My Review of 2012 (Part 2)....

......... well as for the things I've been learning about running this year? They are many and varied! 

With regard to running, I've experienced what it is like to run in a race: the Birmingham Half was fantastic and for a few months I enjoyed running with Parkrun! I've also been introduced to interval training and hill reps by my club, and have learnt a little about running at different paces. I've bought an app for my phone (Runtastic - it's great) and been introduced to the wonders of running stats, including pace, speed, and gradients, and have debated with myself about the benefits of running with/without music (I'm for music at the moment!). I've also learnt about "age grading" results and discovered my "running handicap" from Run Britain (the handicap wasn't me, it was in fact something like 23!). I've learnt what it's like to run in pretty warm weather (in Spain) and pretty cold weather (Brum), and have decided I don't like extremes of either! I've also experienced the joys of running in the dark, in the rain and when it's windy. I prefer it when it's sunny, dry, and still. I've realised I need to take in water when on a long run as well as listening to my body when it needs to rest. I've joined a running club....... and at times, I've actually even enjoyed running, as well as its positive effects!

I've also started to learn about other practical stuff related to running: the gear! The importance of good running shoes, particularly as they relate to your running gait (I've learnt I have a fairly neutral gait), size and weight. The benefit of wearing tights, and what to wear above/beneath them! The dangers of wearing cotton tops, the accompanying damage to nipples, and the cure. Vaseline! I've also remembered the correct protocol for applying deep heat, and the result when you apply it BEFORE going for a wee. In addition, for the first time in my life I've pulled a calf muscle, resulting in more learning about recovery, sports injuries clinics and sports massages! So now, I feel a bit like "All the gear, a little bit more of an idea!"

But looking back over the year, I've been surprised at some of the other things I've been learning about. Things like the qualities of commitment, perseverance, guts and hard work: qualities needed to even get out there and run, particularly when you don't feel like it. The need for support and encouragement: the way that loads of people have encouraged me in small and big ways and how that has led me to try to encourage others. The way I've been inspired by ordinary people rising to their own challenges, and the generosity of spirit of so many runners, running the Birmingham Half for other people or charities. I've learnt to have patience when injured, so as not to rush back to running too soon: and the importance of planning and preparation. And perhaps the biggest thing, is about recognising my own limitations, my limits, and being content with that, but at the same time looking at new challenges and targets to motivate me to improve.... 

Finally, I've begun to blog. The tag line for the blog is "'cos blogging is easier than jogging".... and whilst I still think that's true, I'm not so sure I'm any better at blogging than I am at jogging. I guess for both I've got a long way to go...... roll on 2013!

My Review of 2012 (Part 1).......

....... apologies for the disappointment if you were expecting a review of major world events... that's not going to happen here. Only a review of the events in my own little world, and even then, only those that relate to my attempts at running, jogging and blogging! 

At the start of this year, I was a bit of a mess physically: 17 1/2 stone, quite happy with being a bit of a couch potato, and not really doing any sport or exercise (although I did go to the gym irregularly and enjoyed cycling). I am generally fairly healthy and thought I was ok for my age.... 49. But I did want to lose weight. I also wanted to help raise money for the charity I work for (www.nyas.net), so I joined up for a 10k charity run in May and started runn
jogging. 

That was at the end of February, beginning of March......... at that stage I could not run. I walked/jogged. I started off with a mile, taking me about 12-14 very breathy, very gaspy, minutes. I could not run uphill: I could not run downhill. I could not run. But I persevered and gradually improved, and ran my first 10k in May, clocking something like 65 minutes. And, with encouragement from others, I carried on!

Now, some 10 months later, I can see some progression (I should *^%*&£** hope so, given the amount of time I've put in!). I've lost something like 2 stone during this time (and have continued to lose weight slowly this autumn!). My trousers don't fit me. No need to be concerned about this, as I am still, at 15 1/5 stone, on the borderline between being just VERY OVERWEIGHT and OBESE ... well that's according to my BMI count at any rate. However, after a visit to my GP for a general check up, I do have some emerging health issues which exercise and a good diet will help to combat.. reason enough to continue running.

And my running? I have persevered, even during the autumn and winter, probably running two or three times a week, varying distances from approx 3 miles to 10 - 12 miles. I've also taken part in a half marathon, which at the start of the year would have simply been beyond me. I can run up hills: albeit very slowly, but I can do it! And my times are creeping down, so that I've just run (almost) 10k in something under 55 minutes..... I'm now just beginning to think of myself as a runner, not a good one, or fast one, but still a runner... this is a pretty big shift in my thinking, as previously I never thought I could run and at school I was hopeless. However, my thinking is different: I've also been learning things through running and about running.... see Part 2!

Hard Work

This week has been hard going. Ran 6 miles on Monday at 9.14 mm pace and then on Thursday evening did hill reps with Kings Heath. This seemed to be ok to start with (even though my wife told me I was mad to go out there running), but the wind and rain gradually picked up during the evening, so that the grass we were running on (a fairly wide central reservation of a dual carriageway) became more slippy and squelchy as we went on. At one stage I thought that we might have to run on pavement as I did (micro) slip a bit going down hill, but we managed to get through it and finish off without any damage done. 

So I ended up doing 7.7 miles at a ridiculously slow pace: the hill reps themselves were fine, and good for me, but it felt like which ever way we ended up running, the wind seemed to be against us! So by the time I got home, (after an hour and a half of freezing rain) I was glad to get into the shower... ending up with chilblains..... so felt like hard work!

Cannon Hill Park

And then today. Saturday morning. Briefly thought about doing Parkrun, for about 5 seconds, before curling up in bed. Legs felt stiff from the hill reps and I really wasn't feeling it. However, my wife kicked me out of the door, telling me it was a lovely day. And it was. Beautiful. Again, it was cold and I thought that I would take it easy, as I was feeling stiff and tired (work Christmas do on Friday evening didn't help). Did a familiar local 6.1 mile route round Kings Heath and Cannon Hill Park in some lovely (cold) weather. I was really surprised to find that half way round I was slightly quicker than normal, which encouraged me to keep going, even up Cartland Road (a fairly steep incline lasting approx 0.5 miles)... to end up getting home in 55:15 at 8.58 min/mile..... one of my quickest runs at that distance! I know this doesn't really bear comparison with most people who run, but my target for 10k for next year is getting under 55 mins, so I am reasonably hopeful I can do this!

