Today at the gym I understood the value of self discipline and determination. Self discipline is something I struggle with in many areas of my life but throughout everything that has gone on in the past 3 months, I have maintained my training towards my second 26 mile marathon. I've reached some incredibly low points at times but no matter how much I didn't want to leave the house, no matter how bad I felt, how tired I felt I still managed to find the strength inside me to not only get myself to the gym but to still push myself that little bit further mentally and physically each time.
Today was without a doubt my hardest gym session so far, although that is easily said now about every session since I do go a little further with each one. It was after I'd completed intensive interval training on the cross trainer and was halfway through my interval running that is epiphany happened. Sweat was pouring off me, I could feel my heart beating hard and breathing was becoming strained yet I still had half a session to go. It was at this point that I developed some kind of tunnel vision and just focused. I focused on the pain and I focused on how I'd made it this far in such difficult times and then I had a surge of energy. I worked through the intense pain and completed my session before proceeding onto the weights.
I have proved to myself that with discipline and determination, I can achieve anything. Now I am going to draw on this new found self knowledge and bring it into other areas of my life.
Finally, I have lost over a stone in weight too since the marathon in april (just over 3 months ago) and my body has gone through sigificant changes, I am completely toned.
Today I feel good.
Wednesday 11 August 2010
Wednesday 7 July 2010
Dublin 2010 - Training in Progress.
Its been a fair few weeks since I've updated this blog so those of you following are probably wondering if I've kept up my training, and the answer is YES! In the past few weeks, I have been through some experiences and am now training for this next marathon as a single parent on top of launching a new business and continuing my current one, so this one for sure is going to be a massive challenge but one I am really looking forward to. I have the support of my friends and family, and the cause I am running for this time "help for heros" is a massive one and I feel priveledged to be supporting them.
Well onto the training; It has been hard to find the time to train but I have been squeezing it in! And now am back to a regular training pattern. I did notice that my usual training had become very easy and that my legs didn't even ache after my runs. After trying various methods of increasing my endurance and stamina I found the most suitable option for me was to increase the incline and speed on which I run on the treadmill, and am now back to feeling the aching in my legs. I hope to be back out on the road this weekend and back to running my ten mile runs. Im delighted that whilst training and eating sensibly I have now lost the 10lb i gained in the build up to the marathon and more... at a nice weight of 8 stone 9, which also makes training much easier!
I hope you will all continue to support me on the next leg of my marathon journey. My fundraising tactics will be in the form of online sponsorship but more so I am going to use other fun fundraising methods, so watch this space for photos and updates.
Emz xxx
Well onto the training; It has been hard to find the time to train but I have been squeezing it in! And now am back to a regular training pattern. I did notice that my usual training had become very easy and that my legs didn't even ache after my runs. After trying various methods of increasing my endurance and stamina I found the most suitable option for me was to increase the incline and speed on which I run on the treadmill, and am now back to feeling the aching in my legs. I hope to be back out on the road this weekend and back to running my ten mile runs. Im delighted that whilst training and eating sensibly I have now lost the 10lb i gained in the build up to the marathon and more... at a nice weight of 8 stone 9, which also makes training much easier!
I hope you will all continue to support me on the next leg of my marathon journey. My fundraising tactics will be in the form of online sponsorship but more so I am going to use other fun fundraising methods, so watch this space for photos and updates.
Emz xxx
Wednesday 26 May 2010
Blog Title Change!!
I am changing the name of my blog from "MY LONDON MARATHON 2010 BLOG BY EMMA POOK" to " MY MARATHON FUNDRAISING ADVENTURES". After the last marathon I completely have the bug for it now and am already entered into the dublin Marathon in october. I will be using different and more exciting fundraising techniques this time round and will be raising money for the charity http://www.helpforheroes.org.uk/ after i was inspired by injured soldiers running the marathon... a lot faster than I was. It made me realise that running 26 miles is nothing compared to what our boys go through in the name of our country.
Tuesday 4 May 2010
My First Marathon Complete!
Its just over a week since I ran the Virigin London Marathon 2010. I completed the course in 5.5 hours (my actual finish time was 5:52 but i stopped and queued several times to do my necessaries!). The event was something I will never ever forget.
The day before the marathon we went to the exhibition and I bought a knee support which actually corrected the pain I had been feeling in my hips throughout my training. Apparently my knee tracking is out and rotates as I run causing my Hip to correct my posture and thus causing stress on my hip as well as my knee.
We (hubby and I) also watched the elite runners do talks and give advice about running, which was really valuable advice and I took everything they said onboard. The exhibition was really interesting.
There was a really big wall which you could write a message on so I simply signed my name "Little Ems 2010" on it:
I also visited the cancer research stand and added a leaf to their tree. My Message read "running for our future generations".:
So onto the Marathon Day! As we were walking to the tube station a very kind couple pulled up in a taxi and offered us to share their cab to the trainstation... at charing cross you could already feel the atmosphere. It was completely electric. So very exciting. Everyone on the train was chattering away, complete strangers sharing their stories of marathons passed.
Once we made it to my assembly area I had to say goodbye to Lee and from there on I was on my own! Sooooooooo nervous! But not for long! As soon as I got into the assembly area I was offered lucozade, coffee, and soon got chatting to other people who were on their own. It started to piddle down with rain but I had my cancer research water proof poncho thingy so I was okay! Heres a small bunch of peeps in the assembly area:
Then came the words... will all runners start making their way to their starting positions. Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek! how scared was I? I did my warm ups and off I went. There were Rhinos, Batmans, Supermans, Human chains, Human caterpillars, Tigers, Donkeys and all sorts of wonderful fancy dress costumes. I got chatting to a girl called Lisa and we ended up starting the race and running the first 13 miles together. The first 13 miles was pretty easy going, the crowd were unbelievable and the atmosphere was sensational. Everywhere crowds of people cheering you on (by name because we had our names on our vests). Members of the public holding out sweets for quick energy bursts for the runners and little children with their hands out giving runners high fives! Very often I would well up with tears when reading the backs of peoples tshirts, especially seeing photos of babies who had been lost.
