What’s a runner without any races?

For me, my busiest racing period ever was the 8 months from September 2011 to May 2012. During that time I ran:

17 Sep 2011 – Dublin Half Marathon
13 Nov 2011 – Poppy Half Marathon (Bexhill)
20 Nov 2011 - Old Deer Park 10K (Richmond)
07 Jan 2012 - Southern California Half Marathon(Irvine)
19 Feb 2012 – Brighton Half Marathon
04 Mar 2012 - Regent's Park 10K
24 Mar 2012 - Maxifuel Half Marathon (Dorney Lake, Windsor)
27 May 2012 - Edinburgh - 4:49:28 (PB)

Part of the reason for this was my obsession with running a sub-2 half. The other reason was because I enjoyed it! Races were no longer scary events that I knew nothing about. The whole race day routine became normal—I knew how to prepare and what was going to happen. Easy!

While I’m very proud of all the races I did during that time, @brazilliangunner pointed out that one of the reasons why I might not have cracked that 2 hour mark was because I was racing too much, and that I should focus on a few big races a year. TBH at the time I was doing a lot of running and enjoying the races too much to think about it. But now as I struggle to find time for my training, it feels like the right thing to do.

Last week, I signed up for the Brighton Half Marathon. There have been some serious organizational issues every time I’ve run it (Conegate, anyone?), but it’s my home race and what could be easier than hopping over to the start line a few miles away?

I had originally planned to focus on 2-3 big events next year, one being a marathon. But after I didn’t get into London I decided that I would just wait for now, and see how things were going after the Brighton Half. Besides, at the moment just getting through a half marathon training plan will feel like an accomplishment.

For the first time in a long time I will have only 1 race on my calendar. It feels strange and kind of lazy, but for me it’s the right thing. I will be able to focus on getting that balance between running and work, and I hope I find it in the end.


So what’s a runner without any races?


A runner who is trying to find her running self again!

Yes, I’ve been scared to run!

I love running.....so why have I been so scared to do it?

Since starting a new job in March, my tweeting, blogging, and running have been sporadic to say the least. I went from running 40 miles a week to not running for weeks at a time. I was able to squeeze in enough training to run my first marathon in May, do an open water swim in June, and then eeked through a sprint triathlon in August. But I was so slow on the bike that I was one of the last people on the course! 

I thought the sprint tri would reinvigorate my training, especially with the London Triathlon coming up, but it didn’t. Post-tri I did well for about a week, but then crazy work hours and travel got in the way once again. After struggling so much on the bike in Seaford and not being able to get any more training in....I reluctantly withdrew from the London Tri. Well....I was reluctant, but very relieved. 

Once I withdrew from the London Tri, I should have just run for fun whenever I had the time. Randomly during the week when I could and on weekends, definitely. No pressure, right? But instead I avoided it. Partly because I knew that I was out of shape. But mostly because I was scared. 

Yes, scared to run.

Scared to start clawing back some of my fitness only to have to lose it again when things got crazy at work. Scared to feel the stress of not being able to train when I had a race coming up (even though I had no races planned). Scared to feel like I was running for the first time ever.

Typical work stress and trying to fit my running around work had turned something I loved into something I dreaded. Suddenly I was scared....I just didn’t want to do it. 

Irrational and stoopid, I know. And an all-around poor excuse. I see so many of you with such an amazing commitment to getting it done. Day after day, getting up hours before sunrise, going on runs at the office, running at night after dinner! How do you guys do it?!

So the bottom line of all this fear and whinging is I haven’t been very good at fitting running around work, despite my efforts to become a dedicated member of the 6am club before I ended my career break. I don’t think it’s going to get any easier, but I finally hit the point where the stress of not running finally outweighed the stress of finding time to run. (Okay, the fact that I couldn’t get one of my skirts over my butt the other day was probably another contributing factor).

I have finally accepted that any running was good running, even if it was ‘only’ 2ish miles. No longer will I worry about fitting time in for 4 miles or 6 miles or 8 miles, and then giving up because there wasn’t enough time. I will now be happy with anything, even if I’m just running around the block. Or up and down the hall in my flat!

I ran for the first time in 5 weeks this morning. I struggled as I plodded along, nearly hyperventilating. And while I felt scared before I took the first few steps, I have to admit that it felt like being with an old friend by the time I got to the end of the road.

One day down, and my goal is to just get out there every day this week.

No more fear. I hope.....

So tell me....

I know, I've been a terrible tweeter and blogger these last few months. Work and general exhaustion have been getting in the way, but I'm going to try my best to make sure I stay connected with the amazing Twitter Running Crew.

So I'm back....and looking for advice!

All of a sudden, it's less than two weeks until I run my very first marathon in Edinburgh. I'm a little bit nervous as it will be the first time I've ever run more than 20 miles, but I'm excited to just soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the experience! 