Brass Monkeys

Well, I can safely say that I don't enjoy running in Winter.... at least, not as much as in the spring and summer. It has been cold recently: the sort of cold which gets through clothes and into bones, and which brass monkeys don't like.... I know this is relative, and there's probably worse to come, but all I can say is that my legs have been very stiff and cold when running, and it's taking me longer to recover afterwards. Not only that, but it's also taking me longer to actually get out there, as I'm double layered, hat, gloves, greased up and ralgexed.... its a bit of a feat for me to even get out of the door! However, I've been more aware of the need to keep warm and stretch and look after myself. I'm noticing that my legs (calves and hamstrings) are beginning to get tight, so tomorrow I'm going to book myself in for a sports massage and will also try to spend some time in a sauna/steam room.

The other thing is this.... it just seems to take more EFFORT! First there is the actual motivation to get out there... after a day at work, when it's dark, cold, wet, slippy and miserable... curling up in front of a warm fire seems much more appealing. Last week I was having this internal battle with myself as I was listening to the wind and rain slamming into the windows at home: go running with the club, or leave it. Sorry to say I left it... but was inspired and impressed when others actually made it out there. Admiration!

Then, if I do manage to gee myself up, it's half an hour of fumbling round with my contacts, greasing and creaming and layering tops, tights, stretching... (as the saying goes, "All the gear, no idea")! And then, like this morning, just getting going and warming up seemed to take more effort, and the actual running... I think because I'm breathing in cold air, breathing is more of a struggle. I believe it would be better if I could breath through my nose, but at the moment, at this stage in my running, I just seem to be gasping and sucking in air through my mouth like a huge jet engine. Probably not the best way of doing it... as it results in cold lungs and a dribbling nose. And nothing seems to warm up: about half way round today, it felt like my legs were really cold and not at all warmed up and I was a little conscious of trying not to pull anything..... and I was also half expecting some things to drop off.

Swanshurst Park

However, I have been running. This is good. Usually, at this time of year up to Christmas, I put on all the weight I lost over the summer...and more. This year, I'm slowly losing weight (I have a BMI which puts me in the obese/overweight category) which is also good. And today, I did enjoy running in lovely sunshine... a really crisp day... running round (a not so lovely part of Brum) a route which added up to about 9.89 miles. It was pretty hilly (or was it just undulating?..... no it felt hilly to me!) and I did it in approx 1:33 at just under 9.30 minutes per mile... This seems to be my mean pace at the moment. I don't know if this is an improvement or not on previous times, but I know that if I want to go under 2 hours for a half marathon I need to be running at 9 minutes per mile. I can get near that for 6 miles or so, just need to develop it for longer distances????? So there's the incentive to keep going.

One last thing.. all you runners out there in the cold.... I take my hat off to you (or I would if it wasn't so chilly).... keep going!!

Ego and dreaming

So, went running on my own this morning, having had a bit of a chill on my stomach last night and therefore chose to miss running with the club. Did a steady 5.5 miles at just over a 9 min mile pace, which for me is good, although it was pretty cold and miserable and I really was not enjoying it at all! I found it hard work, a struggle, and although I was trying to push myself, it just didn't feel it was happening. In fact this week, I've been running shorter distances in order to try to work on my speed, as I feel pretty pathetic really when running with others. I think I need to do more of this in order to improve, as looking back over the past few months, there is not really a big improvement in my performances.

Which brings me to the question, why does it matter to me how quick I go? I started running in order to raise money for charity and get fitter: both things I've achieved. So why does it matter so much to me? 

The answer is ego. There is something inside me which reacts to other people being better than me. So when others' talk about how quick they've run, or how far, I immediately look at my own performances and think how rubbish I am, or I resent their success. As C S Lewis wrote:

"Pride is essentially competitive—is competitive by its very nature..... Pride gets no pleasure out of having something..... It is the comparison that makes you proud: the pleasure of being above the rest."

Now, I don't want to be like this.... I want to be the sort of person who takes pleasure in other people's achievements, encourages others and spurs them on to achieve more, not someone who begrudges them, or who is so focused on myself that I fail to acknowledge their successes. In short, I want to be like the people who have encouraged me in my running, who have been so generous to me in so many different ways! Besides, I really do know by now that if I compare myself to others and their running, I will more often than not come out 2nd best!

So should I just give up trying to get better, quicker? I don't think so! To quote C S Lewis again:

"You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream."

It's good to have challenges, goals, dreams! I need new challenges to keep me going: even if I fail, it will be fun trying. But I guess the key is keeping it personal, not relating my goals to others' achievements: keeping it real for me, not thinking I can run like some 20 year old sprinter. Oh yes, and celebrating others' achievements with them, not resenting their success.

Along the River Cam

And I do have (running) challenges in mind for next year, a whole series of them..... perhaps the biggest one being a 16.5 mile run between Ely and Cambridge in March. I thought long and hard about this, but I was drawn to the fact that it was flat (!), that it was a trail run (not something I've done before), it was 16.5 miles (so much longer than anything I've done before), and it seems to be a really beautiful area. It will really give me something to aim for in training, and a bit like the Brum Half, I'm sort of excited by the thought of running it, as well as terrified! For this, I really won't be fussed about the time.... just that I finish! Roll on March.

Planning ahead?

Well, did not do Park Run the past two weeks: failed miserably in the getting out of bed stakes. To be fair, I did make it out of bed today, but then couldn't find my bar code, so went back to bed... winter is setting in!

Actually I did get out of bed to go running both weeks, for 8 milers, which I ran at approx 9:30 mins pace... not quick, but fairly steady.... I don't seem to be getting any quicker than before, but I do feel stronger generally. Both mornings were good weather wise, not too cold and fairly sunny, so lovely to run in and great to be outside!

Also this week, I experienced interval training for the first time... thought it would be good to give it a go, as I sort of run at one pace, and I think I need to get my speed up... well, It certainly tired me out, and I was feeling the after effects this morning as well in my legs, so it must be doing some good? Um, not sure, as I don't think I was any quicker today. Will have to see how it goes...

Anyway, both the last two weeks, I've been running with a guy who's new to the running club, and new to Birmingham. He's training for a half Iron Man next year, and it's clear he is a strong (and quick) runner. He says he's just getting back into training and I can believe him..... don't think he'll be running at my speed (or with me) much longer! But it has been good to run with someone else, and to be pushed a little... I do think I need more of this if I am going to improve at all.