After I passed tower bridge I lost Lisa, because I was trying to sort my headphones out as I needed music by this stage as my legs and thighs had started hurting. The next 13 miles was going to be tough all on my own! By mile 15 the pain really started to kick in and by mile 20 I could barely walk, my thighs hurt but mostly my feet. I realised later that I had king sized blisters on my feet. It was from mile 20 that I had to walk for a while, but it seemed like forever before mile 21 was coming so I ran the last part of the mile, then continued like this until mile 23.At mile 23 I thought to myself "Emma, if you dont run this last three miles you are never gonna get back!". So I put my head down and went for it. As I ran past the people who were walking at this point, the crowd were cheering me on, "COME ON EMMA YOU'RE DOING GREAT"... that really kept me going. The last mile was the longest mile I have ever known in my life! ha ha! When i reached the '800 meters to go sign' I had to use every last ounce of my will power and energy to get to that finish line. And finally I got there! Oh my GOD! what a feeling, i burst into tears and thought I might actually have a panic attack! The adrenaline and emotion and pain all hit me and well, I just cant describe the feeling to be honest.
By the time I met back up with lee and had cooled down, I was struggling to walk. We got back to the hotel, got changed and went out and had a nice meal and some nice cold beers!
Despite the pain I was in, I decided then that, that marathon was My FIRST and I will be running more.
Thank you for everyone who supported me on this incredibly challenging and life changing journey.
The day before the marathon we went to the exhibition and I bought a knee support which actually corrected the pain I had been feeling in my hips throughout my training. Apparently my knee tracking is out and rotates as I run causing my Hip to correct my posture and thus causing stress on my hip as well as my knee.
We (hubby and I) also watched the elite runners do talks and give advice about running, which was really valuable advice and I took everything they said onboard. The exhibition was really interesting.
There was a really big wall which you could write a message on so I simply signed my name "Little Ems 2010" on it:
I also visited the cancer research stand and added a leaf to their tree. My Message read "running for our future generations".:
So onto the Marathon Day! As we were walking to the tube station a very kind couple pulled up in a taxi and offered us to share their cab to the trainstation... at charing cross you could already feel the atmosphere. It was completely electric. So very exciting. Everyone on the train was chattering away, complete strangers sharing their stories of marathons passed.
Once we made it to my assembly area I had to say goodbye to Lee and from there on I was on my own! Sooooooooo nervous! But not for long! As soon as I got into the assembly area I was offered lucozade, coffee, and soon got chatting to other people who were on their own. It started to piddle down with rain but I had my cancer research water proof poncho thingy so I was okay! Heres a small bunch of peeps in the assembly area:
Then came the words... will all runners start making their way to their starting positions. Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek! how scared was I? I did my warm ups and off I went. There were Rhinos, Batmans, Supermans, Human chains, Human caterpillars, Tigers, Donkeys and all sorts of wonderful fancy dress costumes. I got chatting to a girl called Lisa and we ended up starting the race and running the first 13 miles together. The first 13 miles was pretty easy going, the crowd were unbelievable and the atmosphere was sensational. Everywhere crowds of people cheering you on (by name because we had our names on our vests). Members of the public holding out sweets for quick energy bursts for the runners and little children with their hands out giving runners high fives! Very often I would well up with tears when reading the backs of peoples tshirts, especially seeing photos of babies who had been lost.
After I passed tower bridge I lost Lisa, because I was trying to sort my headphones out as I needed music by this stage as my legs and thighs had started hurting. The next 13 miles was going to be tough all on my own! By mile 15 the pain really started to kick in and by mile 20 I could barely walk, my thighs hurt but mostly my feet. I realised later that I had king sized blisters on my feet. It was from mile 20 that I had to walk for a while, but it seemed like forever before mile 21 was coming so I ran the last part of the mile, then continued like this until mile 23.At mile 23 I thought to myself "Emma, if you dont run this last three miles you are never gonna get back!". So I put my head down and went for it. As I ran past the people who were walking at this point, the crowd were cheering me on, "COME ON EMMA YOU'RE DOING GREAT"... that really kept me going. The last mile was the longest mile I have ever known in my life! ha ha! When i reached the '800 meters to go sign' I had to use every last ounce of my will power and energy to get to that finish line. And finally I got there! Oh my GOD! what a feeling, i burst into tears and thought I might actually have a panic attack! The adrenaline and emotion and pain all hit me and well, I just cant describe the feeling to be honest.
By the time I met back up with lee and had cooled down, I was struggling to walk. We got back to the hotel, got changed and went out and had a nice meal and some nice cold beers!
Despite the pain I was in, I decided then that, that marathon was My FIRST and I will be running more.
Thank you for everyone who supported me on this incredibly challenging and life changing journey.
Saturday 24 April 2010
The Day Before!
Well its 6:46 am and I am sat on the train on my way to London as my journey to the marathon draws close to its end! I didn't sleep very well last night, I kept dreaming that I had forgotten something at the starting line and had to keep going home to get whatever it was I had forgotten. In my dream I was wearing some awful yellow gym shorts (like the ones they made you wear in PE!). I've been up since 5 and I have a busy day ahead. Lee and I have to check in at our hotel... fortunately we have a 5 star hotel in mayfair... would you belive it was the ONLY hotel space left available out of all the travel lodges and holiday Inns, and was half the price of the crappy places! After check in, its off to the EXPO center to collect my official race number and visit the marathon exhibition as well as visit the cancer research stand to say hello, hopefully I'll meet some other cancer research runners so I wont be running on my own.
I feel incredibly nervous, but also very excited. Im excited that I have got this far and that I will be taking part in the marathon but I am nervous too because I dont know what to expect.
