A week of two halves

The first few days of last week were overtaken with work and an insatiable appetite; the runger just took over post Ashby 20 and I had a horrible cold as well which didn't help. I had intended to run whilst away in Notts and even to run with a different running club on Tuesday but I just felt awful so I rested for most of the week. I was looking forward to getting a sports massage on Thursday but ended up not being able to get back from a conference on time. Work's been going well and is my priority right now but I couldn't help feeling frustrated that my training and the other important stuff like diet, massage and rest were taking a bit of a hit. I've written before about how much habit and consistency are key to fitness and health and it's so easy to lose a few days, which turns into a few weeks. It was the last week of Jantastic too and I knew I was going to have to play a joker; not the planned "finishing strong" I'd hoped for!

By Friday I started to feel a bit better and decided to have a little run on Friday evening to see how the legs were feeling before Saturday's Road Relays. Occasionally I am reminded of my love for running, pure and simple, and Friday was one such occasion. It was a slow four miles, with my knee feeling sore to begin with but soon relaxing, and I loved it...  My mood lifted and I slept better on Friday than I had all week and was looking forward to the relays on Saturday.

After a panicky realisation that because of missing so many runs in the week I hadn't washed my club vest (managed to get it through the express wash & dry cycle just in time!) I headed to Sutton Park on the train with my club-mates. We were somewhat depleted, with injuries, house moves and holidays reducing our numbers until we ended up with one full team and a B team (which I was in) of just five (instead of six) members. It was the usual slightly hideous running experience; I was glad to set off first leg and get it over with, but I always feel like my self-esteem takes a bit of a battering at these events. I half-joke that they make me feel old, fat and slow; but there's a hint of truth in it. Fortunately the team spirit, cheering other members of the team on and the cake afterwards more than make up for it. I was a bit disappointed with my time of 25:34 over approximately 5k; but it is a tough course and it was difficult, once we were all spread out, to get that race mindset. 

I'd got 17 miles down for my last long run of Jantastic, but decided to just do a 15 miler, being as I was still shaking off the cold and my knee was continuing to gripe a bit. The clocks changed on Sunday so we set out at 9 instead of the usual 8:30. I had a lot to do for the rest of the day so it was good to get it done and to enjoy a chat with everyone else who was out - I saw so many team mates out running along the canal... Everyone coming to the end of the serious training, ready to start their tapers. It was good to finish the week in better form than I had started it!

Ashby 20, 22nd March 2015

I'd heard so much about the Ashby 20; the legendary hoodie, a cheese cob afterwards and a gorilla (actually a man in a gorilla suit, but still) - other Harriers talked of this epic race as a must-do. A 20-mile race is a rite of passage for those with a Spring marathon in the offing, or for those who are more circumspect, waiting to see how they fare before signing up for the full 26.2. There aren't too many in the calendar and Ashby falls perfectly for anyone with a place at London or in my case Manchester. It seemed to book up quickly, but 21 Bournvillains took part, no doubt getting their places early as a result of previous experience or Jude's PR campaign.

There was the usual convoy from Rowheath on Sunday morning, but I was kindly offered a lift by Collette and Mike setting off closer to home at the same time. I'd seen signs warning of delays owing to the events over in Bosworth as they were moving the remains of Richard III to Leicester Cathedral on Sunday, but we had a clear run, arriving in Ashby-de-la-Zouch in plenty of time on a perfect day for running; cool and clear. 

As a club race with the backing of a major brand (Aldi) the race benefits from knowledge of what works for runners, a friendly feel akin to smaller races but a field size and organisation that compares well with large "city" races. The roads were mostly closed at least on the left-hand side and the water-stations were manned by a cheery bunch - with offers of gels, bananas and chocolate as well as both cups and bottles of water. With the benefit of chip timing too the slightly congested start area wasn't much of a worry and I found myself lined up at the start with a group of similar-paced club-mates. 

When I had originally entered I had intended to run at 9min mile pace (which would be my A++ target marathon pace), but was recently persuaded that this might not be such a good plan on a course with some hills just four weeks before Manchester and having been struggling with an IT band related niggle. Somehow though I changed my mind back again and thought I'd start out with the fellow BvHers who were all looking to get under the three hour mark (or at least intending to set off at that pace and see what happened). I told myself I'd hang back if things started to feel tough - it's all about making the Manchester start-line at the moment. 

After the first mile or two my knee was feeling okay and I was enjoying the course. There's support in places, but also a great sense of camaraderie with other runners. As well as chatting to Harriers I struck up a conversation with a lady from Southwell Running Club, which is one of the clubs I've been checking out as a potential second claim with my new job taking me up to the Newark/Mansfield area for a couple of days each week. The course is definitely best described as undulating, but the hills are spread out a bit and I don't think there are any that are real killers (a surprising result of training with Bournville is that my definition of a hill has changed considerably in the last two years!)

