A weekend trip to
The Complete Runner saw the purchase of some new trail shoes.
Innovate Roclite 315s, for the record.
Buying shoes is a rare occurance for me. My current road shoes were bought over 3 or maybe 4 years ago and are still going strong. I wear them until they're properly worn-out. My experience in India during the marathon has compounded this attitude.
I don't understand people who listen to manufacturer's recommendations relating to the lifespan of shoes. It seems such an obvious con. Like use-by dates on food. Typical of our readiness to consume and waste.
However, these shoes were based on real need, of course. I'm susceptible to twisted ankles and some of the decents off-the-tops around here can be trecherous.
I was amazed by the bounce and comfort, despite not having a deep cushion and I'd have no problems running for hours on-road in these.
Yesterday saw a run-train-run commute home as the car was left at work. This was followed-up by a cycle into work this morning.
These commuting combinations are great. If you work in the same office every day they help to keep things varied. And it's perect for the distance (15 miles).
My next task is finding some good local runs off-road. I can drive to the dales no-problem and do some of the big hills. But I need to get to know some of the very local terrain for bagging that quick run.
I just need to get more sleep now. And eat less. And drink less.
I've got alot of sympathy with Andy regarding The Booze. I think, like me, he's an all-or-nothing sort of person when it comes to his habits. Like smoking, you either do it or you don't. I'd love to be able to partake in the odd glass of wine; or the odd roll-up. But it just doesn't work like that with me.
I suspect it's time for me to put the booze to-bed for a while and see what can be achieved in its absense. Good-night Burgundy, Laphroaig and Taylors.
Problem is I get bored being sober for weeks-on-end. Abit like when the Freak Brothers try coming-down. It always ends-up with a binge. Same goes for food.
What-to-do? Enjoy and accept? Or shed-skin and reincarnate? I think if I had my name down for a certain ultra I'd know the answer. And maybe that's the difference. I don't have any running commitments to make change absolutely necessary.
Maybe it's time to hatch a plan.
