect preparation for the race on Sunday morning. After arriving in London we headed straight to a favourite bar of ours; “The Porterhouse” in Covent Garden. So, if we’re honest the determination to do the right thing lasted approximately 10 mins once we hit central London. Several hours of drinking Erdinger wheat beer and Samuel Adams Boston Lager followed, which we put down to pre-race hydration of a sort...
Our downfall - This was not going to plan already….
Buoyed up by the intake of alcohol, and in very high spirits, we decided to walk along to Haymarket for a bite to eat at Miso. One fantastic (but very filling) plate of Fried Rice and Gyoza later we left the area feeling decidedly queasy.
We waddled down to the south bank and checked out the “Holland House” event around Gabriel’s Wharf (the Dutch were out in force), then along to the Tate Modern. An hour or so around the Tate Modern, took our mileage for the day up to around 7 miles (by our calculation), we were not having the best preparation.
We left the Tate and headed next door for the main event of the evening – King Lear at the Globe. For the authentic experience we had decided to experience the play from the yard, which of course meant standing throughout. The play was incredible, and the setting was superb – my first visit to the Globe and well worth the money (a whopping £6 per ticket!). However, the standing did nothing for the state of our legs and we looked the least likely running duo as we hobbled out of the Theatre at 10:45pm.
Aaah the smell of the sawdust and greasepaint…
The Minstrels didn't come in overpriced packets in this Theatre…
One quick train journey to Clapham for our overnight stay and our preparation day came to an end in fine form, they closed the Clapham Junction station exit just as we arrived – so we had to walk the long way round!
The big day:
Woke early to find my in-room breakfast had not been delivered. With no phone in the room I had the joy of walking through the hotel to chase up with reception at 7am. After wolfing down the breakfast I got my gear together and headed out.
We were both looking in fine form as we lined up for the race (see below).
Marathon B – straining for the off
My legs still felt sore from Saturday’s activities but as I had been struggling with a cold for the majority of the week, I had decided not to push for a fast time. I wanted to test out the legs and get round in something respectable. The sun was sort of shining, a gentle breeze was blowing and none of the forecast rain was falling. In short, perfect conditions. As it was my first race for 3 years – it was good to be running in a pack again.
Unfortunately, as we lined up I stayed a bit too far towards the back of the crowd and had a job getting going in the first km (took me just over 5 mins). After that the runners strung out a bit and I managed to get a rhythm. The park land course was fairly flat and gentle, and I felt good despite the effects of the cold (I hereby unreservedly apologise to anyone who was following me and my attractive trail of phlegm!). I managed to maintain an even pace throughout (after the first km) and finished in 46:39 (unofficial) which I was pleased with.
The rest of the day was spent dodging the showers, eating carbs (the salt beef sandwich in Selfridges was a particular favourite), and travelling back to Jersey.
All-in-all a good weekend and plenty of confidence gained for the main event in three weeks.
Marathon T
Well, after all of the winter training Marathon B and I got the chance to stride out in the sunshine of south London this weekend at the Clapham Common 10k series. But not before we also strode around London for the day and did our very best to scupper ourselves for the run.
We left Jersey on Saturday morning in determined mood, absolutely convinced we would take it easy all day and give ourselves the perfect preparation for the race on Sunday morning. After arriving in London we headed straight to a favourite bar of ours; “The Porterhouse” in Covent Garden. So, if we’re honest the determination to do the right thing lasted approximately 10 mins once we hit central London. Several hours of drinking Erdinger wheat beer and Samuel Adams Boston Lager followed, which we put down to pre-race hydration of a sort...
Our downfall - This was not going to plan already….
Buoyed up by the intake of alcohol, and in very high spirits, we decided to walk along to Haymarket for a bite to eat at Miso. One fantastic (but very filling) plate of Fried Rice and Gyoza later we left the area feeling decidedly queasy.
We waddled down to the south bank and checked out the “Holland House” event around Gabriel’s Wharf (the Dutch were out in force), then along to the Tate Modern. An hour or so around the Tate Modern, took our mileage for the day up to around 7 miles (by our calculation), we were not having the best preparation.
We left the Tate and headed next door for the main event of the evening – King Lear at the Globe. For the authentic experience we had decided to experience the play from the yard, which of course meant standing throughout. The play was incredible, and the setting was superb – my first visit to the Globe and well worth the money (a whopping £6 per ticket!). However, the standing did nothing for the state of our legs and we looked the least likely running duo as we hobbled out of the Theatre at 10:45pm.
Aaah the smell of the sawdust and greasepaint…
The Minstrels didn't come in overpriced packets in this Theatre…
One quick train journey to Clapham for our overnight stay and our preparation day came to an end in fine form, they closed the Clapham Junction station exit just as we arrived – so we had to walk the long way round!
The big day:
Woke early to find my in-room breakfast had not been delivered. With no phone in the room I had the joy of walking through the hotel to chase up with reception at 7am. After wolfing down the breakfast I got my gear together and headed out.
We were both looking in fine form as we lined up for the race (see below).
Marathon B – straining for the off
My legs still felt sore from Saturday’s activities but as I had been struggling with a cold for the majority of the week, I had decided not to push for a fast time. I wanted to test out the legs and get round in something respectable. The sun was sort of shining, a gentle breeze was blowing and none of the forecast rain was falling. In short, perfect conditions. As it was my first race for 3 years – it was good to be running in a pack again.
Unfortunately, as we lined up I stayed a bit too far towards the back of the crowd and had a job getting going in the first km (took me just over 5 mins). After that the runners strung out a bit and I managed to get a rhythm. The park land course was fairly flat and gentle, and I felt good despite the effects of the cold (I hereby unreservedly apologise to anyone who was following me and my attractive trail of phlegm!). I managed to maintain an even pace throughout (after the first km) and finished in 46:39 (unofficial) which I was pleased with.
The rest of the day was spent dodging the showers, eating carbs (the salt beef sandwich in Selfridges was a particular favourite), and travelling back to Jersey.
All-in-all a good weekend and plenty of confidence gained for the main event in three weeks.
Marathon T
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Scuba J
Oh No ! Two weeks all inclusive!
Waist ......larger...much larger, there was a gym but erm I was on holiday so ignored it.
I trained below sea level most days, but relaxed so as not to burn O2
This week is taking a hammering on the work front so no training.
I'm doomed.......
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Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Catching up....
Marathon T
It has been a while since my last blog. So, here is a catch up of the last week.