I can't remember the exact moment that I started to think I was going to have a problem but it was before the halfway point when I started to keep my eyes open for the portaloos. I located them just after the first lap and only briefly stopped to question whether I should lose time in going. I thought I had found a vacant one but unfortunately burst in on a chap who may have been having a similar issue but in his haste he'd not locked the door! I was a disappointed that I was falling behind Clare and Steve who I'd been running with, mainly because I'd been enjoying having some good company to pass the miles with, but I figured it was probably just as well as I'd not been intending to run at that pace and I could find my own rhythm. 

On emerging from the facilities I saw Taz with his trusty camera and think I managed a vague grimace in his direction gratefully taking some sweets too. I managed to eat two of the sweets before starting to feel really quite sick and realising that my relief was short-lived. Somehow I caught up with Clare and Steve over the next few miles but it wasn't my most controlled and comfortable running... I toyed with dropping out at the next water-station but somehow the thought of the hoodie pushed me on - no finish, no hoodie! I realised that I could walk a bit and still maintain an okay pace, providing I didn't run too hard down the hills or on the steeper sections. Mostly though I was embarrassed by the gurgling sound emanating from my stomach and started avoiding other runners! At the 17 mile mark I realised I'd come too far to stop, but that I really needed to find another loo... I asked at the water station but they thought the next one was at the end. At 18 miles we turned off back into Packington village and, like an oasis in the desert The Bull and Lion pub appeared! By this time, just coming towards noon the pub was fairly busy with people contemplating lunch so the sight of a panicky, sweaty runner bursting through the door shouting "where's the loo?" must have been alarming. I am starting to wonder if it is possible for me to take part in a race without drawing unwelcome attention to myself... 

At least the last two miles passed uneventfully, I felt hungry and thirsty but daren't take a gel or any more water until the finish line was in sight. The sound of the crowds and the PA system announcing runners crossing the line got me through the last few minutes, along with the promise that it was downhill all the way. Rachel Partridge had run for the first ten miles with us for company, and it was great to see her at the beginning of the finishing straight with a few hundred metres left to run. Taz was also waiting with his camera and I tried to summon the energy to smile. I crossed the line and registered the gun time was just over 3 hours 10, so I expected I'd come in just under that arbitrary boundary... The text message that followed confirmed it at 3:09:48 

I gratefully received my hoodie and inhaled the cheese cob followed by a cup of tea courtesy of Rachel, some amazing cake made by Taz and a lovely hour or so with the other BvHers who had finished. We compared notes; from amazing feats and a prize for Linda, PBs and great first-time runs for others and decisions to sign up for a marathon from four previously "undecided". I felt like a different person to the one who had started the race; blistered feet, the beginnings of a cold and a sick, empty feeling that no amount of food has put right since but also overwhelmingly proud and happy - to be part of a team, to have completed my longest ever run and just to enjoy sitting in the sun on a Sunday afternoon with friends.

Photo courtesy of Taz Yousaf

Full results

When the going gets tough

From a running perspective the first week of a new job, more miles in the car than I usually do in a month, a night away and a dodgy knee seemed like a recipe for a poor week's training leading up to my longest ever race, the Ashby 20. As it happened I managed to get four runs logged (not quite my hoped for five), none of which were as long as I would normally manage but I ticked over the week whilst mostly focussing on the new job and wondering if I'd ever get used to sitting in the car for two hours at a time with only Radio 4 for company.

Monday's run was a leg stretch and an explore around my new base for a couple of days each week in Nottinghamshire. I managed to catch the last of the light, unfortunately the wind turbines, which look majestic in the distance on my run, appear quite unimpressive on the photo I took on my run. 

The nights are definitely getting lighter and with the clocks changing this weekend I'm looking forward to exploring the area and perhaps joining a club in the vicinity as a "second claim" to Bournville Harriers.

Back in Brum I managed a second run on Wednesday of a similar distance, with the knee still irritating me for the first mile or two but feeling more comfortable as time progressed. I listened to the parkrun show podcast during the run - it is coming to an end shortly and I'm already missing it. So many of my runs have been accompanied by "King" Danny Norman and Nicola "she who must not be named" Forwood and the other various characters that inhabit my other running community - the virtual world that brings together parkrunners from around the globe. I have mostly laughed along, occasionally cried (Episode 122 - For Zoe) and learnt a few fascinating facts through parkrunpedia. If you've never listened to it you have 180 ish episodes to enjoy.

