27th March 2011 - Long Sunday run

Have decided that with 7 weeks to go that I should start following a proper marathon training plan, rather than just freestyling and potentially burning myself out with loads of ridiculously long runs before the event itself.  So as my long weekly run (according to the plan I should be doing a 1hr 45min steady run) I decided to run to the end of the (mostly flat) Spen Valley Greenway and back (14 miles).

Unfortunately I was on my own today, because Alex has sustained a groin injury and decided that with 3 weeks to go before the London Marathon it would be sensible to rest. 

It's a bit parky outside and I do what I always do and get trussed up in leggings, compression socks, extra pair of socks and long sleeve top. Then 10 mins into running and I get hot, mithered and dehydrated. When will I ever learn eh?! This year could be the year where I break my 'no shorts in the UK, even if there is a heatwave' rule.  In fact after years of pointing and laughing at those runners you see in their short shorts and long socks and commenting on how unnecessary they are, I am quite looking forward to becoming one of them and embracing my increasing list of running rituals!!

Anyway back to the run.............Not very eventful really, sun was out, as were lots of people with very well behaved dogs and lots of people with not so well behaved children!

I usually find the first 6 miles or so tough and then find my rhythm and settle down.  I just wasn't feeling it today, kept looking at my watch every 5 minutes and couldn't wait to get home. I'm use to having Alex there for a chat and the sound of his constant spitting! Oh well, we all have our off days but at least I got those miles under my belt!

When I got home, I did one of my new running rituals and got in an ice bath with a nice big brew! Works an absolute treat, I tell thee!!