It’s the start of a new week as well as a new month so pull up a comfy chair and grab a soothing drink and let’s get cracking with our updates.
First of all, on behalf of the whole team, I’d like to say a huge thank you to Decker for hosting last week’s chat. He is a legend here and we love reading about his amazing runs and looking at his gorgeous photos. I, for one, can’t wait to read all about his epic 50K race!! I mean, the faffage alone for that would exhaust me 😳🤯
In his post, Decker asked us what plans we had for the rest of this year or even next year and it was great reading everyone’s replies. But I didn’t know what to say because, for once in my running life, I have no idea what I’m going to do next.
I have no races planned until next year. I might do a Christmas race just for fun but there’s nothing in my head that I’m itching to do. I definitely need to carry on with my strengthening because I’m pretty sure that’s what got me through the training and Antrim Coast with zero niggles. Of course I could just run on feel and keep it plan-free. I use to run like that and much preferred it at the time and hated plans, but I’m a changed runner and now prefer the structure of a plan and a specific goal to work towards. So….??
Anyway, in the meantime I’m running short, slow runs as I always follow the advice of taking it easy for one day for every mile run, so that’s two weeks, and then I can start to build back up again. So, I have plenty of time to think about things and decide on a plan. It’s very exciting 🤗
What about you? I know many of you are training for a specific race or goal. How’s that going? But what about those of you who are in between races or those of you who don’t enter races at all and are maybe running amok and not following any plan? How is that working for you?
And of course, it wouldn’t be a running post without mentioning those of you who can not run at all at the minute. You may be injured or sick or perhaps life is getting in the way of a routine. Keep the faith, we’re always runners no matter what else is happening in our lives, and that first run back, no matter how wobbly or slow, is the gift for your patience ❤️
Have a good week everyone.
From your team linda9389 , Beachcomber66 and me xxx
I’ve had a few months of not reaching my monthly target so my goal is just to be consistent until the end of the year. I ran 50km last week & did two strength sessions. I also got some new shorts, some very bright Courtney Injinji socks & some new sunglasses.
Ronhill stuff is great! My fave tights are all RH🥰👍. My fave RH many-pocketed marathon capris are still going strong.I have done 7 marathons in them and plan to wear them in November 🏃♀️ They were £14 🙂
I was planning going toTKM as my purse just split 😏 I could keep my eyes averted from the sports section 👀
🍏 Oh the feel good factor of your photo is enough to entice anyone out the door, even wibbly wobbly Me 🙃 In Newcastle at the moment watching 👀 wonderful runners of all ages, shapes & sizes training for The Big North HM next weekend. Perfect training weather as it’s cool and misty.. lovely reflections in the river of the different bridges. Wild flowers adorn the leafy green running paths and hills beckon. I am grateful to be able to walk some of it but a long way back to running here again. Incentive though!! Xx
Good luck with your recovery. Meanwhile enjoying your connection to the outdoors will keep you enthused about what’s in store for you when you lace those shoes back up 🙂🏃♀️
You’re most welcome shug 😘. Not being able to do the things we love because of illness or injury is sad and frustrating. It’s isolating too so getting out to walk in nature will help with that 🙂 As will keeping in touch with peeps on here 😀👍
Not much running going on as I’ve been trying to rest the piriformis. A 1k trot to keep the wheels oiled midweek and then on Saturday I thought I’d try parkrun because if I couldn’t run 5k on the prom I definitely shouldn’t run 10k on trails the following weekend. I found myself among my usual time group and so didn’t get carried away by the speedsters. By running alongside a regular runner I managed to do it all without walking so was really pleased. It has to be said though, my glute was twinging again the next day and I’m still doing the exercises. I’ll be seeing my physio tomorrow and will be led by his advice. I would be tapering this week anyway so I’ll continue with that and some Pilates moves to improve strength and flexibility.
I’ve been watching some of the Paralympics the last few days. Who can fail to be inspired by these wonderful athletes?