I made it home just in time for the club reps session on Thursday but I didn't really try in the efforts and my knee was really starting to hurt. I decided that as I was volunteering rather than running at Saturday's parkrun I would try to completely rest my legs and hope that it would be better come Sunday's race. I knew this would leave me short of the 100% I was aiming for in the March section of Jantastic, even if I did get the target time 

I had ambitiously set for Ashby, but I really felt it was the sensible thing to do with Manchester just over four weeks away and the bulk of the training in the bag. So many of my running friends were suffering with various injuries and illnesses - I don't think I was alone in feeling a bit broken.

An "edgy" week

With Sunday's epic adventure in my legs I began the week looking forward to ticking off some errands on my last week off work ahead of starting my new job next Monday. I suddenly realised I hadn't got long to get on top of things like the washing and general admin before getting back on the usual treadmill where there never seems to be enough hours in the day. I wanted to get a solid week's training in, and maybe write a couple of extra blog posts as well.

Monday's club night was the Kings Heath route, which is quite gentle as BvH routes go but with a couple of climbs up Cartland Road on the way out and Mary Vale on the way back. In any case this was never going to be a quick one but my legs felt relatively good, except for an occasional twinge on the outside of my right knee. I'd noticed a bit of tightness there before during my post workout stretches and in yoga, but I have only just started to realise it is a bit tight in the early stages of a run too.

I had intended to go to my Iyengar yoga class on Tuesday but instead decided to visit some friends and then take my Mum out for supper for her birthday, so I did a DVD at home on Tuesday morning; Jillian Michaels Yoga Meltdown, which is a bit of a revved up Vinyasa style yoga. It's only half an hour but it's quite a good workout with some balance poses as well as strength and a bit of cardio too. I think Jillian is a great trainer, having used her DVDs and followed her on the podcast and the Biggest Loser TV show. She's also an inspiring person and I recently had the pleasure of seeing her live. She's become a bit more of a self-help guru lately but I find her really interesting when she talks about health and nutrition; and she's really passionate about things like dealing with the obesity crisis in the US. 

On Wednesday it was back to the medium-long run, and this time I tried to gradually increase my pace over the first five miles and then reduce it gradually in the second half. I ran out along the canal towards Dickens Heath which is a muddier route than heading in towards Birmingham, so I had my trail shoes on. I had a few issues with my watch on this run so it was difficult to get the pacing right - I think breaking the run into three sections rather than mile by mile would be easier. I listened to some good interviews on the Marathon Talk podcast which really helped to pass the time, but again I was conscious of my knee and felt glad that I had my sports massage booked. I've written about sports massage and other ways I'm trying to avoid injury here.

Thursday was a really busy day, filling in loads of forms for my new job and taking Jess to the vets. I was looking forward to the session at club and had virtually forgotten about my knee as it felt fine on my dog walk during the day. The session was mile reps which was a good fit with my training in keeping with my plan to do a bit of work on my speed over the next 3-4 weeks. During the warm up my knee felt really quite sore though, and I was beginning to question whether I should be running at all, let alone doing the efforts. My thoughts began to run away with me... "I can't believe this is happening again, I'm going to have to stop just when I've put in all this training..." Fortunately one of my club mates, who is also doing Manchester and has battled back from a very nasty injury after falling off a climbing wall, was there to put things into perspective and advised me not to get carried away, but just to see how it felt and back off if necessary. On the second effort it felt much better - in fact, the harder I ran the less it bothered me, and by the third effort I couldn't feel it. I did four in the end and although I was a bit disappointed that my splits weren't better, I definitely felt like I was working hard, although I couldn't keep up with those around me who are a similar pace. I took some advice from Margaret and had a good stretch afterwards and used the foam roller too.

On Friday morning my knee felt good but I didn't want to risk a load of squats and lunges as I had planned, so instead I did a DVD which focussed on upper body and core strength, followed by a good 15 minute yoga stretch. This is from the Davina Fit DVD which is one I use regularly. I got the foam roller out again too, which seemed to help. The rest of the day was pretty busy with lots of errands to run and cleaning the house too; my iPhone Health App reckons I did 24 flights of stairs which is pretty high for a supposed rest day (and I think I left the phone downstairs on a couple of trips too!) By 8pm I felt tired and ready for UKrunchat hour - an hour of tweeting all things running... Good fun while you're resting tired legs! Just follow the hashtag UKrunchat.

