I've hit a speed bump - a way of been told to slow down. It turns out the technology was telling me to stop training but ignored it. My body has gone on strike. Since my last run I have been floored by a "snot fest". It was 3am before I got to sleep last night and it will be a few days before I can even consider training.
I shouldn't be surprised as this happened last year at the same time. As soon as I take my foot off the gas then bam! There is little I can do about it except get through this as quickly as possible. It will mean I have to dial back on the training and rebuild. If there is a time to get a cold, it is 4 months from a major event. So I am human after all. What is going to make the difference is how I approach this mentally. It's only a small set back but the thought of taking two steps backwards to take one step forward isn't fun. However if I want to achieve everything I have set my sights on in 2014, I need to get back on track. Here's to a healthy 2014 for everyone. 🏃
Sunday 29 December 2013
Friday 27 December 2013
Blown away - literally!
This morning the wind was howling and the rain hammering down against the bedroom window. Did I want to get out my nice warm bed? No, I was on holiday. There are severe weather warnings on the news so the easy decision was to stay in bed. But that's not how you prepare for a 53 mile run.
Time to get up for a yoga practice followed by a trail run with a fellow athlete who is in training for his 1st ironman. For the first time the wind penetrated the trees at Chatelherault and the conditions were wet under foot. At one stage I took a fall straight down. Nothing more than a grazed knee but it could have been worse.
My head cold meant I really shouldn't have been running but I felt up for it. However it became clear I wasn't 100% and the scheduled 2 laps was cut to 1 so a good 5 mile of trail running. It was done in a decent time but pushing it for another lap wasn't advisable and I listened to my body. Home to chocolate milk and home made soup after a shower and clean up. I feel really good now so conclude that I was right to run and right to cut it short. There will be many more training sessions in poor conditions but as I have a major event in the early season, I have no choice so it makes the decision easier to make. Stay safe out there folks.
Time to get up for a yoga practice followed by a trail run with a fellow athlete who is in training for his 1st ironman. For the first time the wind penetrated the trees at Chatelherault and the conditions were wet under foot. At one stage I took a fall straight down. Nothing more than a grazed knee but it could have been worse.
My head cold meant I really shouldn't have been running but I felt up for it. However it became clear I wasn't 100% and the scheduled 2 laps was cut to 1 so a good 5 mile of trail running. It was done in a decent time but pushing it for another lap wasn't advisable and I listened to my body. Home to chocolate milk and home made soup after a shower and clean up. I feel really good now so conclude that I was right to run and right to cut it short. There will be many more training sessions in poor conditions but as I have a major event in the early season, I have no choice so it makes the decision easier to make. Stay safe out there folks.
Thursday 26 December 2013
Confessions of a triathlete
In my last post I said training would start today and that's the great thing about blogging. Once I've said it I really can't go back on my word. Knowing you may be reading my blog means I need to deliver.
The same goes for the goals I set. Make them public then you can't go back. As you will know my next challenge is the Highland Fling. A 53 mile ultra marathon that I want to complete in around 12 hours. My blog is there to record the blood, sweat and tears during my journey so you can get a "front row seat" of what's involved. Now here is where the confession comes in. I'm 52. Not a fact I've tried to hide but just as importantly not an excuse I will make for my performance. I don't consider myself an athlete, just someone who is determined to push my own boundaries. It's almost like an expirement to see just how much more I can get out of myself and I look at other older athletes and realise there is plenty more to go.
A lot of my training is done on my own so I can fit in family and business commitments. But I enjoy getting together with other triathletes and runners. In 2014 a large group of ATHelite members are training for Ironman distance and I look forward to joining their training sessions, after all my second race this year is a 70.3 Ironman. However what I have to guard against is trying to keep up with them or being despondent when left trailing behind. I need to keep my goal in mind and follow my own training plan.
So with a view to my 53 mile ultra marathon I weighed myself on Xmas morning. Not happy to be touching 12 stone as I recon my "fighting weight" to be 11.25 stone max. So carrying all that extra weight takes a lot of effort and I can't afford to do that over 53 miles, never mind all the training miles. I said training starts today so I will be blogging on a more regular basis. I hope to provide technical details for those that are interested and details of the journey for those wanting a laugh over a coffee. So, how do you get from 6 miles, which I ran today, up to 53 miles in 4 months? Well sit back and enjoy the journey. Better still grab a pair of running shoes and start your own journey. Thanks for following mine.
The same goes for the goals I set. Make them public then you can't go back. As you will know my next challenge is the Highland Fling. A 53 mile ultra marathon that I want to complete in around 12 hours. My blog is there to record the blood, sweat and tears during my journey so you can get a "front row seat" of what's involved. Now here is where the confession comes in. I'm 52. Not a fact I've tried to hide but just as importantly not an excuse I will make for my performance. I don't consider myself an athlete, just someone who is determined to push my own boundaries. It's almost like an expirement to see just how much more I can get out of myself and I look at other older athletes and realise there is plenty more to go.
A lot of my training is done on my own so I can fit in family and business commitments. But I enjoy getting together with other triathletes and runners. In 2014 a large group of ATHelite members are training for Ironman distance and I look forward to joining their training sessions, after all my second race this year is a 70.3 Ironman. However what I have to guard against is trying to keep up with them or being despondent when left trailing behind. I need to keep my goal in mind and follow my own training plan.
So with a view to my 53 mile ultra marathon I weighed myself on Xmas morning. Not happy to be touching 12 stone as I recon my "fighting weight" to be 11.25 stone max. So carrying all that extra weight takes a lot of effort and I can't afford to do that over 53 miles, never mind all the training miles. I said training starts today so I will be blogging on a more regular basis. I hope to provide technical details for those that are interested and details of the journey for those wanting a laugh over a coffee. So, how do you get from 6 miles, which I ran today, up to 53 miles in 4 months? Well sit back and enjoy the journey. Better still grab a pair of running shoes and start your own journey. Thanks for following mine.
Sunday 22 December 2013
Endurance training
In training for Ironman events, Marathon des Sables and now other ultra marathons I have trained my mind to put up with a lot. Exhaustion, pain, freezing conditions, extreme heat, dehydration and long periods of boredom.
Over the last few days, such is my dedication to the cause that I have completed a back to back endurance training session that has included all of the above. It started on Friday at 4pm and my first mistake was getting the pace wrong. I went off too fast with the hydration plan forgetting the importance of food - I suffered for that later. The one advantage of the mistake was how quickly the event passed and I shed a lot of pounds, hundreds in fact. Outside it had been freezing but inside the layers were coming off to keep my core temperature down. The boredom of waiting for the carriage home while listening to people who had obviously missed their feed stations eventually passed.
But this was a back to back training session so last nigh I repeated the training. But like all good athletes I had learned. I paced myself. Got the balance right between hydration and food. This was a better experience which enhanced my performance.
Fortunately I only undertake this dangerous training once a year. If you're motivated to try this over the next few weeks then be careful but enjoy yourself. Normal training resumes on Thursday. Have a wonderful Xmas and thank you for taking the time to follow my adventures. Knowing that you are following me keeps me motivated at the most difficult times. Like now when I have a hangover! Merry Xmas.
Over the last few days, such is my dedication to the cause that I have completed a back to back endurance training session that has included all of the above. It started on Friday at 4pm and my first mistake was getting the pace wrong. I went off too fast with the hydration plan forgetting the importance of food - I suffered for that later. The one advantage of the mistake was how quickly the event passed and I shed a lot of pounds, hundreds in fact. Outside it had been freezing but inside the layers were coming off to keep my core temperature down. The boredom of waiting for the carriage home while listening to people who had obviously missed their feed stations eventually passed.
But this was a back to back training session so last nigh I repeated the training. But like all good athletes I had learned. I paced myself. Got the balance right between hydration and food. This was a better experience which enhanced my performance.
Fortunately I only undertake this dangerous training once a year. If you're motivated to try this over the next few weeks then be careful but enjoy yourself. Normal training resumes on Thursday. Have a wonderful Xmas and thank you for taking the time to follow my adventures. Knowing that you are following me keeps me motivated at the most difficult times. Like now when I have a hangover! Merry Xmas.
Monday 16 December 2013
To hibernate or not?
It's that time of year when triathletes tend to catch up on what they missed out during the year due to training and races. But for me, my "A" race was in April and I've enjoyed the 6 months recovery time but not the 3/4 of a stone I have put on. I've been slim all my life so please take my comments in context. I'm not enjoying being just short of 12 stone as having trained for the MdS with a weighted rucksack, I feel I am carrying around excess baggage which is an effort. So come January when my training gets back to normal, this excess baggage is going!
But should I just hibernate for the rest of the month. Enjoy the lovely food, fine wines and a few beers? Stop any kind of training and just enjoy a couple of weeks off? Well I had 6 days off training last week but did a 10k run on Friday and Sunday with some yoga. My glutes complained on Saturday so I went for a painful sports massage which helped loosen them up.
After doing "Dad duties" on Sunday while the weather was dry I found my only "window" to run was in the pissing rain with the wind sending it sideways. This is always a good mental test - am I mental enough to go out in those conditions? I decided it would be character forming and once your wet you can always look forward to the hot shower afterwards which is the best bit.
I have concluded that hibernating would be nice but I feel sluggish if I don't do any training. Therefore I will continue a "winter schedule" over the coming weeks, buildng it around social occassions, food and wine - at least it should mean no more weight gain. Then come January it won't be such a shock to the system when my training and my diet gets a radical overhall. In the meantime I think I'd better start my Xmas shopping which will definately involve running around some shops!
But should I just hibernate for the rest of the month. Enjoy the lovely food, fine wines and a few beers? Stop any kind of training and just enjoy a couple of weeks off? Well I had 6 days off training last week but did a 10k run on Friday and Sunday with some yoga. My glutes complained on Saturday so I went for a painful sports massage which helped loosen them up.
After doing "Dad duties" on Sunday while the weather was dry I found my only "window" to run was in the pissing rain with the wind sending it sideways. This is always a good mental test - am I mental enough to go out in those conditions? I decided it would be character forming and once your wet you can always look forward to the hot shower afterwards which is the best bit.
I have concluded that hibernating would be nice but I feel sluggish if I don't do any training. Therefore I will continue a "winter schedule" over the coming weeks, buildng it around social occassions, food and wine - at least it should mean no more weight gain. Then come January it won't be such a shock to the system when my training and my diet gets a radical overhall. In the meantime I think I'd better start my Xmas shopping which will definately involve running around some shops!
Sunday 8 December 2013
Technogical dilemna
I can't start my blog this week without saying how sad the passing of Nelson Mandela was. So much has been written and said about him this week. but I would just like to mention one of his famous quotations which I like. "Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again." There's a message there for all of us.
As you now I have always preached you should "listen to your body" but I decided to take this to a higher level by buying some new technology - there's always room for more technology IF it helps your performance! Friends often are concerned that I might be overdoing my training as the mileage starts to build up but this might help prevent problems. For the athlete's out there here's a bit of science.
I bought the ithelite HRV monitor and app. It measures the heart rate variability (HRV) which assesses the effects of stress on your body. It is measured as the time gap between your heart beats that varies as you breathe in and out - you measure it 1st thing in the morning and last thing at night. Research evidence increasingly links high HRV to good health and a high level of fitness, whilst decreased HRV is linked to stress, fatigue and even burnout. If you get a green reading then go for it in your training session, amber means reduce the intensity and red means take the day off. Here's a link to the science. http://myithlete.com/the-science-behind-hrv.html
However it has given me a dilemna. Having conducted measurements for over a week now I have had 3 red readings. On each occassion I've felt ok then realised I have had a slight head cold. Is the equipment that accurate or am I imagining things? I ran on Saturday under an amber reading. I was on my own, taking it easy but feeling, or thinking I was feeling, not 100%. I had decided to only do 5 miles (one lap) when a fellow triathlete (Derek Boyd) joined me. What a difference having some company made. I realised I would have to do 2 laps because that was the original plan and I didn't want to let Derek down. The pace also crept up and at the end, it had been a good but not too strenuous workout.
So this morning I was meant to head out for a hard 10 mile hill run. The reading was, you guessed it, red and again the head cold was there but really not much. So reluctantly I called the run off and rested but it has been annoying me. The concept of reducing or not training when you are not 100% makes sense but when I am really only running at the weekends and it coincides with that then it's a bummer.
I am going to persevere with the technology for the month of December as it's not a heavy training month and I can evaluate the variables. Come January the mileage will start to pick up on the swimming and the running as will the hours on the turbo trainer so I want to make sure I am in good nick (as oposed to "Old Nick"!).
As you now I have always preached you should "listen to your body" but I decided to take this to a higher level by buying some new technology - there's always room for more technology IF it helps your performance! Friends often are concerned that I might be overdoing my training as the mileage starts to build up but this might help prevent problems. For the athlete's out there here's a bit of science.
I bought the ithelite HRV monitor and app. It measures the heart rate variability (HRV) which assesses the effects of stress on your body. It is measured as the time gap between your heart beats that varies as you breathe in and out - you measure it 1st thing in the morning and last thing at night. Research evidence increasingly links high HRV to good health and a high level of fitness, whilst decreased HRV is linked to stress, fatigue and even burnout. If you get a green reading then go for it in your training session, amber means reduce the intensity and red means take the day off. Here's a link to the science. http://myithlete.com/the-science-behind-hrv.html
However it has given me a dilemna. Having conducted measurements for over a week now I have had 3 red readings. On each occassion I've felt ok then realised I have had a slight head cold. Is the equipment that accurate or am I imagining things? I ran on Saturday under an amber reading. I was on my own, taking it easy but feeling, or thinking I was feeling, not 100%. I had decided to only do 5 miles (one lap) when a fellow triathlete (Derek Boyd) joined me. What a difference having some company made. I realised I would have to do 2 laps because that was the original plan and I didn't want to let Derek down. The pace also crept up and at the end, it had been a good but not too strenuous workout.