Thursday
6 miles on the Treadmill @ 8.0mph
Friday:
10 miles on the Treadmill @ 7.5mph (8 min miles)
Saturday and Sunday (celebrating Marathon B’s 40th – nothing you could remotely call training)
Monday:
1 mile @ 7.5mph
4 Miles @ 8.5mph
Tuesday:
Treadmill:
0.5 miles @ 7.0mph
2 miles @ 9.0mph
0.5 miles @ 8.0mph
1 mile @ 9.0mph
0.5 miles @ 8.0mph
Evening steady run (outdoors):
6 miles @ 7:50 per mile.
That is the lot – It has been very hard work this week. The weekends activities have left me feeling tired – and as we are off to do a 10k this weekend – I have tried to get the majority of my training into the first half of the week (so I can take a couple of rest days before Sunday). My legs are definitely feeling it at the moment.
Managed to catch up with the reclusive Marathon C this weekend – who was regaling us with stories of how he almost represented England at Athletics when he was younger, and feeling like he could complete the half in 1:30….Sufficed to say this has now put him firmly in the driving seat for the timing stakes. Added to Marathon B’s stories of his exploits in the gym – Marathon C it seems is turning into the darkest of dark horses….
Marathon J’s ‘marathon’ holiday has also finally come to an end – so he is back on the island and raring to go for the last few weeks of training.
The MoFo team is therefore looking good for the 18th. Sponsorship money is flooding in and we now only have the little matter of 13 miles to complete.
It sounds easy if you say it quickly…Which is not how we will be running it….
Marathon T
It has been a while since my last blog. So, here is a catch up of the last week.
Thursday
6 miles on the Treadmill @ 8.0mph
Friday:
10 miles on the Treadmill @ 7.5mph (8 min miles)
Saturday and Sunday (celebrating Marathon B’s 40th – nothing you could remotely call training)
Monday:
1 mile @ 7.5mph
4 Miles @ 8.5mph
Tuesday:
Treadmill:
0.5 miles @ 7.0mph
2 miles @ 9.0mph
0.5 miles @ 8.0mph
1 mile @ 9.0mph
0.5 miles @ 8.0mph
Evening steady run (outdoors):
6 miles @ 7:50 per mile.
That is the lot – It has been very hard work this week. The weekends activities have left me feeling tired – and as we are off to do a 10k this weekend – I have tried to get the majority of my training into the first half of the week (so I can take a couple of rest days before Sunday). My legs are definitely feeling it at the moment.
Managed to catch up with the reclusive Marathon C this weekend – who was regaling us with stories of how he almost represented England at Athletics when he was younger, and feeling like he could complete the half in 1:30….Sufficed to say this has now put him firmly in the driving seat for the timing stakes. Added to Marathon B’s stories of his exploits in the gym – Marathon C it seems is turning into the darkest of dark horses….
Marathon J’s ‘marathon’ holiday has also finally come to an end – so he is back on the island and raring to go for the last few weeks of training.
The MoFo team is therefore looking good for the 18th. Sponsorship money is flooding in and we now only have the little matter of 13 miles to complete.
It sounds easy if you say it quickly…Which is not how we will be running it….
Marathon T
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Splitting the sessions…..
Marathon T
In an effort to keep the miles ticking over – and due to the fact I had a sprint session last night – I decided to split my efforts and run twice for the first time.
At lunchtime I ran an easy 4 miles (8 min per mile) on the treadmill.
Then last night I drove to the front (needed the absolute flat tarmac) for my interval session.
The session consisted of:
1 mile jog warm up @ 9:00 min per mile.
10 x 200m sprints (avg 40 secs per 200m)
with 100m jog recovery between each effort.
1.2 mile jog cool down (which I ran at 7:40 per mile)
Total distance for the session was just over 4 miles; making 8 miles yesterday – to keep me on track for a 30+ mile week.
My schedule now says two consecutive nights of steady 4 mile runs. I think I am going to swap one of these for a gentle 8-9 miles. With Marathon B’s 40th this weekend I am unlikely to get any training done (unless you count the stroll for golf on Saturday).
Then Monday night is the big one….The schedule says 15 miles. I have the fear. I will have to take it very, very easy – and make sure I have a good check in at 6 miles to see if I have enough to go on. 13 miles is the furthest I have ever run (and that was 24 years ago). So I will be into the unknown.
Marathon T
In an effort to keep the miles ticking over – and due to the fact I had a sprint session last night – I decided to split my efforts and run twice for the first time.
At lunchtime I ran an easy 4 miles (8 min per mile) on the treadmill.
Then last night I drove to the front (needed the absolute flat tarmac) for my interval session.
The session consisted of:
1 mile jog warm up @ 9:00 min per mile.
10 x 200m sprints (avg 40 secs per 200m)
with 100m jog recovery between each effort.
1.2 mile jog cool down (which I ran at 7:40 per mile)
Total distance for the session was just over 4 miles; making 8 miles yesterday – to keep me on track for a 30+ mile week.
My schedule now says two consecutive nights of steady 4 mile runs. I think I am going to swap one of these for a gentle 8-9 miles. With Marathon B’s 40th this weekend I am unlikely to get any training done (unless you count the stroll for golf on Saturday).
Then Monday night is the big one….The schedule says 15 miles. I have the fear. I will have to take it very, very easy – and make sure I have a good check in at 6 miles to see if I have enough to go on. 13 miles is the furthest I have ever run (and that was 24 years ago). So I will be into the unknown.
Marathon T
Leonardo DiCaprio
Marathon S.
Had another great session last night at the gym, donned the Nike kit again (It had been washed once more so was ready for action), hopped on the treadmill, set it at 7.9Kmph, incline of one with a towel over the display and got to it.
With the trusty Garmin F305 on my wrist so I could check my heart out I set about a 60 min jog to help with the preparation for the Clapham Common 10K on the 27th of this month.
I varied my speed between 7.7 and 9.5 to keep my heart in the zone 155 - 172 which seems to work best for my body and where I hope to be during the half.
Anyway, as I was getting bored I started to recite the poem "If" in my head then realised I didn't know all the words so need to revise, I then did the 12 times table but kept thinking of that inch worm song (Not sure where that came from) I was then thinking about whether you could use Rowntrees BonBons (More product placement) for fishing for carp then got onto who I'd like to play me in the feature film of my life story and preparation for the half. I decided after much deliberation that it has to be Leo DiCap having seen him in the film Blood Diamond the other week. I want the screenplay and direction to be handled by Frank Darabonte with me having a cameo roll as a jogger in a mankini in the background in one of the major dramatic scenes!
Having an easy weights session tonight then a longer run tomorrow night as it's my birthday at the weekend and I can't see myself doing much training as I become the 40!