I had a long run of about 18 miles planned for Saturday, meeting a good pal from my running club and incorporating Cannon Hill parkrun too. We had a great chat passing the time and the miles, incorporating three parks (Kings Heath, Highbury and Cannon Hill) as well as sections of the canal and Rea Valley on a crisp, dry day but it was much colder than I was expecting. I'd planned to run at approximately 10 minute mile pace but Strava thinks it was more like 9:15... My legs felt shot at 15 so perhaps it was just a bit too fast. Good job there's 8 days to recover before the Ashby 20-mile race. 

The lovely Barbara Partridge was Run Director at parkrun and she kindly have me a This Girl Can keyring just before the start, which gave me a boost! It looks good next to my parkrun barcode, doesn't it? It would be nice to have another crack at my parkrun PB soon, but at the moment it just isn't fitting in with my other plans.

In Wolverhampton on Sunday for Mother's Day, I had a leisurely start but wanted to try out my new Hoka One One shoes on a short recovery run. (I'll do a full review soon). My knee felt a bit niggly again so I kept it to just four miles, although again my pace was a bit quicker than it felt. Lots of friends were racing over the weekend and there were some impressive performances and PBs for a few. Just five weeks until my marathon in Manchester and six weeks before the London Marathon, everyone seems to be peaking and/or struggling with injuries.

Starting my new job tomorrow so a good week's training logged this week is a confidence booster as I'm not sure how my usual routine will fare next week. Fingers crossed my knee will settle down a bit too and I'll be able to get some good rest in.

Photo courtesy of Geoff Hughes, Cannon Hill parkrun.

Avoiding injury

I'm nervous about posting this. Is it tempting fate to write a blog post about avoiding injury with less than six weeks to go before my first marathon? The fact is that I have entered two marathons previously and withdrawn because of injuries, not to mention the list of other races I've missed because of runner's knee, ITB issues, shin splints and a foot injury that I don't think was ever really diagnosed. There's no doubt that if consistency is the key to a good training block, avoiding injury is one of the most important considerations for runners.

But what do I know? I'm certainly no expert but I have put in more miles this time (15-25% more than last year) and have somehow managed to string together possibly my longest spell of training without taking any time out for injury (picture me superstitiously touching every possible wooden item in my house as I type those words!) So for what it's worth, I thought I'd write about what I've been doing to try to keep the injuries at bay. It would be great to hear from other runners too - what works for you, and how do you motivate yourself to keep the preventative activities going, when let's face it, we'd all rather be running?!

Strength and Conditioning

I've had a bit more time on my hands recently, and one of the best uses has been the additional S&C work I've been able to do. Over the last few months I managed to do two rounds of the Kinetic Revolution 30-day programme which is a free programme, broken into five sets of six days, each working through different exercises focussing on hip mobility, proprioception and strength. I found some of the exercises tricky, but at only 20 minutes per day it was undoubtedly a good use of time and I plan to do another block or perhaps try the six-week programme next.

I've managed to fit in at least one session of weights and/or yoga each week for the last 12 weeks or so, most weeks it's been one or more of each. As I've mentioned previously I use DVDs mostly, as I find them easy to follow, there's no need to travel anywhere to do them and they're cheap as chips compared to gym membership! There are also loads of YouTube videos (including a few Runners World ones that I have tried), which you can do in the comfort of your home. A lot of these include body weight training alongside free weights, and whilst I think it would be good to lift some heavier weights, I do think the strength work has made a difference, particularly to my core strength.

I'm not a great one for lots of stretching after my run, particularly in the winter when I just want to get in the bath and get warm, so I tend to just focus on a good hamstring, calf and quad stretch. My main stretching therefore tends to be in a yoga class. I need to get into more of a routine of doing some home practice a few times a week, but a good class is a great addition to a runner's training plan and I intend to keep up at least one class of either Iyengar or HotPod yoga in future.

Massage

I have a foam roller... I occasionally use the foam roller (but not as much as I should). I also sometimes borrow the dog's tennis ball for a bit of self-massage especially if I have a bit of a niggle. I don't think there's any substitute though for a good, regular Sports Massage. Yes, it is an additional expense, but I do think if you can afford it then it is worth the time and cost. I'm typing this having earlier paid a visit to Margaret Ehrenberg for what has recently been an appointment every two to three-weeks. Margaret is a runner herself and is good to talk to about all things training and racing; having a regular appointment also means I'm less likely to allow a niggle to develop, as we'll spend a bit of time at the beginning talking through the areas where I'm feeling tight. Sometimes it's a bit painful during the treatment itself but I do feel the benefit afterwards.