So this morning I was meant to head out for a hard 10 mile hill run. The reading was, you guessed it, red and again the head cold was there but really not much. So reluctantly I called the run off and rested but it has been annoying me. The concept of reducing or not training when you are not 100% makes sense but when I am really only running at the weekends and it coincides with that then it's a bummer.
I am going to persevere with the technology for the month of December as it's not a heavy training month and I can evaluate the variables. Come January the mileage will start to pick up on the swimming and the running as will the hours on the turbo trainer so I want to make sure I am in good nick (as oposed to "Old Nick"!).
Sunday 1 December 2013
The age question?
Is your age important or is it just something in your head? As I struggled up a series of hills on my 10 mile hill run today I was asking myself this question as I was blowing out my arse! My heart rate was off the top of the scale and my fellow runners were pulling away. On 3 occasions I decided to walk rather than bury myself on the hill. Was it my age (I'd just turned 52) or was it the excellent red wine and vintage brandy with dinner last night or was I just weak mentally - none of the other runners were walking although one stayed with me to encourage me.
However on the down hills I got my breath back and caught the runners in front, finishing in front of them with the one runner who had held back with me. We were flying down the hill which isn't easy on wet trails, but easier than the climbing! I don't want to give the impression this was a race but over 10 miles I do want to push myself. I'll be more sensible on the longer distances - I'll need to be. In conclusion re the age question, on the way up it felt like it may be a factor but on the way down I realised it wasn't and it was more the disturbance between my ears that was the problem.
Funnily enough that is also a common problem in the pool although two good training sessions this week made me realise that the hard work is beginning to payoff. There are no short cuts in this journey which is why it is so satisfying to see results for the hard work. Enjoy your training folks no matter what distance or time you are working towards. It's better than killing yourself slowly on the couch! Pass me another slice of birthday cake - I think I've earned it.
However on the down hills I got my breath back and caught the runners in front, finishing in front of them with the one runner who had held back with me. We were flying down the hill which isn't easy on wet trails, but easier than the climbing! I don't want to give the impression this was a race but over 10 miles I do want to push myself. I'll be more sensible on the longer distances - I'll need to be. In conclusion re the age question, on the way up it felt like it may be a factor but on the way down I realised it wasn't and it was more the disturbance between my ears that was the problem.
Funnily enough that is also a common problem in the pool although two good training sessions this week made me realise that the hard work is beginning to payoff. There are no short cuts in this journey which is why it is so satisfying to see results for the hard work. Enjoy your training folks no matter what distance or time you are working towards. It's better than killing yourself slowly on the couch! Pass me another slice of birthday cake - I think I've earned it.
Sunday 24 November 2013
Scotland's stunning scenery
In preparation for my ultra marathon in April I decided to run part of the west highland way - the Conic Hill. I ran with a friend who knew the route and once we were on the hill the scenery was stunning. The temperature was around 3 degrees and there was a mist in the glen which made it look like you were running above the clouds. The highland cattle and the autumn colours diverted my mind from the task of running uphill (436 metres of climbing) which was a blessing. This is a tough climb and I realised that in April I will be approaching this hill after approximately 15 miles of running and have to pace myself as I still have 38 miles to go!
To increase my strength I went out hill running with a group of ultra runners. Dungavel Hill is not much fun and doesn't have the benefit of nice scenery. 316 metres of climbing was really tough and the pace of the group was different to yesterday so I hung on to the lead runners, just. Back to back tough runs is a great way to get fit and improve your strength. It's this type of training which will give me the best chance of a good performance for me next year. There are no short cuts in ultra running you just need to get out there and do it. It helps if you have the backdrop of the wonderful Scottish scenery and as I train on the race route on the west highland way I cannot wait for more breath taking views - literally!
To increase my strength I went out hill running with a group of ultra runners. Dungavel Hill is not much fun and doesn't have the benefit of nice scenery. 316 metres of climbing was really tough and the pace of the group was different to yesterday so I hung on to the lead runners, just. Back to back tough runs is a great way to get fit and improve your strength. It's this type of training which will give me the best chance of a good performance for me next year. There are no short cuts in ultra running you just need to get out there and do it. It helps if you have the backdrop of the wonderful Scottish scenery and as I train on the race route on the west highland way I cannot wait for more breath taking views - literally!
Sunday 17 November 2013
Pushing it!
It's been a good training week with swimming, yoga and running. My hamstring has been behaving itself but I'm giving it a lot of TLC or at least stretching on a regular basis. My yoga teacher helped me identify the weakness that's creating my ankle problem. It's going to require some deep tissue massage which isn't going to be nice but it's essential.
On Saturday I ran 10 trail miles on my own and got another PB. I spent the whole run listening to my body as the hamstring was making some noises, letting me know it was there and later on, the top of my foot began to give some feedback. But as soon as I was finished I went through a stretching routine.
This morning I went out with three of my triathlete pals. I knew what would happen and wasn't disappointed. The first lap was at a reasonable pace but on the second lap one of the athletes put "the hammer down" trying to dropped the other runners. I managed to keep him within 15 seconds but it really pushed me to my (current) limit. My breathing went, my form went but I stayed on his tail. This is the kind of session you need to build in where it hurts and your brain tells you to stop. Running 56 miles in April isn't going to be easy so I need to get myself back into the mindset and physical condition where I can push it, afterall it was only 7 months ago when I ran 5.5 marathons in the Sahara Desert in tempretures up to 52 degrees centigrate.
On Saturday I ran 10 trail miles on my own and got another PB. I spent the whole run listening to my body as the hamstring was making some noises, letting me know it was there and later on, the top of my foot began to give some feedback. But as soon as I was finished I went through a stretching routine.
This morning I went out with three of my triathlete pals. I knew what would happen and wasn't disappointed. The first lap was at a reasonable pace but on the second lap one of the athletes put "the hammer down" trying to dropped the other runners. I managed to keep him within 15 seconds but it really pushed me to my (current) limit. My breathing went, my form went but I stayed on his tail. This is the kind of session you need to build in where it hurts and your brain tells you to stop. Running 56 miles in April isn't going to be easy so I need to get myself back into the mindset and physical condition where I can push it, afterall it was only 7 months ago when I ran 5.5 marathons in the Sahara Desert in tempretures up to 52 degrees centigrate.
Monday 11 November 2013
Back running
After a couple of weeks off I decided it was time to get back running. My hamstring still was "grumbling" but I decided I'd test it out. On Saturday I went out for 5 miles of trail running and loved been back on my feet. The autumn colours made the run a pleasure and I decided not to push my first run. I warmed up with some yoga exercises and warmed down with some more. However that night I could feel a bit more grumbling from the hamstring, but it wasn't too bad.
On Sunday I decided to run again and this time stepped it up to 10 miles. I had company on the first lap and was surprised how quickly we completed it. I was determined to do a negative split so I pushed it on the second lap and knocked a minute off the first lap. I was pleased and my hamstring wasn't too bad.
I am sure it's no coincidence that I've been doing yoga every day in November and my hamstring is responding well. A minimum of 15 minutes a day, some days might be 30 minutes, is all it takes to keep my muscles in good condition and my core strong. I've really missed running and will continue to swim and turbo train as part of my build up over the winter. Finally I am continuing with strengthening exercises for my big toes and my right ankle which will be essential for my 56 mile ultra in April.
On Sunday I decided to run again and this time stepped it up to 10 miles. I had company on the first lap and was surprised how quickly we completed it. I was determined to do a negative split so I pushed it on the second lap and knocked a minute off the first lap. I was pleased and my hamstring wasn't too bad.
I am sure it's no coincidence that I've been doing yoga every day in November and my hamstring is responding well. A minimum of 15 minutes a day, some days might be 30 minutes, is all it takes to keep my muscles in good condition and my core strong. I've really missed running and will continue to swim and turbo train as part of my build up over the winter. Finally I am continuing with strengthening exercises for my big toes and my right ankle which will be essential for my 56 mile ultra in April.
Monday 4 November 2013
New routine
Following on from last week's injury I've changed my routine. Regular yoga is helping my hamstring but it will require more time. I had the most amazing experience trying aerial yoga. Hanging upside down while being supported proved to be a great workout, as my abs were telling me for the next two days, and my back felt brand new. The core strength that it promotes will help my swimming, cycling and running.
My swimming training continued to show small improvements which is all I can ask. It's not pretty but come September next year I have a 10k river swim to complete.
I've dusted down my turbo trainer and getting back into the mindset required for the brain (and bum) numbing training wasn't easy. But I completed two sessions and aim to make this a major part of my training and ordered some "sufferfest" videos to help. I also started back on my ironman apparatus which is a cruel piece of equipment which is tough but effective.
Having said all of that I am missing my running. My friends were running a 10k and some a 16 mile race at the weekend and I really felt out of it. But I must be patient. Coming back too soon will ruin my season so patience, patience, patience.
My swimming training continued to show small improvements which is all I can ask. It's not pretty but come September next year I have a 10k river swim to complete.
I've dusted down my turbo trainer and getting back into the mindset required for the brain (and bum) numbing training wasn't easy. But I completed two sessions and aim to make this a major part of my training and ordered some "sufferfest" videos to help. I also started back on my ironman apparatus which is a cruel piece of equipment which is tough but effective.
Having said all of that I am missing my running. My friends were running a 10k and some a 16 mile race at the weekend and I really felt out of it. But I must be patient. Coming back too soon will ruin my season so patience, patience, patience.
Sunday 27 October 2013
Adapt when required
It's been a mixed week starting with success in the pool. A tough session was set for us and I felt strong all the way through it. It involved a lot of upper body work and I enjoyed the workout. Was this a break though? Time will tell.
But my ankle and hamstring were niggling so I booked an appointment with my Physio. I ran a cross country 10 k before I visited him just to get the sore bits hurting and they didn't disappoint me. The outcome is I will be taking it easy on the running for the next month while I stretch my hamstring out and strengthen my ankle and big toes. Yes, my big toes are causing me problems!The ankle could be serious with the miles I will be putting in over the winter so best to get it sorted.
So I need to adapt my training programme. More regular yoga, more time in the gym, on the turbo trainer and more swimming. As a result I went out to my workout room and set it up for the winter. The wind was howling and the rain battering off the glass doors which I love. It was like being outdoors but being indoors. I put the log burning stove on and layer out my yoga matt. 30 minutes late I felt great.
Perhaps this change in direction with the training will give me extra motivation to get in better shape so I can avoid these annoying injuries? The change of routing I think will also keep me motivated. Bring it on!
But my ankle and hamstring were niggling so I booked an appointment with my Physio. I ran a cross country 10 k before I visited him just to get the sore bits hurting and they didn't disappoint me. The outcome is I will be taking it easy on the running for the next month while I stretch my hamstring out and strengthen my ankle and big toes. Yes, my big toes are causing me problems!The ankle could be serious with the miles I will be putting in over the winter so best to get it sorted.
So I need to adapt my training programme. More regular yoga, more time in the gym, on the turbo trainer and more swimming. As a result I went out to my workout room and set it up for the winter. The wind was howling and the rain battering off the glass doors which I love. It was like being outdoors but being indoors. I put the log burning stove on and layer out my yoga matt. 30 minutes late I felt great.
Perhaps this change in direction with the training will give me extra motivation to get in better shape so I can avoid these annoying injuries? The change of routing I think will also keep me motivated. Bring it on!
Sunday 20 October 2013
Mentally challenging
Last week wasn't my best training week with a dose of man flu but I stuck in at my yoga, until I tweaked my back and calf! Perhaps when my body is saying it needs a break to recover, I should listen! So off for a sports massage to get me sorted and that was real fun. But it was another reminder how important it is to have a "maintenance programme" to keep the body in tip top condition. So today I went out for Cross country run and make sure everything was in working order and....it was.
A question I am often asked is how can I run such long distances or keep going in an endurance event and this got me thinking when I was out the other day. I had just completed 13 miles and was feeling good. But in 6 months time I will be running 53 miles. So that means I need to repeat that run another three times! Does it seem possible? Off course it is. But it's how I approach it mentally that makes the difference. My way, and I stress it's mine so it may not work for you, is not to think of it as "could I do that another three times"? I programme my mind on the end goal and set some milestones along the way. To give you an example, if I turn up at the pool with a set programme e.g. 4 x 500m with a target time, then that is what I do. But if I turned up with no plan and then think I'll go for 4 x 500 then my mind doesn't have time to prepare and it's generally a poor session.
For the 53 mile ultra I will have been over the total course before the event, split it into stages and anticipated where it will be tough. I will spend as much time preparing my mind, visualising my training and visualing the day. Posting my progress also keeps me motivated as I have to deliver what I've promised.
I've also decided on my 70.3 Ironman for 2014 and it's the Avenger triathlon in June. Having decided that it's already got me more focused on what needs to happen before the Highland Fling, how long I need to recover and how to prepare for the 70.3 because the last one I did ended up as a DNF because of poor preparation - that won't happen again.
And just to top it all off, in 2015 I will be completing 160 miles in 4 days across the White desert in Egypt. That just raises the stakes to a higher level but the preparation will be exactly the same. I hope you continue to follow my journey as your support means so much to me. Thanks.