MoFo's on the rampage
Had another great session last night at the gym, donned the Nike kit again (It had been washed once more so was ready for action), hopped on the treadmill, set it at 7.9Kmph, incline of one with a towel over the display and got to it.
With the trusty Garmin F305 on my wrist so I could check my heart out I set about a 60 min jog to help with the preparation for the Clapham Common 10K on the 27th of this month.
I varied my speed between 7.7 and 9.5 to keep my heart in the zone 155 - 172 which seems to work best for my body and where I hope to be during the half.
Anyway, as I was getting bored I started to recite the poem "If" in my head then realised I didn't know all the words so need to revise, I then did the 12 times table but kept thinking of that inch worm song (Not sure where that came from) I was then thinking about whether you could use Rowntrees BonBons (More product placement) for fishing for carp then got onto who I'd like to play me in the feature film of my life story and preparation for the half. I decided after much deliberation that it has to be Leo DiCap having seen him in the film Blood Diamond the other week. I want the screenplay and direction to be handled by Frank Darabonte with me having a cameo roll as a jogger in a mankini in the background in one of the major dramatic scenes!
Having an easy weights session tonight then a longer run tomorrow night as it's my birthday at the weekend and I can't see myself doing much training as I become the 40!
MoFo's on the rampage
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
This exercise lark is awesome.
Marathon S.
After a blip at the weekend I've been right back at it, I've been listening to my heart and letting that dictate the speed.
Monday lunchtime, spurred on by the efforts of Marathon T who was going to the gym I slipped into my Nike sleek black top and shorts (This is just product placement for a big money sponsorship deal), Nike black socks, Brooks trainers and Garmin F305 computer god like device. (Myself and Marathon T have decided the Garmin F305 is probably the third best gadget ever after the iPod, Sky HD with Sky + and then the beauty Garmin)
Anyway, decided I didn’t want my heart to go over 170 so set an easy pace and trotted out a nice 6K in 45 mins, my shins were painful but I was mostly feeling awesome.
Headed back to work and tried to dry my beauty Nike kit out by draping it over the chair. This didn't work I'm afraid, so by the time 17:30 came round and it was time to don the gear again for some touch rugby training it was still sopping wet and stinking! :O(
Went down to Peoples Park and had an hour of running round the field with the work chums trying to improve my ball skills, whilst covering another 3K in the process.
Last night I decided to attempt the Holy Grail of the rowing machine, level 8, 20 minute 5000M challenge. I'd washed the Nike kit so donned the black shirt, blue shorts, black socks and Brooks trainers, set the pace boat on 2:05 and set about it. Did fairly well and my shrinking pot belly means I have more room for air in my lungs. Set a fairly easy pace though had a few 60 second bursts, saving the best for my sprint finish at the end. With 3 mins to go I was feeling buggered, however, was determined to "die on the line" so with 60 seconds to go I went for it, yanking on the chain and getting my 500m split time down to 1:43. I finished on 4810m only 190 short of the mighty figure I was aiming for, however, feeling really pleased as I know I can do it next time as I just need to start my srpint finish a little earlier!
Limped off the rower, had 20 mins on the cross trainer level 13, pace over 10Km/ph then ran 2 miles on the treadmill.
Loads of stretching then a sit in the steam room and Jacuzzi.
By the time I'd finished I was feeling like a machine and loving the fact I have never been so fit.
P.S - the shorts I used in the steam room and Jacuzzi are from Adidas - Just wanna cover all bases.
Marathon S on the rampage.
After a blip at the weekend I've been right back at it, I've been listening to my heart and letting that dictate the speed.
Monday lunchtime, spurred on by the efforts of Marathon T who was going to the gym I slipped into my Nike sleek black top and shorts (This is just product placement for a big money sponsorship deal), Nike black socks, Brooks trainers and Garmin F305 computer god like device. (Myself and Marathon T have decided the Garmin F305 is probably the third best gadget ever after the iPod, Sky HD with Sky + and then the beauty Garmin)
Anyway, decided I didn’t want my heart to go over 170 so set an easy pace and trotted out a nice 6K in 45 mins, my shins were painful but I was mostly feeling awesome.
Headed back to work and tried to dry my beauty Nike kit out by draping it over the chair. This didn't work I'm afraid, so by the time 17:30 came round and it was time to don the gear again for some touch rugby training it was still sopping wet and stinking! :O(
Went down to Peoples Park and had an hour of running round the field with the work chums trying to improve my ball skills, whilst covering another 3K in the process.
Last night I decided to attempt the Holy Grail of the rowing machine, level 8, 20 minute 5000M challenge. I'd washed the Nike kit so donned the black shirt, blue shorts, black socks and Brooks trainers, set the pace boat on 2:05 and set about it. Did fairly well and my shrinking pot belly means I have more room for air in my lungs. Set a fairly easy pace though had a few 60 second bursts, saving the best for my sprint finish at the end. With 3 mins to go I was feeling buggered, however, was determined to "die on the line" so with 60 seconds to go I went for it, yanking on the chain and getting my 500m split time down to 1:43. I finished on 4810m only 190 short of the mighty figure I was aiming for, however, feeling really pleased as I know I can do it next time as I just need to start my srpint finish a little earlier!
Limped off the rower, had 20 mins on the cross trainer level 13, pace over 10Km/ph then ran 2 miles on the treadmill.
Loads of stretching then a sit in the steam room and Jacuzzi.
By the time I'd finished I was feeling like a machine and loving the fact I have never been so fit.
P.S - the shorts I used in the steam room and Jacuzzi are from Adidas - Just wanna cover all bases.
Marathon S on the rampage.
Back to the Treadmill....
Marathon T
Due to commitments with birthdays and evenings out, this week I have taken to running at lunchtime. This means I have slipped off the schedule slightly – but have still managed to get some miles in my legs.
Monday Treadmill:
5 mins warm up @ 7.5mph
40 mins @ 8.0mph
Tuesday Treadmill:
30 mins @ 7.5mph
30 mins @ 8.0mph
The runs felt steady, I wasn’t falling off the treadmill at the end – but both were decent workouts. It certainly feels like I am making progress.
Running outside this evening, I have a sprint session planned. I might also make the gym at lunch for a gentle 4 miles, just to keep the mileage up. I am now trying to keep a consistent 30+ mile week going until the race.
