A 7.30 am run along the cliff path to the next beach in soft grey weather. Hardly a soul in sight. The tide was right up against the rocks so a run along the beach barefoot wasn't possible today as yesterday but stopped on a large rock to do two Qi Gong exercises before running back and again stopping half way for 5 minutes to do 3 more. Did a quick sprint on the last bit of path down into the village and disturbed a heron in the stream on the beach which was deserted - just how I like it. As the dog and I walked along the tide I looked at the still water and reflected on how lovely a cooling swim would be. (I haven't been in the sea for years although it's on my doorstep.)
As I've been looking at Shifu Yan Lei's "Ten Tips from a Shaolin Monk on How to stay Young" - number 2) came to mind ......."Don't talk too much. Most people either talk or do. Better to do." and number 1) Don't think too much. Thinking takes energy. Thinking can make you look old."
Therefore, I decided to just take off my top and jogging bottoms and go in my running top and underwear which was fine. So the dog and I had a nice little swim together and I didn't have to think about how nice it WOULD have been but I did it instead.
I have also been thinking about doing more drawing and intermittently talking about it for a good number of years and today was also the day I sat outside with my sketchbook - albeit a quick, small sketch.
The running Fields
Escaped Horses (Chris Tancock)
Monday 1 August 2011
Thursday 30 June 2011
Floppy left foot. :-S
I took the dog up the field this morning as I haven't been there for a few days. The grass and bracken is so tall that the path is practically obliterated, hence my not going as it makes running slightly tricky. Found my hidden corner where I practice Qi Gong which I also haven't done for a while what with running and so on. Dog had a good jump about in the tall grass (she's a Springer) and sniffed about patiently waiting for me so thought I'd carry on into the next field afterwards but because I had to be back in time to take the teen to a hospital appointment thought I'd do it in a run - so I did - in my split Joules dog wellies. (I had to wear wellies even though it was hot to protect me from the nettles and brambles - or 'random shizzle' as my teen would say.) I don't know how far it was so didn't log it. I've come to dislike logging distances and especially timing during June.
Got back in time to have a coffee and watch other half open some birthday presents from us - numerous pots for planting to add to the ones we already have on the go. So far we have parsley, rocket, perpetual spinach, six tomato plants of various types, Nero Kale (delicious), radishes, a few strawberry plants, basil for indoors and more to come for the new pots. It's great to be growing our own again as we have been too busy with work for the last few years to garden any veg. but having pots makes it more manageable.
We got back quite late from the hospital and so had lunch about 3. 30 which is fairly common and by the time I'd digested and hung out a wash and done the breakfast and lunch pots it was getting on for 5.10 pm. Yikes! I'd been hoping for a nice long leisurely run to round off Juneathon but as I had to be back for 6.00 pm to take the Tai Chi class at 6.15 it would have to be a quick one so I thought up a new route along the road and down a lane and over fields. Everything was going great until after about 3 miles in, as I joined the road, I could feel my left foot not responding properly. It was flopping and dragging and when I slowed down it seemed worse but while running I was in danger of tripping up. I carried on until I came to the very steep hill which I would have walked anyway and tried desperately to control it but to no avail. I tried leading with the left leg and telling my brain to consciously move the foot how I wanted but nothing seemed to work. All quite worrying. It must be like this for someone who has had a stroke, I thought. To make it worse a car came past and I quickly stood still in the side of the road so I didn't look stupid. In fact every time the odd car came past I had to wait. Well, thank god it's the last day of Juneathon went through my mind.
I got home a bit later than I had anticipated and couldn't really take the class very well as in the eight step form I was teaching you extend each leg at one point while balancing on the other one but it just wasn't do-able after the run so I had to modify that move myself which I tell the older members they can do if necessary.
So, there we are. The end of Juneathon. I've had some chips and a glass of wine. I've blogged every day. I've logged every day and I've done some exercise every day. I've stretched myself (in terms of fitting everything in and in pushing myself). I've commented on other blogs and on Running Free although not as much as I would have liked but I may have a little read over the next few days at my leisure.
I've loved it and I've been annoyed by it but most of all I did what I set out to do. :)) So for me that's my first 'athon' completed and with the injury to show for it.
Three cheers to all you lovely people out there who have been pushing yourselves at the same time as me, I'm pretty sure that I may have just said, "Oh not today" if it wasn't for all of you and I appreciated those who left me comments.
Got back in time to have a coffee and watch other half open some birthday presents from us - numerous pots for planting to add to the ones we already have on the go. So far we have parsley, rocket, perpetual spinach, six tomato plants of various types, Nero Kale (delicious), radishes, a few strawberry plants, basil for indoors and more to come for the new pots. It's great to be growing our own again as we have been too busy with work for the last few years to garden any veg. but having pots makes it more manageable.
We got back quite late from the hospital and so had lunch about 3. 30 which is fairly common and by the time I'd digested and hung out a wash and done the breakfast and lunch pots it was getting on for 5.10 pm. Yikes! I'd been hoping for a nice long leisurely run to round off Juneathon but as I had to be back for 6.00 pm to take the Tai Chi class at 6.15 it would have to be a quick one so I thought up a new route along the road and down a lane and over fields. Everything was going great until after about 3 miles in, as I joined the road, I could feel my left foot not responding properly. It was flopping and dragging and when I slowed down it seemed worse but while running I was in danger of tripping up. I carried on until I came to the very steep hill which I would have walked anyway and tried desperately to control it but to no avail. I tried leading with the left leg and telling my brain to consciously move the foot how I wanted but nothing seemed to work. All quite worrying. It must be like this for someone who has had a stroke, I thought. To make it worse a car came past and I quickly stood still in the side of the road so I didn't look stupid. In fact every time the odd car came past I had to wait. Well, thank god it's the last day of Juneathon went through my mind.
I got home a bit later than I had anticipated and couldn't really take the class very well as in the eight step form I was teaching you extend each leg at one point while balancing on the other one but it just wasn't do-able after the run so I had to modify that move myself which I tell the older members they can do if necessary.
So, there we are. The end of Juneathon. I've had some chips and a glass of wine. I've blogged every day. I've logged every day and I've done some exercise every day. I've stretched myself (in terms of fitting everything in and in pushing myself). I've commented on other blogs and on Running Free although not as much as I would have liked but I may have a little read over the next few days at my leisure.
I've loved it and I've been annoyed by it but most of all I did what I set out to do. :)) So for me that's my first 'athon' completed and with the injury to show for it.
Three cheers to all you lovely people out there who have been pushing yourselves at the same time as me, I'm pretty sure that I may have just said, "Oh not today" if it wasn't for all of you and I appreciated those who left me comments.
Wednesday 29 June 2011
After Juneathon ...
My last night of Lau Gar Kung Fu while doing Juneathon and I trained with this in mind. However, my knees felt as though they were buckling under me when I walked back to the car after all the low stance work and last night was quite uncomfortable as my knees were so achy after a short but steep run. I sometimes wonder what my performance is like as I train alone and have no proper equipment to check against age, terrain etc. etc. I feel as though I'm training hard but when I look at other people it seems a bit pathetic. Always room for improvement though. I do find that it's my body that isn't up to it rather than my mind because mentally I could keep going when I run but usually my ankles seem to lose elasticity and my feet start to trail.
I also moved about four wheelbarrow loads of garden rubbish which I had pulled up and I think that counts as physical exercise even if it's not running.
We bought a new power cable for my lap top and it's working again so I don't have to borrow one to blog.
Maybe after Juneathon I'll make time (I don't know from where though) to sit down and work out how to make my blog more attractive and get some photos up. It's been just about all I can manage to fit the exercise in and do the logging and blogging let alone suss out aesthetically pleasing designs.
After Juneathon I'm going to get some earlier nights. After Juneathon I'm going to do more cycling in the sunny weather. After Juneathon I will try the Audio Fuel long run downloads. After Juneathon I will sit and watch some films. After Juneathon I will download some new music to run to. After Juneathon I will try to improve my time on a run. After Juneathon .... I will miss knowing there are all the other Juneathoners out there doing Juneathon.
The day after we finish I have a 2 hour Kung Fu session and a four hour one on Sunday :) and I may go for a run or cycle on Saturday or I may laze in the garden and carry on reading, "Born to Run".... I'll just wait and see what I feel like and I may not blog about it.
I also moved about four wheelbarrow loads of garden rubbish which I had pulled up and I think that counts as physical exercise even if it's not running.
We bought a new power cable for my lap top and it's working again so I don't have to borrow one to blog.
Maybe after Juneathon I'll make time (I don't know from where though) to sit down and work out how to make my blog more attractive and get some photos up. It's been just about all I can manage to fit the exercise in and do the logging and blogging let alone suss out aesthetically pleasing designs.
After Juneathon I'm going to get some earlier nights. After Juneathon I'm going to do more cycling in the sunny weather. After Juneathon I will try the Audio Fuel long run downloads. After Juneathon I will sit and watch some films. After Juneathon I will download some new music to run to. After Juneathon I will try to improve my time on a run. After Juneathon .... I will miss knowing there are all the other Juneathoners out there doing Juneathon.
The day after we finish I have a 2 hour Kung Fu session and a four hour one on Sunday :) and I may go for a run or cycle on Saturday or I may laze in the garden and carry on reading, "Born to Run".... I'll just wait and see what I feel like and I may not blog about it.
Tuesday 28 June 2011
A half hearted blog.
I'm looking forward to not blogging. My running Meditations title has taken on a different meaning during Juneathon but I'm not sure what it is yet.
Did a run along the coast path so the dog could get a walk as well. The GPS reading was 2.09 whereas Maps said 2.94. My knee's a bit sore tonight so I hope a rest will help. I haven't been running up the very steep hill but a walk/slow jog, even so I think it could be a bit punishing on my knees.