A question I am often asked is how can I run such long distances or keep going in an endurance event and this got me thinking when I was out the other day. I had just completed 13 miles and was feeling good. But in 6 months time I will be running 53 miles. So that means I need to repeat that run another three times! Does it seem possible? Off course it is. But it's how I approach it mentally that makes the difference. My way, and I stress it's mine so it may not work for you, is not to think of it as "could I do that another three times"? I programme my mind on the end goal and set some milestones along the way. To give you an example, if I turn up at the pool with a set programme e.g. 4 x 500m with a target time, then that is what I do. But if I turned up with no plan and then think I'll go for 4 x 500 then my mind doesn't have time to prepare and it's generally a poor session.
For the 53 mile ultra I will have been over the total course before the event, split it into stages and anticipated where it will be tough. I will spend as much time preparing my mind, visualising my training and visualing the day. Posting my progress also keeps me motivated as I have to deliver what I've promised.
I've also decided on my 70.3 Ironman for 2014 and it's the Avenger triathlon in June. Having decided that it's already got me more focused on what needs to happen before the Highland Fling, how long I need to recover and how to prepare for the 70.3 because the last one I did ended up as a DNF because of poor preparation - that won't happen again.
And just to top it all off, in 2015 I will be completing 160 miles in 4 days across the White desert in Egypt. That just raises the stakes to a higher level but the preparation will be exactly the same. I hope you continue to follow my journey as your support means so much to me. Thanks.
Tuesday 15 October 2013
Yoga is life changing!
It's been a good week for training with tough swim and run sessions. But the highlight was my first 1:1 yoga session since MdS in April with my instructor. I had asked for the session to focus in on my weaknesses rather than going through the Ashtanga series and that is what she delivered. WOW - it was amazing. I spend longer in the positions, none of which I had ever done before, and found myself "sweating like a Glaswegien watching Crime Watch". It was unbelievable. What is it about yoga that makes you feel so alive? Physically and mentally it is so invigorating.
Unfortuantely after 13 miles running on Sunday my hamstring is playing up as it had been the week before. That's a reminder that I need to be practicing yoga at least 4 times a week in order to prevent this type of injury. When preparing for MdS, which was heavy duty running, I didn't have any hamstring problems so I need to be more focused and disciplined on my yoga.
This week I have succumed to "man flu" so I'll be taking it easy on the training to let my body recover. But an essential part of my recovery will be yoga. If you haven't tried it I'd encourage you to give it a go. It's life changing.
Unfortuantely after 13 miles running on Sunday my hamstring is playing up as it had been the week before. That's a reminder that I need to be practicing yoga at least 4 times a week in order to prevent this type of injury. When preparing for MdS, which was heavy duty running, I didn't have any hamstring problems so I need to be more focused and disciplined on my yoga.
This week I have succumed to "man flu" so I'll be taking it easy on the training to let my body recover. But an essential part of my recovery will be yoga. If you haven't tried it I'd encourage you to give it a go. It's life changing.
Sunday 6 October 2013
The goal is now set (in stone!)
9 minutes ago entries for the Highland Fling. A 53 mile ultra marathon starting north of Glasgow and finishing in Tyndrum. It follows the West Highland Way and is a toughie. Fortunately a number of the tartan army are getting together for the race but this time it won't be in the heat of the desert. So my training plan is taking shape as the focus is firmly on.
Two good swimming sessions this week left me feeling good but knackered. My swimming has improved in the last couple of months but I am going to go back to my coach for a check on my progress. I know my technique requires work and I don't want to be practising poor technique!
On Saturday I went for a trail run with my 16 year old son. He's an 800m runner but what an engine! He got me a PB but again I felt it afterwards as he pushed me hard. A sign that some speed work is required and certainly more regular running. So I've contacted my ultra running pals so I can tag along with them on some of their longer runs. Next season is just around the corner so let the serious training begin.
Two good swimming sessions this week left me feeling good but knackered. My swimming has improved in the last couple of months but I am going to go back to my coach for a check on my progress. I know my technique requires work and I don't want to be practising poor technique!
On Saturday I went for a trail run with my 16 year old son. He's an 800m runner but what an engine! He got me a PB but again I felt it afterwards as he pushed me hard. A sign that some speed work is required and certainly more regular running. So I've contacted my ultra running pals so I can tag along with them on some of their longer runs. Next season is just around the corner so let the serious training begin.
Sunday 29 September 2013
Great training week
What a week this has been. In the pool on Tuesday and put through my paces with a couple of my worst drill exercises; kicking and stroke count. I had two experienced swimmers try and work out why I go nowhere when kicking other than tiring me out - still don't know why! However for the first time in 5 years I got somewhere positive with the stroke count. Perhaps it's my negative mindset that's been holding me back in that exercise or just time in the pool?
I took Friday off work to cycle the "5 ferries" challenge. The forecast was good but sadly didn't turn out that way. It was damp with poor visibility which was a shame as the scenery would have been stunning. 70 miles of brilliant cycling (18 miles to get to the start) with some challenging hills. Some of the steep descents on the wet roads were treacherous which was added to with wandering sheep! The brakes don't work too well at 40mph in those conditions! There was fantastic banter between my 5 riding buddies which made it a day to remember. How good it would have been on a sunny day.
On Saturday the weather improved and I did some speed running. Always running at the same pace doesn't improve your speed so I turned on the speed for a short hill course. Now I've got my benchmark I will be revisiting this course on a regular basis.
Today was an 11 mile trail run half of which was on a new trail for me. The weather was perfect and I was running at a reasonable pace with my Lanza Ironman pal Gareth. It makes a huge difference running with someone, especially if you are both working at the same pace and at the same time not wanting to show the other that you may be struggling at times! It's only natural but it improves your performance.
I will take tomorrow off although will be doing some yoga. And on Tuesday back in the pool. It's great to be back training more regularly with a goal in mind - 53 mile ultra race in April.
I took Friday off work to cycle the "5 ferries" challenge. The forecast was good but sadly didn't turn out that way. It was damp with poor visibility which was a shame as the scenery would have been stunning. 70 miles of brilliant cycling (18 miles to get to the start) with some challenging hills. Some of the steep descents on the wet roads were treacherous which was added to with wandering sheep! The brakes don't work too well at 40mph in those conditions! There was fantastic banter between my 5 riding buddies which made it a day to remember. How good it would have been on a sunny day.
On Saturday the weather improved and I did some speed running. Always running at the same pace doesn't improve your speed so I turned on the speed for a short hill course. Now I've got my benchmark I will be revisiting this course on a regular basis.
Today was an 11 mile trail run half of which was on a new trail for me. The weather was perfect and I was running at a reasonable pace with my Lanza Ironman pal Gareth. It makes a huge difference running with someone, especially if you are both working at the same pace and at the same time not wanting to show the other that you may be struggling at times! It's only natural but it improves your performance.
I will take tomorrow off although will be doing some yoga. And on Tuesday back in the pool. It's great to be back training more regularly with a goal in mind - 53 mile ultra race in April.
Monday 23 September 2013
Time to celebrate
It's been a great week in so many ways. Two great swimming a sessions where I felt like progress was being made, a tough 45 mile bike ride and two fantastic runs, both of which took place on Sunday! Lets start with the runs. After a night out on the "tiles", details in a minute, I ran 11 miles along a route I drive 5 days a week, to pick up my car from Saturday night.
Running 11 miles isn't an issue but when you are running from point A to point B going through towns you know, it felt different and travelling it in a car you give no thought to the hills. But I had to keep reminding myself, it's just 11 miles ignore the fact it's point A to B.
Having recovered from that, my daughter wanted to go out running! It was only 3k but she wanted a PB so I pulled on my shoes, again, and off we went. She is such a natural runner & I can see I am going to have to do some speed work to keep up with her - in time.
But on Saturday night my triathlon club celebrated all the medals earned during the year by the athletes. Curry, beer and wine was had with lots of laughter. There was a whole range of achievements which represented milestones to those involved - brilliant. It was a night off and we all enjoyed it but back to training the next day because we've plans for 2014. It's been a good week and tomorrow is a rest day, apart from going back to work. I hope you all have a great week.
Running 11 miles isn't an issue but when you are running from point A to point B going through towns you know, it felt different and travelling it in a car you give no thought to the hills. But I had to keep reminding myself, it's just 11 miles ignore the fact it's point A to B.
Having recovered from that, my daughter wanted to go out running! It was only 3k but she wanted a PB so I pulled on my shoes, again, and off we went. She is such a natural runner & I can see I am going to have to do some speed work to keep up with her - in time.
But on Saturday night my triathlon club celebrated all the medals earned during the year by the athletes. Curry, beer and wine was had with lots of laughter. There was a whole range of achievements which represented milestones to those involved - brilliant. It was a night off and we all enjoyed it but back to training the next day because we've plans for 2014. It's been a good week and tomorrow is a rest day, apart from going back to work. I hope you all have a great week.
Sunday 15 September 2013
Setting targets
Setting a target is a step in the right direction. Achieving it is a different ball game. This was the thought going through my head as I was completing my 15 mile trail run yesterday. I knew I was pushing myself on this run as I wanted to check how my right foot/ankle were holding up. It was complaining so I observed when it hurt the most so I could report this to my podiotrist and physio as obviously something isn't right. But nothing that was going to stop me completing this tough trail run.
My mind was thinking about my April 2014 challenge The Highland Fling, a 53 mile ultra along the West Highland Way route. That is 3.5 x the distance I was running but I had to ignore that thought as it doesn't help. The question is how do you build up to that kind of distance? I know my legs and ankles are going to need strengthened so I will be giving my pal Robbie a call to set up some work with kettle bells. I'll work on my core through yoga and in the poorer weather will build my stamina in the pool and the turbo trainer.
But my secret weapon is the ultra marathon runners I know who have run the course before and I will sap up all their experience. I am very lucky to be able to go out running with Rosie Bell who has just been crowned Scottish Ultra Marathon Series 2013 champion. I just need to make sure I am in shape to keep up with her!
So if you were inspired by watching the Great North Run today, why not set yourself a target and then plan how you can achieve it? You'll love it. Go on. Take the first step!
My mind was thinking about my April 2014 challenge The Highland Fling, a 53 mile ultra along the West Highland Way route. That is 3.5 x the distance I was running but I had to ignore that thought as it doesn't help. The question is how do you build up to that kind of distance? I know my legs and ankles are going to need strengthened so I will be giving my pal Robbie a call to set up some work with kettle bells. I'll work on my core through yoga and in the poorer weather will build my stamina in the pool and the turbo trainer.
But my secret weapon is the ultra marathon runners I know who have run the course before and I will sap up all their experience. I am very lucky to be able to go out running with Rosie Bell who has just been crowned Scottish Ultra Marathon Series 2013 champion. I just need to make sure I am in shape to keep up with her!
So if you were inspired by watching the Great North Run today, why not set yourself a target and then plan how you can achieve it? You'll love it. Go on. Take the first step!
Sunday 8 September 2013
Benefits of group training
I was back in the pool on Tuesday but deliberately moved into a slower lane. We did a lot of one arm drills and kicking drills before the main set but I manged to keep my lunch down and finish in one piece. I need to get some more swimming sessions in between this group session but it certainly pushes you on when you are trying not to be left behind in the lane.
This morning I went out on a group run but knowing who was going to be in it I knew I was going to be stretched. I wasn't wrong. We completed 12 miles at a good pace and I was pleased not to be left behind - looks like my fitness is improving. I've come home got cleaned up, refuelled and am now relaxing waiting for the Grand Prix to start. Refuelling and resting is an important part of my training and I make sure I don't miss it!
And last piece of news, my 14 year old daughter and my wife have taken up running! Nothing to do with me but they were out at 6.30 in the morning 3 times last week. They are loving it so I'll need to be looking over my shoulder to make sure they don't start overtaking me!
This morning I went out on a group run but knowing who was going to be in it I knew I was going to be stretched. I wasn't wrong. We completed 12 miles at a good pace and I was pleased not to be left behind - looks like my fitness is improving. I've come home got cleaned up, refuelled and am now relaxing waiting for the Grand Prix to start. Refuelling and resting is an important part of my training and I make sure I don't miss it!
And last piece of news, my 14 year old daughter and my wife have taken up running! Nothing to do with me but they were out at 6.30 in the morning 3 times last week. They are loving it so I'll need to be looking over my shoulder to make sure they don't start overtaking me!
Sunday 1 September 2013
I've put down a marker
I remember entering Ironman Lanzarotte in May 2012 in the best condition I had ever been in. My coach Gen had worked me like a dog to make me feel so fit. 11 months later I stood on the start line of the Marathon des Sables and my fitness was different. I wasn't attempting one long day but six and in very different conditions so I knew I was fit but in a different way. They say it can take 6 months to recover from MdS and I suppose much depends on your base fitness and your age. So what am I on about?
I've been "playing" at getting back to fitness and potentially holding myself back with the thought that it takes 6 months. I'm not sure if I have a problem mentally, physically of if I'm just being lazy. Sure I've put numerous 50 mile bike rides and a couple of 84 mile rides in the last few months but nothing regular - yes I know you must be reasonably fit for that. My running has been limited as I learn to chi run and had some injury problems as a result of not using my orthotics. As for swimming, forget it. I've had one video (nasty) analysis and one visit to the pool in 15 months.
So this week I decided to get real. On Tuesday I attended the first swimming training session of the winter. I swallowed my lunch twice and left the pool before I decorated it. I had completed 2,000m of interval sessions and was totally gubbed. I hated it but also am looking forward to being swim fit and loving it again.
On Saturday I wanted to give up 1/3rd of the way into a 50 mile cycle. The boys persuaded me to go on so I did - thanks boys. I was dropped on every hill which is sole destroying when I remember where I was before IM. But I did it.
Today I followed my cycle with an 11 mile run in the wind and rain. I managed it at a reasonable pace and there was no sign of the recurring foot/ankle injury.