I keep thinking, though--there must be little tricks of the trade or important things that just haven't crossed my mind. Random thoughts keep going through my head: what about fueling, hydration, how do carry all my gels, do I need to worry about chaffing, what to do if I need to pee (or worse) and there's no toilet, what if I get a blister, what if it rains....? Things that are bound to happen that will make be think...why didn't I think of that?!

So what I would like to know is......

What's the ONE thing you wish you knew before you ran your first marathon?

Yes, that's right....the ONE thing. Please share your running wisdom by commenting below or sending me a tweet @diminutiverunr. I'll summarize and share all the advice next week before I head to Edinburgh.

All advice welcome and nothing is trivial!

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Step away from the training plan!

Going back to work after a 6 month career break was a real shock. Not only because I'd gotten used to doing whatever I liked all the time. But also because the culture of my new company turned out to be so different to my old one. In ways that I'd never imagined.

Even though my hours haven't been too long yet and I won't start traveling until after Easter, the stress of the adjustment has really made these last four weeks a struggle. I was more tired than I expected and even though I had practiced getting up early for @6amClub, the reality was much more challenging.

But still, my running had been going pretty well and I felt ready for my next half. I had to skip Berlin (at least I can get a discount voucher for next year) but I was able to sneak into the Maxifuel Half at Dorney Lake last weekend instead. Work meant I didn't really dwell too much on it, and just went in feeling positive about running a sub-2.

Dorney Lake is a very flat course and the weather on the day was perfect. But it wasn't meant to be and for the first time ever I had fuelling issues. To my absolute surprise I felt like I was hitting the wall at MILE FOUR and actually wanted to pull out of the race. But I refused to give up and finished, at a time about 6 minutes slower than my PB.

After 7 half marathons I still haven't been able to break that sub-2 mark. But then I realized, in just over 6 months I've run 5 half marathons and 2 10Ks. I've gone from one training plan directly into the next, with no real time off. So after Dorney Lake I decided to take a break. A real break. Right in the middle of my training plan.

I HAVEN'T GONE RUNNING FOR A WEEK!

I could hear the collective shudder from the Twitter Running Family as I typed that, and it did feel like I was being very, very naughty. But in a way it felt liberating. Taking a break meant I had one less thing to worry about as I stressed about my job. I got a little extra sleep. And mentally it helped me to put half marathons aside (for now...I WILL run a sub-2 one day) and focus on two new challenges: my first marathon in Edinburgh and my first triathlon in London.

So while I never thought that I needed to take a step back from running, the break has done me good. My spirit and body feel refreshed. I feel a little less stressed about my job. And I'm ready to run again.

Hmmm....maybe I should take breaks from running more often. Maybe. :)


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Taking a moment to say....

I am extremely social media shy.

I do not have a Facebook, Google+, or MySpace account. When I finally decided to join Twitter and Blogger last summer, I knew I didn't want to use my real name. Even my friends and family don't know my secret identity!

Most people will probably think that I'm completely paranoid, and maybe there's some truth to that. But I'm still just not sure about having myself totally out there. I'm not sure if I want random people to be able to see parts of my private life that I never said they could see. So until then, I will be happy to just be The Diminutive Runner.

So why I am I even on Twitter?

I decided I needed to understand how social media worked because I'd be behind the times if I didn't. When I took a career break about 6 months ago, it seemed like the perfect time to dip my toe in. I knew I wanted my profile to be based on one of two obsessions--food or running. And in the end running won out.

To make a long story short, I was completely surprised to discover the amazing network of Twitter runners. I've been so grateful for the:

• SUPPORT. You're the best cheering squad ever!
• ADVICE. I get to tap into the minds of so many wise, experienced runners.
• INSPIRATION. Your challenges and goals inspired me to sign up for my first triathlon and marathon.
• UNDERSTANDING. You know how I feel after I've had bad race, worry about niggles, or buy new running kit.

It's back to work for me tomorrow. After a two week induction (crazy, right?) there will be travel and long hours....and I probably won't be able to tweet as much as I would like (which Hubs says is all the time)! So before things get too crazy I just wanted to take a moment to say....

You've shown this shy girl a positive side to social media!

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Ten reasons why I'm ready to run the Brighton Half Marathon

On Sunday I'll be running the Brighton Half Marathon. When I ran it for the first time in 2010, it was my 2nd half. This time it's my 6th half...and the 4th time I'll be trying to run a sub-2.


I've been giving myself little pep talks. Visualizing each mile. Seeing myself charge across the finish line. I've worked hard. I feel good. I'm ready....and here are the 10 reasons why:


10. I've built a strong running base. I've been running 40-45 miles per week for the last 3 weeks. More than probably needed for a half, but now I feel like I have a good solid base to train for any race. The Edinburgh Marathon is already in the back of my mind!