Nadzie is going to keep the forum and Facebook (search for the adjamiba fan base) updated tomorrow as she pesters Lee for information (he'll probably be in a pub somewhere!) so at least I know that you will all be supporting me in spirit.
Thank you to everone who has sponsored and donated so far and Thank you all for your support and for your understanding of my lack of communication over the past 6 months. If I have time I might to another update tomorrow morning but if not, I'll text/ring nadzie and she will fill you all in.
Thanks you again... Wish me Luck!
Lots of Love, Ems xxx
I feel incredibly nervous, but also very excited. Im excited that I have got this far and that I will be taking part in the marathon but I am nervous too because I dont know what to expect.
Nadzie is going to keep the forum and Facebook (search for the adjamiba fan base) updated tomorrow as she pesters Lee for information (he'll probably be in a pub somewhere!) so at least I know that you will all be supporting me in spirit.
Thank you to everone who has sponsored and donated so far and Thank you all for your support and for your understanding of my lack of communication over the past 6 months. If I have time I might to another update tomorrow morning but if not, I'll text/ring nadzie and she will fill you all in.
Thanks you again... Wish me Luck!
Lots of Love, Ems xxx
Wednesday 21 April 2010
4 More Sleeps!
I have just finished my final intensive training session pre-marathon! (I have trained a couple of times since my last post but have been too busy to update my blog). Today I really went for it at the gym, helped along by the actions of Dom Jolly on the TV screen. I couldn't hear what he was saying as I was running to my own music but I did chuckle outloud at one point mid run! (oops!). Todays session was all about pushing myself mentally, I did my hardest and longest interval work out yet to reassure myself that mentally I am prepared to push myself to my limits, like I have done all through this training.
So as my training for the London 2010 Marathon draws to an end I can reflect on the past 6 1/2 months. I have achieved something I never thought I would achieve, and that is to become a runner. I may not be a very good runner but I am no longer a couch potato and I know that I can run atleast 15 miles all on my own. I have had wonderful support throughout my training from my customers, friends and family and of course from my husband and bestest friends. I would not have done it without knowing that you were all behind me, and I would like to thank EVERYONE who has sponsored me in support of cancer research.
I have overcome many hurdles in my life, including overcoming my fear of heights to do a parachute jump when I was 19. This however (apart from parenthood) has been my biggest challenge ever because it has taken sheer mental and physical determination to get to where I have and I am so looking forward to Sundays Event. I am incredibly nervous too, as well as excited... when I imagine myself crossing the finish line, the emotion brings tears to my eyes so goodness knows how I am going to feel on Sunday when I finally reached one of the biggest PERSONAL goals I have ever worked towards.
I am grateful to Cancer Research for letting me join their team of runners and giving me the opportunity to do so something amazing, to raise money for an amazing cause.
So as my training for the London 2010 Marathon draws to an end I can reflect on the past 6 1/2 months. I have achieved something I never thought I would achieve, and that is to become a runner. I may not be a very good runner but I am no longer a couch potato and I know that I can run atleast 15 miles all on my own. I have had wonderful support throughout my training from my customers, friends and family and of course from my husband and bestest friends. I would not have done it without knowing that you were all behind me, and I would like to thank EVERYONE who has sponsored me in support of cancer research.
I have overcome many hurdles in my life, including overcoming my fear of heights to do a parachute jump when I was 19. This however (apart from parenthood) has been my biggest challenge ever because it has taken sheer mental and physical determination to get to where I have and I am so looking forward to Sundays Event. I am incredibly nervous too, as well as excited... when I imagine myself crossing the finish line, the emotion brings tears to my eyes so goodness knows how I am going to feel on Sunday when I finally reached one of the biggest PERSONAL goals I have ever worked towards.
I am grateful to Cancer Research for letting me join their team of runners and giving me the opportunity to do so something amazing, to raise money for an amazing cause.
Wednesday 14 April 2010
Training Day - I've lost count now! 12.04.10
Due to the complications with my children and their various childhood bugs etc, I have now lost count on my training days! I recovered from my 15 mile run very quickly, I coudl barely walk the following day but on the Saturday I was fine again; I was very surprised at this.
Today at the gym I pushed myself to almost double my interval training time. Interval training for those who dont know is:
"Interval training is a type of physical training that involves bursts of high intensity work. This high intensity work is alternated with periods of rest or low activity (the intervals in interval training).
The term can refer to any cardiovascular workout (e.g. cycling, running, rowing, etc.) that involves brief bouts at near-maximum exertion interspersed with periods of lower-intensity activity." - wikipedia
I have found that the interval training I have been doing throughout my entire period of training for the marathon has grately conditioned my body to endure the long distance running but has also conditioned my mental strength to push myself onwards.
Today at the gym I pushed myself to almost double my interval training time. Interval training for those who dont know is:
"Interval training is a type of physical training that involves bursts of high intensity work. This high intensity work is alternated with periods of rest or low activity (the intervals in interval training).
The term can refer to any cardiovascular workout (e.g. cycling, running, rowing, etc.) that involves brief bouts at near-maximum exertion interspersed with periods of lower-intensity activity." - wikipedia
I have found that the interval training I have been doing throughout my entire period of training for the marathon has grately conditioned my body to endure the long distance running but has also conditioned my mental strength to push myself onwards.
15 Mile Run! 08.04.10
I haven't been able to do much training since my last entry due to my daughter being unwell with some unknown reaction to something, so with all the will in the world I pushed myself to my utter limits today:
This evening I ran 15 miles in 2.5 hours. I now genuinely know what
the term "hitting the wall" means. I felt like i couldnt cope with the
pain, then all of a sudden my legs just went up a gear and the pain
eased... I did have to shout at myself to keep going. when I finished
the run I felt crippled and sick...
When i got back to my mums house (the starting point) i was in tears! The tears were a mixture of elation at my achievement as well as pain!
BUT....... I RAN 15 MILES!!! get in! Thank you to my lovely Hubby for
cycling with me and keeping fueled on lucozade.