Physio

I haven't needed to visit a physiotherapist this year (do I need to keep saying "touch wood"?) but I'd recommend any runner, particularly beginners, to also look into getting a healthcare cash plan, such as BHSF or Simply Health (your employer might offer one at a discounted rate). You can claim cash back for some treatments and therapies including physiotherapy, should you need it (if the number of my mates who have needed to visit "Injury Corner" is anything to go by, you will!)

Shoes

Opinion is divided on the difference that footwear can make to runners' propensity for injury. I'm sceptical about whether a specific shoe can make all the difference, but I think it is important that it's well made, suitable for the type of running (surface and volume), and ideally fitted at a reputable running shop (where they do gait analysis). Again this is a more expensive option than buying online, but once you've identified the shoe for you, future purchases can be made online. (I'm not going to start on here about directing money into the local economy, but I do like to make at least a few purchases in a local running shop each year as I would hate to see them go the same way as other businesses. They usually offer a discount for running club members too.)

I've been wearing Asics Gel Cumulus for a couple of years now and I usually have two pairs of road shoes on the go at once. I track the miles covered in each pair on Nike+ and when a pair gets to the 300 miles mark or thereabouts I buy a new pair and start breaking those in, ditching the other pair (or relegating them to the gardening or dog-walking pile) when they're over 400 miles. I also have a pair of trail shoes and spikes for cross-country.

I bought some sorbothane insoles last year after a spell of shin splints and I wear these in my main pair of road shoes. They're relatively inexpensive and comfortable to use; I'm pretty sure they've helped to minimise impact and will continue to use them (you can wash them and pop them back in too so they're quite practical).

Form

On the evidence of virtually every race photo of me, unless there is a prize for "runner who could most easily pass for a troll" this is the area that needs work, and is likely to have contributed to my previous injury history. I know that towards the end of long runs I sometimes kick my ankle, hunch over and my bum sticks out. I've been working on this through some of the S&C work mentioned above, but also attended a Running Technique Workshop which has made something of a difference. I really hope to look a bit less like I belong under a bridge in my next race photo!

And everything else...

Are you still with me? I think there's a lot more that can be said about this; for example the role of sleep, nutrition, ice baths and alternative therapies. There's so much research and lots of opinion out there; it can be overwhelming! Ultimately though I think a lot comes down to the individual and with experience and talking to other trusted individuals starting to understand what works for you, and prioritising where you're going to spend your time and pennies. There will always be a balance to be achieved between pushing further in terms of intensity or volume to improve and allowing the body time to adapt and recover. Personally I want to enjoy a long relationship with running and would sooner err on the side of caution to prolong my running, than push my body for a short-term goal or outcome, but I'll keep experimenting along the way. Now, where's that foam roller?

Logging the miles

After Sunday's half marathon tumble I woke up on Monday feeling very aware of my elbow. It was slightly swollen and felt hot to touch and I couldn't lean on or use my arm fully. I had a fairly easy day, catching up with some washing, writing my blog and trying not to worry. I was looking forward to Monday night's club run as so many of my club-mates had been competing over the weekend and many were celebrating PBs so there was a great atmosphere. A few of us decided to run one of the club routes in reverse which was enjoyable, but I was later reminded that there can be safety issues related to running in groups on untested routes.

On Tuesday I would have liked to do some strength work but even just doing a bit of housework was aggravating my elbow so it's another week without any weights being lifted. I did make it to my Yoga class in the afternoon though, just missing out anything involving putting weight on my arm and focussing on my kneecaps (yes, really! Occasionally in Iyengar Yoga we become very aware of parts of the body that are oft overlooked).

On Wednesday I was going to meet an ex-colleague for lunch, but I was also planning on going to Wolverhampton to see my mother-in-law in the afternoon so I suggested meeting him for a run and a coffee in the morning instead. Having friends who run is great for meeting up and fitting in training with a social life too. I ran to Cannon Hill park (3 miles) where we met up and then continued on along the Rea Valley route and back to the mac for a further 6 miles or so. This was perfect for me; a longish run after the weekend's effort, but also suited him; a faster runner but not training for anything in particular, just happy to get a few miles in. The coffee and teacake afterwards was a nice guilt-free treat too. I was also trying out some new kit on this run, which I reviewed here.

On Thursday I enjoyed a bit of shopping for a change in Solihull. Thinking ahead to returning to work I even bought a lunchbox for my healthy lunches I'm planning to take. I sometimes find it easier to make healthy choices if I make them fun - this Happy Jackson box is just waiting to be filled with raw fruit bars, nuts and veggie wraps!