Well, his challenge is a half Iron Man, and I have been mulling over my own challenges for next year.... I am hesitant to say too much about what I've been thinking and starting to plan, as once it's down on the blog, it's out there! However, I have been having fun looking at various race options for 2013, and have booked myself into the Sheffield and Birmingham Half Marathons (May and October) and the Winslow Lions 10k (February)..... I am also looking at other races throughout 2013 and trying to work out if they will be too hilly, too boring, too muddy or too far away! Ones which have looked far too challenging for me (at this stage!!) have been the "Newtons Fraction" half marathon in Lincolnshire, which looked as though it had two BIG humps in the middle of the race, and a few others which looked as thought they involved too much mud and wetness! So as I add to my list, I'll post them...... will see how things develop.....

Winter.. and giving in...

Well it feels like the Brum Half was a long time ago... and it also feels like its full on Winter weather, with temperatures getting colder and the nights drawing in. I really don't feel like running in weather like this, so I've done the only thing I could.... joined a running club!

Running in Winter

In fact, I'd thought about doing this for some time, as I think I need other people's advice and experience, and just as importantly, their support!! I really don't think I'd go out running at night in the winter if it was just down to me. But, knowing there are other people (mugs) going running on cold dark nights will be a spur to get me off my backside..... It's also been good joining the club's facebook page, as people are really encouraging.

So, I've given in. I've joined King Heath Running Club, as it's local, seems very friendly, and is keen to encourage runners of all standards, even ones like me, which is great! So last night was my first run with them, on a very cold night... There were 3 firsts for me.. One, running with a group of people, which was fine; two, running at night, which I also found surprisingly fine; and three, doing hill reps, which was NOT fine! Well, actually it was ok, and good for me to do. And I think that is one of the good things about being part of a club.... doing different things and meeting different people, and being able to chose training  exercises which will improve my running, I hope! The other group on the night did a run aiming at a 9 min per mile pace..... although it was tempting, I don't think I'm there yet!

So I'm hoping that joining KHRC will help me keep going through the winter. I know that if I don't keep up the running, it will really affect my fitness and weight levels, which I am aiming to keep up (the fitness levels, the weight levels can come down please)! I'm hoping to do Park Run tomorrow, which will be the first time in ages.... I'll be interested to see how I do.....

The Great Brum Half: mixed emotions

Result!

Well, I did it! Completed the 13.1 miles of Birmingham Half Marathon in a PB time of 2:08:41! I came 8056th out of 18,000, which was about 7,000 places better than I had expected! I won't bore you with other details, like where I came in my age group, blah, blah, blah, as if you're a runner, you're not going to be impressed, and if you're not, you're probably not interested anyway!

The day itself was amazing, great atmosphere, thousands of people running, and some fantastic support from the Brummies who'd come to watch. So encouraging and inspiring! Singing, jazz, drumming, gospel choir, cheering, support.... all made the running so much easier. Brilliant! And the day itself was superb for running, really foggy to start with and cold, but gradually warmed up, and although the sun didn't really get to peep out, it was fine and dry. Ideal conditions. 

Warming up

I was impressed with the organisation: getting 18,000 runners going at the start in the relatively cramped space in Birmingham city centre was no mean feat. The start was staggered in waves, depending on your estimated speed... I was therefore in the very last wave to start, meaning I had over an hour to wait  from the start of the elite athletes to our start. Great for soaking up the atmosphere, but not so good for keeping muscles warm! Anyway, we got under way, and I was conscious of not going off too quickly: quite difficult as the initial part of the course was downhill, and with all that cheering and drumming.........

Going strong at 8 miles!

Anyway, I settled into a 6 mph(ish) pace, and really continued with this throughout the race. Most of the course was flat, apart from the start and at about 5 miles at Bournville, where there was a reasonable incline, before descending again. Then, back through Stirchley, Edgbaston and Cannon Hill Park, before a wicked 1 1/2 mile climb at 10 miles, which apparently  even Haile Gebrselassie found hard (that is a great encouragement!). Even though I slowed up this hill, I did remain fairly strong, and was able to finish with, for me, a quicker mile at the end!

So what did I learn through this? Well, I think preparation is key: I couldn't have survived the course, particularly the hill at the end, without putting in the miles for the weeks/months beforehand. I had also planned where I was going to take on water, researched the weather and planned what I was going to wear: I'd even cycled most of the course a couple of times, to help me become familiar with it. I think this helped, mentally, if nothing else. I suppose what this amounts to is that I respected the course: I knew I had no hope of running it without decent preparation. I'm neither talented enough nor young enough to be able to get away with it, without putting in the hours. 

I was also able to set my own pace and keep to it: it might not have been quick, but it enabled me to keep going without stopping, and without feeling that I had to rush at the start. I think I was also stronger at the end because of this. I must admit I was surprised at the number of people I passed who were walking, I don't know why I was surprised, I just was. 

I think also starting right at the back was a positive for me... as I had put myself in the slowest group when registering for the race (at the time, I thought I'd do the course in 2 1/2 hours), I was actually able to run past loads of people, which in itself was a great encouragement. I think if I'd been in a quicker wave, i'd have got left behind and become a bit demoralised.... maybe? or maybe I'd have been pushed to run faster? Who knows.

In addition, I took people's advice and have read a bit (little bit) about running: have had a few sports massages to help my calf, and I wore tights, even though I look ridiculous, in order to keep my leg muscles in the right place.

And things I'd have done differently? Probably I'd have joined a running club to help me keep to a proper training plan and done more speed/interval training: I really need to up my pace. Probably not drunk so much alcohol the Saturday night before the race (the restaurant owner insisted on plying us with free drinks!). Oh yes, and I'd have broken in my running shoes before I wore them for the race (I'd gone to buy some new running shoes on the Saturday for after the race, but was told my current shoes were "shot to pieces" - I therefore risked it by wearing them for just a day, before running on Sunday!)... although they were fine in the end.