9. I've focused more on speed work. I've always done fartleks, intevals and tempo runs, but this time around I did more at speeds faster than HM goal pace. @BrazilianGunner encouraged me to do mile repeats for the first time at 8:30 min/mi. Scary, but I hope they've made a difference!

8. I know the race route. Most weekends I do my long runs on the Brighton Seafront. I've run the route countless times...I even know the direction the wind usually blows! There will be no surprises.

7. I have great support. Hubs, family, friends....not to mention the most amazing runners on Twitter. Thanks for your encouragement!

6. I've been feeling consistent. It's not that I don't have any bad days....but I have far fewer awful days.

5. I'm a pseudo-early bird. My last few weeks of @6amClub have made early starts feel a little more natural. A little. No worries about getting up on race day!

4. I'm not jet lagged. My last half was in California, and after traveling from the UK, to Abu Dhabi, to LA....jet lag was definitely a factor. It's nice to be in the right time zone!

3. I haven't been sick. When I ran the Poppy Half I was recovering from a bad cold that hampered my training. This time I've been healthy and I'm feeling strong.

2. I have a race strategy. I learned my lesson after the Dublin Half....you have to go in with a plan! This time it's not just about staying on pace, but staying steady through the middle section and (hopefully) having enough energy to push it at the end.


And finally....


1. I love running. Plain and simple.


I. AM. READY.

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Night owl to early bird

I have always been a night owl.

When I was about 3 years old, my parents let me stay up one night as an experiment. Just to see how long I'd last. When I was still happily playing at 2am, they finally gave up and put me to bed!

I'm also a procrastinator--a dangerous thing for a night owl. If there are things I need to do I spend all day dragging my feet...and then (surprise surprise) feel very productive when I stay up all night doing them! It just fuels my nocturnal tendencies!

As a result of this I have NEVER been a morning person. I hate getting up early (especially for flights)! I always prefer to start work a little later in the day and work into the night. I've had the wonderful luxury of doing just that these last few months. But of course, you don't always get to decide your own schedule!

Now that I've taken this job my biggest focus at the moment is figuring out how to keep running a priority. I'll be working long hours, often at client sites. My days will vary but it still means most of the time....I'LL HAVE TO GET UP EARLY IN THE MORNING BEFORE WORK AND RUN!

Did I just say that?!

Somehow this night owl will have to morph into an early bird. It means @6amclub for me. *GULP*

I know I shouldn't freak out or whine about it. Amazingly there are so many of you getting up even earlier, not just for work but for your families! That is some serious running dedication!

So you know what? I'm going to prove that I'm dedicated, too! I will get up early even if I have to set 2 alarms, and I'll make sure that I run enough to train for the Edinburgh Marathon or whatever challenge I decide to go for next.

So starting Wednesday (I'm a procrastinator, remember?) I'm going to be a faithful member of the @6amclub so it's not such a shock to the system when I go back to work. I know it won't be easy, and I bet there will be a few bumps along the way. But a part of me is excited to see how I do.

Can night owls ever become happy, successful early birds? Or only very tired, reluctant ones?

I guess I'll have to wait and see....

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Leaping into the unknown

I've spent the last few weeks trying to decide whether or not to take an unexpected job offer. For the first time in my life, I wasn't just thinking about my career. I was thinking about quality of life and having time for something I love: running.

When I shared my dilemma I never expected such open, varied responses. Some felt the job should definitely come first. Others said that if running was important enough, I would find a way to prioritize it no matter how busy I was at work. A few of you were thinking of changing careers one day so that running could play a larger part in your lives. Then there were those of you who made some big sacrifices to ensure a balance between work, family life and running. Thanks so much to all of you who took the time to share your thoughts, dreams and stories. I loved hearing them.


On Tuesday--after a lot of thinking and re-thinking--I accepted the job.


I'm a little anxious about the challenges a new job always brings, and I'm afraid I might not meet the expectations of my new employers. Most of all, I'm terrified that running will slowly slip away from me without my realizing it, and one day I'll wake up to find that running was just something I did a very long time ago.

But these fears and challenges are precisely why I decided to take the job. I know that facing them will make me a stronger person. And no matter what happens, I'll learn a lot. I still have dreams of changing careers one day and living a life with more time for the things I care about. But for now, I feel like I have nothing to lose by taking this opportunity.

I'm still waiting to confirm a start date, but it will likely be the beginning of March or April. Luckily that gives me some time to start planning how everything is going to work. Because even with this new job I have my first marathon and triathlon to train for....and I want my running to improve! Some big changes are ahead.

@rowenanews recently shared some sage words from the athletes she met at Run and Become. One quote in particular stuck in my mind:

There's no such thing as failure, only experience.

I'm going to take a leap into the great unknown and try to enjoy every experience this new life brings.