So I'm back. Less tears and moaning about how fit I used to be. I've put down a marker in my three disciplines and I now intend to improve on them in every session I do. I'm looking forward to reflecting on this post come April 2014 as a turning point. Oh and I forgot to mention, I have a new goal to add to my half ironman and my 10k river swim next year. In April, assuming I get in, I will be running the Highland Fling - a 53 mile Ultramarathon from Milngavie (Glasgow) to Tyndrum along the West Highland Way. That should keep my training focused!
I've been "playing" at getting back to fitness and potentially holding myself back with the thought that it takes 6 months. I'm not sure if I have a problem mentally, physically of if I'm just being lazy. Sure I've put numerous 50 mile bike rides and a couple of 84 mile rides in the last few months but nothing regular - yes I know you must be reasonably fit for that. My running has been limited as I learn to chi run and had some injury problems as a result of not using my orthotics. As for swimming, forget it. I've had one video (nasty) analysis and one visit to the pool in 15 months.
So this week I decided to get real. On Tuesday I attended the first swimming training session of the winter. I swallowed my lunch twice and left the pool before I decorated it. I had completed 2,000m of interval sessions and was totally gubbed. I hated it but also am looking forward to being swim fit and loving it again.
On Saturday I wanted to give up 1/3rd of the way into a 50 mile cycle. The boys persuaded me to go on so I did - thanks boys. I was dropped on every hill which is sole destroying when I remember where I was before IM. But I did it.
Today I followed my cycle with an 11 mile run in the wind and rain. I managed it at a reasonable pace and there was no sign of the recurring foot/ankle injury.
So I'm back. Less tears and moaning about how fit I used to be. I've put down a marker in my three disciplines and I now intend to improve on them in every session I do. I'm looking forward to reflecting on this post come April 2014 as a turning point. Oh and I forgot to mention, I have a new goal to add to my half ironman and my 10k river swim next year. In April, assuming I get in, I will be running the Highland Fling - a 53 mile Ultramarathon from Milngavie (Glasgow) to Tyndrum along the West Highland Way. That should keep my training focused!
Monday 26 August 2013
Inspiration from others
On Friday I gave my first talk about my adventure of a lifetime in the Marathon des Sables to the Institute of Directors in Glasgow. I had spent many hours preparing for the event and replaying the journey brought back some wonderful memories. Chatting to the audience afterwards I was delighted to find so many of them had taken on challenges from 10k to ultra marathons and had come away with something from the talk whether it was about their personal or business challenges. One of them had even completed the MdS two years earlier finishing 70th! What makes that all the more amazing is he was the first person to complete the race with a pace-make fitted - incredible and inspirational.
On the "fatness front" (muffin top) I've lost a 1/4 of a stone and feeling better for it. I went out for an hours hilly run on Saturday and there was no foot trauma so it looks like I'm on the mend and will be able to run more miles, more frequently and the body can get back to normal.
As summer starts to disappear my thoughts are turning to my autumn/winter training programme. Swimming training starts tomorrow night and while the first few weeks will be hell I know this is what I need especially as I am aiming to complete a 10k swim down the river Dart in a years time. My yoga will help with the shoulder flexibility which will be required if I am to succeed in that challenge. I still have to pick my half Ironman for next year but that will be done withing the next month. These stepping stones (goals) are important to my frame of mind which impacts on the quality of my training. Onwards and upwards after all, you're a long time dead!
On the "fatness front" (muffin top) I've lost a 1/4 of a stone and feeling better for it. I went out for an hours hilly run on Saturday and there was no foot trauma so it looks like I'm on the mend and will be able to run more miles, more frequently and the body can get back to normal.
As summer starts to disappear my thoughts are turning to my autumn/winter training programme. Swimming training starts tomorrow night and while the first few weeks will be hell I know this is what I need especially as I am aiming to complete a 10k swim down the river Dart in a years time. My yoga will help with the shoulder flexibility which will be required if I am to succeed in that challenge. I still have to pick my half Ironman for next year but that will be done withing the next month. These stepping stones (goals) are important to my frame of mind which impacts on the quality of my training. Onwards and upwards after all, you're a long time dead!
Tuesday 20 August 2013
Round Strathaven 50
It's been a busy week hense my late report. Following the poditrists advice I switched back to my orthotics in my neutral running shoes and have to report it feels a lot better. However the "hangover" from not having worn them continued. Every morning when I got up my right ankle started complaining but this was just muscular and I thought in time it would get sorted. My feet weren't too please either.
So on Saturday I went back to my favourite trail run with some pals and doubled the distance from the previous week. It was great to have company and the 10 miles past quickly - no issues with my feet and just a slight ankle grumble. Now I can step up the mileage which has been frustrating me for the last few months.
On Sunday it was the socialble "Round Strathaven 50". 400 cyclists took off and we had at least 10 from ATHelite Triathlon Club wearing our team colours looking fit. It's not a race and just as well as the wind was so gusty and strong, they shut the windmills at the windfarm down! What is that all about? Isn't that an ideal time to generate electricity? It certainly made for a tough ride but made more enjoyable with the cake stop at Sandford and Chapleton which is much better than energy jells! Thanks to all the organisers, volunteers and the runners (yes runners, all 50 miles) who responded to our encouragement and wished us well! Eh, we've got the easy bit on the bike!
I've been keeping my daily yoga practise up but yesterday I went to a Bikram yoga class. 104 degrees heat and a 1.5 hour workout that made you sweat like a Glaswegian watching Crime Watch. I was so wet I even rung out my shorts afterwards. There were a lot of leg postures which had my feet and ankles screaming but guess what? I woke up this morning, jumped out of bed to find no pain in my feet or ankles. Unbelievable. So I'll be back for more although don't think it will become my main yoga, and will continue to update you on making a 51 year old body try and behave as though it was 25 years younger!
So on Saturday I went back to my favourite trail run with some pals and doubled the distance from the previous week. It was great to have company and the 10 miles past quickly - no issues with my feet and just a slight ankle grumble. Now I can step up the mileage which has been frustrating me for the last few months.
On Sunday it was the socialble "Round Strathaven 50". 400 cyclists took off and we had at least 10 from ATHelite Triathlon Club wearing our team colours looking fit. It's not a race and just as well as the wind was so gusty and strong, they shut the windmills at the windfarm down! What is that all about? Isn't that an ideal time to generate electricity? It certainly made for a tough ride but made more enjoyable with the cake stop at Sandford and Chapleton which is much better than energy jells! Thanks to all the organisers, volunteers and the runners (yes runners, all 50 miles) who responded to our encouragement and wished us well! Eh, we've got the easy bit on the bike!
I've been keeping my daily yoga practise up but yesterday I went to a Bikram yoga class. 104 degrees heat and a 1.5 hour workout that made you sweat like a Glaswegian watching Crime Watch. I was so wet I even rung out my shorts afterwards. There were a lot of leg postures which had my feet and ankles screaming but guess what? I woke up this morning, jumped out of bed to find no pain in my feet or ankles. Unbelievable. So I'll be back for more although don't think it will become my main yoga, and will continue to update you on making a 51 year old body try and behave as though it was 25 years younger!
Sunday 11 August 2013
Measuring progress
Over the last 5 years of my journey in becoming an "endurance athlete" the one thing that has remained constant is that I have kept records of all my training. Various Garmin watches have come and gone (4 to be precise) but almost every session has been recorded. This way I can tell if I'm on target with my fitness. This is particularly important when getting back to fitness after a 4 month layoff.
So yesterday I went out for 50 miles on the bike but forgot my heart rate monitor. It would have made interesting reading as I struggled to keep up with the group and was eventually dropped with 5 miles to go. Nobody likes being dropped but it makes me more determined to get back into shape. So I'll fit in some turbo sessions before next weekend 50 mile race which I don't want to be dropped from!
This morning I went out for my first run in three weeks. Wearing my neutral trail shoes with my orthotics felt fantastic. No foot trauma. I ignored my Garmin the whole way round Chatelherault and on finishing I found it was my fastest time ever - it was only 5 miles! It also felt like it as my heart rate was unhealthily high which confirmed my lack of fitness. But now I have a benchmark so I'll be able to monitor my progress. The final piece of good news is I've lost 1/4 of a stone from the holiday - much more to go as I don't see the point in dragging this all over the place. A bit like running with a weighted rucksack! :-)
So yesterday I went out for 50 miles on the bike but forgot my heart rate monitor. It would have made interesting reading as I struggled to keep up with the group and was eventually dropped with 5 miles to go. Nobody likes being dropped but it makes me more determined to get back into shape. So I'll fit in some turbo sessions before next weekend 50 mile race which I don't want to be dropped from!
This morning I went out for my first run in three weeks. Wearing my neutral trail shoes with my orthotics felt fantastic. No foot trauma. I ignored my Garmin the whole way round Chatelherault and on finishing I found it was my fastest time ever - it was only 5 miles! It also felt like it as my heart rate was unhealthily high which confirmed my lack of fitness. But now I have a benchmark so I'll be able to monitor my progress. The final piece of good news is I've lost 1/4 of a stone from the holiday - much more to go as I don't see the point in dragging this all over the place. A bit like running with a weighted rucksack! :-)
Monday 5 August 2013
Listen to your body
When I started this endurance "malarkey" I was given a great piece of advice - listen to your body. It has saved me from many long-term injuries and came in handy again last week. As you know I have been learning to Chi run. I just loved the effortless look to it as I watched people float up hills. At the same time I switched to neutral shoes and also stopped using my orthotics. At first there were no problems as I was running 2 - 4 km as I was trying to improve my Chi technique. But as I stepped up the K's my ankles and feet were starting to complain. Most people said it takes a year for you body to come to terms with these changes so I persevered.
A week ago I ran to 10ks within 4 days and my body started shouting at me. So I immediately stopped running and went to see my podiatrist - he's very busy with people switching running style or shoes without realising the problems it can cause. Apparently my visit was just in time before any serious damage was done. All the symptoms were due to my changes. I have enjoyed running with neutral shoes, so in future I will do with the support of my orthotics and some strength building exercises for the muscles around my ankles. But again I will need to take it easy with the running as my feet get used to the support. So no long miles on the trails for me for a wee while which means I will concentrate on my cycling and swimming.
43 miles on the bike on Saturday in blustery conditions with the ATHelite crew was a good workout. It also let me know just how out of shape I am so I intend to get some extra turbo sessions in so that I can survive the longer weekend rides. And finally I took up the August 31 day yoga challenge which means practising yoga every day. So far so good and I am really enjoying the feeling after finishing the early morning sessions before breakfast. My body whispers to me that it is feeling the benefit and that I should keep it up! Let's see what this week brings.
A week ago I ran to 10ks within 4 days and my body started shouting at me. So I immediately stopped running and went to see my podiatrist - he's very busy with people switching running style or shoes without realising the problems it can cause. Apparently my visit was just in time before any serious damage was done. All the symptoms were due to my changes. I have enjoyed running with neutral shoes, so in future I will do with the support of my orthotics and some strength building exercises for the muscles around my ankles. But again I will need to take it easy with the running as my feet get used to the support. So no long miles on the trails for me for a wee while which means I will concentrate on my cycling and swimming.
43 miles on the bike on Saturday in blustery conditions with the ATHelite crew was a good workout. It also let me know just how out of shape I am so I intend to get some extra turbo sessions in so that I can survive the longer weekend rides. And finally I took up the August 31 day yoga challenge which means practising yoga every day. So far so good and I am really enjoying the feeling after finishing the early morning sessions before breakfast. My body whispers to me that it is feeling the benefit and that I should keep it up! Let's see what this week brings.
Monday 29 July 2013
New challenge - here we go again!
Since I have returned from the Sahara Desert people have been asking "what's next?" I've had lots of suggestions and there has been a fair amount of communication from "the Tartan Army" as we enjoyed our adventure on "the toughest foot race on earth!" After much contemplation I've decided the next big challenge is The Ocean Floor Race in October 2015. Check out the video and you'll understand my reasons for wanting to go. The quotation from Mark Twaine says it all http://www.oceanfloorrace.com/ . It seems a long way away however I had 2 years to prepare for MdS and it flew by.
So how different will this adventure be? The biggest difference will be that it is less structured - it's a non-stop 160 mile race over 4 days. You choose where and when to stop but let's budget on 40 miles a day for 4 days in a row. That's at least 14 miles more than most days on the MdS, with the exception of the long day. So 4 Ultra-marathons in a row across a desert. I think that's a worthy challenge, don't you? As I will be in control of when I run I intend to start running at first light which will probably be around 5.30am. This will allow me to miss out the heat of the day, assuming I can find some shelter. The number of participants will be much less. As far as I can tell, last year was the inaugural event with less than 20 people so I will obviously be spending time on my own which brings a navigation challenge.
Now I need to get back in shape so I will pick up my triathlon training and my yoga. I need to have smaller, but still important, challenges to focus on. In September 2014 I have agreed to enter the River Dart 10k swim http://www.outdoorswimmingsociety.com/index.php?p=events&s&id=92. Yes you read that right, me swimming 10k! Unbelievable but another worthwhile challenge (as I swim like a brick!). I will also be taking part in a series of triathlons including a 70.3 Ironman - I can use this as the build up for the 10k swim.
Now I have made these decisions I feel better. It has brought a focus back that has been missing since MdS. In fairness that was always going to be the case and allowing my body to recover is an important part of taking part in endurance events. So a new chapter begins. I hope you will follow me in my journey and kick my ass if you see me slacking! Go on. Read that Mark Twaine quotation and dream a little yourself. You never know what might happen.