I don't feel like writing any more so I have chance to relax and read a bit so that's all for today.
Other half has been in an ill zone all day but it's not going to get me - at least not until after Thursday.
Did a run along the coast path so the dog could get a walk as well. The GPS reading was 2.09 whereas Maps said 2.94. My knee's a bit sore tonight so I hope a rest will help. I haven't been running up the very steep hill but a walk/slow jog, even so I think it could be a bit punishing on my knees.
I don't feel like writing any more so I have chance to relax and read a bit so that's all for today.
Other half has been in an ill zone all day but it's not going to get me - at least not until after Thursday.
Monday 27 June 2011
Machinations of a Juneathon Mind with 3 days to go
Driving to kung fu tonight I drafted a blog in my head and felt quite pleased with it ...... unfortunately, I can't remember much of it, just that it was to do with my psychologies.
It was a struggle to get the impetus to go training tonight and I would have gladly stayed at home. Fortunately, I had written my Juneathon programme in my diary during May and Monday night is Kung Fu night so off I went to Kung Fu. I'd already shirked out of going along an hour earlier to help out at the kid's class which I normally do so there was no more procrastinating to be done.
I remember thinking how strange it is that I seem to have a pattern of losing momentum towards the end of a goal. I start off enthusiastically and continue with a very determined dedication towards the middle and even two thirds in but then right at the eleventh hour I have a habit of giving up - or at least contemplating it - and losing the fire that started me on the journey initially. It's as though I just say, 'right, that's it then'! and switch off the light. I was reflecting on this in the car and wondering what it is all about and why on earth I have a tendency to do it.
Realising the thinking patterns emerging I thought over the remainder of Juneathon. It's only three days to go and Wednesday is Kung Fu so that makes Tuesday and Thursday a run or cycle day so that's easy really. Blogging and logging won't take too long and I can still have access to the work computer so it may be a complete one this time, albeit a measly mileage but it's been continuous exercise never-the-less.
I've been very impressed by the amount of running some of my fellow Juneathoners have done and Aus Womble (right on mate *said with ozzy accent*) is in a completely different league to the likes of my running performance.
But I also appreciate and feel like encouraging those with a smaller mileage who are undoubtedly improving their abilities and overall fitness and have made the effort. My comments on their blogs will have to wait until tomorrow though.
Three cheers to ALL of you (including myself)...... Tuesday, Wednesday, THURSDAY (also my partner's birthday!)
It was a struggle to get the impetus to go training tonight and I would have gladly stayed at home. Fortunately, I had written my Juneathon programme in my diary during May and Monday night is Kung Fu night so off I went to Kung Fu. I'd already shirked out of going along an hour earlier to help out at the kid's class which I normally do so there was no more procrastinating to be done.
I remember thinking how strange it is that I seem to have a pattern of losing momentum towards the end of a goal. I start off enthusiastically and continue with a very determined dedication towards the middle and even two thirds in but then right at the eleventh hour I have a habit of giving up - or at least contemplating it - and losing the fire that started me on the journey initially. It's as though I just say, 'right, that's it then'! and switch off the light. I was reflecting on this in the car and wondering what it is all about and why on earth I have a tendency to do it.
Realising the thinking patterns emerging I thought over the remainder of Juneathon. It's only three days to go and Wednesday is Kung Fu so that makes Tuesday and Thursday a run or cycle day so that's easy really. Blogging and logging won't take too long and I can still have access to the work computer so it may be a complete one this time, albeit a measly mileage but it's been continuous exercise never-the-less.
I've been very impressed by the amount of running some of my fellow Juneathoners have done and Aus Womble (right on mate *said with ozzy accent*) is in a completely different league to the likes of my running performance.
But I also appreciate and feel like encouraging those with a smaller mileage who are undoubtedly improving their abilities and overall fitness and have made the effort. My comments on their blogs will have to wait until tomorrow though.
Three cheers to ALL of you (including myself)...... Tuesday, Wednesday, THURSDAY (also my partner's birthday!)
Sunday 26 June 2011
A run with mosquito netting.
What a scorcher today! Left my run until 8.30 pm as couldn't bare the thought of going out in the heat of the day. Even so it was still pretty hot for the time. Wisely took my mosquito netting to fit over the running cap and glad I did because as the sun was going down on the top of the cliffs I could see clouds of little midges caught in the sunlight. It was so much easier running in the evening without having to grit my teeth or keep spitting gnats out of my mouth. I'm sure I must have looked quite silly but fortunately there was no one there to see.
I estimated the distance on Running Free maps again as I am still without equipment. It said 1.31 miles one way so I guess that should be 2.62 miles for the full distance but that seems further than I expected.
I estimated the distance on Running Free maps again as I am still without equipment. It said 1.31 miles one way so I guess that should be 2.62 miles for the full distance but that seems further than I expected.
Saturday 25 June 2011
Beetroot blogging and windy running
You may be forgiven for thinking this blog is going to be about the dietary benefits of beetroot and the digestive system but you would be mistaken.
Chose a 175 bpm interval training session with Martin Yelling again along the coast path and did a double run along the beach. I set up the GPS but the mileage stayed at 1.4 which was the reading when I reached the beach before I'd run along it twice and returned on the same route, so I don't know exactly how far I ran today. Not only has the GPS stopped working properly but my old Apple has died for good, which means I shall have to borrow 'the work' Apple to finish off blogging Juneathon as I can't afford the money for a new one just yet.
But set backs haven't deterred me before (injuries maybe) and I still did the exercise even if the statistics are a bit vague. I walked up the steep steps again as I can't run up at 160 bpm let alone the 170 interval that Martin was telling me to do. I attempted to pick up the beat on the slope but could feel my face getting redder and redder (hence the beetroot reference)and decided to slow it down for a while to recover as I don't have any heart rate monitoring equipment other than myself. Fortunately, the fresh winds revived me and I got ready for another burst just as the dog turned up from her own private 'interval' training a little short of breath.
I really must get her to co ordinate with my runs a bit more but in the true willing nature of dogs she did put another effort in.
I arrived back hot and sticky and needing to wash my hair yet again. I think all Juneathon participants should get a shampoo allowance.
Chose a 175 bpm interval training session with Martin Yelling again along the coast path and did a double run along the beach. I set up the GPS but the mileage stayed at 1.4 which was the reading when I reached the beach before I'd run along it twice and returned on the same route, so I don't know exactly how far I ran today. Not only has the GPS stopped working properly but my old Apple has died for good, which means I shall have to borrow 'the work' Apple to finish off blogging Juneathon as I can't afford the money for a new one just yet.
But set backs haven't deterred me before (injuries maybe) and I still did the exercise even if the statistics are a bit vague. I walked up the steep steps again as I can't run up at 160 bpm let alone the 170 interval that Martin was telling me to do. I attempted to pick up the beat on the slope but could feel my face getting redder and redder (hence the beetroot reference)and decided to slow it down for a while to recover as I don't have any heart rate monitoring equipment other than myself. Fortunately, the fresh winds revived me and I got ready for another burst just as the dog turned up from her own private 'interval' training a little short of breath.
I really must get her to co ordinate with my runs a bit more but in the true willing nature of dogs she did put another effort in.
I arrived back hot and sticky and needing to wash my hair yet again. I think all Juneathon participants should get a shampoo allowance.
Friday 24 June 2011
More tiredness, more toast and more - EXERCISE.
Still really tired. It could be to do with the fact that I am not getting to bed before midnight when I'm kung fu training and then seem to be waking at 5.00 am and getting up at 6.30 am.
Cycled the short distance to work to try and make myself more alert which involves two sharp hills each way. Didn't take the GPS so couldn't log mileage though but I think it's only about a mile.
Went to stock up the cupboards at Tescos and tackle the Friday crowds. Terrible! There was a log jam at the check outs. (Bought more muesli though to see me through the rest of Juneathon. I would have bought the Dorset Muesli but couldn't justify the £3.69 or more when there wasn't an offer on - even though I wanted to enter the camper van competition so I got 3 boxes of Jordans (with no competitions)because there WAS an offer on.)
(Note to self, *this is sounding like jogblog's blog* - the style is rubbing off Cathy!)
Just have time to sit down with my toast - one with peanut butter and one with honey and tahini before driving off to Kung Fu for my Juneathon of the 24th. Another late evening meal.
I'm looking forward to NOT waking up at 6.30 am for the school bus.
I'll confirm my training when I return ...............
....Later. I was so tired I took a 15 minute nap to order and surprised myself (never managed it before) and woke up just in time to drive to Kung Fu. Very clammy evening again and everyone was dripping. I suspect it was as much the climate as the workout - which was hard but wouldn't explain why we don't normally sweat quite so profusely.
Need to get a belated shower now as I chose to relax and have tea before it was too late.
Already feeling that I may miss the virtual company of my fellow Juneathoners in a few days even though I haven't spoken to everyone.
Cycled the short distance to work to try and make myself more alert which involves two sharp hills each way. Didn't take the GPS so couldn't log mileage though but I think it's only about a mile.
Went to stock up the cupboards at Tescos and tackle the Friday crowds. Terrible! There was a log jam at the check outs. (Bought more muesli though to see me through the rest of Juneathon. I would have bought the Dorset Muesli but couldn't justify the £3.69 or more when there wasn't an offer on - even though I wanted to enter the camper van competition so I got 3 boxes of Jordans (with no competitions)because there WAS an offer on.)
(Note to self, *this is sounding like jogblog's blog* - the style is rubbing off Cathy!)