Running for great causes

So a great day, and one I will remember for some time: a fantastic run, great weather, and superb atmosphere. So why "mixed emotions"? I was very conscious during the race of the reasons why many were running: in fact I couldn't avoid it. Being among the last to start, a lot of people were ahead of me, so I got a good look at the race bibs on their backs, which had the start of a sentence, "I'm running for..." below their name. Some had written in things like, "Fun", or "Peace and Quiet, but don't tell the wife", or "President"... But most had put the charity they were running for; Acorns, Birmingham Children's Hospital, Alzheimer's Society. I found the fact that people had given up so much of their time and effort for different charities inspiring and a testament to their generosity. But there were also other people who had simply written on their back, "mum", or "Poppy", "dad". Their sense of loss of loved ones and the fact they were doing something positive in their memory, moved me to tears. 

And then the news that a local runner, Kevin Paterson, had died after finishing the course, shocked everyone. Such a tragedy, on a day when so many people were running to raise money for good causes, left me feeling confused. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

Run Fat Boy Run!

I was disappointed to find out that my daughter's boyfriend, who is coming to watch her run the Birmingham Half marathon on Sunday, was not going to prepare a banner with "Run Fat Boy Run!" written on it, in order to support my own running efforts. I will be looking for any support and encouragement on the way on Sunday and I think the banner and expressed sentiments would have spurred me on to even greater glory.

The race is now looming fast, too fast, and I'm scouring the weather forecasts for the weekend weather.... currently it seems it's going to be fine and with little wind on Saturday, but rain with an easterly wind on Sunday. In fact, I think the wind speed is expected to be something like 8mph, which will be fine going out, but on the return half this poses an interesting question. I currently run at approximately 6-6.5 mph (on a good day).... so does this mean that I'm actually going to be blown backwards and never finish?

I don't think so. And the reason why goes something like this. Some speedy sports cars can reach 0-60 in first gear. Land Rovers have a special gear, below first gear, which enables them to go at walking pace, but have a high torque ratio. I think my own personal gearing is fashioned after the Land Rover, as I certainly don't go quickly, but I can pull my weight at around walking pace. So going into a head wind should be no problem.

So, in a few day's time, I will hopefully have finished my first half marathon: if I do complete it, it will have been a challenge. And for me a significant one... however, as always, the things I find challenging are usually put into perspective by the things other people face and do. I've just started reading "Eat and Run" by Scott Jurek, whose idea of fun seems to have been running for 135 miles in the desert at extreme temperatures, on a diet of fruit and veg. That's a challenge (and not one for me just yet!), and as its largely self inflicted, my empathy levels remain low! But what about those who face challenges on a daily basis which they did not choose? Like friends of mine who parent a severely disabled child, or others who are going through divorce, or others facing difficult times at work.... each of these are challenging situations and at times require incredible strength, courage and determination to keep going... I know I've recieved loads of support from others in difficult times, so for these people, I hope I can wave my own "Run Fat Boy Run" banner in encouragement, even if I am standing on the sidelines....

Commitment

Now it's only one week to go to the Birmingham Half marathon, and I'm beginning to wonder why I'm doing this... yes, I know it's a bit late in the day to be thinking about this, but after running 8 miles today, I'm not feeling very good about the prospect of having to run another 5 on top next week! The irony is that having attended Geese Theatre's AGM yesterday, I came away thinking that this was an amazing company of people, doing an incredibly difficult work with some of the most damaged people in society: in other words, I was inspired by what I heard about what they are doing currently and are planning on doing in the future! So, at times like this, when running is a bit of a struggle, it's good to remember the bigger picture, and to remind myself that I'm doing this to raise much-needed money for Geese (see my blog, Geese and The Birmingham Half).

Related to this, one of the things that has struck me this week, is that to complete a half marathon you need a good deal of commitment. I reckon I've run over 95 miles in the last 6 weeks (and that's with a break of a couple of weeks with injury), just to try to get me prepared for next week and at times its been a struggle, particularly at my size and age! So when it's been cold or wet, or when I've not been "feeling it", its been an act of the will to get out there and run. 

Now there are 18,000 people running the Brum Half next weekend, and each of them will have put in similar amounts of training just to prepare for the race: that's a great deal of commitment! I know some of them will be doing this because they love running, but others are running, as I am, to support some fantastic charities and causes. So, as I know a few of them, I thought I'd mention them: some have trained with painful injuries, some have had to fit in training around full time work and family commitments, and some (somewhat annoyingly) are just genius runners! But one thing they have had to have is a dedication and commitment this race and their charity of choice:
Graham - Acorns Children's Hospice; Abs  - Meninadanca; Ayman - Riverside Money Advice; Emma - Meninadanca; Julian - Riverside Money Advice; Amos - ICY. Also thanks to Dave, Dave and Mel for the encouragement! Respect to you all..... and the other 17,990!

Generosity

Recently, I've been struck by the generosity of some of the people I know. I'm not talking about financial generosity, although that has certainly featured in the past; rather I'm talking about people who have a general spirit of generosity in all they do. People who give generously as part of their nature, whether its in showing compassion, love, encouragement, concern, practical help, or whether its simply giving their time or going out of their way to help. Instead of giving grudgingly, they willingly give their time and energy to others.

This has certainly been true of the running "community" as well. I'm certainly no great runner, but people I've met have been incredibly generous in their help, support, advice and particularly encouragement. Whether its people just giving me a "thumbs up" when passing, shouting encouragement, spending time listening to me rambling on (and appearing to look interested!), or simple comments on Facebook. Much of this has been done with a genuine interest in me and in encouraging me to develop my running, even though I'm never going to reach even decent club standard, or any standard for that matter. It's a real lesson to me, as I generally have to fight with my own grudging spirit when giving my own time and efforts to others. How to be generous and not mean: for me, a challenge.

And, as I've always said, another challenge will be the Birmingham Half, although I feel better prepared for this than I thought I would have been a month ago. I've just run 12.7 miles in approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes. I think this is the quickest I've run at this sort of distance. I was trying to push myself and the first 6 miles was fine... but I found the second half a real slog, and very hard going. However, I'm confident of finishing at least and hoping for something around 2 hours 15 minutes. We'll see.

Still in one piece

Well a glorious morning here in sunny Brum, and I decided to try a longer (for me) distance in order to get me going for the Brum Half... chose the route where I got crocked a few weeks ago, as for me it'd be a challenge.. mainly flat with a few slopes dotted around.. I wanted to test the calf out, so took it a slightly easier than normal....