So how different will this adventure be? The biggest difference will be that it is less structured - it's a non-stop 160 mile race over 4 days. You choose where and when to stop but let's budget on 40 miles a day for 4 days in a row. That's at least 14 miles more than most days on the MdS, with the exception of the long day. So 4 Ultra-marathons in a row across a desert. I think that's a worthy challenge, don't you? As I will be in control of when I run I intend to start running at first light which will probably be around 5.30am. This will allow me to miss out the heat of the day, assuming I can find some shelter. The number of participants will be much less. As far as I can tell, last year was the inaugural event with less than 20 people so I will obviously be spending time on my own which brings a navigation challenge.
Now I need to get back in shape so I will pick up my triathlon training and my yoga. I need to have smaller, but still important, challenges to focus on. In September 2014 I have agreed to enter the River Dart 10k swim http://www.outdoorswimmingsociety.com/index.php?p=events&s&id=92. Yes you read that right, me swimming 10k! Unbelievable but another worthwhile challenge (as I swim like a brick!). I will also be taking part in a series of triathlons including a 70.3 Ironman - I can use this as the build up for the 10k swim.
Now I have made these decisions I feel better. It has brought a focus back that has been missing since MdS. In fairness that was always going to be the case and allowing my body to recover is an important part of taking part in endurance events. So a new chapter begins. I hope you will follow me in my journey and kick my ass if you see me slacking! Go on. Read that Mark Twaine quotation and dream a little yourself. You never know what might happen.
Saturday 20 July 2013
A new challenge!
It's not what you think or are likely to guess. After a fantastic 2 week holiday, where I ran every day and practiced my yoga, I came back having put on weight! This is not something that happens to me, ever, but I've put on half a stone - and I don't like it!
It was also the first time I've been on a cruise and it was probably one of the best holidays we've ever had. Top class service and outstanding food - just way too much of it and also the booze! Now I'm sharing this information so you will realise that "I'm not an athlete" in the sense of watching what I eat and training all the time. However I saw what lies ahead for me if I don't keep training as people in their 50's, 60's and 70's walked by with mega guts hanging over their shorts and the strain that must put on their heart is incredible. It doesn't help when they cruise twice a year and eat and drink everything that's on offer.
So this being my first day back I squeezed into my lycra and went out for 3 hours on the bike with my fellow club mates. I hung on and noticed my increased bulk made me go down hill faster but the opposite was true on the climbs! This heat wave is incredible and it's like cycling abroad if it wasn't for the pot holes. But that's me back and regular training will now commence.
As for cruising, we all want to do it again as its a great family holiday. Having arrived as a passenger I was at risk of being taken off as cargo so next time I'll behave better!
It was also the first time I've been on a cruise and it was probably one of the best holidays we've ever had. Top class service and outstanding food - just way too much of it and also the booze! Now I'm sharing this information so you will realise that "I'm not an athlete" in the sense of watching what I eat and training all the time. However I saw what lies ahead for me if I don't keep training as people in their 50's, 60's and 70's walked by with mega guts hanging over their shorts and the strain that must put on their heart is incredible. It doesn't help when they cruise twice a year and eat and drink everything that's on offer.
So this being my first day back I squeezed into my lycra and went out for 3 hours on the bike with my fellow club mates. I hung on and noticed my increased bulk made me go down hill faster but the opposite was true on the climbs! This heat wave is incredible and it's like cycling abroad if it wasn't for the pot holes. But that's me back and regular training will now commence.
As for cruising, we all want to do it again as its a great family holiday. Having arrived as a passenger I was at risk of being taken off as cargo so next time I'll behave better!
Monday 8 July 2013
Incredible achievement
Yesterday I watched Andy Murray achieve an incredible goal - winning Wimbledon. The first Scot ever to have done it and the 1st Britain in 77 years since Fred Perry. I was watching it in a bar in Rome and wouldn't be surprised if you could have heard our screams at the TV urging him on. Like many I won't forget that moment. I had the great priviledge of working with Andy shooting 3 videos with him for a leisure group. At the time he was no. 11 in the world and by the end he was no.4. His transformation since then to no. 2 and double major winner is incredible.
A few years before that I had the pleasure of playing John McEnroe in a game of doubles. When asked about Andy he thought he'd get into the top ten but his partner Peter Fleming said top 5. Neither said he'd win Wimbledon.This just goes to show how driven he was to ignore those around him that doubted his ability and believe in himself.
This weekend 4 Athelite members became ironmen following the success of 2 the weekend before. During their journey they will have had self doubt, injury and questioned what they were doing. During the race they will have overcome pain and have visited some very "dark places". But they believed in themselves and got the reward they deserved, just as Andy did. So lets all reflect on the success of individuals who set the bar high and achieve it. The only question is, what's next?
A few years before that I had the pleasure of playing John McEnroe in a game of doubles. When asked about Andy he thought he'd get into the top ten but his partner Peter Fleming said top 5. Neither said he'd win Wimbledon.This just goes to show how driven he was to ignore those around him that doubted his ability and believe in himself.
This weekend 4 Athelite members became ironmen following the success of 2 the weekend before. During their journey they will have had self doubt, injury and questioned what they were doing. During the race they will have overcome pain and have visited some very "dark places". But they believed in themselves and got the reward they deserved, just as Andy did. So lets all reflect on the success of individuals who set the bar high and achieve it. The only question is, what's next?
Sunday 30 June 2013
Inspired by others
As I approach my holiday I realise I have done no exercise in the last week. It's been hectic, not an excuse but a fact. There have not been enough hours in the day as business and family pressures have taken priority over my fitness - as they should.
However I have had the pleasure today of watching 2 friends (online) complete their first Ironman - such a special moment for them. Congratulations Gavin & Lorna Gall on a fantastic achievement. What it made me realise was just how much hard work and dedication goes into achieving your goals. And right now my focus is on family and business, but I need to get back to fitness. So when I go on holiday I will make a real start but at the same time enjoy some chillax time.
Over the next few months more friends will be taking part in Ironman competitions and it's so good to see people attain their goals through dedication and hard work. There are no short cuts in life so it's time to restart my fitness campaign but first I'll need to set some goals to create the required focus.
However I have had the pleasure today of watching 2 friends (online) complete their first Ironman - such a special moment for them. Congratulations Gavin & Lorna Gall on a fantastic achievement. What it made me realise was just how much hard work and dedication goes into achieving your goals. And right now my focus is on family and business, but I need to get back to fitness. So when I go on holiday I will make a real start but at the same time enjoy some chillax time.
Over the next few months more friends will be taking part in Ironman competitions and it's so good to see people attain their goals through dedication and hard work. There are no short cuts in life so it's time to restart my fitness campaign but first I'll need to set some goals to create the required focus.
Monday 24 June 2013
My role as a "domestique"
As you know on Thursday I was cycling 84 miles with my friend Stuart Kerr who is completing Lands End to John O'Groats (LEJOG) and on Sunday I was back with him doing another 84 miles. Cycling gives you time to reflect on lifes journey as you try and deflect your thought from your sore arse! You see before these 2 spins on the bike I had only another 4 trips on the bike and they were all in the last month and none over 40 miles. So my arse was out of practise!
As "domestique" my job was to do everything to get Stuart to the finish line in the best possible condition. This meant sitting in front of him taking the wind. Normally I'd be hanging onto the back of a bunch of cyclists getting the benefit of the pelaton but not this time. The interesting thing is what it did to my mindset. I had to be the leader and protect the "star cyclist" - after all I was only doing 2 days, he is doing 11. So I gritted my teeth as we headed into the 20mph wind and rain swept Glencoe and just got on with it. And all because I had a worthwhile purpose. It also occured to me that without this to look forward to, my bike would still be gathering dust in the garage.
So as I type this latest activity, Stuart will have finished day 9 and getting into a cold bath before grabbing some grub. He's finishing the rest of the route on his own (as he has done most of it by himself) and it is an INCREDIBLE achievement for someone who only took up cycling 18 months ago. But then he has a worthwhile purpose (raising money for Yorkhill Childrens Hospital) and he determination hasn't wavered.
Perhaps that's something we should all reflect on.
As "domestique" my job was to do everything to get Stuart to the finish line in the best possible condition. This meant sitting in front of him taking the wind. Normally I'd be hanging onto the back of a bunch of cyclists getting the benefit of the pelaton but not this time. The interesting thing is what it did to my mindset. I had to be the leader and protect the "star cyclist" - after all I was only doing 2 days, he is doing 11. So I gritted my teeth as we headed into the 20mph wind and rain swept Glencoe and just got on with it. And all because I had a worthwhile purpose. It also occured to me that without this to look forward to, my bike would still be gathering dust in the garage.
So as I type this latest activity, Stuart will have finished day 9 and getting into a cold bath before grabbing some grub. He's finishing the rest of the route on his own (as he has done most of it by himself) and it is an INCREDIBLE achievement for someone who only took up cycling 18 months ago. But then he has a worthwhile purpose (raising money for Yorkhill Childrens Hospital) and he determination hasn't wavered.
Perhaps that's something we should all reflect on.
Sunday 16 June 2013
Preparation for LEJOG
A pal of mine, Stuart Kerr, is taking on the challenge of Lands End to John O'Groats starting today. I will join him on the Preston to Carlisle leg and then on the Strathaven to Fort William leg. So when I went out in light rain (which just got heavier) yesterday with the wind howling I set my mind for a tough struggle.
In a group of 5 cyclists we went out for 3 hours and we had all worn the wrong gloves. My hands lost all sensation meaning I couldn't feel the handlebars (not to be recommended) and laterly couldn't change into the big ring. That's challenging when you are climbing big hills.
But all I could think of was my pal Stuart who is new to cycling and would be starting off today - sadly in pouring rain! When the puddles are forming in your shoes, as they were yesterday, you have to take your mind somewhere positive otherwise you'd just give up. My place is the reason I am on my bike and what I am trying to achieve. Stuart's will be on the money he is raising and his family who are supporting him on his journey.
When I finished on the bike I spend 30 minutes in the shower followed by an hour in bed and some hot chocolate. After that I stuffed my face and life was good again. The cold and wet conditions a thing of the past.
So the legs are feeling good but the gear changing problem wasn't just my frozen hands and my bike if off to the hospital (Willie Bain - the best bike mechanic ever!) this afternoon. In the meantime, good luck Stuart Kerr.
Almost forgot, on Friday I had a Swim Smooth lesson with coach Alan Cardwell. It was my first time in the pool in a year so the video is a bit "ugly". Swimming in an "endless pool" with a mirror so you can see yourself swim was amazing. Alan picked out a couple of key points (from an endless list!) which I will now go and work on - thanks Alan. It was good to be back in the pool so now I feel ready to return to proper triathlon training!
In a group of 5 cyclists we went out for 3 hours and we had all worn the wrong gloves. My hands lost all sensation meaning I couldn't feel the handlebars (not to be recommended) and laterly couldn't change into the big ring. That's challenging when you are climbing big hills.
But all I could think of was my pal Stuart who is new to cycling and would be starting off today - sadly in pouring rain! When the puddles are forming in your shoes, as they were yesterday, you have to take your mind somewhere positive otherwise you'd just give up. My place is the reason I am on my bike and what I am trying to achieve. Stuart's will be on the money he is raising and his family who are supporting him on his journey.
When I finished on the bike I spend 30 minutes in the shower followed by an hour in bed and some hot chocolate. After that I stuffed my face and life was good again. The cold and wet conditions a thing of the past.
So the legs are feeling good but the gear changing problem wasn't just my frozen hands and my bike if off to the hospital (Willie Bain - the best bike mechanic ever!) this afternoon. In the meantime, good luck Stuart Kerr.
Almost forgot, on Friday I had a Swim Smooth lesson with coach Alan Cardwell. It was my first time in the pool in a year so the video is a bit "ugly". Swimming in an "endless pool" with a mirror so you can see yourself swim was amazing. Alan picked out a couple of key points (from an endless list!) which I will now go and work on - thanks Alan. It was good to be back in the pool so now I feel ready to return to proper triathlon training!
Monday 10 June 2013
Peaking
As I slowly make my way back to fitness I am making a number of observations along the way. The first one is about "peaking" - no not that kind of peaking! When you go out cycling with a bunch of athletes, you very quickly spot who's peaking for their event. On Saturday a mixed (ability & experience) bunch of us went out for 2.5 hours plus. We set off at a fair pace and while it was flat, those of us that weren't peaking for a race were managing to hang on. However when we hit the first semi-serious hill, that's when you could tell. It's like someone has cut the string and all of a sudden a gap opens up and gets wider.
There were 3 guys reaching the peak of their ironman training and I remember how that felt a year ago. I was invisible and hills didn't seem so steep. The other athletes were further away from their "A" race therefore weren't in peak condition. But after such a punishing race as ironman it takes months to recover but you won't peak again that season - at least you won't if you're me at my age!
So note to self - don't beat yourself up too much as you are still recovering and patience will result in me being stronger when I get back to normal training. I'm taking it very easy with the running because my body is finding the neutral shoes without orthotics "different". On Friday I go for my "swim smooth" lesson which will be interesting as I haven't swam in nearly a year.
And finally having written about mind games and my golf last week, I had a very positive experience in the Pro Am which proves my theory that success is determined by your mindset. We have a choice - the control is in our heads.
There were 3 guys reaching the peak of their ironman training and I remember how that felt a year ago. I was invisible and hills didn't seem so steep. The other athletes were further away from their "A" race therefore weren't in peak condition. But after such a punishing race as ironman it takes months to recover but you won't peak again that season - at least you won't if you're me at my age!
So note to self - don't beat yourself up too much as you are still recovering and patience will result in me being stronger when I get back to normal training. I'm taking it very easy with the running because my body is finding the neutral shoes without orthotics "different". On Friday I go for my "swim smooth" lesson which will be interesting as I haven't swam in nearly a year.
And finally having written about mind games and my golf last week, I had a very positive experience in the Pro Am which proves my theory that success is determined by your mindset. We have a choice - the control is in our heads.
