Week 21 Training log

A good return to training this week, a slight increase in hours with the introduction of Yoga and Pilates. In the end I'll probably only do one of these classes but for now I'm going to stick to both. Both are good for my flexibility and core strength, something in which I am lacking. The increase in flexibility should help in preventing muscle injuries which can only be good.

A great run in mid week. 13 miles in 1:46:23 just 3 minutes off my half marathon time in Cardiff, which concidering Cardiff was flat and Pembrokshire is nothing but big bumps was really quite good. I found myself in a little trouble during the run and towards the end I was in a world of pain as I climed the last hill towards home. I never intended to do either that distance or that time. I set off wishing to do between an hour and an hour and a half. I took a gel with me in my shorts pocket as I wasn't that confident about my energy levels. After about 45 minutes I reached for the gel but it was gone, the bugger had fallen out of my pocket. I made a calculated guess and decided it wouldn't be much further to go straight on than to turn right so on I went. It was about 2 miles later that I realise that it may have been a mistake. I was knocking on the door of 1:15 and I knew I had a good 4 miles left to go before home. I had no gel and more importantly, no water. If there is one thing my training has tought me up to now it is the ability to dig deep when your up against it and believe me, I felt that I was up against it. Have you ever been out on run or a ride and found yourself miles from home and wondered if you will actually make it home. I've been there a few times.
After a few hours of returning home I felt great, no differant to how I feel after running for 1 hour, that is a good sign of improved fitness, it's all working.
I felt that good the day after that I went and spat out a 3 hour ride in the wind and rain. Sometimes it's good to put your head down and think of yourself as a machine. All in all a good feel good week. I am happy.