Just have time to sit down with my toast - one with peanut butter and one with honey and tahini before driving off to Kung Fu for my Juneathon of the 24th. Another late evening meal.
I'm looking forward to NOT waking up at 6.30 am for the school bus.
I'll confirm my training when I return ...............
....Later. I was so tired I took a 15 minute nap to order and surprised myself (never managed it before) and woke up just in time to drive to Kung Fu. Very clammy evening again and everyone was dripping. I suspect it was as much the climate as the workout - which was hard but wouldn't explain why we don't normally sweat quite so profusely.
Need to get a belated shower now as I chose to relax and have tea before it was too late.
Already feeling that I may miss the virtual company of my fellow Juneathoners in a few days even though I haven't spoken to everyone.
Thursday 23 June 2011
Back to back Activity
Had a full on day going straight from one thing into another, starting with a 6.30 wake up. After a quick coffee and seeing teen off to school we jumped into the car with dog and drove 2 hours to do a photo shoot of an American Airstream caravan in a beautiful location. Spend a good bit of time arranging and re-arranging various bits and pieces for the images and squeezed in a quick walk round the meadow for the poor dog who was probably crossing her legs at that point. We didn't have time to eat but I pinched a couple of strawberries which were meant for the shoot and had a few crisps with taramasalata. Not that fortifying after an evening meal of muesli the previous evening, however.
Finished off, said goodbye and jumped in car to drive the 2 hours back home while stopping off for a couple of items for dinner. Grabbed a slab of barabrith and changed into running gear for a quick coastal jog estimating that I could just fit in 35 minutes and get back in time to change and take the Tai Chi class.
I didn't have the GPS with me but reckon I did over 3 miles as I ran along the beach as well and completed all Tom Yelling's intervals minus the final cool down of 5 minutes. So I felt quite satisfied with that.
Surprised that I had time for a 4 minute shower and change before nipping up the village to take the Tai Chi class. I was pleased I did the run before hand because there was a delicious Mexican meal waiting for me at home and a large glass of wine. Worth all the back to back work during the day.
Finished off, said goodbye and jumped in car to drive the 2 hours back home while stopping off for a couple of items for dinner. Grabbed a slab of barabrith and changed into running gear for a quick coastal jog estimating that I could just fit in 35 minutes and get back in time to change and take the Tai Chi class.
I didn't have the GPS with me but reckon I did over 3 miles as I ran along the beach as well and completed all Tom Yelling's intervals minus the final cool down of 5 minutes. So I felt quite satisfied with that.
Surprised that I had time for a 4 minute shower and change before nipping up the village to take the Tai Chi class. I was pleased I did the run before hand because there was a delicious Mexican meal waiting for me at home and a large glass of wine. Worth all the back to back work during the day.
Wednesday 22 June 2011
Lots of bowls of Muesli for Juneathon
Driving home West tonight after training there was a beautiful evening sky with the fields lit up a bright green by the golden sun and it was 9.15 p m. It occurred to me that I should make the most of these sights as we are now turning towards earlier nights.
Two hours of Lau Gar training was another red faced and extremely sweaty session - in fact I don't believe I've ever 'glowed' so much in my life before. Which means it was a good evening.
Nibbled salted cashews for tea while driving and then had a bowl of muesli at 10.15 pm.
I felt like going for a run during the day - Adrenaline Junkie to be precise but by the time I had finished a 2 hour cleaning job I knew there wouldn't be time before Kung Fu so it will have to wait.
I was checking my Running Free statistics today and wondered how much unlogged exercise I do in the course of a day walking around, bending, stretching, lifting etc. etc.
I'm a little concerned about how I can fit in my Juneathon tomorrow as we are working away from home which means an early start and then when I get back there won't be long before the Tai Chi class but I hope I have time to fit a run in, otherwise it will be a late one and another bowl of muesli at 10.30 pm instead of a proper meal.
Two hours of Lau Gar training was another red faced and extremely sweaty session - in fact I don't believe I've ever 'glowed' so much in my life before. Which means it was a good evening.
Nibbled salted cashews for tea while driving and then had a bowl of muesli at 10.15 pm.
I felt like going for a run during the day - Adrenaline Junkie to be precise but by the time I had finished a 2 hour cleaning job I knew there wouldn't be time before Kung Fu so it will have to wait.
I was checking my Running Free statistics today and wondered how much unlogged exercise I do in the course of a day walking around, bending, stretching, lifting etc. etc.
I'm a little concerned about how I can fit in my Juneathon tomorrow as we are working away from home which means an early start and then when I get back there won't be long before the Tai Chi class but I hope I have time to fit a run in, otherwise it will be a late one and another bowl of muesli at 10.30 pm instead of a proper meal.
Tuesday 21 June 2011
Tai Chi running!
I'd forgotten to charge my ipod before the Tai Chi class today so we did it without music which wasn't a bad thing.
I took my shuffle for an afternoon run but I haven't used it for ages so couldn't remember what music was on there. It turned out to be all the Martin Yelling Interval training sessions and Tai Chi music. As I didn't feel like doing 180 bpm runs up the very steep hill on my route, I opted for running to Tai Chi music! It proved to work very well because I felt calm and balanced internally and just let myself run and find a rhythm. I had no way to measure it but think I was taking much longer strides. I felt very energised at the end anyway. It wasn't a long run because I had to get back for an appointment but it was a very refreshing break in a busy day.
I took my shuffle for an afternoon run but I haven't used it for ages so couldn't remember what music was on there. It turned out to be all the Martin Yelling Interval training sessions and Tai Chi music. As I didn't feel like doing 180 bpm runs up the very steep hill on my route, I opted for running to Tai Chi music! It proved to work very well because I felt calm and balanced internally and just let myself run and find a rhythm. I had no way to measure it but think I was taking much longer strides. I felt very energised at the end anyway. It wasn't a long run because I had to get back for an appointment but it was a very refreshing break in a busy day.
Monday 20 June 2011
Tired, tired, tired.
Blogging time again and I'm so glad that I've been exercising long enough not to listen to my inner voice saying, "I am soooo tired, I just want to go to sleep," although I suspect if I wasn't doing Juneathon I may have stayed at home but I packed my kit anyway (but forgot the water :(( )said, 'Goodbye' got in the car, put on the radio and drove to my destination.
Once in training I didn't have time to think about my tiredness. It was only towards the end of the session when I had to motivate myself (rather than someone else doing it) that I lost steam a bit. Back home I had the usual bowl of muesli and have had my bath and can't wait to tumble into bed and read before falling into a glorious sleep.
Goodnight to all my fellow Juneathoners - I'll read some of your blogs tomorrow. :)
Once in training I didn't have time to think about my tiredness. It was only towards the end of the session when I had to motivate myself (rather than someone else doing it) that I lost steam a bit. Back home I had the usual bowl of muesli and have had my bath and can't wait to tumble into bed and read before falling into a glorious sleep.
Goodnight to all my fellow Juneathoners - I'll read some of your blogs tomorrow. :)
Sunday 19 June 2011
A Short Update
Managed to fit in a two mile run/walk again this morning as I know it will be virtually impossible until later in the day when I won't feel like it. The accuracy of the GPS is called into question again but I've started to combine it with Maps on Running Free.
Took a route I do regularly to the adjacent beach which has VERY steep steps which I always walk as it's a disaster waiting to happen if I jog down. Stopped off at a neighbours house while they are away and checked everything was OK which took about 15 minutes, then set off on the road home and walked part way up the steep hill before running back at a leisurely jog. So I've jogged, logged, blogged and walked the dog (or should that be 'dogged') for today.
Took a route I do regularly to the adjacent beach which has VERY steep steps which I always walk as it's a disaster waiting to happen if I jog down. Stopped off at a neighbours house while they are away and checked everything was OK which took about 15 minutes, then set off on the road home and walked part way up the steep hill before running back at a leisurely jog. So I've jogged, logged, blogged and walked the dog (or should that be 'dogged') for today.
Saturday 18 June 2011
A measly two miles
I could have been doing a 3 hour black sash training session today but had prior arrangements which involved driving to a country fair and squelching around in ankle deep mud. Consequently, we didn't get back until 5.30 and by the time we'd unpacked the car and sorted out all the muddy gear it was getting on for 6.00 pm before I was ready to go running.
I was very tired on the drive back and determined to sit down with a glass or two of wine and watch a film so decided on a short run before dinner. However, the short routes near home are all anaerobic work outs so I set off at a slow steady jog up the steep hill before heading onto the coast path. It was great to blow the cobwebs away in the wind and although 2 miles hardly made up for a missed 3 hour black sash work out I was glad to have made the effort.
I was very tired on the drive back and determined to sit down with a glass or two of wine and watch a film so decided on a short run before dinner. However, the short routes near home are all anaerobic work outs so I set off at a slow steady jog up the steep hill before heading onto the coast path. It was great to blow the cobwebs away in the wind and although 2 miles hardly made up for a missed 3 hour black sash work out I was glad to have made the effort.
Friday 17 June 2011
Full of beans (and not baked ones)!
I'm writing a late blog tonight, not because I've been out for the night, not because I've been drinking, not even because I've been at home watching a DVD but because I went shopping at Tescos.
Friday night training is 45 minutes drive away and when it had finished I thought it would be a good idea to stop on the way home to fill up on diesel while it was quiet and then decided to do some shopping rather than tackle the crowds on Saturday. Hence I'm eating a cold tea at 22.44! and blogging. Dedication or what!
Anyway, I had a brilliant night practicing my sword and sparring amongst other things and felt full of beans - in fact I still do.
Friday night training is 45 minutes drive away and when it had finished I thought it would be a good idea to stop on the way home to fill up on diesel while it was quiet and then decided to do some shopping rather than tackle the crowds on Saturday. Hence I'm eating a cold tea at 22.44! and blogging. Dedication or what!