I shall now go and find the weekend race reports and catch up with the Antrim Half.
All going in the right direction Dexy5. I have never suffered with it, but understand that a painful piriformis takes some shifting. If anyone can do it before your 10k, you can. 🤞🤞🤞🤞for you.
Thanks BC, although not terribly painful at the moment, my main concern is running 10k and making it worse, and then ruining chances of running the GSR. The piriformis problem is a symptom rather than a diagnosis so I’ve got to discover what is causing it and then address that. 🤞
That sounds promising Dexy 🤞 and you’re clearly doing everything you should, so I really hope it won’t be long until you return to your previous running state.
The paralympians are amazing, such epic achievements 💪 and they make their sports look so effortless too.
Good luck with the physio tomorrow. I’m sure he’ll be pleased with your progress.
Hi IP. 16:10 hours already and all I have done is have breakfast, warm up, run 10 miles, cool down, shower, walk Molly and Mrs BC to the cafe for lunch, and then walk back home.23.4K in total.
This morning’s 10 miles was a test run for my refuelling plan; a bit of “in run” cross training. I took a 50 ml water bottle and a 50ml capacity half full bottle of non caffeinated tailwind. I use squashy 50 ml bottles that fit into a couple of pouches.
The outcome was mixed! I took a drink of water after my warm up walk, then used tail wind after 5k, 9k and 14k; just a mouthful each time. The problem was that I had a 10 minute 1k lap mid run, at least three minutes of which was caused by walking whilst I got the bottle out of its holder! I think that I need to do some drills at home!
Otherwise the run was good. Warm humid conditions, “ thunderbugs” chewing me up as I ran and, in moving time, it was a 1:51:11 PB.
I clearly lost a lot of fluid through perspiration; I was only 10 stones and 8 ounces by the time I got home! I might use up the rest of the tailwind to make sure my sodium levels are restored before bed time.
The tailwind needs more trials, both as to its impact and my management of water bottles! I think that I ran better late in the run than would usually have been the case, so maybe it did have some impact. My NTC cool down exercises seem to have kept post run niggles at bay too🤞🤞🤞👍.
CB was busy elsewhere, so I ran in silence!! Happening bit too often …but I managed….Wonder what the plan has in store for next week…..oh, only 15k…🙂
That’s an excellent 10 mile run Beachcomber66 , and trying out different ways of dealing with fluids and nourishment is definitely the thing to do. I have a hydration vest which I found very good but it’s also very hot in higher temperatures . My best find is a pair of Lycra shorts with a pocket on the leg for a small bottle, but I’m not sure they are available to men.
Thanks Dexy5 🙂. A visit to the running shop is called for 👍. Both of my pairs of trail shorts have pockets on the under layer of the leg. I use them for my phone. Both of my water bottles have belts and a pouch (including a phone pocket); maybe I could fit both pouches on one belt. I was further encumbered this morning by a thin waterproof jacket tied around my waist ….I should have left it at home. It was too warm for any kind of jacket even if the forecast rain had appeared. More work needed!
I think you've done plenty today BC! And well done on the PB! 👏 Woo hoo 🥳
It was very humid today. I went out for a gentle 5K and was hot and red faced so heaven knows what a 10 mile would have felt like 🥵
Is that the first time you've used Tailwind? I’m still experimenting and found out that I wasn’t drinking regularly enough. So I have been starting at about 6K, a few gulps at 10K and then taking a sip every K after that. It seems to be working well for me. But as we always say, we’re all different and I guess that’s the fun about experimenting.
But keeping the niggles at bay is always the best news of all!
Happy training to you and enjoy your runs this week 🏃♂️
Thanks IP. It is my first experiment with Tailwind. I was pleased to find that my digestive system was happy with it; first test passed. A sip every K after 10k sounds like a good idea for next week’s long run; maybe I don’t need to take water as well, provided I am well hydrated at the beginning of the run (which means building up over a couple of days pre run I suspect).