Marathon in 17 days!!!! Omg! I really have to step up the interval training now! At least I know that mentally, I am strong enough to push myself. The only thing is, Im a bit down because im just over 1/4 of the way to my donations target. I just haven't had time to get out there and fundraise in between training, raising my family and running my business. I am hoping that there are people who are following my progress on our social networking sites: The fan Base, and My facebook page and event page and our forum, who are waiting for me to complete the event before donating. Fingers crossed!
This evening I ran 15 miles in 2.5 hours. I now genuinely know what
the term "hitting the wall" means. I felt like i couldnt cope with the
pain, then all of a sudden my legs just went up a gear and the pain
eased... I did have to shout at myself to keep going. when I finished
the run I felt crippled and sick...
When i got back to my mums house (the starting point) i was in tears! The tears were a mixture of elation at my achievement as well as pain!
BUT....... I RAN 15 MILES!!! get in! Thank you to my lovely Hubby for
cycling with me and keeping fueled on lucozade.
Marathon in 17 days!!!! Omg! I really have to step up the interval training now! At least I know that mentally, I am strong enough to push myself. The only thing is, Im a bit down because im just over 1/4 of the way to my donations target. I just haven't had time to get out there and fundraise in between training, raising my family and running my business. I am hoping that there are people who are following my progress on our social networking sites: The fan Base, and My facebook page and event page and our forum, who are waiting for me to complete the event before donating. Fingers crossed!
Saturday 27 March 2010
Training Day 52 - 27.03.10
I cried during my training today! Yup, thats right... whilst slogging it on the treadmill using all the energey I could muster and all my concentration I found myself focusing on what I had achieved so far and carried myself off in my imagination to marathon day. Then tears were running down my face whilst i was doing high intensity training! Luckily no one else saw but it was an incredibly emotional session.
My running number came through yesterday along with my final instruction pack. I now have 4 weeks to mentally and physically put myself there ready to run the 26 miles. I also realise that i have a lot of forward planning to do, to ensure the actual day is as stress free as possible with regards to travelling, etc.
Nerves and 'clearly' emotions are really setting in now!
My running number came through yesterday along with my final instruction pack. I now have 4 weeks to mentally and physically put myself there ready to run the 26 miles. I also realise that i have a lot of forward planning to do, to ensure the actual day is as stress free as possible with regards to travelling, etc.
Nerves and 'clearly' emotions are really setting in now!
Tuesday 23 March 2010
Training Day 50 - 22.03.10
Ive been extremely busy for the past week so I haven't been able to update my blog but I have still be training very hard! Todays session was my BEST EVER on the treadmill... I did High Speed Interval training running both intervals. I noticed that I didn't even get out of breath until about 23 minutes into the running, which I was very impressed about! I have been through so much pain, sweat, tears and hardwork to get to this level of fitness and I've done it without a training partner or fitness coach. Just through my own personal motivation and through the support of my family, friends and all the people who are following my progress.
It still amazes me that only in october last year, running for 1.5 minutes with 3 minute walks in between, 8 times, felt like my body was gonna colapse! and now, im not even getting out of breath on solid interval training until 2/3 of the way into it!
I was admiring my calf muscles and thighs the other day, the muscle and strength in them is fantastic! Maybe slightly butch looking now because the mucsle is building, but hey... runners legs is what they are becomming :) They look pretty damn good in a pair of heels, even if I do say so myself! (shame about my belly, i'll work on that after the marathon! teehee!).
Well with only 5 weeks to go I am dissappointed that I am only 25 percent towards reaching my 2k target. The local paper are going to run an article on me next week, so Im hoping that will generate more sponsors. Its hard for me to get out there and fundraise as I have 2 children and a business and household to run ,on top of the training I have been doing. Cancer is something that effects everyone at some point or another so please, if you havent already done so, all I ask is that you donate just £1.00 towards the target. Lots of £1.00 donations will help raise the £2000 for cancer reasearch and help towards preventing this illness for future generations.
I will be aiming to run 15miles this Sunday.
It still amazes me that only in october last year, running for 1.5 minutes with 3 minute walks in between, 8 times, felt like my body was gonna colapse! and now, im not even getting out of breath on solid interval training until 2/3 of the way into it!
I was admiring my calf muscles and thighs the other day, the muscle and strength in them is fantastic! Maybe slightly butch looking now because the mucsle is building, but hey... runners legs is what they are becomming :) They look pretty damn good in a pair of heels, even if I do say so myself! (shame about my belly, i'll work on that after the marathon! teehee!).
Well with only 5 weeks to go I am dissappointed that I am only 25 percent towards reaching my 2k target. The local paper are going to run an article on me next week, so Im hoping that will generate more sponsors. Its hard for me to get out there and fundraise as I have 2 children and a business and household to run ,on top of the training I have been doing. Cancer is something that effects everyone at some point or another so please, if you havent already done so, all I ask is that you donate just £1.00 towards the target. Lots of £1.00 donations will help raise the £2000 for cancer reasearch and help towards preventing this illness for future generations.
I will be aiming to run 15miles this Sunday.
Monday 15 March 2010
Training Day 47 - 15.03.10
Back down the gym today and re-motivated ready to push myself to my limits now and get myself fit enough for the marathon which is only 6 weeks away! OMG!
The gym was way to packed tonight so I did a burst on the treadmil.. interval training only this time I ran fast the whole session, on the incline and on the flat. Unfortunately I didn't get to go on anything else because all the equiptment was taken.
2 more weeks til my 15 mile run!
The gym was way to packed tonight so I did a burst on the treadmil.. interval training only this time I ran fast the whole session, on the incline and on the flat. Unfortunately I didn't get to go on anything else because all the equiptment was taken.
2 more weeks til my 15 mile run!
