If 2020 had gone to plan I would have completed the Kielder 50 km ultra and a week ago 3 marathons in 3 days around the mountains of Loch Ness. This was all in preparation for my "A race" which was scheduled for August, 250 km 6 day stage race. But all are cancelled so the high mileage that had been built up was drastically reduced to and hour a day to comply with the Covid-19 guidance and also protect my immune system.
The virtual races that were introduced have provided a good focus and although shorter and therefore faster than my normal race pace, it helped keep my fitness up. My training plan has now been adjusted to get me ready for the two main events that are now in my calendar; starting 25th July the Ultra Race Romania virtual race, 250km in 25 days although I'll be doing it in a shorter period of time; followed in September when I am going to run from Inverness to Glasgow using the Great Glen Way & The West Highland Way - I haven't worked out how long that will take yet but will soon have the plan finalised.
This plan means I need to increase my training runs and this week I ran 15 km on Friday, 25 Km on Saturday and 15 km today. Back to back runs are the way to get in shape for the longer runs, but I can't say the transition was easy and there's still a very long way to go.
My pals are all competing in the virtual ironman races which is motivating them to give their best. By comparison I'm doing the lonely long miles which is required as I prepare my mind as well as body for the going the distance. I've been here before and am looking forward to when running
21 km is the warm up and you get into a rhythm where the hours and the kms pass. But I've a bit to go to get there.
Everyday follows the same pattern. Get up, run, refuel, relax and recover - repeat (there's some work in there as well!). It's essential to look after your body and with a constant niggle/foot injury I have to manage that constantly - plenty of epsom salt hot baths and stretching, sadly missing my sports therapist.
I'm looking forward to long days in the mountains as those kind of sessions will be important especially for my September run. If you're building up the miles, do it gradually and remember how important rest and recovery is. Enjoy your outdoor activity whether it be a virtual race or just a jog. Stay safe and keep fit.
Sunday 7 June 2020
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