Marathon T snr is now fully recovered, and has started to think about his next 26 miler (despite his protestations of “Never again” on Sunday). He has now started to say that he doesn’t want to finish his Marathon career feeling as bad as he did on Sunday; he wants to go out on a high in his final race. Not sure when or where the last one will be – but I have agreed to run it with him, and as he has completed London and Paris, New York has a nice ring to it…
But I am seriously getting ahead of myself. I still have to see if I can get myself round half the distance (in four weeks) before I even begin to think about a full Marathon. Also, to be honest it made my knees ache just watching the FLM on Sunday around the 19 mile mark. I’m not sure how I would cope with that amount of pain.
The other members of Team MoFo have been conspicuously quiet on the subject of running the full distance – I’m sure they’ll all feel very different when they have experienced the euphoria of completing the half…..
Marathon T
Due to commitments with birthdays and evenings out, this week I have taken to running at lunchtime. This means I have slipped off the schedule slightly – but have still managed to get some miles in my legs.
Monday Treadmill:
5 mins warm up @ 7.5mph
40 mins @ 8.0mph
Tuesday Treadmill:
30 mins @ 7.5mph
30 mins @ 8.0mph
The runs felt steady, I wasn’t falling off the treadmill at the end – but both were decent workouts. It certainly feels like I am making progress.
Running outside this evening, I have a sprint session planned. I might also make the gym at lunch for a gentle 4 miles, just to keep the mileage up. I am now trying to keep a consistent 30+ mile week going until the race.
Marathon T snr is now fully recovered, and has started to think about his next 26 miler (despite his protestations of “Never again” on Sunday). He has now started to say that he doesn’t want to finish his Marathon career feeling as bad as he did on Sunday; he wants to go out on a high in his final race. Not sure when or where the last one will be – but I have agreed to run it with him, and as he has completed London and Paris, New York has a nice ring to it…
But I am seriously getting ahead of myself. I still have to see if I can get myself round half the distance (in four weeks) before I even begin to think about a full Marathon. Also, to be honest it made my knees ache just watching the FLM on Sunday around the 19 mile mark. I’m not sure how I would cope with that amount of pain.
The other members of Team MoFo have been conspicuously quiet on the subject of running the full distance – I’m sure they’ll all feel very different when they have experienced the euphoria of completing the half…..
Marathon T
Monday, April 14, 2008
As Elton John said "I'm still standing"
Marathon S.
Well, it's been some time since my last blog, however, I've still been trying to improve my condition by having a run outside, lots of sessions on the cross-trainer and even taking part in the touch rugby training for the company team.
I've experienced a return of the shin splints as a compliment to my burning, painful knee, however, I've come to terms with the fact that I'll have to manage both until the 18th of May so I just need to get on with it.
I also now realise you can't force your heart to do anything it doesn't want to do. I set out on a 15k treadmill challenge with Marathon C yesterday in the sweltering heat of the Royal Yacht gym. I was feeling great, relaxed and making mince meat of the K's that is until I started to get a right sweat on with my heart climbing through the 170 bpm mark and heading into 180. Anyway, 5:41 in the 180 zone (I think this is like the dead zone people encounter on Everest) was enough for me and I had to call time having completed 6k in 41 mins. I have done 8k in 48 mins outside so you can see I was struggling.
Anyway, have checked my resting heart rate which was around 64 and my max which is around 194 so gonna do some heart rate training zones to get me in shape without destroying my body any further.
I've learnt that you can only do what your body will allow and you can't push it too much you have to wait for your body to come to you.
Anyway, 13 days to the 10k which I'm looking forward to so it's onwards and upwards.
Well, it's been some time since my last blog, however, I've still been trying to improve my condition by having a run outside, lots of sessions on the cross-trainer and even taking part in the touch rugby training for the company team.
I've experienced a return of the shin splints as a compliment to my burning, painful knee, however, I've come to terms with the fact that I'll have to manage both until the 18th of May so I just need to get on with it.
I also now realise you can't force your heart to do anything it doesn't want to do. I set out on a 15k treadmill challenge with Marathon C yesterday in the sweltering heat of the Royal Yacht gym. I was feeling great, relaxed and making mince meat of the K's that is until I started to get a right sweat on with my heart climbing through the 170 bpm mark and heading into 180. Anyway, 5:41 in the 180 zone (I think this is like the dead zone people encounter on Everest) was enough for me and I had to call time having completed 6k in 41 mins. I have done 8k in 48 mins outside so you can see I was struggling.
Anyway, have checked my resting heart rate which was around 64 and my max which is around 194 so gonna do some heart rate training zones to get me in shape without destroying my body any further.
I've learnt that you can only do what your body will allow and you can't push it too much you have to wait for your body to come to you.
Anyway, 13 days to the 10k which I'm looking forward to so it's onwards and upwards.
The running capital of the world....
Marathon T
It is the first time I have ever been up to see the running of the London Marathon – and what an experience. I could have stood and applauded the efforts of everyone involved all day. As it was we managed to see a good few thousand in Greenwich – then saw Marathon T snr twice around Canary Wharf. We finished off on the Mall cheering home the runners coming in around the 6 hour mark. There was a lot of pain on show – but also a good deal of pride and a real sense of accomplishment on everyone’s face.
Marathon T snr came home in 3:54:00 slightly slower than he wanted, but he had a nightmare in the final 5 miles (just after seeing our smiling faces). The combination of cold and frequent rain showers finally did for his legs and he slowed noticeably over the final few miles. Still, he finished it on the 100 year anniversary of his mother’s birthday. It was a big performance and definitely my inspiration for the training ahead.
Memorable moments for me, obviously seeing the old codger in action, the Masai warriors running along in traditional dress, the army guys running in their boots and rucksacks (is it not tough enough already?), two Italian guys comparing split times on the way back to Gatwick with a guy from Belfast (3:08, 3:12 & 3:21 - they were all blown away by the experience) and the faces of the people around Canary Wharf as they struggled to break the 19 mile barrier (some heroic performances in the middle of the pack there).
Major respect also to the ‘runners world’ guys doing the world treadmill record. We went to cheer them on twice on Saturday (afternoon and late night). They were looking good both times – strolling along at 17.3kmh!! They did break the record in the end with a staggering 495 miles covered in 48 hours.
With the travelling and meeting times for the marathon I didn’t manage a run this weekend. But I am back today for a lunchtime gym session. Then back on track for the schedule this week.
As soon as I got back last night I registered my interest in the Jersey Marathon in October – inspiration and an internet connection are dangerous things.
So, what do you think Marathon B/C/J? Should the MoFo team ride again? Has this blog got another chapter to write? After the 13 mile warm up, should we go for a proper run?