Thursday 11 March 2010
Training Day 46 - 11.03.10
4 days after my ten mile run I finally got back to the gym. The day after my run, I was in agony. I couldn't walk up and down stairs.. I looked a right old sight! I've also had pain in my left my hip so I have now invested in some compression shorts as well as the calf support I now wear. I think by the time the marathon comes around, Im going to be in full compression body armour!
Today I did a flat out session on the cross trainer, easily upping my resistance on both interval levels and completing this with ease. I then went on to the treadmill. I noticed the twinging in my hip but also noticed that this passed if I took a longer stride.
I realised today that I really am not a pretty sight when I leave the gym. You could put me on top of a cliff and guide the boats in!
Today I did a flat out session on the cross trainer, easily upping my resistance on both interval levels and completing this with ease. I then went on to the treadmill. I noticed the twinging in my hip but also noticed that this passed if I took a longer stride.
I realised today that I really am not a pretty sight when I leave the gym. You could put me on top of a cliff and guide the boats in!
MY FIRST TEN MILE RUN - 07.03.10
OMG! OMG! OMG! After resting since my last training session and stocking up on carbs, I have been gearing myself up for this day. I had carefully plotted my route and off I set at 8.20 am. I got to about 1/2 a mile and thought "There is no way I am gonna make ten miles, I dont even feel like doing 1!".
By the time Lee had got the kids ready and loaded into the car and caught up with me I was 7 miles into the 10! I couldn't believe it when he told me. Although I have to say there were some points when I really didn't think I could go on. Most of the time it felt like my legs were moving but I wasn't actually travelling. Once Lee (hubby) had announced my progress I had a burst of enthusiasm and as I turned into the laneways that lead to my parents new house, and I realised I was on the last leg of my journey I had a bit of an energy burst - aided by the sound of my kids and hubby shouting out the car window " COME ON MUMMY!"
It was a short lived energy burst because I soon became aware of pain and aching in my legs. My parents house (the finishline) felt like it was forever away. I had already completed 8 miles by this point but the last two miles felt like an eternity. I felt incredibly joyous when i crossed over the little bridge just around the corner from their house, only to realise I had mis-judged it and their house was still a distant sight! 'GROAN!'.
By this point, which I think was the last half mile I was literally shouting and growling to myself " COME ON EMMA, GO ON!" lol! and GO ON I did :) All the way to my parents house at which point I stopped and realised my legs were OH MY GOD painfull!
Mmmm nice cuppa coffee and wholemeal toast to recharge me ("Thanks Mum!")
I actually cant believe, even now, that I ran the full distance.
15 miles next.......
By the time Lee had got the kids ready and loaded into the car and caught up with me I was 7 miles into the 10! I couldn't believe it when he told me. Although I have to say there were some points when I really didn't think I could go on. Most of the time it felt like my legs were moving but I wasn't actually travelling. Once Lee (hubby) had announced my progress I had a burst of enthusiasm and as I turned into the laneways that lead to my parents new house, and I realised I was on the last leg of my journey I had a bit of an energy burst - aided by the sound of my kids and hubby shouting out the car window " COME ON MUMMY!"
It was a short lived energy burst because I soon became aware of pain and aching in my legs. My parents house (the finishline) felt like it was forever away. I had already completed 8 miles by this point but the last two miles felt like an eternity. I felt incredibly joyous when i crossed over the little bridge just around the corner from their house, only to realise I had mis-judged it and their house was still a distant sight! 'GROAN!'.
By this point, which I think was the last half mile I was literally shouting and growling to myself " COME ON EMMA, GO ON!" lol! and GO ON I did :) All the way to my parents house at which point I stopped and realised my legs were OH MY GOD painfull!
Mmmm nice cuppa coffee and wholemeal toast to recharge me ("Thanks Mum!")
I actually cant believe, even now, that I ran the full distance.
15 miles next.......
Tuesday 2 March 2010
Training Day 44 - 02.03.10
I apologise to those of you who follow my blog, for not updating my last two training sessions. I have still been training but also on top of that have been preparing for the launch of our new clubwear range!
Well, for this session I decided to come off the cross trainer. Whilst the cross trainer helped me build strength in my legs whilst I recovered from my injury, It isn't going to strengthen the correct muscles for running. So I did a flat out 30 minute run on the treadmil today. I have been unwell and almost exhausted for the past 2 days due to picking up a bug and the 15 hour photoshoot on saturday! But i felt better today, however i think I may have over done it slightly. I was seriously struggling to breathe at about 20 mins into the run and I have never sweated so much in my life. My legs and body could have kept going but today, my lungs couldn't. Its very frustrating. My heart rate peaked at nearly 190 which is too high to sustain but i was running as fast as my little legs would carry me.
After my run, I did lots of work on the weights. The gym was very busy, and I was concious of my bright red face and sweat and panting! what I wasn't aware of was that I had forgotten to remove my make up before my session and had mascara runs all down my face :-/ Oh the shame!
Im trying to gear myself up mentally for my first ten mile run on sunday. Very excited and nervous about it. I've ordered some special running socks and a bright neon yellow running top and light weigh mac in case its raining. I cant believe its only 9 weeks to go!!!
Well, for this session I decided to come off the cross trainer. Whilst the cross trainer helped me build strength in my legs whilst I recovered from my injury, It isn't going to strengthen the correct muscles for running. So I did a flat out 30 minute run on the treadmil today. I have been unwell and almost exhausted for the past 2 days due to picking up a bug and the 15 hour photoshoot on saturday! But i felt better today, however i think I may have over done it slightly. I was seriously struggling to breathe at about 20 mins into the run and I have never sweated so much in my life. My legs and body could have kept going but today, my lungs couldn't. Its very frustrating. My heart rate peaked at nearly 190 which is too high to sustain but i was running as fast as my little legs would carry me.
After my run, I did lots of work on the weights. The gym was very busy, and I was concious of my bright red face and sweat and panting! what I wasn't aware of was that I had forgotten to remove my make up before my session and had mascara runs all down my face :-/ Oh the shame!
