Well the week is almost up and I am feeling back to where I should be once again and have been enjoying some great runs during the last couple of weeks. I also managed to break the 1,000 mile mark for this year and although not a big number I am pleased that I have reached this total so far and it's still going upwards.
Although weekly mileage has been low compared to pre July I will be looking to take the mileage back to where it was (50+ miles) by the end of September and see whether this can be pushed further up.I definitely was stuck in a rut shortly after Grimsthorpe but things are looking good now and the running express train is moving forward with ever increasing speed. I have also added some great core and upper body exercises involving abs, lower back, glutes, hamstrings, hips, etc. Definitely feel I can improve in this an area I didn't do too much work on during the first half of this year and this should definitely help my overall strength and running posture over the course of the long term.
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On the racing side of things I haven't booked anything yet for the remainder of this year however I have had a few running buddies ask me if I fancied another race before the year is out and I might just do that. However the only half-solid plan at the moment is to go to the Lake District at the end of October to enjoy a whole day running up there with a couple of running buddies. This is something I missed out on during the summer when I pulled out of the Lakeland 50 event so I cannot wait to get the opportunity to do this.
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Despite the year not being over yet my 2011 plans however are really shaping up already and I can now confirm that I will be attempting the Bob Graham Round in June next year plus a whole host of other races / challenges. Although a long time away I am not underestimating the challenge involved here as the BGR really is one tough cookie, 42 summits, 27,000 ft climbing, self-navigated and all to be completed within 24 hrs. I will cover this in a future post but it thrills me to think I will be getting the opportunity to do this next year. If you are not familiar with this then check out this great website - Bob Graham Round. More on this and the 2011 schedule later.
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My goal for this week is to finish up with around 40 miles or so and gradually increase that to around 50-55 over the next two weeks. The main focus is to keep getting those quality running sessions and see where it takes me. At the moment I am really enjoying the running.
Keep rocking guys!
great stuff richard. likewise i tend to neglect my core exercises and tend to focus just on running. something i need to address.
ReplyDeleteBGR sounds absolutely mental. The thought of having to navigate with map and compass whilst also trying to complete an ultra makes my stomach churn. will be a great experience no doubt!
I haven't been tempted yet with the BGR mainly because of the need to travel up to the route for regular reconisence sessions to get to know the landscape and route. Just don't think the wife would allow it. I'm very jealous though. Hope the training goes well. Think hills hills hills and more hills and you will do it! :-)
ReplyDeleteHey Richard re your question about future ultras I've also been looking at a LDWA event. The Winter Tanners on 9th Jan in Surrey. 30 miler and best of all just £2.50 entry fee! Unbelievable value!!! I will have a look at the one you mentioned in December. I could definitely be tempted :-) do you fancy the winter tanners?
ReplyDeleteHey Stu, That sounds like mega value. I think I will book in early then as it will be popular.
ReplyDeleteWill send you a message tommorrow via Facebook to confirm as that price is incredible.