Anyway, I had a brilliant night practicing my sword and sparring amongst other things and felt full of beans - in fact I still do.
Thursday 16 June 2011
Energised but ready to sit back
I tried setting out for an earlier run today but seemed to continually get distracted by other jobs like washing up, putting a wash on, hanging a wash out, checking emails etc. etc. and when I eventually got out of the house realised that I'd left the key indoors so carried on up to the field where my partner was walking the dog before going out and walked back with him to collect my key.
I then had to re-set the GPS before starting the run. I took Audio Fuel with me today as they haven't accompanied me for a few days - in fact I've been running without music on several occasions. 'Adrenaline Junkie' was my choice and I ended up with another red-face. (Definitely not posting any photos).
As I was running flat out to the 190 bpm sprint the local mini bus had to hoot to alert me of her presence and I didn't feel I could stop so carried on along the bumpy verge for a few seconds. Stopped off 3.17 miles along my route at my destination to do a bit of cleaning and have a quick shower and on my return journey home (washed and refreshed) decided to do a light jog to save time when the same bus lady passed me coming back in the opposite direction. She either thought a) I'm a very slow runner or b) I'm an amazing runner and I had been jogging ever since she last saw me over two hours ago!
Again there was discrepancy between my GPS and Maps on Running Free. What are a few figures between friends but just in case, I opted to record the lower figure - saint that I am.
The rest of the day was busy going from one thing to another so it was nice to finish off taking the Tai Chi class before the evening and I can now say I feel refreshed.
I then had to re-set the GPS before starting the run. I took Audio Fuel with me today as they haven't accompanied me for a few days - in fact I've been running without music on several occasions. 'Adrenaline Junkie' was my choice and I ended up with another red-face. (Definitely not posting any photos).
As I was running flat out to the 190 bpm sprint the local mini bus had to hoot to alert me of her presence and I didn't feel I could stop so carried on along the bumpy verge for a few seconds. Stopped off 3.17 miles along my route at my destination to do a bit of cleaning and have a quick shower and on my return journey home (washed and refreshed) decided to do a light jog to save time when the same bus lady passed me coming back in the opposite direction. She either thought a) I'm a very slow runner or b) I'm an amazing runner and I had been jogging ever since she last saw me over two hours ago!
Again there was discrepancy between my GPS and Maps on Running Free. What are a few figures between friends but just in case, I opted to record the lower figure - saint that I am.
The rest of the day was busy going from one thing to another so it was nice to finish off taking the Tai Chi class before the evening and I can now say I feel refreshed.
Wednesday 15 June 2011
sweat, sweat, sweat!
A very intense Kung Fu session that had us ALL sweating cobs and I looked particularly beetroot in the face by the end of the evening but loved every minute of it. I felt quite energised and am sure my energy levels are improving with Juneathon.
In the morning I walked the dog on the same woodland route I ran yesterday because it was so pleasant and am projecting to explore a few new routes to run next week.
Came home to a massive bowl of muesli with added nuts and seeds and now I've blogged I can have a well needed bath.
In the morning I walked the dog on the same woodland route I ran yesterday because it was so pleasant and am projecting to explore a few new routes to run next week.
Came home to a massive bowl of muesli with added nuts and seeds and now I've blogged I can have a well needed bath.
Tuesday 14 June 2011
Woodland Trail
Drove a short distance to my destination run (I was going to cycle but took the dog) which is one of my favourite local walks through an old wooded track running alongside a stream for the beginning part of the route and then opens out into meadows and fields with more trees and one or two derelict stone buildings. It's full of atmosphere and you can almost feel the ghosts of the past walking home from their daily work but this evening it was only myself and the dog.
We had a very energising run and startled a buzzard who lumbered slowly from his post into the air and could hear cracks and rustlings in the undergrowth as the wildlife sensed our presence. The track drops down into a small tree lined gully where it meets the stream again and passes through some old gnarled trees, smoothed by the footsteps of people who have clambered through their branches until it opens into a field rising up on the far side of the valley.
We kept to the valley floor where the track follows the trees and finally came to a gate which read, "STRICTLY NO DOGS" which would have taken us on a circular route so we headed back the same way which wasn't at all disappointing because it's like heaven on earth. The dog took a second swim in the river and we both ran soft footed on the leafy track. Nevertheless, we caused a deep, russety fox to turn at heel as we rounded the corner. I stood at a flat spot by the stream and did a little Qi Gong before carrying on back to the car.
It always seems a shame to have to turn back from these exquisite, dry, quiet evenings with the golden sunlight and head home.
I'm very grateful to Cathy White for organising Juneathon because I know without it I would have stayed at home doing 'houseworky' stuff and not taken the opportunity to get outside and enjoy our beautiful planet.
Luckily, there was a dish of spaghetti with fresh spinach from the garden, pesto, parmesan and a few olives with garlic waiting for me - how fortunate I am.
We had a very energising run and startled a buzzard who lumbered slowly from his post into the air and could hear cracks and rustlings in the undergrowth as the wildlife sensed our presence. The track drops down into a small tree lined gully where it meets the stream again and passes through some old gnarled trees, smoothed by the footsteps of people who have clambered through their branches until it opens into a field rising up on the far side of the valley.
We kept to the valley floor where the track follows the trees and finally came to a gate which read, "STRICTLY NO DOGS" which would have taken us on a circular route so we headed back the same way which wasn't at all disappointing because it's like heaven on earth. The dog took a second swim in the river and we both ran soft footed on the leafy track. Nevertheless, we caused a deep, russety fox to turn at heel as we rounded the corner. I stood at a flat spot by the stream and did a little Qi Gong before carrying on back to the car.
It always seems a shame to have to turn back from these exquisite, dry, quiet evenings with the golden sunlight and head home.
I'm very grateful to Cathy White for organising Juneathon because I know without it I would have stayed at home doing 'houseworky' stuff and not taken the opportunity to get outside and enjoy our beautiful planet.
Luckily, there was a dish of spaghetti with fresh spinach from the garden, pesto, parmesan and a few olives with garlic waiting for me - how fortunate I am.
Monday 13 June 2011
A brief report
Took the dog for a brisk half hour walk in the fields this morning.
Went to Kung Fu for 2 hours training and took the dog for another vigorous walk as soon as I got home.
Beautiful glowing evening with smells of honeysuckle and blackbirds singing their evening song. I would have been happy to stay out a lot later but had to get back to get ready for tomorrow.
Went to Kung Fu for 2 hours training and took the dog for another vigorous walk as soon as I got home.
Beautiful glowing evening with smells of honeysuckle and blackbirds singing their evening song. I would have been happy to stay out a lot later but had to get back to get ready for tomorrow.
Sunday 12 June 2011
soft, grey, wet Wales.
The rains have come to Wales and after waiting for the heaviest downpour to pass, went for a short walk with the Springer and teen rigged out in wellies, waterproofs and umbrellas. Everything below waist line was drenched on our return.
I shan't be able to complete Juneathon until later on this afternoon so will post more later. Whilst waiting (anticipating to be more precise) I did a fair amount of domestic stuff and baked a scrumptious apple pie with last autumn's apples from the freezer. Only my second or third attempt at pastry (well I do live with an ex-chef) and it passed muster although I requested detailed instructions.
So on with the nitty gritty as it's already gone midnight - I went for another cycle ride on the back roads and wasn't entirely sure of my route but I love exploring. One of those lovely soft and secret misty, wet evenings. The slugs were migrating across the roads in 'hundreds' and lots of fledglings were crossing in front of the bike but I expect they hadn't seen one before to know what to do.
On the return journey I met with head on strong winds which really slowed me up - especially on the steep hills. The thought of hot dinner followed by apple pie didn't even help me to speed up against the winds. I've got a hand me down road bike now but was dreaming of my lovely Dawes tourer which has been sadly rusting for a few years now and tried to adapt against the wind by leaning down onto the handle bars but it wasn't quite the same.
The GPS and map gave a different mileage again but I logged the GPS time of 9.5 miles although I preferred the sound of 11 plus miles from the map. It certainly felt longer with the strong winds impeding my progress.
If I was a serious blogger I would have posted a tempting photograph of my pie aesthetically displayed on trendy plates and a picture of the misty roads with my bike - instead you will have to conjure up your own image, as with a book.
I shan't be able to complete Juneathon until later on this afternoon so will post more later. Whilst waiting (anticipating to be more precise) I did a fair amount of domestic stuff and baked a scrumptious apple pie with last autumn's apples from the freezer. Only my second or third attempt at pastry (well I do live with an ex-chef) and it passed muster although I requested detailed instructions.
So on with the nitty gritty as it's already gone midnight - I went for another cycle ride on the back roads and wasn't entirely sure of my route but I love exploring. One of those lovely soft and secret misty, wet evenings. The slugs were migrating across the roads in 'hundreds' and lots of fledglings were crossing in front of the bike but I expect they hadn't seen one before to know what to do.
On the return journey I met with head on strong winds which really slowed me up - especially on the steep hills. The thought of hot dinner followed by apple pie didn't even help me to speed up against the winds. I've got a hand me down road bike now but was dreaming of my lovely Dawes tourer which has been sadly rusting for a few years now and tried to adapt against the wind by leaning down onto the handle bars but it wasn't quite the same.
The GPS and map gave a different mileage again but I logged the GPS time of 9.5 miles although I preferred the sound of 11 plus miles from the map. It certainly felt longer with the strong winds impeding my progress.
If I was a serious blogger I would have posted a tempting photograph of my pie aesthetically displayed on trendy plates and a picture of the misty roads with my bike - instead you will have to conjure up your own image, as with a book.