Im trying to gear myself up mentally for my first ten mile run on sunday. Very excited and nervous about it. I've ordered some special running socks and a bright neon yellow running top and light weigh mac in case its raining. I cant believe its only 9 weeks to go!!!
Sunday 21 February 2010
Training Day 41 - 21.2.10
Today was a most interesting session at the gym! I was doing my thing on the cross trainer, keeping a good pace but today pushing myself a little harder, doing an extra 5 mintues, anyway back to the point.. as I was in full swing on the machine, two HUBBA HUBBA Beef Cakes entered the gym and started working out on the treadmills in front of me. Well, I simply did not know where to look.... actually I did; straight ahead! LOL! It seriously helped me through that part of my training! Tee hee!
After a good work out on the cross trainer, I joined said Beefies on the treadmill (Having a great view of them in the mirror!) and did another good 20 minute running. This time I ran faster on the uphill climb and my maximum heart rate only hit 173!
I cant believe how much my fitness has improved since starting training back in october. I keep thinking back to day 1 and how it almost killed me to run and walk for 1.5 minutes intervals! Now im doing 35 mintues hard cross trainering and 20 mintues solid running, as well as abs, weights etc. I feel mega motivated again now.
My next plan of action is to do a 10 mile run, 2 weeks today. I am going to go to a running shop, make sure my shoes are correct and get a calf support. Then over the next 2 weeks mentally motivate myself and pysque myself up for the 10 miler. Im watching my carb intake at present because I find that if I have less carbs I have more energy, however a good 2-3 days before I do the 10 mile, I am going to stock up on good carbs.
I cant believe the marathon is only 10 weeks away now! Eeeek! scarey stuff!
One more thing, when doing my abs work on the mats in front of the mirror, I did catch glimpse of my physique and think to myself "hey girl, you are starting too look good!". My legs are showing fantastic muscle tone now and my arms are definately getting there. My tummy is looking much flatter but there is still a lot of work to do in that department! I feel very very motivated and confident today.
After a good work out on the cross trainer, I joined said Beefies on the treadmill (Having a great view of them in the mirror!) and did another good 20 minute running. This time I ran faster on the uphill climb and my maximum heart rate only hit 173!
I cant believe how much my fitness has improved since starting training back in october. I keep thinking back to day 1 and how it almost killed me to run and walk for 1.5 minutes intervals! Now im doing 35 mintues hard cross trainering and 20 mintues solid running, as well as abs, weights etc. I feel mega motivated again now.
My next plan of action is to do a 10 mile run, 2 weeks today. I am going to go to a running shop, make sure my shoes are correct and get a calf support. Then over the next 2 weeks mentally motivate myself and pysque myself up for the 10 miler. Im watching my carb intake at present because I find that if I have less carbs I have more energy, however a good 2-3 days before I do the 10 mile, I am going to stock up on good carbs.
I cant believe the marathon is only 10 weeks away now! Eeeek! scarey stuff!
One more thing, when doing my abs work on the mats in front of the mirror, I did catch glimpse of my physique and think to myself "hey girl, you are starting too look good!". My legs are showing fantastic muscle tone now and my arms are definately getting there. My tummy is looking much flatter but there is still a lot of work to do in that department! I feel very very motivated and confident today.
Training Day 40 - 19.2.10
After what happened last week, I took a week off of the gym to recover. It did scare me and I had to re-build my confidence to go back there. I am so glad I did this because I had a really good session today.
On the cross trainer I decided, that rather than push my self beyond my limits and try to do to much, I would maintain a good pace and heart rate so that I could keep going without feeling like i was going to pass out. I kept the speed interval resistance at number 5 with 180 strides per minute and the resistance interval at number 9, striding at 145-150 strides per minute. My maximum heart rate was 163 but i averaged 153. I broke a good sweat and at some points did feel myself getting weak but the 30 mintues went really fast.
Then came the good bit.. because I did not exhaust myself on the cross trainer, I was able to run for 20 mintues on the treadmill! I think the week off, did me some good to be honest and gave my leg propper chance to heal. The 20 mintues, was again interval training only this time I ran on the flat and jogged on the hill climb.
Following all this I did lots of leg and arm weights.
I feel very proud of myself today!
On the cross trainer I decided, that rather than push my self beyond my limits and try to do to much, I would maintain a good pace and heart rate so that I could keep going without feeling like i was going to pass out. I kept the speed interval resistance at number 5 with 180 strides per minute and the resistance interval at number 9, striding at 145-150 strides per minute. My maximum heart rate was 163 but i averaged 153. I broke a good sweat and at some points did feel myself getting weak but the 30 mintues went really fast.
Then came the good bit.. because I did not exhaust myself on the cross trainer, I was able to run for 20 mintues on the treadmill! I think the week off, did me some good to be honest and gave my leg propper chance to heal. The 20 mintues, was again interval training only this time I ran on the flat and jogged on the hill climb.
Following all this I did lots of leg and arm weights.
I feel very proud of myself today!
Thursday 11 February 2010
Training Day 39 - 11.2.10
Just got back from the Gym and Hung my coat on the key hooks and realised I was doing something wrong when I went to hang my keys on the coat hooks!
Todays session didn't go too well. It WAS going fine and I was progressing easily on a higher resistance and faster speed until about 23 minutes into the training when I lost focus on my breathing. I suddenly became aware that my face, fingers, hands and head were tingling and I felt very feint. This sent me into panic mode because I was really paranoid that I might pass out there and then on the cross trainer in the middle of a ram packed gym :( It was a pretty scarey moment.
I have a feeling that the lack of carbohydrates I ate today to compensate for the junk I ate yesterday may have played a roll in what happened, either that or I simply started to hyperventilate where i was focusing so much on the movement and not on my breathing. Maybe I simply pushed myself too hard? I dont think it was the latter though, because I've been pushing myself to my limits every single training session since I started.
Note to self: research proper diet.
