August 2011

[Sweder]

Two runs to end a reasonable running month. The recovery on Monday went surprisingly well, with few niggles to report and barely any residual pain from Sunday's long run. Tuesday was a rest day. I don't have a training schedule as such, just take occasional days off to rest my limbs. Yesterday I really wanted to run but self-denial appeals to my twisted nature. Just as it feels good to end a long run with a strong finish it can feel good not to run when your body wants to get out there. Muscles need time to mend and Tuesday seemed like a good day to knit some fibres.

Serves me right then that this morning the ole carcass went on strike. Stiff, aching all over, feeling a good ten years older I creaked and groaned out of bed, dragged on my boots and wobbled off into the east Lewes hills. Even my soundtrack started off a bit rubbish. Happily Planet Rock's a bit like the weather in Texas; if you don't like it just wait a while. Thankfully Van Halen's cover of You Really Got Me leapt out of the dross. My tired limbs responded, driving me into the last two kilometres with something approaching renewed vigour. 5.7 kms and a monthly total well over 100k for the first time in who knows how long?

September is a month of long distance travels and longer working days. Running at all will be tough. I'm determined to get out as much as possible, even if it's only for a mile or two early doors. I've shifted some timber this month and I can really help myself by reeling in my thirst/ appetite. Hong Kong will test the former, Mexico City the latter.

The Jog Shop Jog rolls around on October ninth. My aim is to complete the twenty mile course in something close to three hours thirty. To put things into perspective, Sunday's twelve miler offered approximately one third the ascendant distance expected at P2P. The JSJ, one of the most brutal tracks in South East England, a shade over three quarters. It's tough to over-estimate the challenge that awaits us in Hobart.