Saturday 11 June 2011
Juneathon day 11
Events would have it that I couldn't get to do a Juneathon until 7.30pm and by the time I'd got myself sorted it was 8.00 pm so I decided on a quick bike ride before dinner or would that be tea .... or maybe supper?
The GPS said 4.4 miles which surprised me as I thought the route (which I run from time to time) was just under 4 miles.
To be honest, I couldn't give a monkeys how long or short it is but am only being diligent and logging for the sake of Juneathon statistics although in reality I exercise according to need and try to listen to my body, as it is myself I am exercising for and not someone else. Targets can be good though and the added incentive of doing Juneathon with everyone else is encouraging me to do things where I suspect I otherwise wouldn't bother. The cycle took 30 minutes and it was a glorious evening.
This morning I took the dog for a 30 minute walk in the fields and did some Qi Gong but haven't logged this on 'running free' as I didn't record distances etc.
My hamstrings are slowly easing up and I'm a little closer towards being able to touch my toes again (this is a normally very flexible person speaking).
A boring blog, I think because it's a bit late in the day and I just want to get to bed!
The GPS said 4.4 miles which surprised me as I thought the route (which I run from time to time) was just under 4 miles.
To be honest, I couldn't give a monkeys how long or short it is but am only being diligent and logging for the sake of Juneathon statistics although in reality I exercise according to need and try to listen to my body, as it is myself I am exercising for and not someone else. Targets can be good though and the added incentive of doing Juneathon with everyone else is encouraging me to do things where I suspect I otherwise wouldn't bother. The cycle took 30 minutes and it was a glorious evening.
This morning I took the dog for a 30 minute walk in the fields and did some Qi Gong but haven't logged this on 'running free' as I didn't record distances etc.
My hamstrings are slowly easing up and I'm a little closer towards being able to touch my toes again (this is a normally very flexible person speaking).
A boring blog, I think because it's a bit late in the day and I just want to get to bed!
Friday 10 June 2011
"All's Well that ends well." (apologies William)
Challenging, painful, exhilarating. Three words that describe my day.
I was presented with lots of challenges today which, amongst other things, also meant I had to turn my plans on a sixpence.
My Friday plans to do 2 hours of Lau Gar had to be aborted which meant I had to re-plan my Juneathon schedule but hey, I was getting used to this by 6.30 pm. I'd got through all the other challenges I'd been offered so I could do this one. Bike ride it was.
Finished off the day with an exhilarating bike ride on the sunny back roads in the sunshine listening to some music and really stepping on the pace (it was for me at any rate).
Reflecting on the course of events, I believe that cycling was possibly the only activity which I could have managed anyway as I can't even touch my toes owing to completely ceased up hamstrings and a knee which is sending me warning signals. Another hot bath tonight in preparation for day eleven.
I was presented with lots of challenges today which, amongst other things, also meant I had to turn my plans on a sixpence.
My Friday plans to do 2 hours of Lau Gar had to be aborted which meant I had to re-plan my Juneathon schedule but hey, I was getting used to this by 6.30 pm. I'd got through all the other challenges I'd been offered so I could do this one. Bike ride it was.
Finished off the day with an exhilarating bike ride on the sunny back roads in the sunshine listening to some music and really stepping on the pace (it was for me at any rate).
Reflecting on the course of events, I believe that cycling was possibly the only activity which I could have managed anyway as I can't even touch my toes owing to completely ceased up hamstrings and a knee which is sending me warning signals. Another hot bath tonight in preparation for day eleven.
Thursday 9 June 2011
A massage would go down very well.
I don't feel like doing a long blog tonight. Went for a run on a new route which ended up being 6 miles. My ham-strings were still aching and felt very stiff plus my ankles which I had injured previously seemed to be lacking elasticity - in fact all my body was. It's something I notice after a 6 miler so maybe that's my max.
Just as well I was doing a Qi Gong/Tai Chi class. All I need now is a long bath in radox.
I'm glad tomorrow is a non-running day.
Just as well I was doing a Qi Gong/Tai Chi class. All I need now is a long bath in radox.
I'm glad tomorrow is a non-running day.
Wednesday 8 June 2011
"Quite!"
Had a false start to the day, a 5.30 am start to be precise. Noticed the battery had gone on the alarm as I went to bed so we changed it and I reset the time.
Woke up REALLY tired, I mean really. We all fumbled about downstairs, with cups of tea and so on and while we checked lap tops for mail my other half said, "What time do you make it?" "Funny you should ask that because I was just wondering if there has been a power cut or something - my lap top says 5.25!"
Meanwhile, teenager is getting more reluctant to get ready for school.
"I must have given you the wrong time when I came back to bed", he says. (Stupid, unfocussed person I think in my head and now we all have to suffer. The day will be ruined .....)
I trundle back upstairs for something and realise what a horrible blaming female I am - still. (I was trying to change that.) It was ME. I am the guilty party because I accidentally moved the alarm hand. Dohhh! So I'VE made everyone tired for the rest of the day.
Well, teen stayed at home, partner shuffled off bleary eyed to cheerily talk to people about his photographs and I watched a film and caught up on several hundred wash worths of ironing (except for the things that are happy just to be folded.)
Exercise today was 2 hours kung Fu. Quite hard, quite sweaty but I feel a bit 'middle of the road' about it. Put effort in but didn't have much spirit, which is what makes all the difference between a quite good workout and fantastic work out.
Still, fulfilled day 8 so I'm, pleased about that.
Woke up REALLY tired, I mean really. We all fumbled about downstairs, with cups of tea and so on and while we checked lap tops for mail my other half said, "What time do you make it?" "Funny you should ask that because I was just wondering if there has been a power cut or something - my lap top says 5.25!"
Meanwhile, teenager is getting more reluctant to get ready for school.
"I must have given you the wrong time when I came back to bed", he says. (Stupid, unfocussed person I think in my head and now we all have to suffer. The day will be ruined .....)
I trundle back upstairs for something and realise what a horrible blaming female I am - still. (I was trying to change that.) It was ME. I am the guilty party because I accidentally moved the alarm hand. Dohhh! So I'VE made everyone tired for the rest of the day.
Well, teen stayed at home, partner shuffled off bleary eyed to cheerily talk to people about his photographs and I watched a film and caught up on several hundred wash worths of ironing (except for the things that are happy just to be folded.)
Exercise today was 2 hours kung Fu. Quite hard, quite sweaty but I feel a bit 'middle of the road' about it. Put effort in but didn't have much spirit, which is what makes all the difference between a quite good workout and fantastic work out.
Still, fulfilled day 8 so I'm, pleased about that.
Tuesday 7 June 2011
Ham Strings and Cappuccino.
Although it can be good to have targets and aims, I set off today without a specific time schedule or distance, listening to the steady beat of Sacred Drumming with its trance like rhythm and focussing on my breath and the fall of my feet.
It was very windy and gusty on the coast path, blowing first behind and then in front and sometimes to the side whipping me up like the froth on a cappuccino so that my style of running changed with a low centre of gravity and steady, short steps. Ahead of me, miles of sand stretched out and were virtually empty save for a couple of land yachts. I scrambled down the cliff, over the rocks and onto the sands before returning along the coast path and up a few very steep hills. With the wind buffeting me it seemed to take a lot of effort and my hamstrings were aching - possibly (definitely) after yesterday's workout.
Arriving back home I wolfed down a bag of crisps which is probably a sign of dehydration and lack of salt as I rarely eat crisps.
Strange it was only 3.6 miles because more effort was required this evening than a longer run on the same route two days ago.
It could be because I've also been charging up and down stairs carrying framed images to help set up an exhibition for:
http://www.christancock.com/menu/Welcome.html
who is also currently cooking us a very nice dinner ..... can't wait.
Add on - I almost forgot, this morning was 1 hour and 20 minutes of Tai Chi and Qi Gong.
It was very windy and gusty on the coast path, blowing first behind and then in front and sometimes to the side whipping me up like the froth on a cappuccino so that my style of running changed with a low centre of gravity and steady, short steps. Ahead of me, miles of sand stretched out and were virtually empty save for a couple of land yachts. I scrambled down the cliff, over the rocks and onto the sands before returning along the coast path and up a few very steep hills. With the wind buffeting me it seemed to take a lot of effort and my hamstrings were aching - possibly (definitely) after yesterday's workout.
Arriving back home I wolfed down a bag of crisps which is probably a sign of dehydration and lack of salt as I rarely eat crisps.
Strange it was only 3.6 miles because more effort was required this evening than a longer run on the same route two days ago.
It could be because I've also been charging up and down stairs carrying framed images to help set up an exhibition for:
http://www.christancock.com/menu/Welcome.html
who is also currently cooking us a very nice dinner ..... can't wait.
Add on - I almost forgot, this morning was 1 hour and 20 minutes of Tai Chi and Qi Gong.
Monday 6 June 2011
Short but sweet.
What a brilliant training day! Two hours of Kung Fu which was my exercise for the day and we even did half an hour of circuit training: running punctuated with bench press-ups, bench steps, bench sit-ups, bench tricep lifts, bench split jumps, followed by 20 minutes sparring. Excellent work out.
I even slipped in a high speed dog walk this morning but only had time for 20 minutes.
So far, I'm having a great time with Juneathon and gradually regaining my normal energies. Hoorah!
I even slipped in a high speed dog walk this morning but only had time for 20 minutes.
So far, I'm having a great time with Juneathon and gradually regaining my normal energies. Hoorah!
Sunday 5 June 2011
Running through the sea
Unlike yesterday's evening run, I set off at 'high noon today', 1.00 pm to be precise. The GPS and ipod were all set and ready to go so inevitably I met a neighbour 5 minutes in and started chatting. My actual start time was moved ahead to 1.30 pm.