Cannon Hill park

The route took me though Cannon Hill Park, past the Park Runners who were just finishing... thought how good they looked and how quick!! Settled into a pretty leisurely pace and really enjoyed the day, the scenery, the people.... however I knew I was going really slowly when a group of about 5 or 6 women eased past me, chatting away, clearly taking it easy... they were soon out of sight. I don't think I would have minded, but they even looked as though they were running slowly... not impressed. Then further along another young women runner passed me coming the other way... a bit of deja vu, reminded me of a runner in Majorca.. "trotting" along, pony tail flapping, not even perspiring a little, making running look incredibly easy.... oh well.



Made it up Cartland Road (half a mile of fairly steep slope) surprisingly easily and settled to go through Kings Heath park, another of Brum's lovely parks and then through Highbury Park... and then onto repeat the lap. Was really appreciating the tights and had no niggles with the calf, so was feeling ok.... Till I hit about 8 or 9 miles, and then felt pretty wobbly, legs finding it hard going, but this seemed to improve after taking on water... up Cartland Road again and then home! 

So, I ran approx 12.58 mile in approximately 2 hours 13 minutes. Not quick at between 5.5 - 6 mph, but more importantly, no further injuries. I am aiming to do the Brum Half in about 2 1/2 hours, so if I can do it in 2 hours 15 minutes, I'd be happy..... and  really I think I should be aiming in the future to get under 2 hours??? Possibly?

Even this I realise is a pretty poor time, but then I have to focus on what is realistic for me, and be satisfied. Otherwise, I'd give up, disappointed at my performances in relation to everyone else, realising I'll never reach their level. Contentment is a difficult, but excellent attitude to have.... but also to want to get better.. a tricky balance.

Which brings me to the reason why I'm running this half marathon. Geese Theatre. An internationally renowned theatre company working with offenders, ex-offenders and those at risk of offending: they work with some incredibly difficult and complex people to bring about change in their thinking, attitudes and behaviour...... take a look at their annual report (Geese Annual Report 2010-11) and please visit my fundraising page (Chris Crocker's Fundraising Page)... and if you can, please give generously!

On the right track

Well today ran just over three and a half miles, totaling approximately seven miles over the past three days, and no reaction from my calf. I feel as though I'm getting back onto the right track, and if i build up the distance gradually, and take care of potential injuries, then I think I should be fine for the Birmingham Half... in terms of completing it, I won't be so concerned about the time!

And the tights? Well, I've been wearing them, they feel fine and I haven't had any adverse comments whilst running, which is always a positive! They do give greater confidence (in terms of injuries etc) as they are so supportive. So I'm sold on them! I think they will get plenty of use this winter and if I run in the dark, no one will see them anyway!

I've also invested in some Deep Heat for my legs... not used it for ages, though I do remember as a teenager, the aroma of Ralgex escaping from the rugby changing rooms. Anyway, I was chuffed with myself as I remembered some key principles in applying Deep Heat, and in so doing avoided some painful times: they are:

 1. Go to the toilet BEFORE applying Deep Heat (or similar substances)

 2. Apply Deep Heat AFTER putting in contact lenses

 3. ALWAYS wash your hands after application!

So, I think I'll make it to October 21st... if I do, i know I'll really look forward to it, so long as it doesn't rain. Oh, and if you want to know why I'm doing the Brum Half, see my blog Geese and the Birmingham Half. And if you can, please give generously!!

On the road to recovery?

Yesterday, did a fair work out of my calf... cycled approximately 13 1/2 miles and put a bit of pressure on it whilst cycling. Felt no major reaction, so decided to give it a short go running. Again, only did a very gingerly run 1 mile, but had no adverse effects, so I am feeling a bit more positive about building the distances up.

One thing is that I'm a lot more conscious about stretching before and after running. It's not something I've been very good at in the past, but it's clear that as I get older, I'm going to have to take more care.

nice horses

Anyway, was good to get out in the sunshine, even if it was not that warm. Cycled most of the half marathon route to familiarise myself with it, and came across a wedding party in Cannon Hill park, really lovely to see, especially the horses and carriage.... Anyway, if I can get fitter and stronger, it should be fun, as the route covers some interesting Brum landmarks. Just a few weeks to go!

Tight and testing times

Well, it's almost two weeks since I pulled my calf.... it feels fine, and I have been working on it after talking to a couple of friends, so hopefully I'll be able to give it a go this weekend. I've been out on my bike a few times this week and today put a bit of pressure on the peddles, with no reaction from my calf, so hopefully things are looking up.

However, I'm a glass half empty person, and I am worried that I'm going to try this out too soon... it's only been two weeks, and all the advice (well most of it at any rate) has said don't try anything before 4 weeks! I really think, though, that I'm going to have to do something, otherwise I'll never do the Brum Half even if my leg's ok. (For reasons why I'm doing this, look up: Geese and The Birmingham Half).

Not my legs.... or bits 

As a result of my injury, I've invested in a pair of tights. Not the normal thing for me to do, but it seemed like a good idea at the time. Now I have to  face up to the fact and use them, or else they'll be an expensive waste of money. Actually, I think I must be bonkers, as when I've seen other people (sorry, men) wear them whilst running, I've sniggered to myself, as frankly I think they look ridiculous. However, I've been suckered into buying them, particularly as we're approaching winter, as I believe they might help keep my legs warm(er) and my muscles in place. At least I think that's what they're meant to do. Anyway, I have used them when cycling this week, and I haven't seen or heard too many people laughing out loud, but maybe it's ok if you're a cyclist.

Now the question is, what do you wear over and under tights? Well, I've been researching this very topic, and I have to admit, I've had a wry chuckle, as I've read some runners forums ..... It seems men are most concerned about what they're showing off when wearing them, and what other people (actually, women) think. Also what you wear under them, if you do wear anything. There does not appear to be a clear etiquette about this, and opinion is divided! Some are of the "I'm a man and proud of it! Who cares what I'm showing off!" variety, whilst others are of the "I know I look rubbish in these so I'm going to put as many layers over them as possible" kind. 

The main consensus of opinion was, wear black... and I can see why having seen photos of men wearing white and other colours! As for me.... I have no desire to show of my incredibly bandy legs, or anything else for that matter....... now to pluck up courage for my first run in them...