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Stick 'em up! Your running or your job?

The past 6 months I've been running more than I ever have before. It's not only made me a better runner--I was thrilled when I started running an average of 40-45 miles a week in December--but renewed my love for running. I realized I wanted to continue challenging myself so I signed up for my first marathon AND triathlon. And of course, I still have that pesky 2 hour mark to break in the half!

All this has been possible for one main reason: I've been on a career break since September. I'd been working long hours and become frustrated with the work I was doing and the people I was working for. After 6 years it felt like the right time to go....and I consider myself very lucky to have been able to take some time off.

My plan was simple. To recover and relax, and take some time to think about what I should do next. Although I had a few random interviews and conversations, I didn't want to actively start looking for a job until after the new year. That meant I could really take a good chunk of time off until I started working again. And run, run, run!

But just before Christmas I got a job offer. Suddenly, I needed to make a decision about going back to the working world.

I spent a lot of time thinking about it over the holidays. For the past few weeks I've been negotiating as well as meeting a few of the people I'd be working with. So I can't stall any longer, and next week I have to let them know if I'm going to take the job.

Never, ever did I think that running would be a consideration when it came to deciding about my next job. It's a great opportunity but there would be long hours and travel. The reality is this job will average about 60 hours a week. I've done that before but now these questions keep playing over and over again in my head...


When will I fit in all my running? At my old job I never managed more that about 23 miles a week. How will I ever fit 45 miles in?


Even if I did fit 45 miles in, would I just be completely exhausted all the time?


What if I really can't find the time to run at all? What happens with my marathon? Or my triathlon?


What if taking this job means that running is no longer a priority?


Will this be the beginning of the end of my running life?


Some people might think that I'd be crazy not to take the job. But I've actually thought--maybe this is my chance! I can change my career! Try something new! I can have a job that allows me to ALWAYS make running a priority and leave those crazy hours behind.

But these kinds of thoughts can take years to ponder and now I'm down to a few days. I can't help feeling a little bit like I'm being held up and forced to choose between two incredibly important things.

So....my running or my job.

What would you do?

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Cutting myself a little slack

After I ran the SC Half on the 7th January, I was feeling great. It wasn't a PB but I felt like I did really well considering jet lag and all that. I was SO READY to get back home and continue with my training for the Brighton Half.

Don't know about you, but I'm usually on a bit of a high after I run a half marathon. Even if I don't get a PB I always feel like my running has hit a new level. I mean, I just ran 13.1 miles much faster than I normally do during training. I have it in me! So post-race I take advantage of that feeling by keeping up the intensity of my training program with a renewed vow to work even harder.

I finally got back to the UK last week, ready to really start my 2012. But while I've been running, I've been lacking motivation and that usual spark. The spark I had while chasing down that 1000 mile mark at the end of the year. And I couldn't help scolding myself and saying, "You are being lazy! You can't rest! You have another race in 4 weeks AND YOU MUST RUN A SUB-2!"

Yesterday it just seemed so cold and I just did not want to run. But with the encouragement of the Twitter Running Crew I got out there and did my 8 mile fartlek. When I got back I was feeling much more positive and I started thinking....you know what? I can do it. I can run. And I NEED TO CUT MYSELF SOME SLACK!

I took a step back and realized that since Christmas Day I have run 107 miles and raced a half marathon in California....on top of traveling 17,716 miles!

That's not too shabby for the holiday season, is it?

So I'm telling myself that it's okay if I'm feeling a little tired and unmotivated. This jet lag is nearly over. I'm going to hang in there, get my miles in...and be ready to really to rumble next week!

I have 4 and a half weeks until the Brighton Half...and I know I'll be ready.

Tackling 2012

I'm still on a bit of a runner's high after hitting my last-minute 1000 mile target for 2011. But no rest for the wicked...2012 is here so new plans are already under way!

It's so easy to get carried away but this year I'll be focusing (some might say obsessing!) on 4 main goals:

1. Run a sub-2 half marathon. A no-brainer, especially since it was my main goal last year and I just didn't get there. I WILL do it this year, no matter how many half marathons it takes. I've already signed up for the Southern California Half (7th January), Brighton Half (19th February) and Berlin Half (1 April).
2. Complete my first marathon. I've always shied away from marathons, worried about whether I really had the time to train. But after seeing so many of you challenge yourselves at this distance, I just couldn't say no any longer. I've signed up for the Edinburgh Marathon on 27th May. For now, I just want to enjoy the race and finish.
3. Compete in my first triathlon. Like the marathon, it felt like one of those things I had to try at least once in my life. I used to swim in high school so I'm not too worried about that (even though it's been decades since I've really been in the water) but the bike TERRIFIES me. I've never taken to riding a bicycle and the last time I owned one I was about 12! I've signed up for the London Triathlon on 23rd September, with a sprint in Seaford to warm up in August.
4. Run 1500 miles. I was very, VERY tempted to go for 2012 miles. But I'll probably be working again soon and will likely have crazy hours (more on this later!)...and back at my old job I never really averaged more that 20 miles a week. So for now I just want to improve on last year, and 1500 seemed like a nice, round number!