Tuesday 4 June 2013
Mind games (again)
Coming back to training is interesting. Having been so fit before MdS to starting all over again isn't easy. Before I left I was going out for 3 hour trail run with an 8 kg rucksack. Now going out for a 10k run without a rucksack requires me to push myself. I had to drag myself out of bed, continually telling myself that I need to make a start as I feel sluggish and am now the heaviest I've ever been. To put that in context I am now 11 and a half stone whereas my heaviest before that was 11 stone 2 pounds! This isn't an issue but would be if I got any heavier (slim boy fat!).
But I'm having to work on my mindset as not having a specific event to train for gives it (my mind) the perfect excuse to say "why bother?" On Saturday I managed 10k which compared to what I was running before is nothing. But I needed to "reset" my mind so that it didn't feel like a tough training session and as I am practicing my Chi running it did distract my mind from asking "why bother?". The solution could be to pick an event but I want to concentrate on my form for swimming, cycling & running for the rest of this year. 2015 will be the year for my next big challenge, whatever that is?
I will be starting my yoga and swimming in under two weeks time (letting stiches in my chest heal properly, and I know this will help get the enthusiasm back.
In the meantime my golf has been playing mind games at a higher level. What a frustrating game that is. On Sunday I played in a competition and had the worst score that I can ever remember! But here's the point. How can I expect to perform at a sport that requires precision and a positive mental attitude when I haven't been playing. Crazy. It's like turning up for a triathlon having not trained - it's only going to hurt and disappoint. So to summarise, I'm a "work in progress" at the moment and as the sun is shining, I'm off to the golf course to work on my mindset!
But I'm having to work on my mindset as not having a specific event to train for gives it (my mind) the perfect excuse to say "why bother?" On Saturday I managed 10k which compared to what I was running before is nothing. But I needed to "reset" my mind so that it didn't feel like a tough training session and as I am practicing my Chi running it did distract my mind from asking "why bother?". The solution could be to pick an event but I want to concentrate on my form for swimming, cycling & running for the rest of this year. 2015 will be the year for my next big challenge, whatever that is?
I will be starting my yoga and swimming in under two weeks time (letting stiches in my chest heal properly, and I know this will help get the enthusiasm back.
In the meantime my golf has been playing mind games at a higher level. What a frustrating game that is. On Sunday I played in a competition and had the worst score that I can ever remember! But here's the point. How can I expect to perform at a sport that requires precision and a positive mental attitude when I haven't been playing. Crazy. It's like turning up for a triathlon having not trained - it's only going to hurt and disappoint. So to summarise, I'm a "work in progress" at the moment and as the sun is shining, I'm off to the golf course to work on my mindset!
Sunday 26 May 2013
Fighting fit?
They say it can take 6 months to fully recover from MdS. Really? 6 weeks later I look physically fine. I'm now 11 stone 3 pounds, my heaviest ever, so any weight loss has been made back. My feet are almost completely healed although they are a bit dry and flaky. I have known for a while that I needed a cyst removed from my chest so I had that done 10 days ago and the stiches came out today but it will be at least 2 weeks before I can put any pressure on my chest so that means no swimming for a couple of weeks and no yoga.
So I've restricted my training to cycling and running. My first ride was a week ago with 25 miles, Tuesday 40 miles and yesterday 44 miles. I have felt tired on each ride and my average speed is back to where it was three years ago. But I survived and each session makes me feel fitter.
My Chi running has been sporadic and while it feels good at the time I hurt in new places afterwards and I'm giving myself time. This is all part of the change to Chi running. No big distances, just feeling what's going on with my body.
So 6 weeks ago I was super fit. Now I'm not but I am taking the an active route to recovery, just not pushing it too hard.
A friend of mine is doing Lands End to John O'Groats in 3 weeks time and I am hoping to join him for one stage i.e. 100 miles. That's going to take a lot of effort but a goal worth pushing for. I hope when I report back next week I'm fighting fit!
So I've restricted my training to cycling and running. My first ride was a week ago with 25 miles, Tuesday 40 miles and yesterday 44 miles. I have felt tired on each ride and my average speed is back to where it was three years ago. But I survived and each session makes me feel fitter.
My Chi running has been sporadic and while it feels good at the time I hurt in new places afterwards and I'm giving myself time. This is all part of the change to Chi running. No big distances, just feeling what's going on with my body.
So 6 weeks ago I was super fit. Now I'm not but I am taking the an active route to recovery, just not pushing it too hard.
A friend of mine is doing Lands End to John O'Groats in 3 weeks time and I am hoping to join him for one stage i.e. 100 miles. That's going to take a lot of effort but a goal worth pushing for. I hope when I report back next week I'm fighting fit!
Sunday 19 May 2013
Starting again
I'm slowly getting back to training and finding that my body is still tired but actually responding well to the exercise. On Saturday I ran 1 lap of Chatelherault (5 miles) focusing on my new Chi running style. It's early days but I seem to be running much lighter and hills seemed to vanish. All the time I was focusing on my style and taking the feedback from my body. Within 10 minutes of starting I had a couple of niggles with my knee but they disappeared. I wasn't trying to run fast but ended up with a fast time. Afterwards I could feel a couple of different muscles letting me know they had worked but when you consider I'm not running with my orthotics or shoes with support it's unbelievable. I've a lot to learn about Chi running but I'm studying the theory to help with my transition.
This afternoon I went out on the bike for a spin with my mate Jim. He was suffering from a cold so wasn't wanting a hard session which suited me fine as I hadn't been out on the road on my bike in 8 months. It felt great but the hills took their toll and my average speed was back to where it was 3 years ago so plenty of work to be done in that department. 30 miles was a reasonable start but as a friend pointed out - I can run further than that!
I think I'll sleep tonight and take a few days to recover from my reintroduction to training. But I loved it!
This afternoon I went out on the bike for a spin with my mate Jim. He was suffering from a cold so wasn't wanting a hard session which suited me fine as I hadn't been out on the road on my bike in 8 months. It felt great but the hills took their toll and my average speed was back to where it was 3 years ago so plenty of work to be done in that department. 30 miles was a reasonable start but as a friend pointed out - I can run further than that!
I think I'll sleep tonight and take a few days to recover from my reintroduction to training. But I loved it!
Sunday 12 May 2013
So what's next?
It's now 4 weeks since I returned from having completed the MdS and the most common question is "what's next?" I've given that a lot of thought as I've enjoyed the rest, no training, plenty of food and a few too many beers! I deliberately hadn't planned anything in advance as I wanted my total focus to be on MdS.
I've reflected on my journey to date and have decided on a plan for the rest of the year. But first some background. Before starting this journey I practised karate for 11 years. The club was called Shoshin which stands for "beginners mind" and after receiving my black belt my Sensei explained to me to take a Shoshin approach to my learning. He said "in the mind of the beginner there are many possibilities, in the mind of the expert there are few". He repeated the process twice more after further gradings and I am going to apply the same process to my journey.
So yesterday I went on a Chi running course so that I can become a more effecient runner. This means taking a step back and slowing down. I am organising a swim coach to help me become a better swimmer so I have more energy when I get out the water to complete the triahlon. Improving my form will give me greater purpose in my training and next year I intend to compete in a series of triathlons.
As for another big adventure, there are so many out there in the world but I'm in now rush. Right now it's about getting fitter and better with a "beginners mind"! I'll keep posting my blogs on a weekly rather than daily basis. Keep in touch and thanks for your continued support.
I've reflected on my journey to date and have decided on a plan for the rest of the year. But first some background. Before starting this journey I practised karate for 11 years. The club was called Shoshin which stands for "beginners mind" and after receiving my black belt my Sensei explained to me to take a Shoshin approach to my learning. He said "in the mind of the beginner there are many possibilities, in the mind of the expert there are few". He repeated the process twice more after further gradings and I am going to apply the same process to my journey.
So yesterday I went on a Chi running course so that I can become a more effecient runner. This means taking a step back and slowing down. I am organising a swim coach to help me become a better swimmer so I have more energy when I get out the water to complete the triahlon. Improving my form will give me greater purpose in my training and next year I intend to compete in a series of triathlons.
As for another big adventure, there are so many out there in the world but I'm in now rush. Right now it's about getting fitter and better with a "beginners mind"! I'll keep posting my blogs on a weekly rather than daily basis. Keep in touch and thanks for your continued support.
Friday 19 April 2013
The final chapter
This is the closing chapter in a five year journey from
non-athlete to Ironman and now multi-day endurance runner having just completed
the 2013 MdS. I only learned of this
event when trying to find an event dafter than ironman which would make ironman
seem more “sane”. I never dreamed I’d
enter the MdS but in the end I did.
Here’s my story of the MdS.
Day 2: 31km, 6hrs 39 mins. Started at 5.40am as I watched the sunrise. My plan was to survive day 2 as I was now carrying 11.8k. I knew that there were 3 massive climbs. According to the winner afterwards he said it was the toughest stage in the history of the MdS. I found it fine as I power walked it but it included rock climbing. Got some great photos but one of my tent mates required 4 litres of fluid from the medics – people were dropping like flies in the heat which had reached 52 degrees at its peak. Another visit to the medical tent and more blister treatment – it seems that walking creates different pressure points and now every step I took hurt so pain management became essential.
Before I went to the Sahara I would have found it impossible
to describe what the MdS is. Yes it’s 5.5.
marathons on 6 days across the Sahara carrying your own food and everything
else you need in your rucksack. The
organisers supply you with 9 litres of water a day at various stages, medical
treatment if required and your 8 man tent is erected at the camps for you along
the way. But it’s much more than that.Most
people, including me, think of marathons as road runs and the times accordingly
but nothing could be further from the truth.
I was told that if you run a 4 hour marathon on tarmac then
your likely time for an MdS marathon would be between 6 – 8 hours. That turned out to be spot on. I've given distances and times below for those that are interested but in the end all that mattered was getting through this extreme endurance event. Coming 565 out of 1,040 people meant nothing to me. Hill walking, hill climbing and trail running
turns out to be the most appropriate training with road running having no relevance
what so ever. The biggest factor that
you must take into account is that you are living in tents, getting up at
5.30am, cooking your breakfast and dinner yourself and managing your water –
every drop of it as any additional water is a time penalty. 5.5 marathons on its own would be tough
enough – this was insane.
When I completed Lanza Ironman in May last year I swore I’d
withdraw from MdS because of how I suffered in the heat with temperatures in
the low 30’s, even with access to as much water and ice as I wanted during the
marathon. But I decided to see if I
could push the limits.
Once you arrive at the initial camp you have 2 days of
“administration” including going through checks of your ECG to make sure your
fit enough to run. It’s queue after
queue – food is supplied as you don’t become self-supporting until the morning
the race starts but standing in queues of 1,000 people is a right pain but you
need to be patient which was a theme for the whole event. Shortly after arriving a sandstorm blew all
our belongings out of our tent and on another occasion collapsed it – sand was
everywhere.
Day 1: 37km, 6hrs 2mins. The nerves were gangling as “Highway to Hell” blared out and
the helicopter did low pass overs with camera men hanging out capturing the
1,040 runners living the dream. I ran
with a few of my mates for the first 12k when we reached the first
checkpoint. The temperature was heading
for the 40’s and the 12.5 kg on my back was hurting. As the day went on my feet started to burn
and I realised that I had a blister on the ball of my right foot – this was not
a good start. Climbing sand dunes is
like walking up an escalator which is going in the opposite direction. Running in sand is a waste of energy for all
but the fittest elite athletes. End of
day 1 then off to the medics tent to discover 3 big blisters – they treated
them and taped my feet. I cried in pain
as I hobbled back to the tent. My dream
was in danger of becoming a nightmare. I
needed to change my race strategy. Boil
in the bag dinner and bed by 8.30am.
Just before bed an email was delivered for me – how unbelievably
uplifting. We all came to rely on that
contact from the outside world.
Day 2: 31km, 6hrs 39 mins. Started at 5.40am as I watched the sunrise. My plan was to survive day 2 as I was now carrying 11.8k. I knew that there were 3 massive climbs. According to the winner afterwards he said it was the toughest stage in the history of the MdS. I found it fine as I power walked it but it included rock climbing. Got some great photos but one of my tent mates required 4 litres of fluid from the medics – people were dropping like flies in the heat which had reached 52 degrees at its peak. Another visit to the medical tent and more blister treatment – it seems that walking creates different pressure points and now every step I took hurt so pain management became essential.
Day 3: 38km, 6hrs 38mins. The objective was to ensure I would be in shape for the double
marathon the following day so this dictated how fast I could move. You needed to calculate whether running was
good as it was painful and increased your core body temperature which put you
in the danger zone. However it got you
out of the blistering sun quicker. In
the end I never ran in the heat of the day but my power walking was quicker
than other peoples running. The banter
back at the tent with the “tartan army” was unbelievable – you needed a thick
skin and a wicked sense of humour. No
washing facilities existed and shitting in a brown bag meant you had to be
careful with hygiene. One set of running
gear also meant we all smelled rotten but nobody noticed although by the end I
was objecting to my own smell!
Day 4/5: 76km, 17hrs 9mins. The long day arrived. The strategy was to get through it and not
stop for a sleep. We ended up in trouble
when one of my tent mates fell ill in the middle of nowhere. He was 3.7 km from a check point and in
serious trouble vomiting everywhere – I realised that if he was in trouble then
we all were. Fortunately I spotted 2
medics just about to drive off and I got their attention. They treated him for 45 minutes and we sat in
the shade created by the car. It was
only when we started running that we realised the damage this had done to us as
we hadn’t enough water to have stayed out that length of time. At the same time the previous years female
winner went past suffering heat exhaustion – she was given 4 litres of fluid
through an IV drip but later pulled out.