Patience

Right, Saturday morning, I was determined to go for a run with my daughter, Abbie, who's just recovering from injury. We both needed to do some miles, so I planned this route which had a couple of hills/slopes in to give us a bit of a challenge. We had done over half of the 11 miles, and I thought we were going well and we were really enjoying it. In fact, I was determined to stretch it out a bit and put a bit more into my running. 

I had almost got to the top of another slope when I felt this tug in my left calf, and then pain. We stopped and walked home.

I had torn a calf muscle. Did all the wrong things, including having a hot bath. But it didn't feel too bad... thought I'd be back running in a week or two. Then I read up on pulled calves on the internet and I became much more concerned. I knew I didn't have a Stage 1 injury (minor taking 1 week or two to get it better) or a stage 3 injury (requiring surgery!!), so it must be a Stage 2...... prognosis, 4-6 weeks for full recovery after total rest.

I have the Brum Half in 6 weeks time. So now I feel really low, as I thought that I was on the way to being able to complete it and not completely flop. If I recover in 4 weeks, that might give me a chance of doing it.... but if it's 6 weeks.... no chance, not running.

My biggest fear is that I'll rush it and try running again before I've recovered and do some more damage. So I have to be patient and wait it out and do some stuff to aid recovery.. ibuprofen, ice and compression.. I think this is helping. What is not helping is seeing other people running around Brum. I want to be out there doing it!! In fact, I'm surprised at how much I do want to run..... So I have to be patient, and hope and pray that I recover quickly enough to be able to do some limited training before 21st October. Will wait and see!

Wise Words

"As I sit here reflecting on my 2hrs 45mins of agony I wonder whether I should join the bird watchers on the banks of the lake alternately watching lesser spotted mangle warblers and daft fat gits in lycra (who ought to know better) and contemplate how big a pair of binoculars I could get if I traded in my bike. Then the reality sets in. Some people – the ultra thin racing ones – finished that race in a shade over two hours. I kept going for nearly forty five minutes longer than them and I’m carrying nearly twice the weight. Pound for pound I reckon I was the fittest bloke there." 

Tim Pepper 

The most encouraging words from a triathlete I have read in a long time. Those words have revolutionised the way I think about my efforts... Well, that might be putting it a bit strongly, but instead of thinking I'm unfit and slow and fat, at least I can have a different perspective! I am probably twice the weight of most people who run, or at least 4 or 5 stone heavier than most... and I will have to keep going longer running than most in order to lug my weight around, just to finish..... so, yes, I must be fitter than them! Simples!

In fact I came across these words by chance.... Tim is an (very) old school friend, who was good at all sports, but excelled in Ice Dancing and Water Polo (he is mad). He also ran a marathon when we were at school ... I haven't been in touch with him for thirty years or so, but for various (long winded) reasons, which I won't go into now, I decided to look him up... googling him revealed that he is now a triathlete who has represented GB as a "veteran"... I'm not surprised, he was always very talented. I am looking forward to catching up with him and to telling him how much he has encouraged me!

This week I got an email from the "Great Birmingham Run" organisers, wishing me well and hoping that my training was going to plan...... PLAN??? What plan? I realised that I've gone into this without really thinking about a plan, although I sort of have one in my head, but it made me think that actually, I could have and should have been smarter about this training. Hey ho. Well this weekend, I'm planning on running 10 miles, with a couple of long climbs in the route. I think this will give me some idea about where I'm at. 

Did Park Run this morning: was up last night (having had a curry Friday night) with sweats and dodgy tummy and this morning I felt a little weak, so almost didn't go... however, mainly due to the fact that it was a glorious morning, made my way there, and thought I'd take it easy, which I did for the first lap or so, and I really enjoyed just running in the sun... But then my competitive streak took over and I began to try harder. Felt ok, but in the end ran out of steam: my normal "give it my all" at the end of the race sort of fizzled out, but I generally enjoyed it and my right knee (which I thought was giving me some jip earlier in the week) felt ok. Now waiting for the results, but I recon I did it in about 26:40... so not too bad for me. Only 6 weeks to go to the Birmingham Half.. help!

Geese and The Birmingham Half

I'm running the Birmingham Half. Not sure this has sunk in yet, but I thought I'd write to say why I'm running it.

First off, I want to see if I can do this. It is a huge challenge for me... approximately 6 months ago I ran 10k, and that was a challenge, so this is on a different scale... depending on how I do (in other words, if I finish - I'm not going to be concerned about my time), I may look at doing more in the future... but that's another story.

Secondly, I wanted to do something to support an incredible theatre company, Geese. I've been proud to be a (small) part of Geese for several years, but I have often thought my contribution has been pitiful and have been frustrated with myself for not giving more. So this is an opportunity to give something to the company, which I hope will be an encouragement and support. They are a hugely committed and inspiring group of people, who give sacrificially in so many ways... this is the least I could do.

Geese is an internationally renowned theatre company (winning a BAFTA in 1998), working in prisons and probation centres, with some of the most vulnerable people around. They produce excellent theatre, but more importantly uses this to challenge attitudes and values and thinking, so that the people they work with will lead constructive live in the future. I believe in the work they do and have been struck by how many people (as I go around the country) have heard of and seen Geese in action..... without exception, their response has been positive and an affirmation that when seen, Geese has had an impact.

OK, I'm a fan. But I'm also doing this, because like many arts organisations across the country, Geese has been hit by the financial climate and cuts in funding. I'm looking to raise money for them to support their work. Geese is a registered charity and relies on funding from all sorts of areas. Have a look at their web site (www.geese.co.uk) and then go to my fundraising site (http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/fundraiser/showFundraiserPage.action?userUrl=ChrisCrocker&faId=248322&isTeam=false) and make a donation.. please!

Sore nips and other things

I am concerned that in running this half marathon, I am going to do serious damage to my nips... I've already experienced the blood and pain a couple of times when doing longer (for me) runs, and although preventative measures (Vaseline, plasters) help, over longer distances they seem to fall off (the plasters I mean), leaving me vulnerable... and its not just the nips, but my chest in general which suffers. Maybe some support for my generous Moobs might help............... apologies, probably too much information.

I was encouraged that Andy Holgate has suffered the same fate. Reading his book has surprisingly moved me, particularly as he talks about his first Ironman and the support of his friends and family, and I was also moved at his obvious joy at finishing his first Ironman race. An incredible achievement and I sensed his pride at overcoming his challenge..... However, although in general the book, his talent, skill and dedication is so far removed from my own running experience, it was good to find out I had something in common with him... he suffered from sore nipples. I was also encouraged to find out that he was at one stage the same weight as me (just under 16 stone now), although this was tempered by the fact that he deemed this to be at a time when he was letting himself go and in pretty bad shape, whereas I don't think I've been as fit as I am for a long time!