Marathon T
It is the first time I have ever been up to see the running of the London Marathon – and what an experience. I could have stood and applauded the efforts of everyone involved all day. As it was we managed to see a good few thousand in Greenwich – then saw Marathon T snr twice around Canary Wharf. We finished off on the Mall cheering home the runners coming in around the 6 hour mark. There was a lot of pain on show – but also a good deal of pride and a real sense of accomplishment on everyone’s face.
Marathon T snr came home in 3:54:00 slightly slower than he wanted, but he had a nightmare in the final 5 miles (just after seeing our smiling faces). The combination of cold and frequent rain showers finally did for his legs and he slowed noticeably over the final few miles. Still, he finished it on the 100 year anniversary of his mother’s birthday. It was a big performance and definitely my inspiration for the training ahead.
Memorable moments for me, obviously seeing the old codger in action, the Masai warriors running along in traditional dress, the army guys running in their boots and rucksacks (is it not tough enough already?), two Italian guys comparing split times on the way back to Gatwick with a guy from Belfast (3:08, 3:12 & 3:21 - they were all blown away by the experience) and the faces of the people around Canary Wharf as they struggled to break the 19 mile barrier (some heroic performances in the middle of the pack there).
Major respect also to the ‘runners world’ guys doing the world treadmill record. We went to cheer them on twice on Saturday (afternoon and late night). They were looking good both times – strolling along at 17.3kmh!! They did break the record in the end with a staggering 495 miles covered in 48 hours.
With the travelling and meeting times for the marathon I didn’t manage a run this weekend. But I am back today for a lunchtime gym session. Then back on track for the schedule this week.
As soon as I got back last night I registered my interest in the Jersey Marathon in October – inspiration and an internet connection are dangerous things.
So, what do you think Marathon B/C/J? Should the MoFo team ride again? Has this blog got another chapter to write? After the 13 mile warm up, should we go for a proper run?
Marathon T
Friday, April 11, 2008
Finally, a decent run.....
Marathon T
What a difference a day makes…
I have finally managed a run worthy of the name. After almost a week off I had scheduled an 8 mile ‘steady’ run for last night. As I left the house and set up the Garmin, I felt pretty good and set off at a decent pace, thinking I would ease up as I got into my stride. As I passed the first mile I was still feeling ok – so just got my head down and focused on the hill. Descending the other side I still felt remarkably well, had a check in with the legs and they were fine – so decided to see how far the pace would get me. Passing half way I began to get tired and an odd twinge developed in my right knee, with the ‘agonies of Marathon B’ in my mind (that surely has to be the title of his book), I pressed on.
The way back was hard work (very hard work in places) I had a bad patch at 4.5 miles due to an increase in pace (no idea why) – but checked the watch, slowed down and settled back into the run. I managed to keep the pace up and maintain my effort over the hill at 6.5 miles and down into the flat end section. Passing the Chinese (who puts a Chinese take away at the end of an 8 mile run – b*stards) I was so glad when the watch began counting down the last few metres. I finished with a gentle warm down back to the house.
I completed the 8 miles in 1:01:49 (avg pace 7:48 per mile).
So, with an eye to the weekend – I managed less than 1/3 of the marathon distance and took over an hour, and was absolutely knackered at the end. Anyone aiming for a sub 3 hour Marathon this weekend has my utmost respect.
While my father was here in the week he was telling me about a gent from his club who won the V70 race – in case you are confused that is runners over 70 (seventy!) years old – in the FLM two years ago in 3:29:00….as far as I am concerned that is a superhuman effort…In fact that’s almost a different species.
This nicely puts my short run last night into perspective…out again tonight for a 5 mile gentle jog.
Marathon T
What a difference a day makes…
I have finally managed a run worthy of the name. After almost a week off I had scheduled an 8 mile ‘steady’ run for last night. As I left the house and set up the Garmin, I felt pretty good and set off at a decent pace, thinking I would ease up as I got into my stride. As I passed the first mile I was still feeling ok – so just got my head down and focused on the hill. Descending the other side I still felt remarkably well, had a check in with the legs and they were fine – so decided to see how far the pace would get me. Passing half way I began to get tired and an odd twinge developed in my right knee, with the ‘agonies of Marathon B’ in my mind (that surely has to be the title of his book), I pressed on.
The way back was hard work (very hard work in places) I had a bad patch at 4.5 miles due to an increase in pace (no idea why) – but checked the watch, slowed down and settled back into the run. I managed to keep the pace up and maintain my effort over the hill at 6.5 miles and down into the flat end section. Passing the Chinese (who puts a Chinese take away at the end of an 8 mile run – b*stards) I was so glad when the watch began counting down the last few metres. I finished with a gentle warm down back to the house.
I completed the 8 miles in 1:01:49 (avg pace 7:48 per mile).
So, with an eye to the weekend – I managed less than 1/3 of the marathon distance and took over an hour, and was absolutely knackered at the end. Anyone aiming for a sub 3 hour Marathon this weekend has my utmost respect.
While my father was here in the week he was telling me about a gent from his club who won the V70 race – in case you are confused that is runners over 70 (seventy!) years old – in the FLM two years ago in 3:29:00….as far as I am concerned that is a superhuman effort…In fact that’s almost a different species.
This nicely puts my short run last night into perspective…out again tonight for a 5 mile gentle jog.
Marathon T
Thursday, April 10, 2008
The wheels come off...
Marathon T
Well this week the wheels if not exactly off – have got very wobbly indeed…
I managed a 9 mile run on Friday night – comfortable but not blistering. Then with the weekend activities I didn’t manage to run again until Tuesday night. I dragged Marathon T snr out for a gentle 5 miler, as part of his preparation for the London Marathon on Sunday.
So, it is now almost a week with no serious training. This is not good as we are now only 5 weeks away from the race and I am in London for the weekend to watch the FLM.
In order to get back on track I am going to have to take my gear for an early morning session on Sunday around Hyde Park. I’m looking forward to explaining this to my gorgeous and talented partner (who is now reading this blog)….who is expecting a relaxing weekend in a nice hotel (and not me sneaking out then returning sweaty on Sunday morning after a quick dash around London).
Today, we have also received confirmation details of the 10k in London in two weeks time. So, this running thing is starting to get a bit serious and real…We are going to have to go out and do it in public, I didn’t sign up for that level of ridicule....Some sort of disguise may be in order.
The Masked Marathon T
Well this week the wheels if not exactly off – have got very wobbly indeed…
I managed a 9 mile run on Friday night – comfortable but not blistering. Then with the weekend activities I didn’t manage to run again until Tuesday night. I dragged Marathon T snr out for a gentle 5 miler, as part of his preparation for the London Marathon on Sunday.
