Have started suffering from ITB syndrome which if you've ever had it, you understand how painful it can be, and if you haven't had it pray that you don't! In short what starts out as a niggle on the lower leg, on the outside of the knee when running. It can become severe pain during the run or more commonly after the run, particulary when going up & down stairs. I should be resting my leg completely but have a marathon to train for! I've just been giving myself much more recovery time in between runs.

Had been doing about 7-9 miles in the mornings before work and then the weekend before last I managed my longest distance of just over 12 miles! Really pleased but my leg was in agony for the next couple of days. Took it easy last week and only ran once during the week but did a 10 mile race the weekend just gone. I was really worried about my leg & worst fear was having to pull out half way through. My leg niggled a bit but managed the whole race what I feel was a respectable time (for me anyway!) - 1hr 34 mins, I was expecting 1hr 45! 

Pain after the race was a lot better but still taking it easy. I'll be off on a 2 week holiday next week and was planning on using the hotel gym to keep up my fitness but will now use the time away to let my leg recover and then commence full marathon training when I return. I hope I don't live to regret this but have entered a few races on my return, starting a few days after I get back! Two 10ks and then 2 half marathons all on consecutive weekends.

The marathon is coming round quickly and I'm trying to make the most of the whole experience.  I've waited so long for this opportunity so I don't want to waste a moment of it.