The next couple of check points were a blur as I fought off
the horrible feeling of wanting to throw
up knowing that this would lead to medical treatment and a possible
withdrawal. At half way I stopped for
soup and a rest in the shade. Darkness
settled in and we tackled 8km of sand dunes in the dark. A green laser at the next checkpoint pointed
to the sky and we followed small luminous green markers in the most amazing
star lit sky I have ever seen. Every so
often a local would appear in the darkness and said hello – I have no idea
where they came from.
The second last stage in the night we were moving very fast
and were never overtaken. At the last
checkpoint our colleague was sick again and told us to go ahead. We picked up the pace again and finished in
just over 17 hours. On getting back to
my tent the medical team were there again because someone had collapsed outside
our tent and was being treated – in my bloody space! I just wanted to collapse. We’d done it, completed the double marathon
in one go but the pain in my feet and my shoulders from the rucksack was
incredible. I couldn’t take
anti-inflammatory tablets as it was too high a risk with the lack of hydration
so I just had to put up with the swollen ankles and feet. In the morning I had spaghetti bolognaise for
breakfast which was the dinner I had skipped the night before to save
time. A day of rest and stretching
prepared me for the next day. Strangely
I could not only touch my toes but get my fingers under my toes which was due
to the muscles being more flexible in the heat.
Day 6: 42km, 6hrs 45mins. When we woke up for the final day there was only a marathon
to go – did I just say only? It’s funny
but that is how we all felt. It was a tough
stage with huge salt planes to go across where you thought you were walking on
a conveyor belt going the wrong way for hours.
I ran while it was cool (up to 35 degrees) and left enough energy in the
tank for the end. But all the time I was
calculating just how fast I could go without collapsing with heat exhaustion –
it dictated everything. The finishing
line was a bit of a blur but I’d made it – the hardest footrace on earth was
done. There was a party in the evening
with a rock band but I stayed in the tent with my feet raised as I was
hurting. Everyone in the tent had
completed the MdS and we were so proud.
Charity run: 8km, 2hrs 15mins. The following morning we had to take part in a UNICEF charity
stage over one of the most beautiful dunes in the Sahara. All I wanted to do was get to the end and get
on the coach for the 6 hour journey back to the hotel. So I power walked it with a pal and overtook
the winner, Mohamed Ahansal, 300 yards before the line. Stopped for a picture with him and then
blocked out the TV cameras with our Scotland flag as we went across the finish
line. It was over, thank god for that.
The tartan army set me up at the alternative awards dinner
the following night when I was introduced to the race organiser, and the 315
Brits, as the “legendary Scottish runner” who had over taken Mohamed Ahansal the
event winner just short of the line on the charity run – to a standing ovation
I accepted Patrick’s hug and thought, the bastards – what a great bunch of
mates I had the privilege of completing this unbelievable race with’ friends
for life.
The whole race was about ensuring I survived and completed
it while raising money for Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centres - currently around £5,000. Every step hurt after the first day and staying
conscious so I remained in control of my destiny dictated my every move. I’ve reflected on whether I could have gone
faster or not. Possibly, but then it
could have been a different ending and not a happy one. This is a “mental” race. You have a voice in your head for the whole
event telling you about the pain, the heat and how the finish line seems never
to get closer. Physically it’s tough but
mentally it’s ridiculous.
Pushing myself to the limit has taught me so much and
fortunately I have support from my family and so many friends who have all
encouraged me to keep going. Thank you
for believing me. Now for a well-earned rest.
Tuesday 16 April 2013
Back home
It seems strange to be sitting down on a comfy couch typing out this blog. Only a few days ago I was in the Sahara Desert with 1,000 like minded people living a dream. Sleeping in open tents with 7 mates, cooking my food which I had carried every day and star gazing at night. Then you come back to reality with a bang and a sensless bombing at the Boston Marathon. My heart goes out to everyone affected and it just makes you realise how precious life is.
I'm reflecting now on my adventure and will post a summary of the whole trip by the end of the week but for now am going to take some rest time as it will have taken it's toll on me and I want a quick recovery if possible. Thank you for following my journey - I have so much to tell but for now let's send our love & energy across the water to Boston.
I'm reflecting now on my adventure and will post a summary of the whole trip by the end of the week but for now am going to take some rest time as it will have taken it's toll on me and I want a quick recovery if possible. Thank you for following my journey - I have so much to tell but for now let's send our love & energy across the water to Boston.
Friday 12 April 2013
Stage 5
Finished thank god. Another scortching day with
casualties everywhere, it was "just a marathon" but in the sand with
high temperatures you could quickly find yourself in serious trouble. I
wanted a decent finish and it went to plan around 6 hrs 40.
I haven't washed in a
week and have worn the same outfit to run in - but everyones the same. Tonight
I don't have boil in the bag and the rumour is I may get a beer! There's a rock concert on tonight in
our camp but I'm not sure my feet are up to standing!
Tomorrow we have a
7km charity run and the tartan army will be walking it! Then back to the hotel
after a 5hr bus where the shower awaits and any food not nailed down will be
scoffed!
Thank you for your support and emails they helped more than you would
imagine. Now for some rest and get life back to normal. Finally a big thank you to my family who made
a big sacrifice. Cheers
Thursday 11 April 2013
Stage 4
So much has happened!
My tent mate was rushed to hospital but got through the big day. On the big day I ran with 2 pals and one needed medical treatment in the heat of the day. We waited 30 minutes which cooked us and threatened our chances but it was a life or death moment - he made it in the end.
Completing 78km in 1 day was brutal, it involved 6km of dunes and over 30km of soft sand. The temp is rumoured to have peaked at 50 and there were loads of casualties including Laurence Klein the 3 times winner. Heading through the dunes in the darkness with a star lit sky and a huge green lazer beam for guidance was amazing. Got to bed a 2am and now have a rest. Can't believe I've made it with the 7 blisters on my feet.
Your support has helped. Only a marathon tomorrow! Can't wait for some decent food and an ice cold beer! It's all we're talking about.
My tent mate was rushed to hospital but got through the big day. On the big day I ran with 2 pals and one needed medical treatment in the heat of the day. We waited 30 minutes which cooked us and threatened our chances but it was a life or death moment - he made it in the end.
Completing 78km in 1 day was brutal, it involved 6km of dunes and over 30km of soft sand. The temp is rumoured to have peaked at 50 and there were loads of casualties including Laurence Klein the 3 times winner. Heading through the dunes in the darkness with a star lit sky and a huge green lazer beam for guidance was amazing. Got to bed a 2am and now have a rest. Can't believe I've made it with the 7 blisters on my feet.
Your support has helped. Only a marathon tomorrow! Can't wait for some decent food and an ice cold beer! It's all we're talking about.
Tuesday 9 April 2013
Stage 3
I set the strategy so I'd be ready for the double marathon tomorrow. 38 km in blistering heat in around 6hr 30 - garmin issues!
Thank you for your emails. You've no idea how pleased I was for the support. My feet were ok today but Ihad tobe careful. I cannot imagine what tomorrow will be like but I will not be back in the tent until around 3am I guess. Then I will be recovering so I won't be posting a blog till the day after tomorrow. But keep the emails coming. The scenery is out of this world but climbing up sand dunes is like walking up the down escalator! The heat builds all day and it's essential to keep taking on water and salt tablets.The home cooking is passable- in moreways than 1.
The people you meet is fantastic - all on a journey - "the highway to hell"! They play it everyday.
Thank you for your emails. You've no idea how pleased I was for the support. My feet were ok today but Ihad tobe careful. I cannot imagine what tomorrow will be like but I will not be back in the tent until around 3am I guess. Then I will be recovering so I won't be posting a blog till the day after tomorrow. But keep the emails coming. The scenery is out of this world but climbing up sand dunes is like walking up the down escalator! The heat builds all day and it's essential to keep taking on water and salt tablets.The home cooking is passable- in moreways than 1.
The people you meet is fantastic - all on a journey - "the highway to hell"! They play it everyday.
Monday 8 April 2013
Stage 2
Today was the hardest ever stage according to a previous winner.
It involved 3 huge climbs and one of them was effectively rock climbing. The views were worth it but because of the state of my feet I could only power walk it, when I wasn't standing ina queue to climb. Back in the high 40's. My feet suffered again so I was back in the medical tent getting them tape. Running is almost impossible but actually overtaking people who are running. 7hrs 11mins for 30km is slow but you'll understand when you see the photos.
This is now about survival but I'm 591st- as long asI finish without too much damage I'll be happy. Tomorrow wehaveanother marathon followed by thedouble marathon. I'm not even thinking about that.It's one foot in front of another,ignore the pain in the feet and theshoulders and get to the next checkpoint.
What an experience- one I'll savour forever!
It involved 3 huge climbs and one of them was effectively rock climbing. The views were worth it but because of the state of my feet I could only power walk it, when I wasn't standing ina queue to climb. Back in the high 40's. My feet suffered again so I was back in the medical tent getting them tape. Running is almost impossible but actually overtaking people who are running. 7hrs 11mins for 30km is slow but you'll understand when you see the photos.
This is now about survival but I'm 591st- as long asI finish without too much damage I'll be happy. Tomorrow wehaveanother marathon followed by thedouble marathon. I'm not even thinking about that.It's one foot in front of another,ignore the pain in the feet and theshoulders and get to the next checkpoint.
What an experience- one I'll savour forever!
Sunday 7 April 2013
Stage 1: Sunday 7th April 2013
What an unbelievable day!
1050 runners head off into the desert for 38 kms of fun! The temperature was 45 degrees and my rucksack weighed 12.5kg. It was brutal.
The first 13k I managed to run most of the way but the second 13k were over soft undulating sand -saps all energy. I managed to complete in 6hrs and 4 minutes and came in 529th but I had an issue so I had to visit the medical tent.Blisters on the ball of my foot and also on the side of both. The treatment was painful and tomorrow I will have to rething my strategy. It will probably mean a lot of walking and painkillers as they are really tender. A lot of "rule 5" is going to be required. Now off to cook my boil in the bag and hope I don't get too much sand in it.
This is tough and tomorrow could make or break me so fingers crossed.
1050 runners head off into the desert for 38 kms of fun! The temperature was 45 degrees and my rucksack weighed 12.5kg. It was brutal.
The first 13k I managed to run most of the way but the second 13k were over soft undulating sand -saps all energy. I managed to complete in 6hrs and 4 minutes and came in 529th but I had an issue so I had to visit the medical tent.Blisters on the ball of my foot and also on the side of both. The treatment was painful and tomorrow I will have to rething my strategy. It will probably mean a lot of walking and painkillers as they are really tender. A lot of "rule 5" is going to be required. Now off to cook my boil in the bag and hope I don't get too much sand in it.
This is tough and tomorrow could make or break me so fingers crossed.
Tuesday 2 April 2013
Signing out
I cannot believe that tomorrow I head off for my trip of a lifetime to take part in the Marathon des Sables. It doesn't seem like 23 months ago I pressed the accept button and was lucky to secure a place. It seemed like a distant dream back then as I has Lanzarote Ironman to contend with first but the journey has been amazing.
I have met so many interesting people in different locations from The Great Glen in Scotland to the foothills of the Atlas mountains. That experience alone has made the whole training regime worthwhile and i've achieved distances I wouldn't have imagined possible.
So my rucksack and bag is almost packed. I've done all the weighing and calorie counting that I can take and tomorrow morning I fly to London to meet up with the tartan army - my 7 tent mates. Together we will endure the pain and pleasure and help each other along the way. MdS has been described to me as the closest you'll get to heaven & hell at the same time! So "radio silence" will be maintained probably until next Monday when you can expect a race report from day 1. That's assuming I have enough energy after a marathon to stand in a queue for the emails, manage to get it through to my wife who will then blog it.
Thank you for following my journey this far and I hope you stay for the final act. I'll provide a summary of the experience when I get back on 16th April. Remember I am raising money for Maggie's Cancer Caring Centres and if your feeling generous then you can link to my charity page by clicking on the Maggie's logo on the front page of this blog. Until I return, thank you and good night!
I have met so many interesting people in different locations from The Great Glen in Scotland to the foothills of the Atlas mountains. That experience alone has made the whole training regime worthwhile and i've achieved distances I wouldn't have imagined possible.
So my rucksack and bag is almost packed. I've done all the weighing and calorie counting that I can take and tomorrow morning I fly to London to meet up with the tartan army - my 7 tent mates. Together we will endure the pain and pleasure and help each other along the way. MdS has been described to me as the closest you'll get to heaven & hell at the same time! So "radio silence" will be maintained probably until next Monday when you can expect a race report from day 1. That's assuming I have enough energy after a marathon to stand in a queue for the emails, manage to get it through to my wife who will then blog it.
Thank you for following my journey this far and I hope you stay for the final act. I'll provide a summary of the experience when I get back on 16th April. Remember I am raising money for Maggie's Cancer Caring Centres and if your feeling generous then you can link to my charity page by clicking on the Maggie's logo on the front page of this blog. Until I return, thank you and good night!
Monday 1 April 2013
Success - just.
I have worked hard today to try and squeeze everything into my rucksack. I just managed but had to sacrifice a spare top and a rain jacket. I have a really thin wind proof top for the night run so come in handy if the wind gets up which can happen. I'll take my rain jacket just in case I manage to find a different way of squeezing it in. The annoying thing is they are making us carry 2,000 calories for day 6 although at the end they will be supplying dinner as the race is officially finished and it's party time! My rucksack weighs 9.3 kilos and I still have 500g to add plus 1.5 litres of water. It's going to be a heavy load for the first few days which will be a killer with the sand dunes on day 2.