The dog came because I left her behind last night so I could do the road route and my intention was to give her a nice long time outside. Off we headed up the very steep hills and sadly I can't say how many feet above sea level it was because I didn't want to stop and calculate it on the GPS and then write it down in case I forgot but I know it's steep and that's all that matters.
I shimmied down the cliff track onto the beach as the tide was out enough to do a beach run and took my trainers off to run barefoot. (Some nice people kept an eye on my shoes so I didn't have to run with them banging about round my neck). I haven't tried this since I was a kid and obviously it isn't suitable for road or track running but it was so exhilarating I can't think why I haven't done it before. I'm sure I ran faster and more efficiently and was even motivated to do a couple of sprints which judging by yesterday's run with Audio Fuel's "Adrenaline Junky" may have been at 190 bpm at least 180 bpm.
The best bit was running through the sea which kept my feet nice and cool - in fact the whole thing was a treat for my feet. I had to time out a bit to use the loos by the cafe and get the dog some water and spend 10 minutes trying to pick a foreign object out of my foot (still there I think) then off home we headed.
I was slower on the return journey and conscious of my hips aching a bit but it was a very good run session and the dog got at least 2 hours outside all in all. I think I'd go as far as to say I'm feeling quite pleased with myself but at the same time want to keep myself in check as it's still only day 5.
Now I am heading back to the beach - but in the car - with young person to buy a big ice-cream, possibly with flake as a treat for completing practice GCSE paper. Will I have one as well? Yes, I think I might!
The dog came because I left her behind last night so I could do the road route and my intention was to give her a nice long time outside. Off we headed up the very steep hills and sadly I can't say how many feet above sea level it was because I didn't want to stop and calculate it on the GPS and then write it down in case I forgot but I know it's steep and that's all that matters.
I shimmied down the cliff track onto the beach as the tide was out enough to do a beach run and took my trainers off to run barefoot. (Some nice people kept an eye on my shoes so I didn't have to run with them banging about round my neck). I haven't tried this since I was a kid and obviously it isn't suitable for road or track running but it was so exhilarating I can't think why I haven't done it before. I'm sure I ran faster and more efficiently and was even motivated to do a couple of sprints which judging by yesterday's run with Audio Fuel's "Adrenaline Junky" may have been at 190 bpm at least 180 bpm.
The best bit was running through the sea which kept my feet nice and cool - in fact the whole thing was a treat for my feet. I had to time out a bit to use the loos by the cafe and get the dog some water and spend 10 minutes trying to pick a foreign object out of my foot (still there I think) then off home we headed.
I was slower on the return journey and conscious of my hips aching a bit but it was a very good run session and the dog got at least 2 hours outside all in all. I think I'd go as far as to say I'm feeling quite pleased with myself but at the same time want to keep myself in check as it's still only day 5.
Now I am heading back to the beach - but in the car - with young person to buy a big ice-cream, possibly with flake as a treat for completing practice GCSE paper. Will I have one as well? Yes, I think I might!
Saturday 4 June 2011
Fourth Day of Juneathonalon
Saved my run for the cool of the day and the quieter hour when most people had headed home for tea. It turned out to be a good decision.
Tried out Adrenaline Junkie for the first time (half price courtesy of Audio Fuel - thank you Sean) and couldn't believe my luck when the two sprints at 190 bpm were on the flat!! The few cars that passed gave me querulous glances which I think may have been to do with my, by now, beet-root complexion. Thankfully, I was met by a wonderful cooling breeze and the sweet smell of honeysuckle as I joined the coast road AND the cool down started just as I hit the short, sharp hill. Perfetto.
Plus, I think I've sweated away some of the bugs that have been plaguing me.
Tried out Adrenaline Junkie for the first time (half price courtesy of Audio Fuel - thank you Sean) and couldn't believe my luck when the two sprints at 190 bpm were on the flat!! The few cars that passed gave me querulous glances which I think may have been to do with my, by now, beet-root complexion. Thankfully, I was met by a wonderful cooling breeze and the sweet smell of honeysuckle as I joined the coast road AND the cool down started just as I hit the short, sharp hill. Perfetto.
Plus, I think I've sweated away some of the bugs that have been plaguing me.
Friday 3 June 2011
Day 3 'Weary'
Today is a weary day. I wouldn't normally blog unless I was feeling buoyant and positive but as this is Juneathon and I have to blog every day, you will have to have me warts and all.
So I got up at 7.45 and put shorts and running shoes on and took my music and set the GPS then got the dog but I felt weary and just walked. It was beeauutiful and sunny and the sea looked very blue. I'm fighting some virus bug alien thingy and have swollen glands, aching neck, tired eyes, muggy head and feeling lack lustre. A walk seemed the sensible thing to do and instead of breaking into a run at the top of the hill went to my little training spot in the field overlooking the sea and did some Qi Gong stance moves while the dog was in heaven running round in circles then I walked back. That was an hour.
At 5.00 pm I got in the car and drove to Kung Fu class which starts at 6.00 for two hours but didn't train as hard as Wednesday because I felt a bit hot and queasy.
I'm just weathering this one through until my energy levels balance themselves out again so I'm pleased I made training. Came back to blog and do all the other stuff to find out I'd won the Limerick competition. I feel very chuffed about that and it was a great little boost to my weary soul!
Here endeth my weary blog for today.
So I got up at 7.45 and put shorts and running shoes on and took my music and set the GPS then got the dog but I felt weary and just walked. It was beeauutiful and sunny and the sea looked very blue. I'm fighting some virus bug alien thingy and have swollen glands, aching neck, tired eyes, muggy head and feeling lack lustre. A walk seemed the sensible thing to do and instead of breaking into a run at the top of the hill went to my little training spot in the field overlooking the sea and did some Qi Gong stance moves while the dog was in heaven running round in circles then I walked back. That was an hour.
At 5.00 pm I got in the car and drove to Kung Fu class which starts at 6.00 for two hours but didn't train as hard as Wednesday because I felt a bit hot and queasy.
I'm just weathering this one through until my energy levels balance themselves out again so I'm pleased I made training. Came back to blog and do all the other stuff to find out I'd won the Limerick competition. I feel very chuffed about that and it was a great little boost to my weary soul!
Here endeth my weary blog for today.
Thursday 2 June 2011
Day 2 cycle ride
A late starter again. My morning was a little thrown out as client cancelled massage appointment owing to illness but by that time it was already 10.35 so I ended up having a late breakfast and didn't get out until 2.00 pm after I had done all the fiddly bits of paper work and phone calls etc. Most unsatisfactory sort of jobs so I was quite relieved to get outside into this glorious weather and go for a nice ride on my bike.
Did 6.8 miles at a slow-ish pace and got off a few times to let cars pass and take a few pics on the mobile phone. I didn't feel inclined to break any records, just enjoy myself.
Later in the evening I took a Tai Chi class for an hour.
Just wasted an hour trying to get my phone photos to blue tooth to the computer with no luck, so another 'writing only' blog.
Did 6.8 miles at a slow-ish pace and got off a few times to let cars pass and take a few pics on the mobile phone. I didn't feel inclined to break any records, just enjoy myself.
Later in the evening I took a Tai Chi class for an hour.
Just wasted an hour trying to get my phone photos to blue tooth to the computer with no luck, so another 'writing only' blog.
Wednesday 1 June 2011
Day 1 and a challenge.
3.45 ish
I'm feeling sorry for myself today and not very motivated to get exercise. My glands have come up again and my neck feels like a bullneck. But I won't be deterred, Wednesday night is 2 hour heavy Kung Fu training and the dog needs a walk before I leave at six so that's TWO opportunities for exercise.
I know I'll be exhausted when I get back so I'm starting the blog now and will finish with stats. when I get back tonight.
Also having raspberry turnover while I type this! :-I
If I can do Juneathon when I don't feel up to it then I'm more likely to succeed on the 'good' days.
22.24
Aaah! Contented sigh. I'm sitting down with a smoked haddock fishcake, a small beetroot, some ginger and Lingham's chilli sauce accompanied by a mug of sage tea (my favourite herb). First Janathon completed. (Supper is always a bit bizarre on Wednesday night when I get back late from a heavy training session.)
Exercise done: 4.15 pm - 5.03 pm
Involved walk in field for dog followed by 45 min run on road with dog and Martin Yelling's Interval Training
Total mileage = 3.2 miles.
7.00 pm - 9.0-0 pm
Lau Gar Kung Fu=
Stretches
Press-ups (I've started doing the plank and a few press-ups as I have to watch my left wrist)
More press-ups,
Stance work
Stick work in pairs,
'Forms'
walking techniques
lots of leg work walking techniques
'pushing hands'
and so on ..... (most people, well everybody, had a sweaty T-Shirt sticking to them and faces dripping with sweat) :) Great stuff!!
Had two showers today and got through two sets of training gear (including underwear).
I had forgotten how much washing I got through last Juneathon or Janathon even.
Can't believe what a different frame of mind I feel in now to earlier on.
Well, like I've already said on my profile, "If I'm doing exercise, I feel good",
and good ol' Juneathon is helping to spur me on.
Sorry no pics today. Shame really because I had thought of getting someone to take a mobile photo of me in mid-sweat but I was a bit too sweaty to remember at the time.
I'm feeling sorry for myself today and not very motivated to get exercise. My glands have come up again and my neck feels like a bullneck. But I won't be deterred, Wednesday night is 2 hour heavy Kung Fu training and the dog needs a walk before I leave at six so that's TWO opportunities for exercise.
I know I'll be exhausted when I get back so I'm starting the blog now and will finish with stats. when I get back tonight.