I decided to do the club reps session which was pyramid hills on Thursday, having run out of excuses (I've got a race at the weekend etc.) for avoiding speedwork. I do want to get faster, but sometimes find it mentally draining to keep putting in the effort week after week. With five weeks to go until Manchester Marathon, I think a few reps sessions could make a difference even at this late stage, but my focus will continue to be the longer steady runs and keeping the mileage up. Pyramid workouts are those where the efforts get progressively harder or longer and then reduce gradually back down again. In this case we were running uphill efforts with recovery downhill back to the start point, running to the first lamppost then the second etc. up to the 6th marker then back "down the pyramid" (6th marker, 5th and so on). I really enjoyed this session! Although the total distance seems like nothing compared to a typical run, the feeling of running hard is great... Why do I sometimes forget that and talk myself out of the sessions?

On Friday we received the news that we had not passed the Only Connect auditions so wouldn't be going through to the TV rounds. It was fun taking part up to that point though, and my TV quiz dream isn't over for good!

Friday was also a rest day, just enjoying a walk with the dog in the spring sunshine before getting ready for our club awards night. I was very excited as I missed awards night last year and I love the social events. Being part of a club has been fantastic for me on many levels, both in terms of running but also the great friends I have met. Running with someone else is a bonding experience; in life we're all so busy that it is rare to spend an hour talking to a friend or family member, and yet I share runs of that length with club mates a few times a week - no wonder fast friendships are forged! The awards night was good fun and acknowledged some of the great performances but also individual improvements and participation of Team Tealers. I was pleased to be nominated for an award for Endeavour (which I joked was running club speak for "slow but enthusiastic"), but not surprised that the award deservedly went to a team mate who races most weekends in some really tough events, mainly off-road. I had won one of the Teal Target events (winners chosen based on runbritain rankings) last year, but wasn't expecting a prize for that, and also received a medal for being a nominee; as you can see I was rather pleased to take away some "bling" from the event.

On Saturday morning I toyed with taking Jess to parkrun at Cannon Hill but decided to give it a bit of a go instead. I wasn't expecting a PB after the wine and curry at the awards and given how busy CHP is these days, but I thought it would be good to have more of a tempo run. I was disappointed with my time of 25:50, but pleased that I hadn't made excuses and jogged round, especially as my thoughts were turning to Sunday's long run. I had an afternoon nap on Saturday which is really rare for me, but perhaps an indication that the extra miles are starting to catch up with me.

This morning's long run loomed like a race rather than an LSR... I felt a bit nervous, partly because I'd suggested the route but also because it was to be my longest run (I planned a minimum 18 miles, but others were talking 18.5 plus). We decided to run along the canals into town and round to the Cole Valley route through The Shires country park, which I have run through in the past and makes a pleasant change. I do prefer a loop to out-and-back runs; for some reason they feel like more of an achievement, but they're also more interesting. Unfortunately I didn't really know how to stick the two parts of the route together and was relying on a combination of my smartphone, signage and my fellow runners. We ended up taking one diversion and a second unnecessary extra loop which in total added about 2 miles to the planned route which had come out at 17.5 miles. The signage did not help...

So we did get a little bit lost, but I loved the route for the change of scenery and I especially enjoyed the company and positivity of the others. 19.5 miles around Birmingham, virtually all along canal towpaths and cycle routes through varied urban landscapes. 

Last week I reflected on how useful running had been while I've been "between jobs". This week I've also considered that having some time off work has really enabled me to put some extra miles in during this training cycle and that opportunity is now coming to an end. I am full of genuine admiration for anyone who goes on this marathon journey with jobs and families that demand so much more of their time. It's hard work, but everything worth doing is!

Updated: Tribesports product review with £10 off voucher code

I was lucky enough to win £100 worth of Tribesports vouchers in a recent Facebook competition. I've been meaning to try some of their products since becoming aware of them through their partnership with parkrun and reading about their credentials in Runners World magazine recently.

The £100 voucher went a long way; a short-sleeved top, capri tights, shorts and "runderwear"; briefs designed specifically for running; all came in at exactly £100 with free delivery on orders over £45. The product range is currently relatively limited but the colours and styles are all fine and the prices are reasonable.

For £10 off your next purchase of £50 or more click here.

The items were dispatched and delivered quickly, and whilst there is always too much packaging with sportswear deliveries, there didn't seem to be the excessive labelling that some products come with (Nike take note!) 

Turquoise Top

I really loved the colour and fit of this top and it was comfortable to wear. I ordered the small as advised and it was a great fit - clinging but not feeling tight at all. The length was also great - I really hate those too short tops as I am long in the body, but this sat at exactly the right point. The only downside and a surprising one was how much the sweat showed up on the top after my run. I'm not embarrassed by sweat particularly, it's perfectly normal (although I think I sweat a bit more than the average woman!) I know that it bothers some women though. It won't stop me wearing and enjoying the top though.