Just a few days to collect the last few items and go over my plans for clothes for before and after the event. Exciting times. The last chapter of this journey is about to unfold.
Sunday 31 March 2013
Packing to go
I can't believe how long packing has taken. It started with preparing my food for 6 days in the Marathon des Sables. The key is getting the amount of calories right but at the same time trying to reduce the weight. This is critical because on Saturday the race administrators will be checking our rucksacks to make sure we can are carrying what we need to survive. I have no idea how many calories we will be going through a day, but it will certainly be more than the 2,500 - 3,000 I'm taking. This will result in weight loss of perhaps half a stone but I'll enjoy putting it back on when I get back.
I have made one attempt to get everything in my rucksack and it failed. I've got most of it in but not everything. Tomorrow I'll try and pack it smarter but there isn't much room for error. Getting the balance between the weight and how much I'll need to eat is tricky as I am entering new territory. The diet isn't particularly appealing but it's what I need to get me through the toughest physical and mental challenge of my life. Only a few more days of normal life left!
Saturday 30 March 2013
Close call
At 9am I went out for probably my last run before I leave for the Marathon des Sables on Wednesday - actually fly our from London on Thursday. There was a light snow flurry and all I was doing was a 10k with no rucksack. It was a good pace but then I hit black ice. Bloth feet left the ground but somehow I managed to land on one and not do any damage. That could have been the end before I had started. After 10 months of preparation it could have been all over. When I got back home I noticed I had recorded a fast time for me and felt fantastic. Only then did the sun decide to come out!
I have also been trying my MdS breakfast. Wheetabix, powdered milk, nuts and raisins. It was surpriringly nice so that's another thing off my diminishing list. Last night my eldest son got in very late and I couldn't get back to sleep. Thoughts of the desert, my food, hydration etc were going round in my head so I think I'll need a wee nap this afternoon to make up for it - all part of my recovery plan.
It feels strange not to be training hard and I almost feel I'm not doing enough. But as 3 times MdS female winner Laurence Klein said to me, you should not run within a week of the event. So who am I to argue. Rest, yoga, massage, sauna's (to get used to the heat) and good food (plenty of it) seems to be the plan for the next week as the following week couldn't be more different: Sleeping in a tent with 7 other smelly mates, no showers, no toilets, freeze dried food, gels, 40 degrees plus dropping to 5 degrees at night, drinking warm water all day and running 5.5 marathons in 7 (although technically 6) days. Can't wait.
Friday 29 March 2013
Technical stuff
I enjoyed a restful day today and had the pleasure of picking up a new car. A convertible for when the summer or even spring eventually arrives! But I needed to go shoping for certain foods I need for the Marathon des Sables. They have a strict minimum 2,000 calories per day and the carboydrate drinks and powders do not count. So this afternoon I measured all the food items and their calorific value to finalise my food for the week. When I weighed the food I realised it was too heavy as it would have been almost 6 kilos of weight for the food alone. So I swapped some of the gels and drop a sports bar a day which managed to lose a kilo but I can't see it getting any lighter.
Tomorrow I will go for my 2nd last run just to keep my body ticking over but I can already tell it's getting stronger with the rest and all the good food I am shoveling in at the moment. I need to test a "foot pod" with a different watch as this will mean I don't need to carry a solar charger which of course would mean more weight. The problem is that a foot pod works on roads but where the length of your stride alters due to different terrain it will throw out the accuracy of the data. However it will be better than nothing. If you can picture looking for miles across a flat plain you can imagine how it will be difficult to know how far you've come and how far you have to go. It's important especially in relation to rationing your water so tomorrows test is important. Unfortunately I have a late night as I have to pick my son up and an early morning start as I have to drop my daughter off at horse riding! After that I can head out for my run. Then more rest and more food!
Thursday 28 March 2013
Preparing my body
Early morning yoga was a great start to the day. Then to a full on day of one deadline after another - I just love the end of a tax year! Then to the main session of the day - a sports massage. Grant "went in deep" as I am far enough away from the event to recover. As I haven't been doing big miles in the last few weeks my legs weren't too bad. My back was ok but my shoulders were tight - I put that down to the pressure of work. But I'll be back on his bench on Tuesday for my final massage. He's booked me in for 1.5 hours as he will be making sure everything is in order. So tonight I am relaxing, chilling with some good food.
My race food has arrived and tomorrow I will start preparing my rucksack and drawing up the final list, including toilet roll. Mustn't forget that!
Wednesday 27 March 2013
Inspirational young people
Tonight I was giving a "Mission Ironman" speach meant to inspire a group of young people who had completed a leadership qualification. I was the fifth speaker, the first four being young people presenting what they had done during their course. They were a hard act to follow as their stories were truelly inspirational. I had built my presentation specifically aimed at how with the right mindset you could achieve whatever you wanted. To demonstrate this at the end I invited two young people up to break 3/4 of an inch piece of wood with their bare hand. This is a daunting task but Alan was right up for it and confidently smashed the wood. Jenna on the other hand wasn't quite so sure and one her first attempt her hand bounced off the wood. "I knew I couldn't do it" she said - and she was right. But after a wee pep talk from me she smashed the wood on her second attempt to loud applause from the audience which included the Lord Provist of Glasgow.
It was the perfect example of how your mindset determines the outcome and both volunteers who were brave enough to step forward, not knowing what I was going to ask them to do, will never forget the experience.
The teachers and parents should be so proud of these young people who have got a head start on other pupils who haven't gone through this leadership course. I just hope that some of my messages will help them on their journey. It certainly was the highlight of my day which started with a yoga session and then a 10 km run in the snow. Now for bed to recover!
Tuesday 26 March 2013
Active rest
This morning started with an early morning yoga session. It's the same every time. Stiff as a board at the start and by the end feeling more flexible and refreshed. I cannot imagine what my legs and lower back would be like if I didn't practise my yoga. It may not be perfect but it works.
What followed was a hectic day and I didn't get home till late so I binned the proposed run as it was dark. My throat has also been sore and with the temperature at 1 degree I decided to take the rest. That doesn't sit well with me but I am so close I can't take any chances. I'll run tomorrow morning and hope this will keep me ticking over till I do some more miles at the weekend. Tapering is frustrating and niggles and feeling crap come with it. The negative thoughts also creep in so I've some work to do getting prepared.
Monday 25 March 2013
Eating an elephant
On reading the rules for the third time I realised my doctor had signed the medical certificate but not the ECG graphs. Lucky I spotted that or else it could have been a catastrophy in the desert! Fortunately he was happy to sign them so I can breath a sigh of relief. Not everyone is so lucky and a number of athletes are having to go to a specialist to get signed off.
I ordered my food today so that's another major one off the list. I will start laying out my kit this week and checking it off against the manditory items just to make sure, again!
Someone posted the weather forecast in Morocco and on Saturday it will be a nice 31 degrees. However an MdS vet posted we should add another 15 degrees for the desert - that is going to be extremely tough. The advice I have been given is to start slow and walk before you think you need to walk - don't think that will be a problem as my rucksack will weigh 10kg on day 1. Day 2 I suspect has some big dunes and when you consider the shock to the system from day 1 and the fatigue as you are repeating a marathon from the day before, pacing will be essential. As I go to sleep at night my last thought is about the MdS and my first thought is the same when I wake up. I've been here before with Ironman but this is different, it's a 6 day event so I need to ignore the enormity of the event and remember you eat an elephant in slices!
Sunday 24 March 2013
Ice Station Zebra
It was an old film, 1968, but I remember the cold the extreme cold. I ran through the Whitlee Wind Farm (the largest in Europe) at 9.15am this morning with a bunch of mates. The snow almost came up to your knees at times and the drifting snow was forced into our faces by the almost gale force wind. As I tried to think of something nice to keep the negative thoughts out, the film Ice Station Zebra came into my mind. But that didn't warm me up.
So I thought of what my surroundings will be like in 2 weeks time. The snow will be replaced by sand and -4 degrees by 40 degrees. A slight contrast. That was my last long run, although quite short at 17km, before I leave on 3rd April. So my training now reduces and I've booked a couple of sports massage. I will keep my yoga up, but not 108 Sun Salutations, to stay supple and will be eating well to get my body ready. The journey continues.
Saturday 23 March 2013
Race food sorted
Winter to continues to play havoc with my training plans. Snow and a strong chilling wind meant my run on the beach was cancelled. Tomorrow I hope the overnight temperature won't create a risk of a twisted ankle due to the frozen snow. It's not ideal when I am meant to be tapering so I turned the fire on in the TV room and had a sweat fest on my turbo trainer. I need to keep the fitness level up and spinning my legs was good following yesterday's mega yoga session which had left me tired and with some protesting muscles. The heat won't do me any harm as I'll be heading into temperatures of at least 30 degrees - a bit of a step up from todays zero degrees!
My freeze dried food had also arrived so I had the pleasure of testing it. Fortunately it was much better than the first batch so I spent a few hours pulling together my diet for the 6 days that require a minimum of 2,000 calories a day. I feel a lot more comfortable about this now although I need to go shopping for gels and powders next week.and rechecking
So it's getting close and the planning is all important as any small detail missed could spell disaster. A lot of checking to be done!
Friday 22 March 2013
Sun Salutation A
Last night I was at a black tie awards dinner for the IOD but I behaved myself, stayed off the booze and left early but that meant getting home at 11.30pm. I had a 5.40am start this morning and an appointment with my yoga teacher on my mat at 6.15am. I didn't know what to expect today and she certainly didn't disappoint by trying something I had never done before - 108 Sun Salutation A's. The Sun Salutation A is a warm up exercise and I normally do 5! But 108 in a row - OMG sweat fest plus!
It took me 1hr and 4 minutes and she had 3 heaters on in the room. At one stage a towel had to go on my mat as it was so slippy! I had decided not to wear a top and the sweat just pored off me. It's an exercise in breathing rather than a physical one although I think I am already beginning to feel muscles protesting from this mornings exertions! Pam filmed some of the workout and hopefully it will encourage steckies like me to give it a go. The benefits are incredible even if you can't fold in half - which I can't.
The exercise emphasises the importance of breathing in your well being. Now in case you think I am going to be wearing Jesus sandles and a robe next, think again. But how often do you take the time out of your day to focus on your breathing. Try it now. Breath in and out through your nose. Concentrate on the breath and it won't be long before you'll notice a difference. I think we should all take time out to do this in our stressful lives.
In less than 2 weeks I'll be in the Sahara Desert about to start the journey of a lifetime in the Marathon des Sables. The air will be like a furnace but I'll be practising my breathing as this, along with a strong mental approach, is what will get me through the toughest challenge of my life (so far!).
Thursday 21 March 2013
Maggie's Cancer Caring Centre
Last night was a special night as I had a wee get together of 30 friends at Maggie's Cancer Caring Centre in Glasgow. The idea was to connect people with Maggie's so that they didn't just see it as a cause I supported. It was a magical night as the architecture of the building is designed to create a wonderul atmosphere. This was added to be Mark Russell and his band who played for us, the Maggie's staff who explained what they did and 30 inspirational people who came along to listed to my journey to MdS. Thank you to everyone who came along.
It had been a busy day with a 6am 10k run. Not a long run but an important one as it's keeping me ticking over, fit and more importantly injury free. Despite getting back late last night, with no dinner, I made sure I repeated the same run this morning as I have a black tie business dinner tonight and won't be able to train this evening. It will be another late night but stictly no booze as I am back on my yoga mat with Pam at 6.15am tomorrow morning.
My fund raising has been slower than usual which is a sign of the economic times we are in but the online total with tax credit plus the offline donations brings my total to £3,000. That's a good start and I am hoping with 16 days to go we will be able to get this higher. If you can sponsor me then go to
https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/derekstewart.
Thank you for all your support to date.
Tuesday 19 March 2013
Blizzard conditions
Call me a wimp but I wasn't heading out into that blizzard this morning. My risk assessment was that if I didn't end up on my arse with a twisted ankle or pulled muscle, I'd catch a cold so I stayed in. However I had a good yoga session which got me mobile before getting on the turbo trainer for a sweat fest - I got complaints from the family because of the smell. I couldn't smell a thing!
I tested out my MdS breakfast of 3 wheetabix served with grated macademia nuts and raisins. I had the luxury of milk but it will be powdered milk in the desert. It wasn't too bad although I am sure I'll be craving for solid food after a few days!
I've spent tonight getting my presentation finalised for tomorrow night's talk at the Maggie's Centre at Gartnavel Hospital. I don't know how many people will turn up but it could be between 20 - 40 we'll see. They're in for a treat as not only will they learn about the essential work Maggie's does but they will hear a live band whose claim to fame is they supported Snow Patrol - how appropriate for the current weather conditions! I am going to give an insight into my journey but those of you who have followed the blog already know that. The only difference will be you won't get to see the wonderful pictures I have of the Sahara.
I'm not making any predictions about tomorrows weather but the forecast isn't good. My plan B will be more yoga and smelly turbo! Till tomorrow goodnight - I'm knackered.
Monday 18 March 2013
More bloody snow!
This is getting tedious. More bloody snow. Fortunately today is a rest day but tomorrow morning I was going to be up early for a 10 mile run and the forecast isn't looking good. I've always got to weight up the risk v the reward of running in the snow. If it's really bad I'll jump on my turbo trainer.
But in the meantime I will work on my presentation for Wednesday night. I always take these occassions seriously because you never know who might be inspired with the message and go on to achieve something they had always though impossible. I'm lucky that I am surrounded by people who have a "can do" attitude.
In order to complete the MdS I need to continually challenge myself in training so that when the going gets tough I can see through the pain and keep going. That means tomorrow morning, snow or no snow I'll be putting in 10 miles before breakfast. Take care out there.
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