One good thing is the leg strengthening impact of the cross training I have been doing. Standing on one leg is much easier than it was! Must look funny though 🤷♂️
I don't take water just the Tailwind. Did you get the sample pack? That way you can try all the flavours and then decide which one you prefer. I like Colorado Cola.
I’m still amazed at how many runners don’t carry anything in HM races. At Antrim there wasn’t any water for the first 5 stations and I could see some struggling near the end.
The very nice running shop owner suggested I just take one sachet to see how I managed with it; so I will be back for more this week. I went for the melon flavour, thinking that a fairly bland flavour might be better for me…as near to water as you can get without being water! I will see if she stocks a sample pack; thanks for the suggestion 🙂👍
I have bought 3 sachets of Berry flavour today; that should see me through to my next HM. I have avoided caffeinated.I was tempted by some runners’ jelly beans but managed to resist!
Have you upset Coach Bennett Beachcomber66 ? Didn’t you laugh at his jokes?
Great 10 miles in the bag. Once you have your hydration and fueling methods streamlined, just think of that speedy time awaiting you. 💥
I have a hydration vest. It’s good but I don’t like being encumbered by anything vaguely heavy (which it really isn’t, but I know it’s there - so it is …… if that makes sense!). I also get hot and cross very quickly, so it’s a resounding no from me. My little 2 bottle belt does the trick, although I’d rather not even use that, and I don’t more often than not. 🤦♀️
Sounds like the PRNs (not using that word) are being kept at bay, and long may that continue. 👊
Thanks cheeky. I don’t like carrying lots of stuff, or anything really, on run. My phone is an essential, as is the price of a coffee, but that’s it ideally. After six years I have finally realised that I really need something to drink on long runs, so I may as well get used to it. I surrender!!
Me too Munks. I know if I start to increase distance that I’ll need a hydration vest but I dread it as I hate anything cumbersome around my body. My little waist pack has been plenty upto HM distance and I’m used to it. But a whole thing around my body? 😨
I’ve dug out the Tailwind and soft flasks now that longer runs are on the agenda. I’ve got large pockets back and front in my decathlon trail shorts and a 500ml flask fits in just fine. A fresh batch of homemade energy bars made. I tote a few Haribo’s too for when and if my drink is all gone I’ll be buying fresh Tailwind and Hula Hoops for my 20 mile training run 🏃♀️
It’s been very humid lately and I’ve been forever wiping my face 😁. I’m expecting to have to dig out my run vest as I go beyond half marathon distance shortly. I don’t really like having to cart stuff but needs must. Sometimes I take cash and pop into a shop but mostly that’s not happening as I’m usually on the trail. There’s a couple of churchyards with water taps so they’re very handy if I find myself short of a drink 💦
I ran a ten miler at the weekend and my feet are well battered I’ve got a big bruise on the top of one foot and very bruised and sore toe-ends on the other. I had a foot soak this morning 🙂
I managed an hour slow run with CB yesterday. My ankle is still making its presence felt 🫤
Seaside next weekend for the tricky trail half 🏃♀️🌊 if it’s not blowing gales💨 across the Humber bank I’ll be well blessed 🙏
It is very humid at the minute. My face is like a juicy plum after a very short time 🥵
I love the way they write your name on the pack of Tailwind 🙂 Great marketing.
I can’t eat Hula Hoops any more as my teeth wouldn’t take them. I broke a tooth last week eating a bag of crisps in super fast time and didn’t realise I had swallowed the bit 😳 until it was over 🤣
I was just saying to TC earlier today that I read recently of an ultra runner who takes marmite sandwiches rolled up into balls on long runs. Just a thought….
Hope your feet settle down missw and that your ankle behaves 🤞
I will! We are staying for two nights so I’ll get chance to recover before getting in the car for the drive home. I’ve got a room with a bath 🛀. Walk-in shower too so we’re both suited.