Todays session didn't go too well. It WAS going fine and I was progressing easily on a higher resistance and faster speed until about 23 minutes into the training when I lost focus on my breathing. I suddenly became aware that my face, fingers, hands and head were tingling and I felt very feint. This sent me into panic mode because I was really paranoid that I might pass out there and then on the cross trainer in the middle of a ram packed gym :( It was a pretty scarey moment.
I have a feeling that the lack of carbohydrates I ate today to compensate for the junk I ate yesterday may have played a roll in what happened, either that or I simply started to hyperventilate where i was focusing so much on the movement and not on my breathing. Maybe I simply pushed myself too hard? I dont think it was the latter though, because I've been pushing myself to my limits every single training session since I started.
Note to self: research proper diet.
Tuesday 9 February 2010
Training Day 38 - 09.2.10
I can honestly say PROUDLY that I am no longer a couch potato and I can also PROUDLY say that I have it in me to really push myself when the going gets tough. I am so determined that I am going to complete this marathon!
Im still on the cross trainer, although I had a little run the other day, I still dont feel entirely comfortable about my injury so Im going to give it plenty of time to heal. However the cross trainer is proving to be very testing indeed! It really must use more of my body power on this machine because I sweat 5 times more and go 5 shades of red, brighter! Today I increased the resistance on the spead interval and increased the speed on the resistance intervals. Getting stronger every session now!
I am fully aware of the fact that I must be pulling strange faces whilst straining to push myself to my limits, I try not to let this get to me but when I look around the gym, I dont see anyone else as red or as funny faced as myself. I am hoping that this is simply because I am REALLY hitting my limits, and not that I'm simply odd!
Im still on the cross trainer, although I had a little run the other day, I still dont feel entirely comfortable about my injury so Im going to give it plenty of time to heal. However the cross trainer is proving to be very testing indeed! It really must use more of my body power on this machine because I sweat 5 times more and go 5 shades of red, brighter! Today I increased the resistance on the spead interval and increased the speed on the resistance intervals. Getting stronger every session now!
I am fully aware of the fact that I must be pulling strange faces whilst straining to push myself to my limits, I try not to let this get to me but when I look around the gym, I dont see anyone else as red or as funny faced as myself. I am hoping that this is simply because I am REALLY hitting my limits, and not that I'm simply odd!
Sunday 7 February 2010
Training Day 37 - 07.2.10
Considering I drank rather a large amount of alcohol last night, I was determined to go to the gym today and I surprised myself. At first I was in two minds about whether to even enter the gym after I realised upon arrival that I'd forgotten my water and therefor any training I did would be without a drink until after the course. Despite all this I managed 30 mintues flat out on the cross trainer, reaching a pace at one point of 200 strides per minute. THEN ( I couldn't resist it, the machines were calling me) I had a 15 minute session on the treadmil. It was a really weird experience to run again and I was praying my leg wouldn't start hurting again, which to my relief, it didn't!
Im going to invest in a calf support over the next day or two then gently ease myself into the running, after working the cross trainer. My legs are obviously getting stronger! Its great!
Im going to invest in a calf support over the next day or two then gently ease myself into the running, after working the cross trainer. My legs are obviously getting stronger! Its great!
Friday 5 February 2010
Training Day 36 - 05.2.10
I have just completed my most gruelling gym session yet! Upped the pace on the cross trainer and upped all the leg weights I did! I am now building strength buy doing reps at 60kg on the leg press and about 25 on the leg lift. On the cross trainer I increased my pace to 190 per minute on the lower incline! I have never sweated so much in my life but I feel really really good for it!
I haven't done any leg lift weights for a week or two but before I started working out on the cross trainer I was only able to set it at about 12.5kg, now that I can do 25 kg, it shows the cross trainer must be giving my legs good strength! Yay!
I had another boost today when I saw an old friend down the gym. She commented on the difference in my physique and said I looked amazing! That really made me feel good :)
I haven't done any leg lift weights for a week or two but before I started working out on the cross trainer I was only able to set it at about 12.5kg, now that I can do 25 kg, it shows the cross trainer must be giving my legs good strength! Yay!
I had another boost today when I saw an old friend down the gym. She commented on the difference in my physique and said I looked amazing! That really made me feel good :)
Training Day 35 - 03.2.10
I am dying to get running again, but I am enjoying my new found fitness on the cross trainer! I found my peak today, interval training - the fastest being 175 strides per minute at number 5 incline, and on the higher incline, 130 strides per minute at 10 incline. It was really really hard work and I certainly built up a sweat! I really want to run again so I can see how my stamina has improved.
Next gym session I will continue with the above pace and then maybe go onto the bike after :) This is all good fun!
Next gym session I will continue with the above pace and then maybe go onto the bike after :) This is all good fun!
Tuesday 2 February 2010
Letters of Support
Thank you to every one has sponsored me so far. I am nearly at 10 percent of my target but there is a lot more still to raise. If you haven't already done so please do sponsore me at www.justgiving.com/emma-pook.
Here are two wonderful and inspirational letters I have received, that I would like to share with you all so that you can all see how wonderful Cancer Reasearch and its causes, is.
Here are two wonderful and inspirational letters I have received, that I would like to share with you all so that you can all see how wonderful Cancer Reasearch and its causes, is.
Hi Emma,Just wanted to write a quick email to say how great I think what you are doing is – I take my hat off to you and truly wish you all the luck in the world!! I have no doubt you’re already well on the way from Couch potato :o)
I am so sorry you have lost so many people to cancer, and wish your dad all the best and that he comes through remission 100%. I cant imagine how it must feel to have something like that hanging over you all. It means so much more when you know that someone is doing something that really means so much to them on a personal level.
I am familiar with the just giving site as my mum and dad completed the Plymouth – Dakar Rally challenge (what an experience) last year and raised £3k for Macmillan and my sister-in-law completed the London marathon last year also for Macmillan Cancer, she is doing it again this year for the Miscarriage Association as she has suffered 7 miscarriages in the last 2 years. My mum is also doing the moon walk this year for the 2nd year.