Black Capri Tights

The reviews on the website suggested that the fit might either be a little loose on the waist or potentially tight on the calf, but I opted for the Small anyway and I'm generally very pleased with the fit. They are a smidge tight around the calf but I think that's better than being too loose there. The fit around the waist it very comfortable and the fabric feels soft and looks lovely - not at all shiny and quite flattering. The pocket is a decent size too. I'd buy these again.

Black Running Shorts

In the interest of full disclosure I will admit I've not yet worn these for a run or race, although I have tried them on. They were very comfortable, a flattering length and fit, and the "under-shorts" would give me extra confidence too. I'm looking forward to wearing these and might give them a test run at parkrun on Saturday.

Runderwear Comfort G-string

I feel vaguely embarrassed talking about my underwear on such a public forum, but suffice to say I prefer this style of underwear but have struggled in the past to find running-specific underwear that isn't a full brief. I did a longish run in these and from the moment I put them on I felt they were a great purchase; very comfortable, soft and no seams to irritate. I will definitely buy these again and in the meantime they may have to be saved for race or long run days! I love the name and the packaging too - perhaps they'll give me super-powers!

Overall I'd describe myself as a Tribesports convert and I'm very much looking forward to getting my parkrun 100 t-shirt when they're ready #ownyourmarks

Anglesey Half Marathon, 1st March 2015

Severe gales and rain were forecast for Sunday, but as it wasn't likely to put off the hardy Welsh runners, I set off on Sunday morning feeling excited if a bit nervous for the Anglesey Half Marathon. The race is billed as the UK's most beautiful half, so I was pleased that the sun was at least trying to put in an appearance on my journey over from Rhyl. In the car I had one of those moments where the music and scenery are in perfect harmony; as it was St David's Day they played Only Men Aloud's version of Cwm Rhondda on Radio 2; I felt my spirits lifting and couldn't wait to get started.

Parking was just £3 at the David Hughes Leisure Centre, where registration was also taking place and I was pleased to note the presence of showers for afterwards. The wind felt bitterly cold though, and I was glad of a good walk to the start line to warm me up. At the start there was also a bag drop van and some more loos, although the queue for these was a bit too long and I didn't bother. I met up with a friend and fellow Bournville Harrier, Laura Gale - we'd both separately entered not realising until afterwards that there would be anyone else prepared to make the trip over; so it was a bonus to have someone to chat to. 

The race began at 9am on the Menai Bridge and it was a twisty start through the town on fairly narrow roads for the first mile or so, before heading out of town along the coastal road towards Beaumaris and beyond. The views out over the Menai Strait and onto the Irish Sea were stunning and the sun shone for a good part of the race, it was even feeling a little too warm in some of the sheltered parts. 

A fellow runner recognised the Bournville vest and asked me to say hello from "Welsh Helen" to a club mate of mine. There was a good sense of camaraderie throughout the run and I was feeling reasonably comfortable at a pace that I knew could see me through to a PB. I hadn't paid too much attention to the course profile, knowing my tendency to hold back too much and worry myself over hills; but I had heard some other runners talking about a longish climb at the 10-mile point. I've started to believe though that hills can help the overall time if I make the most of the compensatory effect of the downhills, so I wasn't too concerned about slowing down a bit just after the halfway point. I took some of the energy drink at the aid station, which was really nice and I will definitely use some of the High 5 products they gave out as part of the goody bag.

There was a bit of an argument between two runners as we turned back from Llanfaes, one of whom had apparently discarded his gel pouch on the course (not near the water station). I tried not to become distracted by it as it was quite a heated exchange. I found I was passing other runners along the flatter sections here, only to lose ground on the hills so tried to maintain my focus. The wind began to trouble us all, and another runner had just said to me "will we ever get to 9?" when the 9-mile marker appeared as we rounded onto the sea front at Beaumaris. I'm not really sure what happened next but I tripped over seemingly nothing and suddenly the ground was coming up to meet me. Momentum took me forwards and I put my hand out, then rolled onto my elbow and thigh before coming to a stop on my back. Judging from my watch afterwards, I was down for about 20-30 seconds but it felt like longer. A few people kindly stopped to help, but I sort of knew I was okay and that I just needed a moment to collect myself.

I got up and started to run on, feeling a bit embarrassed and concerned that I might have broken my phone... It's funny how your thoughts take a little while to un-jumble themselves because initially I felt absolutely fine, but I gradually began to feel quite upset. I took a quick glance at my elbow and could see it was bleeding but it didn't seem to be dripping. My hand felt sore and I could sense that my shoulder and thigh had taken some of the fall too. That mile must have just been a total blur though because the hill at 10-miles was soon upon me and I started to have a bit of a wobble, filling up with tears and nearly twisting my ankle on a cat's eye. I was telling myself to concentrate when a man came past me and said "good recovery, you're doing really well". 