I know! I got a new dentist recently and the fees are astronomical. Mind you less than projected as I pointed out the reality of my finances compared to his aspirations 😁
I did once try a jam sandwich, based on roseabi’s suggestion. But I only had brioche bread at the time and it wasn't very successful for obvious reasons 🙄
I did a cobbled together speed intervals run today out on the wet trail. Followed by a hasty 4k walk home being as it was drizzly. My ankle was niggle free. Noticeably no swelling either 🤗
Coach Cory did a vanishing act so I had to wing it 🙄🏃♀️😀
Beautiful flowers IP! Great to hear you have no niggles after your half, and that you're still keen to keep some structure in your running. I'll post separately about my 10k yesterday, but suffice to say there are no post run issues which is a bonus. 20k on my plan tomorrow, but I can afford to drop that distance a bit if the legs are too tired. Actually, I may be able to drop it full stop. Sadly, my trip to Canada is now looking precarious and I wouldn't be able to justify the cost of travel and accommodation just for the HM, so I feel a bit in limbo right now and very sad! Never mind, worse things happen at sea as they say; if not Victoria, then I'll find something else in the UK.Have a great week everyone xxx
That is so disappointing for you Linda. Sounds to be just a little scope for things to turn around, but not under your control ☹️. You have built back so well since your injury; you have got to “spend” that fitness on something significant. You will find something, that is for sure.🥰
I will find something to utilise the training, that's for sure BC. The rest is disappointing and worse unfortunately, but for now, one day at a time (we'll, it's more like one minute at a time ...) and that way the future will take care of itself
Sad about your doubts for Canada linda9389 , but thrilled that the GSR could be a possibility for you if not. Fingers crossed for the best outcome for you. ❤️
That’s a shame about your trip Linda, I think you were looking forward to it. And I’m sorry that you're sad 🙁
The good side is that there are usually lots of races in October so hopefully you’ll find something you want to go for. And no niggles! Yeah! The best news for all of us 🤗
Thanks IP. Just back from a good 20k, so I've a big positive in my back pocket already for today 😊You're absolutely right, there should be lots to choose from in October 👍
Hi Irishprincess , late to the chat again this week.
I’m so happy you were niggle free after your epic HM. I wonder if you’re still grinning inanely? You’d be forgiven for doing so, you nailed that run. 😍
Bit of PR tourism last weekend in Exeter. Too hot for me and weary hiking legs, so I used that as my excuse to have a nice bimble. Felt great and I earned my breakfast, conveniently forgetting the mountain of food I’d eaten during the week! 😳
I’m a bit awry with my HM plan at the moment. I’m close to the end and have already run the 20k, but I like to finish what I start, so will shoehorn as many of the remaining runs in as possible. All’s going well and I keep getting Cardiff 🦋 🦋 Only 4.5 weeks to go. 🦋
New Forest 10k this coming weekend though, which will be lots of fun, and there will be the all important meetup of course. 🥰
Oh, I’ve loved the Paralympics; all the sports. Truly inspirational ❤️
I’m still grinning 🙂🤣 I had to show an elderly neighbour the medal the other day so I walked it around the village 🤣 He loves hearing about my runs and medals ❤️
It is sticky at the minute isn’t it? But your training has been tremendous for Cardiff Munks, lets hope it’ll be a Goldilocks Weather Day 🤞(you know what I mean)
The NF run and meet-up will be fab. Can’t wait to read all about it and see all the amazing photos from VRBs.
Hi Irishprincess and fellow VRbs. My apologies for the late reply. Thank you for the opportunity to guest post last week. It was lovely to catch up with everyone and your plans during this busy running season. It’s great to hear no post race issues for you Irishprincess . Sometimes no plans are the best plans! My 8week 50k training plan is two weeks in and I am already feeling the squeeze. Also trying some new nutrition options which is throwing me a bit. Hoping the body will adapt over the next few runs as the humidity dies off, but it is tough. We will see how it goes. Take care and happy trails to you!
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