So, it is now almost a week with no serious training. This is not good as we are now only 5 weeks away from the race and I am in London for the weekend to watch the FLM.
In order to get back on track I am going to have to take my gear for an early morning session on Sunday around Hyde Park. I’m looking forward to explaining this to my gorgeous and talented partner (who is now reading this blog)….who is expecting a relaxing weekend in a nice hotel (and not me sneaking out then returning sweaty on Sunday morning after a quick dash around London).
Today, we have also received confirmation details of the 10k in London in two weeks time. So, this running thing is starting to get a bit serious and real…We are going to have to go out and do it in public, I didn’t sign up for that level of ridicule....Some sort of disguise may be in order.
The Masked Marathon T
Friday, April 4, 2008
Crashed... Marathon J
Marathon J
Mad week, done nothing!
Well recovered till Wednesday, then stuck in Blightly after a 17 hour day due to fog, Thursday mare, Friday nightmare.
Off on hols tomorrow with high tech gear all packed, hoping to make some serious progress over the next couple of weeks.
I'm going where the sun shines brightly,
I'm going where the sea is blue..............
Mad week, done nothing!
Well recovered till Wednesday, then stuck in Blightly after a 17 hour day due to fog, Thursday mare, Friday nightmare.
Off on hols tomorrow with high tech gear all packed, hoping to make some serious progress over the next couple of weeks.
I'm going where the sun shines brightly,
I'm going where the sea is blue..............
The best laid plans....
Marathon T
So, another evening of running, but for once in the fantastic Jersey sunshine…it’s been too long since we’ve seen it…It was supposed to be an ‘easy’ 4 miles, but my body seems entirely incapable of sticking to a plan. I started off ok – with a 0.5 mile warm up before the 4 miles started. Then as soon as the watch bleeped, I was off. Kept to a steady pace, despite the insistent beeping from my wrist telling me I was going too fast. By the time I got to the Marina (about half way round) I was starting to feel the pace, but determined to see it through I pressed on. By the time I was at the top of the hill with a mile to go the legs were shaking and the lungs were hurting.
Finished strong after the downhill section and checked the watch. It was the first ever sustained sub 8 min miles I have managed. Ok it was only 07:58 min per mile but still it felt significant.
No adverse effects from the run this morning – but I have 9 miles tonight (at 8:15 per mile) and a well earned rest tomorrow….
Yesterday was also a noteworthy day because I received confirmation I will be on the team for the 100km trek at the end of May. It is a 30 hour challenge in a team of four (with three other guys from the business) – sadly Marathon S will be in Thailand during the challenge so has had to opt out. It is going to be hard work – but another great excuse to buy mountains of gear. I’ve already got some Inov8 shoes on order (again from startfitness.co.uk – superb website for training gear) which I’ll need to break in asap, which means I have the prospect of my current rest days turning into long walking days.
Anybody recommend a good energy drink, I am going to need something over the next few months.
Marathon T
So, another evening of running, but for once in the fantastic Jersey sunshine…it’s been too long since we’ve seen it…It was supposed to be an ‘easy’ 4 miles, but my body seems entirely incapable of sticking to a plan. I started off ok – with a 0.5 mile warm up before the 4 miles started. Then as soon as the watch bleeped, I was off. Kept to a steady pace, despite the insistent beeping from my wrist telling me I was going too fast. By the time I got to the Marina (about half way round) I was starting to feel the pace, but determined to see it through I pressed on. By the time I was at the top of the hill with a mile to go the legs were shaking and the lungs were hurting.
Finished strong after the downhill section and checked the watch. It was the first ever sustained sub 8 min miles I have managed. Ok it was only 07:58 min per mile but still it felt significant.
No adverse effects from the run this morning – but I have 9 miles tonight (at 8:15 per mile) and a well earned rest tomorrow….
Yesterday was also a noteworthy day because I received confirmation I will be on the team for the 100km trek at the end of May. It is a 30 hour challenge in a team of four (with three other guys from the business) – sadly Marathon S will be in Thailand during the challenge so has had to opt out. It is going to be hard work – but another great excuse to buy mountains of gear. I’ve already got some Inov8 shoes on order (again from startfitness.co.uk – superb website for training gear) which I’ll need to break in asap, which means I have the prospect of my current rest days turning into long walking days.
Anybody recommend a good energy drink, I am going to need something over the next few months.
Marathon T
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Fear the ‘Pyramid’ it is not your friend…
Marathon T
After the gruelling 12 mile session on Sunday (which included several PB’s, such as longest ever run on a Sunday, furthest run in Jersey, most distance travelled in Saucony trainers, fastest time in those particular shorts), I had a well earned rest day on Monday.
Tuesday I attempted to do a ‘gentle’ 4 miler…However, after I had messed around with the schedule a bit to give me a 0.5 mile warm up and cool down – and increased the speed of the run slightly, it turned in to a fairly steady 5 miles. I tried to keep it sensible as I had one eye on the Wednesday ‘Pyramid’ session (ended up as 08:15 min miles).
So, last night was the pyramid session. This consisted of:
1 mile jog warm up then…
200m fast
400m fast
600m fast
800m fast
600m fast
400m fast
200m fast
Each with a 200m jog recovery….then a final 1.5 mile jog
It was bloody hard work.
I will put the chart in from the Garmin when I get a chance – I was working very hard during some of the sprint intervals. All told it was a little over 5 miles covered – no idea about the time, all I know is I was within or faster than each target time slot during the session. (max speed 11.8mph).
Marathon T snr is arriving at the weekend (with Mother T) – for his final week before the FLM, so I will try and get some evening sessions in with him as he tapers (his tapering is still my flat out).
On another note the extra road running this week has helped me shed 4lb’s. I had been on a fairly long plateau with my regular gym sessions – but mixing it up with road work seems to have kick started my metabolism again.
But fear the pyramid – I have two weeks before my next one.
Marathon T
After the gruelling 12 mile session on Sunday (which included several PB’s, such as longest ever run on a Sunday, furthest run in Jersey, most distance travelled in Saucony trainers, fastest time in those particular shorts), I had a well earned rest day on Monday.
Tuesday I attempted to do a ‘gentle’ 4 miler…However, after I had messed around with the schedule a bit to give me a 0.5 mile warm up and cool down – and increased the speed of the run slightly, it turned in to a fairly steady 5 miles. I tried to keep it sensible as I had one eye on the Wednesday ‘Pyramid’ session (ended up as 08:15 min miles).