I started to focus on the positives; I'd got up and carried on; it would make a funny story; at least it happened towards the last third of the race so I didn't have far to go to get it looked at. All thoughts of getting a good time had gone and I felt really tired for the remainder of the race, just wanting to reach the end. Coming back into town the atmosphere was pretty special - it was buzzing and everyone seemed so happy. The clouds had started to come in as forecast so we were very lucky to get the best of the day's weather. 

I saw Laura just before the finish line, and heard my Aunt and Mom who had come to meet me (they were cheering so loud I think all of Wales could have heard them!) I glanced at the clock and was surprised to see that it was a second-best half time for me, even on the gun time. I collected my medal and a drink and quickly made my way to the medical tent. I felt a bit wobbly while they took a look at the damage, but I was pleased that both my wrist and elbow were okay - no sign of anything broken, just a bit of swelling and a nasty scrage. 

I caught up with my family and found Laura, who had managed a brilliant PB and was 5th female too! I really did enjoy the overall experience - it was a long way to travel but I think it would be a hard one to beat for scenery. I also took a lot of confidence from how well I'd been running up until I fell. My chip time was 1:53:23 so not far off my PB (1:52:15) and I'm confident that my fitness is improving.

Turning points

This week was full on, but mostly in a good way! I try to keep this blog to life outside of work, but to give a bit of context; I've been looking for a job since being made redundant at the end of last year. This week started out with one proper interview and two informal chats about possible roles on Monday; a workshop on CVs, interviews etc. on Tuesday; another "chat/interview" on Wednesday; a proper interview on Thursday; and finished with two job offers on Friday! In addition to this, Friday was audition day for Only Connect - which was great fun, but also quite nerve-wracking and added to my feeling of being "tired but wired" come Friday night.

Nutrition was also a big struggle again this week as I found myself reaching for sweet things and plenty of caffeine and struggled to make healthy choices. Something to focus on for me in March I think, as well as trying to get an earlier night wherever possible.

Back out running with club on Monday, the break seemed to have rejuvenated me and the run felt easier. All my running is recorded on Strava which I upload from my Nike+ watch so if you're on either of those and want to follow me there it would be great to connect with more runners. I was home too late to go to my Yoga class on Tuesday so just did a DVD at home, struggling a bit with the weights after a longer break. I'm not really following a training plan at the moment, just trying to focus on putting in the miles and occasionally doing a race or parkrun as a nod to speedwork. I had time to do a longer run on Wednesday but I was mindful of having a half-marathon scheduled as a tune-up race on Sunday, so 9 miles somewhere between steady and easy made sense. I love the run along the canal, although the smell of chocolate as I passed Bournville on Wednesday had me reaching for the Cadburys Fruit & Nut again when I got home!

I have found running really helpful whilst being out of work - it's given me some structure, something to focus on and I've been able to prepare for interviews too; just thinking through questions and how I might answer them. I also started to notice the signs that Spring is here this week as a few flowers are appearing on my runs and walks with the dog. I think this all helps me to feel more positive; that I'm reaching a turning point and good things are beginning to happen.

Thursday night's club run was a choice between reps and an easy run, and I took the easy option; mostly because I wanted to have a chat with one of my club-mates who I haven't had chance to catch up with much of late. We ran a version of one of the club runs but kept the miles to just five. Although I didn't want to taper specifically for the Half in Anglesey, I was conscious that with everything else going on I was feeling pretty tired, so my runs this week have all been fairly steady, just trying to enjoy it. Saturday's parkrun was also very much in this category. I've not been to Cannon Hill to run for a while, although I have volunteered there. It was nice though to run without any pressure and to say hello to some friends who were running or volunteering. Afterwards I drove to Wolverhampton to collect my Mom and then on to Rhyl to stay with my Auntie who lives there. We used to spend quite a bit of time in Rhyl in the summer holidays but it's probably been 10 years since I have been there. Apparently Conwy has a lovely new parkrun though and is just down the road, so I will add it to my parkrun tourism list and return for a visit soon.

On Sunday morning I got up at 6am and drove to the Menai Bridge for the Anglesey Half Marathon, which I've covered in a short race report here. I then had a long drive back via Wolverhampton and finished off with a chip-shop tea! I'm sure it isn't the best recovery from a race, but it's all about balance and I finished the week feeling much more positive. Onwards and upwards!