Plus there's the usual small things I need to do in order to help achieve these things--stay hydrated, eat right, sleep well. But they're a given these days, right? :)

So there you have it. These are the goals I'm going to tackle in 2012. But in line with one of my non-running resolutions--don't stress too much about the small stuff--no matter what happens I'm just going to try and enjoy the ride!

What challenges have YOU dreamed up for 2012?

The highs and lows of 2011

I feel like I must be old for saying this, but 2011 has really flown by. I'm sure that it was only yesterday when I was thinking, "I hope I can run without injuring myself again!" And now it's nearly 2012 and I can't believe what I've been able to accomplish in a year.

The highlights for me in 2011:

• Running again after my injury - In January I started running again 'for real' after an injury in July 2010. It was like starting from scratch with just a few miles at a time, a few days a week. I'm so glad that I was able to come back even better than before, and most importantly...with NO INJURIES! HOORAY!
• PBs in both the 10K (56.43) and half marathon (2.01.43) - Happy to know that I'm getting faster. Slowly, but surely!
• Hitting my highest weekly volume ever - Before this year my highest weekly volume averaged around 20-25 miles per week. This year I hit my highest ever weekly volume at 46.34 miles, more than I ever thought I could do! I've been doing 40+ miles a week for almost a month now and I hope to keep it as my baseline.
• Running 1000 miles in a year - This was never a goal for me since I had just started running again in January. But when I saw how close I was with just 10 days to go in 2011, I had to give it a try! I'm so proud that I was able to push myself to get the miles in. It was down to the final day but I ended with year with 1000.96 miles! Yay!
• Discovering the Twitter Running Family - In the short time that I've been on Twitter, I've been amazed at the support I get from my fellow runners. The advice and encouragement that I've received has been wonderful. And most of all, hearing about all of your accomplishments has been so inspiring. It's been great to be a part of such an amazing community so a big thanks to all of you!

Of course, every year has to have a few lows but there is only one that really glares out at me:


I didn't accomplish my goal of running a sub-2 hour half.

I guess I could look at this as a BIG FAIL. It really was my only goal for 2011 and I didn't do it. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't disappointed but I'm trying to put a positive spin on it. I learned a lot of big lessons trying to get there this year, and now I'm more resolved than ever to work hard and blow this goal away in 2012!


Overall I'm proud of what I've accomplished in 2011. It's been amazing to discover that I could do more than I ever thought I could....and now I'm excited to keep pushing myself with new challenges. And while I knew that I loved running, it's really become a regular part of my life. I don't ever want to be without it.

It's been an unforgettable 2011, but I'm determined to make 2012 even better.

Happy New Year! Here's to your health, happiness...and inspired running!

Wishing you a Merry Christmas

When it comes to Christmas, Hubs and I generally follow this rotating schedule: 1 year my family, 1 year his family, and 1 year by ourselves somewhere. It does seem like we're spending Christmas on our own more and more, usually abroad!

This year we're off to spend Christmas with some friends in Abu Dhabi. I've never been to the UAE so I'm looking forward to seeing some interesting sights and doing a little bit of shopping! The five days we spend there will be filled with food, laughs....and lots of running!

I can't wait to run in the warm, sunny weather! With 46 miles left to get to 1000 miles for the year, I'll be getting up uncharacteristically early to beat the heat and get those miles in. Maybe I can even get Hubs and our friends to join in. We arrive late on the 24th which means one of the first things I'll do in Abu Dhabi is a Christmas Day run on the beach. I don't know how many runners will be out there with me in Abu Dhabi, but I'll be happy knowing that so many other runners will be running or racing on Christmas Day.

I hope my family knows that even though I'm far away, they are always in my thoughts. Wherever you are this year, I hope you have a great time celebrating the holiday!

Merry Christmas!

A rare treat: running with my OH

Last Saturday, I tweeted that Hubs was joining me on a run. I didn't think it was that big a deal, but I got quite a few comments on it. Most said that there was no way their other halves would run with them!

To be honest, a year ago I never would have believed my husband would EVER run, let alone run with me. Exercise has never been his thing and he never really found time during his crazy work schedule. And despite my nagging about diabetes and high blood pressure and thousands of other potential ailments, he ignored me! He is STUBBORN...yes stubborn in all capital letters! So no matter what I did I knew he wouldn't exercise--let alone run--unless he made his mind up to do it.

