Strange week really, little time to update anything in cyberspace as have been either working, running or sleeping mostly. It’s been lots of very early mornings with equally early nights.

First run was Tuesday and was kinda hoping for an easy recovery run - fat chance. Ran early at work and was joined by five other runners, one of which had not seen before, he dropped some random comment, “that we should not slow down for him if he lagged behind”? Should’ve suspected something at that point!

It all started very steady then just got quicker with this new fella pushing the pace; felt ok so kept with it, which was a bit stupid really.

Tue 2 Mar,  5.34 miles,  41:50

Splits: 8:16, 7:56, 7:53, 7:42, 7:36, 7:16

Snuck out early morning on my own at work the following day in search of something to ease the aches. Felt comfortable so went with the flow.

Wed 3 Mar, 6.01 miles, 47:39

Splits: 8:32, 8:02, 7:55, 7:52, 7:45, 7:28

First decent gym core session was Thursday, had been doing stuff all week but this was the first full session. Started with a short warm up run out in the sunshine running in summer rig, shorts & short sleeved top. Was cold but sadly figured was actually fun.

Thur 4 Mar, 4.33 miles, 32:54

Splits: 7:47, 7:44, 7:33, 7:32, 7:02

Was joined for long ish run by a small group of runners at work early Friday morning, included in the group was the fella who’d pushed the effort on Tuesday. Was an easy start and a good mile into the run before I’d noticed had forgotten to start Garmin. At the 3-mile point half the group headed back leaving just four to run further. The route was very undulating so quick running was a real effort and was no surprise to see a lone figure stretching out into the distance – thankfully in hindsight didn’t try to stay with him but did keep the effort honest.

Fri 5 Mar, 6.5 miles, 51:04

Splits: 8:28, 8:20, 7:40, 7:44, 7:37, 7:32, 7:25

What was strange about the week? In the afternoons didn’t feel tired or fatigued from running, normally would’ve; am not running pain free but lower back pain is less than last week. Have to question whether the lack of alcohol has any part to play in any of this? Am certainly running better and am able to hold pace more comfortably whilst training? Anyway, today is day 18 with 22 to go, not that I’m counting…lol…am finding it a challenge at weekends and will doubly so tonight as am going out! However, tomorrow am racing so would’ve been good anyway – honest…