However, back to running.. I did a reasonable run tonight, didn't go as far as I was hoping and found the just under 6 miles hard going, but I did run/amble up Cartland Road in order to try to prepare me for the "hill" in the Brum half. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I could do it, without stopping, which was pleasing as going up this slope on my bike demands the full range of gears! I also found that I had a bit left over for the rest of the run. Just need to up the distances and do more of them climbs.

Running tonight also left me questioning my style... I generally run fairly upright, I hardly move my legs, and my feet land quite hard on the ground. This is quite jarring.... but when I go up hill, or when I try to run faster, my style seems to improve.. or at least running feels easier, and I get into a longer stride. I also attempted to run almost crouching... I don't know if this is good or not, but again it felt a bit easier. Probably need to talk to someone who knows what they're doing, as it might help!

Someone posted that it was only 6 weeks to the Brum half. Um. Thanks for the encouragement from yesterday's post!

Doubts

This week, I remembered that I have a bit of a distant connection to one of Britain's great runners. To be honest I only vaguely remember meeting him as a very young boy and probably only a few times.... he was the groundsman at King Edward's School in Birmingham, and I remember visiting him at the Groundsman's House on the Bristol Road. I really don't remember much about him, apart from the fact that I do remember reading an account in the Birmingham Post (I think) of how he was running marathon's in his seventies. 

Anyway, he was my Godfather. Jack Holden. I googled him yesterday and read some amazing things about him, things that I had never known before. http://www.runnersworld.co.uk/forum/general-running/jack-holden-rip/32827.html. He was dogged, determined, he pickled his feet, he ran bare foot and won major marathon's after he was forty. He trained hard, running over 100 miles per week. He was determined to win. He was an inspiration to others, and although I knew he was a famous runner, I was surprised at how much he was revered in the running world.

I wonder what he would make of me and my efforts.... I can't imagine him being impressed! But his efforts are a testament to how someone can develop and achieve through hard work and determination. 

The same is true for Ironman Andy Holgate: I'm reading his book, "Can't Swim, Can't Ride, Can't Run", which is an incredible story of dedication, commitment and perseverance. It was recommended to me by a friend who has done more to encourage me in my running (such as it is) than she can know.. and one of the things I have been struck by is the encouragement and support Andy gained from his friends in his obsession (as that what it is for him), and that without them, he probably would not have succeeded in the way he did. Even for Jack, it took the encouragement of his wife to get him to return to running after he had given up at one stage.

Which brings me to my doubts about my own ability to run and to commit to the training needed to complete this half marathon. I've just had a pretty poor run, feeling lousy, and I'm thinking that I'll never get any better. I need people to encourage me, to literally "give me courage", and people to believe in me. I'm not sure I'm any different to anyone else. So, if you're reading this, remember to encourage someone, whether it's for their running or in another aspect of their lives. We all need it.

Progress and Fear

I was talking to a friend a couple of days ago, and she asked me if I had been making a note of my progress with running over the past few months... I have been taking notes of my individual runs, but I'd not really thought about progress in more general terms until she had asked the question.. so here it goes...

In my dreams.

I started running/jogging in about March in order to compete in a 10k run for the charity I work for. At that time I was about 17 1/2 stone, overweight, unfit, and lacked quite a bit of energy. I have had tests for problems with my feet (un-diagnosed, but it feels like nerve damage). I am 49, have always been hopeless at running (preferring ball/team sports) and feel I'm the wrong shape for it. I could hardly run a mile, really struggled to do this for the first few times, and was worried about possible damage to my knees and ankles from running. I got out of breath very quickly and really struggled to run up slopes, never mind hills...... come to think of it I struggled to run on flat ground and down hill as well! I went to the gym a bit (although was not good at doing this cosistently) and cycled, but again irregularly. So, I bought a pair of decent running shoes and started off slowly and with short distances.

So, it's September.. progress? Well, I can now run a 5k in 26:18. That's about 5 minutes quicker than when I started. I can do 10k in approximately 59 minutes (this in a training run, not a race), and might be able to do it quicker. I run 3 or 4 times a week when I can, and have run 8 or 9 miles a couple of times and even 12.8 miles once. I think I can tell the difference between jogging, easy running and strong running. I can even run a bit faster at the end of races (I won't call this sprinting). Sometimes I even enjoy the process of running! For me this is progress, although I would be the last person to say that I'm good runner, or even much of a runner at all. But I think, for me that is the other thing I am learning... not to compare myself with others, but to set my own challenges and targets.

Oh yes, now I can run up hills (well what I would call steep slopes) so long as they are short! My feet still cause me problems, but I can live with it. I feel fitter than I have for most of my life, my knees and ankles seem ok, and I have lost 1 1/2 stone. 

Some of my trousers are now much too big for me. I call this progress.

So, the fear? I have entered the Birmingham 1/2 marathon in October (see previous post). It was a moment of madness. I have just run approx 9.5 miles and am concerned. There is a monster climb at 11 miles which will be a killer. I'm not sure if I can do 13 miles when its flat, never mind with hilly bits at the end. I don't know how I will cope, especially as I know how I feel at the moment! But I suppose that is what challenge is about, and like a lot of things I think, well if other people can do it, so can I!

PB and Decision

Ok, so I got my PB for a 5k run today at Cannon Hill Park Run..... 26.29... so nothing amazing, but still my PB. I felt reasonably strong and in the run I finished ahead of someone who is entering the Birmingham 1/2 Marathon this year and so I'm thinking, "Maybe I should do the 1/2?"..... of course there is NO logic to this, as 1) She beat me last week by loads and 2) 5k is NOTHING like 13 miles.

So I have to re-think and be a bit realistic........ I almost did a 1/2 M a couple of weeks ago, more by accident than design... so I think I could do one.... but then again ..........

All I suppose I need to do is do the training and keep out of trouble! Um, we'll see.

On another note, I 've done a little reading about interval training, so think is something I may well look at over the next few months. Not looking forward to the Autumn, or winter, as most of my running is after work, and don't want to do this in the dark, so will have to adjust and look at training during the day and at weekends, I hate winter blah, blah, blah....