So, last night was the pyramid session. This consisted of:
1 mile jog warm up then…
200m fast
400m fast
600m fast
800m fast
600m fast
400m fast
200m fast
Each with a 200m jog recovery….then a final 1.5 mile jog
It was bloody hard work.
I will put the chart in from the Garmin when I get a chance – I was working very hard during some of the sprint intervals. All told it was a little over 5 miles covered – no idea about the time, all I know is I was within or faster than each target time slot during the session. (max speed 11.8mph).
Marathon T snr is arriving at the weekend (with Mother T) – for his final week before the FLM, so I will try and get some evening sessions in with him as he tapers (his tapering is still my flat out).
On another note the extra road running this week has helped me shed 4lb’s. I had been on a fairly long plateau with my regular gym sessions – but mixing it up with road work seems to have kick started my metabolism again.
But fear the pyramid – I have two weeks before my next one.
Marathon T
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Should I give up..or just keep chasing pavements Marathon J
Marathon J
The week was a write off, work and home conspired against me so only one swim possible, but inspired by Marathon T’s plans I decided to put in a long run. Her in doors stole my running clothes for our package holiday to St Owen, so I was resigned to old stuff.
The first mile started out to the dulcet tunes of “Should I give up…or should I just keep chasing pavements” very apt as the first couple of miles were hard.
I settled into the run after about two miles and then after another two miles I felt my left little toe rubbing, wrong socks! Eeek, try as I might I could not get it to stop, not to be deterred I carried on. At about 7 miles I ran past Bell Royal motors, which if you live in Jersey you will know has large windows which reflect well, meaning that you are able to check your running style, profile and dashing good looks. However, when I glanced across I saw a sad, red faced, old man, running slowly, wearing my running gear, who would have thought that!
Shortly after I hit the wall, wow, hot flushes followed by cold sweats, feeling faint then dizzy, every step felt impossible. I thought about Marathon T and what he would do, stupid really, he’d program "wall" into his “Garmin F305” and run round it in a jiffy, so no help then. So might thoughts turned to Marathon Peter, but I have reason to believe he does not exist, I think he is a clone just incase one of the others drop out, finally I thought about Marathon B. He, as avid readers will know, has been through and still is going through amazing difficulty, resorting to acupuncture, pain killers, homeopathic pills, creams, gels, ice packs, special shoes, and a total disregard for pain using some sort of Jedi-mind control he's picked up on deeply technical training courses where binary is the first language and only whimps speak in assembler. Anyway my pain was nothing compared to his inspiring dedication to the team event and over coming anything to be there on the start line. So I laughed at the wall in true Bradlian style and carried on.
Another mile passed and my neighbour, a doctor, looked at me with a worried smile and offered me a lift, never I cried! He followed me for a while but the back log of traffic embarrased him to leave me. Then with a mile to go I hit the hill that leads home, wow that was hard, my throbbing toe had extended to my body, shivering, sweating and staggering I made it up the hill and then home.
9.5 miles complete a triumph of determination over ability and a loss of 6lb's during the run. I was monitoring the time on my nano with the stopwatch function, but the nano, however, was not so happy, it’s the old rectangular one not the newer square one, I’ve struggled to find a holder for it, so I threw it in my leggings but 9 miles of sweat appears to have shorted it, it stopped at 1Hr 26Min but I’ve no idea where that was, somewhere round the wall I guess, still I hope a spell on the radiator will work wonders. For the record I think it was about 1Hr 40Min.
The rest of the week, so far, has been a write off, work work work!
The week was a write off, work and home conspired against me so only one swim possible, but inspired by Marathon T’s plans I decided to put in a long run. Her in doors stole my running clothes for our package holiday to St Owen, so I was resigned to old stuff.
The first mile started out to the dulcet tunes of “Should I give up…or should I just keep chasing pavements” very apt as the first couple of miles were hard.
I settled into the run after about two miles and then after another two miles I felt my left little toe rubbing, wrong socks! Eeek, try as I might I could not get it to stop, not to be deterred I carried on. At about 7 miles I ran past Bell Royal motors, which if you live in Jersey you will know has large windows which reflect well, meaning that you are able to check your running style, profile and dashing good looks. However, when I glanced across I saw a sad, red faced, old man, running slowly, wearing my running gear, who would have thought that!
Shortly after I hit the wall, wow, hot flushes followed by cold sweats, feeling faint then dizzy, every step felt impossible. I thought about Marathon T and what he would do, stupid really, he’d program "wall" into his “Garmin F305” and run round it in a jiffy, so no help then. So might thoughts turned to Marathon Peter, but I have reason to believe he does not exist, I think he is a clone just incase one of the others drop out, finally I thought about Marathon B. He, as avid readers will know, has been through and still is going through amazing difficulty, resorting to acupuncture, pain killers, homeopathic pills, creams, gels, ice packs, special shoes, and a total disregard for pain using some sort of Jedi-mind control he's picked up on deeply technical training courses where binary is the first language and only whimps speak in assembler. Anyway my pain was nothing compared to his inspiring dedication to the team event and over coming anything to be there on the start line. So I laughed at the wall in true Bradlian style and carried on.
Another mile passed and my neighbour, a doctor, looked at me with a worried smile and offered me a lift, never I cried! He followed me for a while but the back log of traffic embarrased him to leave me. Then with a mile to go I hit the hill that leads home, wow that was hard, my throbbing toe had extended to my body, shivering, sweating and staggering I made it up the hill and then home.
9.5 miles complete a triumph of determination over ability and a loss of 6lb's during the run. I was monitoring the time on my nano with the stopwatch function, but the nano, however, was not so happy, it’s the old rectangular one not the newer square one, I’ve struggled to find a holder for it, so I threw it in my leggings but 9 miles of sweat appears to have shorted it, it stopped at 1Hr 26Min but I’ve no idea where that was, somewhere round the wall I guess, still I hope a spell on the radiator will work wonders. For the record I think it was about 1Hr 40Min.
The rest of the week, so far, has been a write off, work work work!
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Bewithched, Bothered and Bewildered
Marathon S
As usual I'm on the sick list, apart from the knee that feels like a nail has been driven through the kneecap when I sit down I'm also suffering with a cold and have the most painful sore throat ever. so sore that it even wakes me up at night and has proven resistant to all the medical remedies on sale.
Friday night I had a 45 minute speed walk session on the treadmill followed by some weights to beast my man boobs and some stretches.
Saturday was a day off as I had some relations over so did the tour guide around the island trip thing. Sunday I went to the gym even though I felt rough and did 30 mins at 9K on the treadmill followed by 15 mins on the cross trainer. My heart rate was mega high due to the cold so it was really tough and I felt a little deflated leaving the gym.
