Carmen's Plodathon by SuperCaz

Last week was the first official week of being back into training.  Prior to that I had been doing some exercise to ease me back in, but nothing I would call a proper training session - up to 30 min swims, up to 3 miles runs and a few strength sessions in the gym.

Monday started with a strength session with my PT where we concentrated on legs.  I really noticed the loss in strength over the last few months and it was a bit disheartening to find myself flagging when I used to find some of those exercises quite easy.  I also attempted to get back into the running by running to the sports centre and back - only 3k each way and I had to walk a little on some of the hills that has suddenly appeared on my route.  I'm sure they weren't there last year!

Mondya evening was finished off with a swim in the sea under the full moon.  The moon only broke through the clouds for maybe 30 seconds, but it was a fun swim and I lasted 25 minutes without the wetsuit.  Swimming in the dark is magical and I would recommend that everyone has a go, although be aware of your safety.

Tuesday morning I could hardly walk, so it turned into a rest day and I visited a friend.  We did go for a walk to help me loosen my legs up, but nothing strenuous.

Wednesday I went for a run with a friend.  We did 6 miles in total, but as 1 mile reps with a rest in between.  I wasn't capable of running continuously but I was pleased that I had got out there.

Thursday I went for a Masters swim in the pool, where we did a lot of 100m reps and a total of 2.2k.  This was my first proper swim back after injury so I was a little concerned about it and kept the effort down, but I managed to stay in for the full hour with no discomfort in the shoulder afterwards.

In the evening I did some speed work with a friend.  10 x 400m reps going up a hill with 400m recoveries going back down it.  I've never really got into speed work as it felt too tough but I really enjoyed this and might give it another go.

Friday was an enforced rest day as I visited friends and family across the country.  This over run into Saturday, and I didn't get home until late, so another rest day for me.

Sunday I ran the Stubbington 10k.  I had entered this before I got injured and was very concerned about whether I was going to be able to finish.  I decided to take it slow and just aim to get round.  My time was awful, but I did manage to run the whole distance with only one short break at the water station.  It might have been a rubbish time but I enjoyed it and it has done my confidence the world of good.

So that's week 1.  About 20 miles ran and 2.2k swam towards my yearly targets.