Also having raspberry turnover while I type this! :-I
If I can do Juneathon when I don't feel up to it then I'm more likely to succeed on the 'good' days.
22.24
Aaah! Contented sigh. I'm sitting down with a smoked haddock fishcake, a small beetroot, some ginger and Lingham's chilli sauce accompanied by a mug of sage tea (my favourite herb). First Janathon completed. (Supper is always a bit bizarre on Wednesday night when I get back late from a heavy training session.)
Exercise done: 4.15 pm - 5.03 pm
Involved walk in field for dog followed by 45 min run on road with dog and Martin Yelling's Interval Training
Total mileage = 3.2 miles.
7.00 pm - 9.0-0 pm
Lau Gar Kung Fu=
Stretches
Press-ups (I've started doing the plank and a few press-ups as I have to watch my left wrist)
More press-ups,
Stance work
Stick work in pairs,
'Forms'
walking techniques
lots of leg work walking techniques
'pushing hands'
and so on ..... (most people, well everybody, had a sweaty T-Shirt sticking to them and faces dripping with sweat) :) Great stuff!!
Had two showers today and got through two sets of training gear (including underwear).
I had forgotten how much washing I got through last Juneathon or Janathon even.
Can't believe what a different frame of mind I feel in now to earlier on.
Well, like I've already said on my profile, "If I'm doing exercise, I feel good",
and good ol' Juneathon is helping to spur me on.
Sorry no pics today. Shame really because I had thought of getting someone to take a mobile photo of me in mid-sweat but I was a bit too sweaty to remember at the time.
Saturday 28 May 2011
Eat your heart out Gerald Durrell or ....
"The Day of the Copulating Jewel Beetles",
(although that sounds like a headline for The Daily Mirror).
Just a walk, an amble, a quiet stroll through the fields. Yesterday I developed a massively swollen gland and keep falling asleep everywhere so decided to recuperate as best as possible ready for ...... the 1st of JUNE! No ironing, no washing floors, no running, no decorating, no cleaning cars - it's really hard to make myself sit down and ignore activities but I will be sensible.
So, back to the beetles. As I strolled I noticed the beautiful beetles settled on some dock leaves and took a closer look. Beautiful coppery, green, iridescent winged beetles. I noticed the larger females and each one had a smaller male clinging to her back - six pairs in all plus two left over males. Life just isn't fair. I saw them attempting to get a look in but they were too late.
Further down, I saw a largish black beetle on a dock and stooped over to see if it was a spider, but no ...... it was one of the jewel beetles (my name for them) but with such a large, black extended abdomen that she couldn't close her wings properly. I saw two of them like this and I think they were, or had just been, laying some eggs as there was a smallish (large to them) cluster of orange eggs on the leaf. Although I watched for a while I didn't see them actually laying any eggs.
There were some rather unpleasant looking beetle/come caterpillar/come grub things on a patch of dock leaves further down with six legs at the top end and a somewhat writhing tail end more like a grub. I think they'd been munching away at the dock leaves which were laced with holes. Lots of cuckoo spit as well but I didn't look to see if any frog-hoppers were about (I think that's who the eggs in cuckoo spit belong to). Funny to imagine cuckoos flying around and gobbing into the undergrowth.
Well, I think a visit to my naturalist book is required.
Found a nice little hillock to sit and do the first part of Xi Jui Jin followed by Ba Duan Jin from Shifu Yan Lei's DVD and book. It can only be good for helping me to get my energies back and fight off any bugs (not the ones I've been looking at).
Wednesday 25 May 2011
Priming the Pumps
I've just signed up for
As time is of the essence, particularly when trying to fit in exercise on top of blogging and logging I'm hoping not to waste time trying to figure the ins and outs of various programmes with tweeting, facebooking, blogging, and blinking logging.
I could quite easily wile away the hours trying to improve all my settings and pics. without having a clue about what I am doing and besides, I would rather be spending the time out there having some exercise, squeezing as much time outside during the summer months as possible.
The activity has been ongoing with ups and downs and bursts of energy followed by illnesses and all the usual things that turn up called life but I just haven't had a mind to blog about it.
Last saturday though, I woke up at 4.00 am and thought, "Shall I go outside and get some exercise?" this has been a recurring thought at these times with the beautiful warm and light early mornings we've been having. Hearing the birds singing and trilling happily has made me want to get up and be a part of it all but I normally have the thought, turn over and eventually go back to sleep. The morning in question, however, I actually got up at 5.00 am and went for a jog/walk at a leisurely pace with the dog.
Dog's are amazing aren't they? No questions, just, Oh good! You're going outside are you? I'll come with you then! It ended up as a 10k route and I came back for coffee and croissants. Very nice. I did feel tired though and fell asleep at 11.00 am for about an hour or so.
I think I need to think of this as a "dogathon" in order to succeed.
Friday 4 March 2011
Soaring
It feels time to make a new post.
I watched "District 13", French with subtitles last night. The running/parkour and fight sequences were WOW! Absolutely amazing and made up for the grotesque background nature of the film. What the human body is capable of is incredible.
For anyone reading these blogs, it isn't that I haven't been doing any running but now that there is no longer a Janathon and the need to post every day, I am choosing to do it as and when I want. In brief explanation, I decided to not continue with Janathon after my knee injury and therefore didn't slog on with the posts. A little disappointing but not the end of the world.
It was fresh, crisp and beautifully sunny this morning. A bit of flu and cold still hanging on and so I decided to just do a free run with no intervals or timing. Listened to two tracks from Sacred Drumming by Stephen Ash, which I tried running to on Monday and really enjoyed. The continuous rhythm, like a heart beat made me feel I could just run on at a steady pace indefinitely. I didn't though because there are other things I need to do.
The music moved on to a faster beat and although I hadn't intended running fast the music inspired me into "taking off" and I just went into another element and "flew" round the fields, over the bumps, up the rise. If there had been any obstacles I think I would have just leapt over them and this is why I mentioned watching the film because I got a real feel of those energies and speeds where the body works together. (I am not saying that I was doing anything to that standard you understand but it felt fantastic none the less.)
I did the Ba Duan Jin exercises which are going really well. I get enormous benefit from them and since watching the DVD as well as having the book it has made it easier to practice.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xoXtpeq_JFc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xoXtpeq_JFc
I watched "District 13", French with subtitles last night. The running/parkour and fight sequences were WOW! Absolutely amazing and made up for the grotesque background nature of the film. What the human body is capable of is incredible.
For anyone reading these blogs, it isn't that I haven't been doing any running but now that there is no longer a Janathon and the need to post every day, I am choosing to do it as and when I want. In brief explanation, I decided to not continue with Janathon after my knee injury and therefore didn't slog on with the posts. A little disappointing but not the end of the world.
It was fresh, crisp and beautifully sunny this morning. A bit of flu and cold still hanging on and so I decided to just do a free run with no intervals or timing. Listened to two tracks from Sacred Drumming by Stephen Ash, which I tried running to on Monday and really enjoyed. The continuous rhythm, like a heart beat made me feel I could just run on at a steady pace indefinitely. I didn't though because there are other things I need to do.
The music moved on to a faster beat and although I hadn't intended running fast the music inspired me into "taking off" and I just went into another element and "flew" round the fields, over the bumps, up the rise. If there had been any obstacles I think I would have just leapt over them and this is why I mentioned watching the film because I got a real feel of those energies and speeds where the body works together. (I am not saying that I was doing anything to that standard you understand but it felt fantastic none the less.)
I did the Ba Duan Jin exercises which are going really well. I get enormous benefit from them and since watching the DVD as well as having the book it has made it easier to practice.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xoXtpeq_JFc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xoXtpeq_JFc
Saturday 22 January 2011
Never say never.
Janathon is proving to be a much greater challenge than I at first anticipated. The main reason being the inability to go running at the moment and blogging about practically zero activity and therefore wondering whether I should just gracefully bow out now or stick with it against the odds until I am fit enough to continue.
I took the dog out into the fields this morning in the sun and frost to test the knee. The ground was hard and white with the frost making the blades of grass resemble candied angelica, everything glittering in the sunshine.
The dog has been looking as restless as I feel and following my every move for the last few days to see whether we are going for a run. I think we both hate this lack of movement.
It went quite well and it was great to be out in the fresh air but I was very conscious that the knee wasn't up to anything too vigorous. I'm hoping it will be strong enough to do some kung fu on Monday.
One mile walked but at this stage it's more about not giving up rather than trying to do lots of mileage.
I took the dog out into the fields this morning in the sun and frost to test the knee. The ground was hard and white with the frost making the blades of grass resemble candied angelica, everything glittering in the sunshine.
The dog has been looking as restless as I feel and following my every move for the last few days to see whether we are going for a run. I think we both hate this lack of movement.
It went quite well and it was great to be out in the fresh air but I was very conscious that the knee wasn't up to anything too vigorous. I'm hoping it will be strong enough to do some kung fu on Monday.
One mile walked but at this stage it's more about not giving up rather than trying to do lots of mileage.
Friday 21 January 2011
Cold January
As I type, I'm feeling pretty gloomy. It's been soooo cold I find it difficult to think of doing anything much at all. It feels as though I am just hanging on waiting for some warmth to heat my bones so I can get on and do something and I can't even think of going for a run to energise myself.
My knee is still too fragile to risk further injury and create long term damage. I'm not sure what I've done but I know it isn't up to me performing kicks and jolting runs. I've now missed two kung fu sessions, (which is probably why I feel so frustrated) and 3 days of running.
I walked round town today to run some errands and nearly forgot about my knee until I tried to walk fast - at which point I was reminded. I was also going to wash the floors on my knees when it was suggested that kneeling might not be such a good idea. Groan, groan.