Planning would be a good idea...

First time I've done this, just gone for a run without really thinking how far it was going to be... wanted to do a fairly long run (for me, that is), so decided to run from home into Birmingham city centre via the canals, and back. Have done part of this run before, so thought that it would be manageable.

Started off slowly and stayed at that pace. Was a really lovely day and enjoyed running along the canals.. there really are some beautiful, peaceful places along the canals from Kings Norton and Bournville into the city. Was really only seeing if I could do this, so was not so bothered about the pace. 

On the way in, felt that I was struggling, more like jogging than running, but coming back was much harder... felt I was REALLY struggling, like I was jogging/shuffling. However, I was pleased that even at that pace, I was able to overtake some canal barges (for me to overtake anything is an achievement!)... so not all bad! Anyway, just managed to run as far as Bournville station by the canal and had to stop... which was fine as this was by far my longest run (approx 12.8 miles) I've done, but I was some 4 miles from home, so ended up walking back. As I said, would have been good to plan it a bit more!!

Other thoughts? Something really strange happening with my eyes running past the university over the A38: weird sensation looking ahead, with the very still canal on one side and the traffic from the A38 on the other side going underneath the canal. Felt very odd. Similarly going through a long tunnel near town with very dim lighting, feeling the ground moving!! Strange. Also, having done this, I think I possibly could do a 1/2 marathon.. did this run in 2 and 1/2 hours, so not at all quick, but still feel its do-able, and although it was slow, and hard, for most of the run I felt fairly strong... so some hope yet. Oh yes.... sore nipples... need to see how I can overcome this issue!

Need for Speed

Well, just completed my second Park Run at Cannon Hill.... lovely day, loads of people, enjoyed the run, although not the result.... a pretty poor 27:21. I finished behind my daughter on her first Park Run, as well as other friends... left me wondering what I have to do to improve my time... I have an imaginary target in my head of trying to get under 25 mins for 5k and under 50 mins for 10k...... not sure how realistic this is given my age and natural lack of speed, but will have to ask around to see what sort of things I should be doing to improve. Not that I may ever achieve these targets, but at least it's fun trying.

Inspiration

A lot has been written about the legacy of the Olympics.... The physical legacy in London, or the inspirational legacy from Team GB's achievements... how this will inspire generations of people to take up sport. I wonder how true this is? I can only really comment on my own experience. I took up jogging/running earlier this year. I did so for many reasons, but I cannot say runners in the Olympics have inspired me... I've been amazed by some of them, but inspired? I think I have been more inspired and encouraged to run by some of the more "ordinary" people I know... like a colleague I know who is aiming to do an ultra marathon, or my daughter, who is not a natural athlete (I think?), but who is running a half marathon for charity, or seeing another friend running a marathon from scratch. I think this is because these people are not particularly talented, but in their ordinary lives, they have a doggedness, a courage, a determination which I find inspiring. And in amongst it all, what they are inspiring me to do is to say, "If they can aim for and achieve their own goals, then maybe I can do the same with my own lesser goals, in my own ordinaryness".

Perspective

I had a good day yesterday. The previous day I'd tried an experimental mile run, and did it in 8.05 mins........ not impressed. However, yesterday, I ran in my first Park Run at Cannon Hill Park (http://www.parkrun.org.uk/cannon-hill/).. a beginner friendly 5k timed run. I've only ever once run before with others, so it was a novel experience..... there were obviously a lot of experienced runners, but also a few like me..... I went to the back of the starting line up and stayed there for the rest of the race. It was a good day for running and I surprisingly enjoyed running with others.... I found it harder than I expected, but I think this was a reflection that I was running harder than I thought. I ended up on the ground in a sweaty heap, but with a time of 26.45, some 4/5 minutes better than I was aiming for... so I was v pleased with myself. Really enjoy running round Cannon Hill, and actually overtook a couple of people at the end, so chuffed! Didn't enjoy the comment of one woman whom I overheard talking to a friend... "I much prefer running 18 miles"......


Anyway, my performance was put into perspective when I saw the women's 10000m Olympic race... finished in a time only just over my time for the 5k. Um. And then I found out my daughter's boyfriend had just run a different park run the same day and did it in just over 18 mins. Um. Obviously still a way to go........ 

Milestone

I was reminded today that there are all sorts of hidden treasures in Birmingham... yes I know that this is hard to believe, but being able to walk, cycle or run along canal tow paths does give a different perspective to this city... which is what i did today. Managed almost 10 miles, which is the most I've run so far, amongst some pretty landscape including Cannon Hill Park.


It was good to run in reasonable temperatures. However, I have to get used to the fact that where I live is pretty much on top of a hill (or as near as you'll get one in Brum) and that therefore wherever I run, I have to go down. This is good at the start of a run. It is not so good at the end of a run. But I did it! I'm managing to keep a pretty regular pace, just need to speed it up.............

'Cos blogging is easier than jogging

Port de Pollenca. The jogger's view. Not bad.

Just returned from a few days in Majorca, and during this time, thought I should really put some thoughts down about running, or in my case, jogging very slowly. I have only started running over the past few months, having never done well at this at school or at any other time for that matter (I'm now 49)... however, the need for a challenge and to get fit, lose weight has prompted me to start late on in life... not sure I enjoy it yet, but I do appreciate the benefits..


Well I'm hoping that I'll be able to share some thoughts about my struggles with running. I am not fast. I am not fit. I cannot run huge distances. I am fat, but even now I feel fitter and am lighter than I have been for years. I hope that I will be entertaining.. we will see.


Anyway running in Majorca..... had to be done early on in the day as it was so HOT. The views were stunning, particularly in the morning light. I managed to do 4 or so miles every other day at my normal (snail's) pace. Memories? ...Dripping buckets after finishing... being ch(j)eered by some early morning revelers, overtaking someone - you have to understand this is a rare occurrence for me - only to be overtaken by them a few hundred meters later, my steady clump echoing around early morning Port de Pollenca and almost breaking my ankle on the rough pavement. And there was also this incredibly annoying runner who I saw most mornings... a very elegant young woman, who managed to "trot" past me as though she were a horse doing the dressage, pony tail flapping, not a bead of sweat showing, and hardly breathing at all. As I said, very annoying.


I'm not sure that the title of my post is true.