I'm sure I must've marked the occasion with a happy dance, but I can't really remember how Hubs started running. One day I think he just decided to go on a run for 20 minutes and realized it wasn't so bad! Since then, he runs about 1-2 times a week when his schedule allows.

At first Hubs and I never ran together. Even if we left at the same time, he went one direction and I ran the other! Then one day HE suggested it. I was wary as I still remembered the one time we did try to run together, a very long time ago. He went about 20 meters before turning around to go back home. But he promised it would be fine and you know, it was! Strange at first, since it was something we'd never done together. But nice.

Running together hasn't always been easy, though. I almost kicked him out of my running club after he complained I was too slow, and another time for refusing to accept some friendly advice! Grrr! But now we get along as running buddies much better.

I try not to push Hubs about his running, so I never ask him to run with me. He just suggests it once it a while when he knows I'm going on an easy run. When Hubs runs with me I almost feeling like he is getting a glimpse of my love for running....and therefore insight into a big part of me. So while Hubs doesn't run with me very often, for me it's always special.

Hubs will never be as crazy about running, and we'll probably never run together all that much. But I'm happy that he now tries to make running a regular part of his life.

Keep running, Hubs!

Do you run with your other half?

Race organizers, you really let me down!

Poor race organization.

It's something we runners probably deal with more often than we'd like. But it happens, occasionally on a huge scale. Like the Rock and Roll Las Vegas Half and Full Marathons last weekend. Sounds like the race conditions were terrible, sadly bringing out the worst in runners, too. Check out Lisa's (@runlikeacoyote) great race review here.

Considering how hard we train and how much we pay to run these races, I think race organizers are obligated to give us a good (and at the very least SAFE) experience. I COMPLETELY agree with Chronic Runner who wrote a great post about this a few days ago for The Running Bug (When Races Go Bad) so I won't rant about it here.

I have a few specific moments from various races on my "bad list" but these two posts have inspired me to share what I would classify as:

THE WORST thing that happened to me due to poor race organization!

In February 2010, I ran the Brighton Half Marathon. It was my second half and I was really looking forward to it. I ran my first one in Windsor which is quite hilly, so it was a great chance to test myself on a flat course. Plus it was my home race and much of it was where I trained everyday. What could go wrong?

Well, it poured rain the entire time. My friend and I were wet before we even started the race! But of course, the race organizers aren't responsible for the weather and we had no choice but to run. Despite the conditions we persevered, and I remember feeling grateful to all the locals who came out to cheer in the rain.

Finally I got to the end of the race. I could see the finish line ahead of me on Maidera Drive. I could hear the announcers! I could see the crowds! I mustered up every last ounce of energy to sprint to the end, ready to raise my arms up, only to find....

I couldn't cross the finish line!

I ran right into a massive crowd of runners that extended out in front of the finish, miles away from the line to get my chip time. In seconds there were others behind me and I was surrounded by more and more runners trying to get across. I thought I was going to be crushed! It was worse than the Tube during rush hour! After what seemed like hours later I was finally PUSHED across the line.

I couldn't believe it! The ONE thing that I wanted from the race was my time, and now I'll never know my actual time for running the Brighton Half. My official chip time was 2:07:30 but I'll always believe it should've been a minute or so faster. Unfortunately, I didn't run with a watch back then so I don't even have a Garmin time.

The cause of this chaos at the finish? Race organizers decided to place volunteers removing timing chips just a few feet away from the finish line. There wasn't enough room for people to cross the line AND stop to get their timing chips taken off in such a small area. Apparently it was especially crowded around the 2 hour mark. My friend crossed the line after me and said by then it was fine....so I guess I was one of the unlucky ones!

There were other organizational issues with this particular race (eg free for all at the bag drop), but not being able to cross the line is the one that I'll never forgive. How could a race that had been going on for almost 20 years make such an amateur error? And why didn't anyone move the chip removers back (or away completely) once it started to get crowded? Sadly, I don't think the organizers ever admitted fault but apparently the race was better in 2011. I hope so, because I've signed up to do it again in February!

So there you have it. My worst race organization travesty was not being able to cross the finish line at the Brighton Half Marathon.

What's yours?

What?! I've been doing it all wrong?!

Did you ever think that you were training as best as you could.....only to find out that you've been going about it in COMPLETELY the wrong way?

It's been a year and a half since I've been training with the goal of running a sub-2:00 half marathon. This is partly due to an injury which knocked me out for about 6 months, and more recently a bad cold at the worst possible time.

But since my injury I really have been trying hard to get into top form. I spent most of 2011 just trying to build up my running foundations. When I trained for Dublin I increased my weekly running volume to an average of about 30-35 miles a week (compared to 15-20 miles when I trained for my previous halfs). I made sure I was getting some strength training and core work through pilates. I was doing my best to eat right and get enough rest.