Can't I do ANYthing?!
Yes. More press-ups and sit-ups.
Here goes then ....... 50 sit-ups,
20 press-ups,
30 sit-ups,
15 press-ups,
20 sit-ups,
10 press-ups
20 sit-ups
20 press-ups
total: 120 sit -ups
65 press-ups
Qi Qong 15 minutes
My knee is still too fragile to risk further injury and create long term damage. I'm not sure what I've done but I know it isn't up to me performing kicks and jolting runs. I've now missed two kung fu sessions, (which is probably why I feel so frustrated) and 3 days of running.
I walked round town today to run some errands and nearly forgot about my knee until I tried to walk fast - at which point I was reminded. I was also going to wash the floors on my knees when it was suggested that kneeling might not be such a good idea. Groan, groan.
Can't I do ANYthing?!
Yes. More press-ups and sit-ups.
Here goes then ....... 50 sit-ups,
20 press-ups,
30 sit-ups,
15 press-ups,
20 sit-ups,
10 press-ups
20 sit-ups
20 press-ups
total: 120 sit -ups
65 press-ups
Qi Qong 15 minutes
Thursday 20 January 2011
Knee recovery time
The knee is still in need of recovery before I do anything too vigorous so it was another day for core exercises. I'm not sure if any of this counts towards Janathon but I don't just want to give up on myself.
Spent 10 minutes doing alternate sets of sit-ups and press-ups totalling 140 sit-ups and 80 press-ups. Got the heart rate going quite nicely and just exceeded yesterdays count although didn't push myself to the limit.
Finished with 10 minutes of Qi Qong.
The running gear is all washed and ready while the GPS and shuffle are sitting waiting for me on the table, all charged and ready to go.
Spent 10 minutes doing alternate sets of sit-ups and press-ups totalling 140 sit-ups and 80 press-ups. Got the heart rate going quite nicely and just exceeded yesterdays count although didn't push myself to the limit.
Finished with 10 minutes of Qi Qong.
The running gear is all washed and ready while the GPS and shuffle are sitting waiting for me on the table, all charged and ready to go.
Wednesday 19 January 2011
The dreaded thing has happened!
(Where I would have been today.....)
On trying to think of a blog title, I toyed with the idea of calling it "My Sore Right Knee" in acknowledgement of fellow Janathoner, "My Sore Left knee" but decided to settle for the one I've got.
It seems a lot of low Kung Fu stance work followed by yesterday's steep hill run has been a bit punishing for my knee which prior to yesterday has never shown any signs of trouble. However, after a warm bath I noticed my right knee looking decidedly larger than my left knee and at that point realised it was actually very sore and hot. Immediately got out the ice cloth from the freezer and decided to put the R.I.C.E. plan into action.
This morning it wasn't any better and proved quite uncomfortable so I've been spending the day shuffling about and trying not to move too much which I find very difficult. I think I only used the stairs about 10 to 15 times but it took me twice as long to get up and down as I did it in half steps while trying not to bend my knee.
Realistically, running was off for me today and in the early afternoon decided that Kung Fu would be folly, which is very frustrating as Wednesdays are the highlight of my week. Once or twice I voiced the idea of going for a gentle walk in the field with the dog but was quickly reminded how long I could put myself out of action if I wasn't sensible enough to rest it. It was a beautiful sunny day as well, simply beckoning me to go out there.
Instead, I got out the sewing machine to finish all sorts of jobs I've been putting off which felt quite productive but nowhere near as enjoyable as going outside.
At logging and blogging time I felt very annoyed not to be able to enter anything so opted for a few press-ups and sit-ups, 60 and 120 respectively. A very modest attempt in view of what I would have been doing. We shall have to see.
Tuesday 18 January 2011
A Yin day
Had a very balancing morning teaching Tai Chi class for an hour before going over to my friends for a foot massage. Feeling very sleepy but just got home as the sun was going down and went for a short, sharp hill run over the coast path and met the moon peering over the hill as I approached the summit.
The rest of the evening is going to be spent just chilling. Bliss.
The rest of the evening is going to be spent just chilling. Bliss.
Monday 17 January 2011
Cutting it fine again
Half way through and I'm just getting on with doing what I said I am going to do.
Took a muddy and wet coast path run up and down hills to a nearby beach 1.46 miles distant and did a sprint of 180 bpm, maybe 185 bpm for a few minutes before pausing to go through a Lau Gar set and a Tai Chi form. Walked up the hill to pay a 10 minute visit before returning along the coast path home and finishing with another short sprint on the beach at the other end. Got in to the rhythm and cruised up the gradients feeling quite strong in the legs.
Just had time for a bite to eat and sit down before going to a 2 hour kung fu session with fitness and sparring. Arms now covered in bruises.
Another great day of exercise which I'm starting to quite enjoy.
Sunday 16 January 2011
Day 16 and I did it!
Apparently, the forecast was for more rain later on today and it was heavy rain all night so off I went before more rains came. Of course, now it's sunny but .... it got me out before I could procrastinate any more.
The conversation in my head this morning went something like this: "Maybe I shouldn't run today because I had such a full on training day yesterday; my toe is still very swollen and painful and it may get worse if I go for a long run; if I overtrain and have an injury it may prevent me from doing Kung Fu properly; if I go for a long run it will eat into the day; not many people are looking at my blogs so it doesn't really matter and anyway I'm doing it for me, not for them...."
Fortunately, I've learnt over many years that this sort of conversation turns up from time to time pre-activity but I'm going to do it anyway because that was the agreement. So I didn't listen to them as I know the benefits and feel good factor far outway any initial reticence.
I went for the muddy fields as it was going to be pretty wet and muddy wherever I went and chose to do some interval training. Interestingly, it didn't feel like a workout for the first two intervals but when it got to 180 bpm it was noticeably more effort trying to negotiate a bit of wind factor together with the gradients and soft, muddy ground pitted with holes and ridges. I managed to keep the pace going but wasn't covering a lot of ground and felt pleased to complete the 43 minute workout.
So 'Yah Boo Sucks' to you for trying to stop me going - you didn't succeed.
Saturday 15 January 2011
A Hard working day
Went for a quick interval run in the fields this morning with the dog. We only did half of the 43 minutes programme which took us through 155 bpm up to 180 bpm - a good warm up for the 3 hours of black sash training I had to get back for. It was a good decision to go beforehand as I knew I wouldn't be up for a run afterwards.
As ever, I love the Kung Fu training and these 3 hour classes are full on, sweaty, pushing our limits sessions. We did lots of everything including a set we've learnt with the shaolin steel rings which is great conditioning for the arms and I have the red marks to prove it!
An excellent, tiring, challenging and invigorating day.
As ever, I love the Kung Fu training and these 3 hour classes are full on, sweaty, pushing our limits sessions. We did lots of everything including a set we've learnt with the shaolin steel rings which is great conditioning for the arms and I have the red marks to prove it!
An excellent, tiring, challenging and invigorating day.
Friday 14 January 2011
Time for a new post.
Well, the news is that my computer is no longer operable for blogging or anything involving the internet as the connection is broken so it means having to pinch the other half's work computer which is rather limiting and means my time is restricted for looking at other bloggers and posting encouraging sounds and motivational comments to other Janathoners.
So just for the record, I haven't lost interest in what you are all doing and am still doing a quick scan on the Running Free Online site and far as I can tell, you all look set to complete the month with tons of mileage.
Last night was a disturbed one owing to my aching legs and I didn't fit a run in before Lau Gar training tonight but was determined that I wanted to try a run every day even though I am still getting some good exercise in. I'd taken some running kit with me with the vague thought that I could register at the adjacent gym in the leisure centre where we train and fit in a run on the treadmill.
However, one of the young girls who comes training mentioned that she had run round the astro turf on the football pitch 8 times before training because her mum had to drop her off early and she had some time to kill. Yes! You can guess the rest.
So, I quickly changed and headed off to the football pitch in the dark and ran under the stars and the moon with the street lights and the lights from the houses in the near distance casting a cosy glow. I couldn't BELIEVE how bouncy and comfortable it felt to run on the turf, on the flat! with no hill! and no gradient! So I steamed round 8 times and guessed it was a mile because I had no monitoring equipment but next week I shall take the GPS and test it again. I might even invite Martin Yelling to come with me and check my pace!
Well, the news is that my computer is no longer operable for blogging or anything involving the internet as the connection is broken so it means having to pinch the other half's work computer which is rather limiting and means my time is restricted for looking at other bloggers and posting encouraging sounds and motivational comments to other Janathoners.
So just for the record, I haven't lost interest in what you are all doing and am still doing a quick scan on the Running Free Online site and far as I can tell, you all look set to complete the month with tons of mileage.
Last night was a disturbed one owing to my aching legs and I didn't fit a run in before Lau Gar training tonight but was determined that I wanted to try a run every day even though I am still getting some good exercise in. I'd taken some running kit with me with the vague thought that I could register at the adjacent gym in the leisure centre where we train and fit in a run on the treadmill.
However, one of the young girls who comes training mentioned that she had run round the astro turf on the football pitch 8 times before training because her mum had to drop her off early and she had some time to kill. Yes! You can guess the rest.
So, I quickly changed and headed off to the football pitch in the dark and ran under the stars and the moon with the street lights and the lights from the houses in the near distance casting a cosy glow. I couldn't BELIEVE how bouncy and comfortable it felt to run on the turf, on the flat! with no hill! and no gradient! So I steamed round 8 times and guessed it was a mile because I had no monitoring equipment but next week I shall take the GPS and test it again. I might even invite Martin Yelling to come with me and check my pace!
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