Big weigh in yesterday (Monday) and down to 13st 8.5 though the knee, throat and cold are all giving me jip.
Couldn't be bothered with the gym last night so went home, put my knee support on, stuffed an ice pack down it and kept it raised for the rest of the night whilst watching an awesome blu-ray copy of The Assassination Of Jesse James by the coward Robert Ford.
The knee was still painful so I decided to get back on the 800mg Ibuprofen tablets to try and help cure it. Now have all over skin itching and stomach cramps that would kill a horse to contend with.
I hope all this injury part is cut out when this is made into a feature film so I can be portrayed in a heroic light!!
Marathon S - Itching, in pain and fed up!
As usual I'm on the sick list, apart from the knee that feels like a nail has been driven through the kneecap when I sit down I'm also suffering with a cold and have the most painful sore throat ever. so sore that it even wakes me up at night and has proven resistant to all the medical remedies on sale.
Friday night I had a 45 minute speed walk session on the treadmill followed by some weights to beast my man boobs and some stretches.
Saturday was a day off as I had some relations over so did the tour guide around the island trip thing. Sunday I went to the gym even though I felt rough and did 30 mins at 9K on the treadmill followed by 15 mins on the cross trainer. My heart rate was mega high due to the cold so it was really tough and I felt a little deflated leaving the gym.
Big weigh in yesterday (Monday) and down to 13st 8.5 though the knee, throat and cold are all giving me jip.
Couldn't be bothered with the gym last night so went home, put my knee support on, stuffed an ice pack down it and kept it raised for the rest of the night whilst watching an awesome blu-ray copy of The Assassination Of Jesse James by the coward Robert Ford.
The knee was still painful so I decided to get back on the 800mg Ibuprofen tablets to try and help cure it. Now have all over skin itching and stomach cramps that would kill a horse to contend with.
I hope all this injury part is cut out when this is made into a feature film so I can be portrayed in a heroic light!!
Marathon S - Itching, in pain and fed up!
A Long Running Saga....
Marathon T
So, having got the Garmin in my sweaty mitt on Friday evening I resolved to spend the night downloading schedules into it and getting it fully charged for a Saturday run. Consequently – no running on Friday.
The schedules I downloaded were for a 12 week half marathon plan. Given that I’ve been running for a while now – I figured I would set the date of the race correct and just pick up where the schedule says I should be. Unfortunately, this meant another rest on Saturday followed by a 12 miler on Sunday (at steady pace 8:20 mile).
Saturday started decent enough so I decided to head out for a gentle 4.5 miles to test out the watch in preparation for the Sunday long run. It was a good jog around the block – I didn’t go mad (with an eye on the long one on Sunday) I managed to maintain a pace of around 8:40 per mile comfortably.
No adverse affects on Sunday morning, so after a breakfast of porridge and honey I strapped on the shoes and headed out. First mile or so was hard work getting down to the 8:20 pace – but settled in quite quickly after that to a decent rhythm around 8:17. The sun was shining, a stiff breeze was blowing onshore along the front (which had the curious effect of giving me a head wind on the way out and back!) but it was a decent run. I finished the 12.1 miles in 1:39:21 which is not exactly earth shattering but felt respectable. I now feel confident I have it in my legs to make the distance; I want to focus on getting some good sessions in between now and the day to make the whole experience a bit more bearable.
Evidence of the gruelling run....
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Having said all of the above, I would like to unequivocally retract any statements I may have previously made about the treadmill being easier to run on than the roads. The pacing is so much more difficult on the road, and the chop and change running style takes some getting used to. It’s the first time I have run on my own outside for any distance for three years, and the memories came flooding back of how difficult it can be (the hard sections felt very hard).
Tonight I am out again for another gentle 4 miles – building up with some sprint work in the middle of the week – to a 9 mile fast run on Friday night.
Loving the Garmin schedules.
Marathon T
PS The words of encouragement are flooding in from around the world for the MoFo challenge...This in from California overnight..
"Who are you trying to fool with your blogs and your asics trainees and stuff…any sane geezer knows that fighting the onset on middle-aged spread and dodgy knees is best done with a cigar in your mouth, from the middle of the 18th fairway sizing up going for the green in 2 (over water) from 230 out….."
Wise words from an old friend....you know who you are!
So, having got the Garmin in my sweaty mitt on Friday evening I resolved to spend the night downloading schedules into it and getting it fully charged for a Saturday run. Consequently – no running on Friday.
The schedules I downloaded were for a 12 week half marathon plan. Given that I’ve been running for a while now – I figured I would set the date of the race correct and just pick up where the schedule says I should be. Unfortunately, this meant another rest on Saturday followed by a 12 miler on Sunday (at steady pace 8:20 mile).
Saturday started decent enough so I decided to head out for a gentle 4.5 miles to test out the watch in preparation for the Sunday long run. It was a good jog around the block – I didn’t go mad (with an eye on the long one on Sunday) I managed to maintain a pace of around 8:40 per mile comfortably.
No adverse affects on Sunday morning, so after a breakfast of porridge and honey I strapped on the shoes and headed out. First mile or so was hard work getting down to the 8:20 pace – but settled in quite quickly after that to a decent rhythm around 8:17. The sun was shining, a stiff breeze was blowing onshore along the front (which had the curious effect of giving me a head wind on the way out and back!) but it was a decent run. I finished the 12.1 miles in 1:39:21 which is not exactly earth shattering but felt respectable. I now feel confident I have it in my legs to make the distance; I want to focus on getting some good sessions in between now and the day to make the whole experience a bit more bearable.
Evidence of the gruelling run....
Having said all of the above, I would like to unequivocally retract any statements I may have previously made about the treadmill being easier to run on than the roads. The pacing is so much more difficult on the road, and the chop and change running style takes some getting used to. It’s the first time I have run on my own outside for any distance for three years, and the memories came flooding back of how difficult it can be (the hard sections felt very hard).
Tonight I am out again for another gentle 4 miles – building up with some sprint work in the middle of the week – to a 9 mile fast run on Friday night.
Loving the Garmin schedules.
Marathon T
PS The words of encouragement are flooding in from around the world for the MoFo challenge...This in from California overnight..
"Who are you trying to fool with your blogs and your asics trainees and stuff…any sane geezer knows that fighting the onset on middle-aged spread and dodgy knees is best done with a cigar in your mouth, from the middle of the 18th fairway sizing up going for the green in 2 (over water) from 230 out….."
Wise words from an old friend....you know who you are!
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