Three half marathons later, I still hadn't broken the 2 hour mark but I really felt that it was just a matter of time and I'd beat it one day soon.

So as I've started train for my 5th half marathon with the same exact goal, I thought it would be a good time to do some reading on how to become a better runner. The book "Run Faster" caught my eye--partly because it was recommended by @JasonFitz1 on his website Strength Running, partly because what I want to do is in the title. I want to RUN FASTER!

I'm still trying to digest all the information and tips in the book (I'll be reviewing it in the next few weeks, so stay tuned) but one thing in particular has struck me so far.

I'm WAY OFF where I need to be if I want to run faster.

In the book there's a chart on the optimal running volume for different race distances based on your level. I was shocked to find that what I considered to be my highest weekly volume ever (just under 40 miles) is what's expected of a beginner! As a "competitive" runner with a few years training and the ambition to improve, my optimal running volume is 50-60 miles per week.

50-60 miles. I just couldn't believe it. I've never been anywhere near that kind of running volume.

And now I feel like I've spent the last year and a half just going through the motions of trying to break that sub-2:00. Like based on my training there was never any real chance I was going to run under 2 hours anyway. Like I've wasted 3 chances because I wasn't running nearly enough.

I know my sub-2:00 failures are not down to running volume alone but this really did surprise me. I guess because in some ways I'm still a beginner after all! So now that I know, for THIS half marathon getting my running volume up will be a big focus for me.

If I've been doing things wrong up till now, I can only improve.....right?

Here's to attempt #5!

Sorry, but do you have to do that?!

Admit it. We all have them.

Pet peeves when it comes to running. Like runners who don't say hello or hog the pavement.

You know what I mean.

While there are random things that do bother me here and there, I do have a particular pet peeve when it comes to races.....

So I'm running in the Old Deer Park 10K. The race has started and we're running along the narrow pavements towards the canal. A mile or so into the race, I'm trying to get into a steady, comfortable pace. Then suddenly I hear it.....loud, pounding, steps and heavy, labored breathing.

Oh no, I think. A giant is loose in Richmond and he's going to run right over us! Yikes! He's getting closer....

Eventually the giant is behind me but of course, it's not a giant. Just another female runner.

Her steps are so loud that they drown out the steps of everyone around me. I'm trying to follow my own footfalls but I can only hear hers and it's throwing off my rhythm.

And while I can relate to her breathing--we've all struggled through tough moments--the sound of it is adding to my own stress. The sound of her labored breathing is so loud and overwhelming it's almost as if I'M the one struggling!

I hope she just quickly moves past me but she doesn't. I have no choice but to push myself a bit to move away. But after a few minutes surrounded by the quieter rhythms of other runners, I hear her coming again! I can't get away!!

AAAAHHHHH!

Not the first time it's happened, and I'm sure not the last.

Am I allowed to ask race organizers to add, along with the usual rules like no headphones, ones that say "No stomping like an elephant" and "Quiet breathing only"?

Perhaps I'm being unreasonable, but it is a pet peeve after all.

Do you have any pet peeves when you race?

To race or not to race?

So just a few days now until I run my 4th half marathon, the Poppy Half in Bexhill-on-Sea.

I'd been really looking forward to this race. Seven weeks ago I ran the Dublin Half, well-trained and ready to go. Unfortunately for me, a big hill and lack of a real race strategy did me in. I ran it in 2:01:43...a PB but short of my sub-2:00 goal. The Poppy Half was going to be my redemption.


My first few weeks of training went well. I stuck fast to my pace targets, started doing pilates for some strength training, and added a lot of dynamic stretching. I felt strong, fast...and was thrilled when I comfortably completed my first 15 mile run.

But then I got a cold. One of those miserable, I'm-congested-everywhere-you-can-be-congested kinds of colds. Despite getting lots of rest I was sick for about two weeks and didn't run the entire time.

Everyone said that the rest would probably do me some good. And though I've been running again for the last two weeks and it hasn't been as horrible as I thought it would be....it hasn't been great, either. I've struggled to keep a good pace, and in general feel a bit more tired than usual.

And then yesterday I ran what was supposed to be my final run before the half. A four mile fartlek just to try and get a little speed into my legs. It turned out to be absolutely awful. The worst run I've had in years. I think I even hyperventilated halfway through! Proof, I think, of my lack of preparation for this race.

So what should I do? Should I just go for it and race it as planned? Try to break that sub-2:00 mark? Or should I treat this as more of a training race, and just try to finish comfortably? I'll probably debate this over and over again the next few days. But if I'm honest with myself I don't think a sub-2:00 will be possible this time.

I'll probably just follow this simple strategy. Run as close to race pace as feels comfortable, and then stay steady through the race. If I'm still feeling good towards the end I'll try to pick it up a bit. That's it.

