So today was time for my second run of week 3 of the Magic Plan - a 3.5k run. My last 2 runs were a difficult 6k followed by an enjoyable 7k, so this was to be a slow recovery run.
I'm on on holiday at the moment and in uncharted territory for me, so I opted for a simple out and back along the lane past the cottage to Porth Neiwgal and back.
I set off later than intended, after prevaricating about whether to run or not after extracting a thorn from my right foot on Sunday, and bruising my left big toe yesterday by tripping up the unfamiliar steep staircase in the cottage were we are staying. Thanks to Instructor57 for an inspiring post, and forcing me to get off my butt and stop feeling sorry for myself!
I ran without music today, following a tip from nowster . Despite setting off a lot later than planned there were very few vehicles on the lanes, and for company I had only the sound of my feet hitting the road, my own breathing, the whistling breeze and birdsong.
I ran down through Llanengan village and on towards the wide open beach at Porth Neigwl where I completed a small circular loop on a clifftop path and then back up the lanes to Llanengan. I kept it deliberately slow, only just creeping into Zone 4 during a steepish uphill stretch just outside of the village on the outward leg. Total distance 3.6k.
On my cooldown walk, I spotted a large mixed flock of birds - including blue tits, longtailed tits, and at least 2 species of warblers - some which could have been chiffchaff. Oh how I wished I has my bincolulars with me!
I really enjoyed this short run, and am so glad I made the effort. The toe was OK, and in fact it was easier to run on than it is to walk. Hopefully it will improve by Thursday for my 5k run - which will be the final run of week 3 of the plan.
The photo was taken on the lane above the cottage at the start of my run.