I'd be lying if I said I wasn't disappointed. I felt like I should have run under 2 hours in Dublin, and was determined to do it my next race. It's likely I'll have to wait until my next half in February but at least I know I have lots of chances in the future.

But who knows? Maybe I'll feel great on Sunday and surprise myself!


Good preparation + no race strategy
vs  
Poor preparation + simple race strategy

Which one will result in a better race? I honestly don't know so I'm just going to go out there and make sure I do something very basic...

....enjoy it!

Running iPod free

Finally over my miserable cold, I was so happy to start running again this week. Going through my usual running checklist, I pulled on my running kit, laced up my running shoes, strapped on my Garmin, and.....that was it. That's right, no iPod.

It's a secret I've been keeping for a while actually. Once my absolute running necessity, I randomly stopped using it while training for the Dublin Half. I can't remember what triggered it exactly....I probably just didn't have it with me one day when I needed to run. And to my surprise, I liked running without it!

This is a far cry from a few years ago, when I really believed I couldn't run without music. In fact, when I ran the Brighton Half a few years ago...I was getting ready the morning of the race when I realized I didn't have my iPod. I had never trained or run a race without it, and I panicked. Luckily my husband has his iPod with him and let me use his. Now, I have to say that we have COMPLETELY different tastes in music and under normal circumstances I wouldn't listen to any of his playlists! But I really thought that having some music was better than no music at all.

And now?

One of my running buddies said she felt bored when she ran without music. But for me....after running iPod free for a run or two, I just stopped using it altogether. I didn't use it on any of my long runs OR when I ran the Dublin Half. When I recently ran my longest run ever--15 miles--I didn't have my iPod, either. And I didn't feel bored for a single minute!

Why?

I found that when I run without my iPod, it's almost like I have room to think. I have room to focus. I can think about every single step. My rhythm, my breathing. I can talk to myself about staying relaxed, getting into the flow. Of course, my mind still wanders but then I can refocus--talking to myself, encouraging myself, cheering myself on.

Now, I'm not saying I won't run with my iPod ever again. I've read countless articles about how listening to music can improve performance or reduce the perception of fatigue. And as I try to increase my running cadence, I will probably use music to help me get to that magic 180 steps per minute.

But I'm sure that for most runs--even as my mileage continues to increase--I won't use my iPod at all. I don't need it any more, because now I just listen to the sounds of the city, the sea, and my own thoughts. I am free.

Blouses, polo shirts, jeans...oh, the things you can run in!

I was running errands yesterday, walking along the Thames. In my ill state I kept looking longingly at all the runners going by. Lots of the usual suspects, but one guy wearing shorts and a t-shirt caught my eye. He didn't seem all that unusual but rather than the typical runner's track shorts + technical tee, he wore surfer shorts--like the kind you would wear to the beach--and an old cotton shirt with a "DM" shield across it. Danger Mouse, I guess??

Seeing Danger Mouse guy made me think about all the crazy things I've seen people run in. As runners, I think we see people running in strange things all the time, especially at races. Once I was on the Southbank when suddenly a gorilla ran past me! I thought I had imagined it, but then a few minutes later, it was followed by another, then another, then hundreds. It was surreal, but the occasional race number finally made me realize I had stumbled upon the Great Gorilla Run. In recent races I saw two guys running dressed as matadors (volunteers at the water stations kept shouting OLE! as they went by) and someone with a very large daffodil bouncing up and down on his head.

But as a girl who would spend all my extra pennies on the latest running gear, I'm always surprised by the things I see people running in just for everyday. Like guys in shorts and a polo shirt, looking like there were sitting on the sofa just a minute ago and thought, "I should go for a little run"...and then just got up and went running! And I recently stumbled on a blog called Jogging Jeans that--you guessed it--features people running (AND RACING) in jeans!

Jeans I can kind of understand since while uncomfortable, they are pretty indestructible. But this summer I saw ladies wearing lovely, lacy blouses when running, the kind you might wear to a summer party. And a few weeks ago I saw a girl wearing a very nice cardigan on her run, layered over the top of her t-shirt. I guess they both served their purpose of either keeping you cool or warm, but I'd worry about getting my nice clothes all sweaty and gross.

Nothing usually comes between me and my technical kit, but you know what? I really love seeing people running in random clothes. One, because I think people have a right to run in whatever makes them feel good...whether you're a fastinista or a jeans jogger. But more importantly it reminds me that running is something that anyone can do and that you actually don't need any special clothing or equipment to do it. These days even running shoes are optional! And this amazing inclusiveness is one of the reasons why I love running.

Who knows? Maybe one day I'll find myself in a pinch where I HAVE to run but have forgotten my running kit (sounds like a pre-race nightmare actually)....and you'll see me running reluctantly along the Thames in my Chuck Taylors and jeans. But I think me racing in a gorilla suit is more likely!