I will of course sponsor you – I am in the middle of changing bank accounts so it may take me a few days to get the information for the right account together, but I will definitely get onto the website. I wish I did more like this myself – so I try to support as best I can. I’m going to start slowly and go for the moon walk with my mum if I can still get on the list – if not it will be next year!
You’re an inspiration Emma, good luck, best wishes, and love and light to you and all your family.
Ema
Hi Emma,
Thanks for your touching email. I lost my dad to cancer when i was 10 and i know how you feel!
I have run 3 marathons in loch ness in aid of different cancer charities.
I just wanted to say well done and to give you my support. I have a lot of respect for people that put their time and effort in to doing things like this. You will feel an overwhelming sense of achievement!! I will be soon training for my next run!!
I Will send a sponsor when i get paid at the end of the month.
Good luck
Karen (Lover of Adjambia outfits!!
)
Hi Emma,
Thanks for your touching email. I lost my dad to cancer when i was 10 and i know how you feel!
I have run 3 marathons in loch ness in aid of different cancer charities.
I just wanted to say well done and to give you my support. I have a lot of respect for people that put their time and effort in to doing things like this. You will feel an overwhelming sense of achievement!! I will be soon training for my next run!!
I Will send a sponsor when i get paid at the end of the month.
Good luck
Karen (Lover of Adjambia outfits!!
) Training Day 34 - 30.1.10
Yet another session spent on the cross trainer. I must say I DID ache yesterday morning when i woke up! I must have worked harder than i thought in my last session. Today I increased the resistance of the cross trainer and the speed of my high resistance interval. I also did an extra 10 minutes of training on the bikes... the seats are very painful but I will try and aim for 20 mins in my next session.
Not being able to run is doing my head in,I never thought i would hear myself say this but " I enjoy running and I am missing it!".
Not being able to run is doing my head in,I never thought i would hear myself say this but " I enjoy running and I am missing it!".
Friday 29 January 2010
Training Day 33 - 28.1.10
I am delighted to say that my gym session went well today. I have headed advice and went on the cross trainer for 30 minutes of interval training, which I got through with a surprising ease and NO pain in my shins! Now my aim will be to increase resistance, speed and distance on this machine for the next month to ensure my leg is properly healed. In a months time I will have a session running back on the treadmil with adequate leg support and if the pain doesn't return I will attempt my next outdoor run!
I spent a lot of time on the leg lift machine today too, to stengthen my leg muscles.
I am once again, motivated and inspired.... Injury will NOT defeat me!
I spent a lot of time on the leg lift machine today too, to stengthen my leg muscles.
I am once again, motivated and inspired.... Injury will NOT defeat me!
Thursday 28 January 2010
Traning Day 32 - 26.1.10
I have waited 6 days for the pain to go from my leg and went back to training today. Within 5 minutes I could feel the niggling feeling coming back but I managed to push a 30 minute interval work out. My leg doesn't feel horrendous like the other day BUT it does hurt. Everything I have read about shin splits (which looks what is wrong with my leg) advises that the only treatment is a break from running, otherwise I could end up with a stress fracture and No chance of running the marathon.
On the advice of a sports physio I am going to switch to cross trainer training for a month, which should give the injury lots of time to heal, as the cross trainer uses different muscles and doesn't put strain on that part of the calf muscle. I am relieved that I am still able to work on building leg strength and endurance and that My training for the London Marathon can continue!
I have also decided that I am going to complete the Marathon wearing one of my Cyber Outfits IF I raise OVER £2000, so if you haven't already done so, I would be most grateful for your donation! This isn't an easy thing to do, especially now I have an injury but everyones support and the good cause I am running for, is keeping me going.
On the advice of a sports physio I am going to switch to cross trainer training for a month, which should give the injury lots of time to heal, as the cross trainer uses different muscles and doesn't put strain on that part of the calf muscle. I am relieved that I am still able to work on building leg strength and endurance and that My training for the London Marathon can continue!
I have also decided that I am going to complete the Marathon wearing one of my Cyber Outfits IF I raise OVER £2000, so if you haven't already done so, I would be most grateful for your donation! This isn't an easy thing to do, especially now I have an injury but everyones support and the good cause I am running for, is keeping me going.
Thursday 21 January 2010
Training Day 31 - 20.1.10
Oh NO! Disaster has struck and I am absolutely gutted. My legs were achy today but I thought I would still go to the gym for more interaval training on the treadmill, again aiming for 40 minutes. After about 20 minutes I noticed a pain getting worse in my left leg but figured it was just a result of yesterdays training, however after 30 mintues I had to stop my session because the pain was so bad. By the time I got home I was limping. The pain is worse in my left leg but present in both legs, all down the front inner shin.
My friend advised it sounds like I have a shin splints injury, and I looked it up online and everything points towards her theory being correct. The only way to treat it is to rest and I am absolutely gutted. I should have listened to my body and NOT gone to the gym tonight. I HOPE that the injury isn't going to be an on going one, and is puerely a result of doing to much in one go. I shall rest as advised and possibly go to the gym and do some other kind of stamina building excersise like the bike, something that doesnt impact on my calves as much.
On the advice of my friend, Kirsty, I am going to locate a sports therapist and seek out some expert advice to prevent this from happening again.
I am determined that this will NOT put a stop to me completing the Marathon.
My friend advised it sounds like I have a shin splints injury, and I looked it up online and everything points towards her theory being correct. The only way to treat it is to rest and I am absolutely gutted. I should have listened to my body and NOT gone to the gym tonight. I HOPE that the injury isn't going to be an on going one, and is puerely a result of doing to much in one go. I shall rest as advised and possibly go to the gym and do some other kind of stamina building excersise like the bike, something that doesnt impact on my calves as much.
On the advice of my friend, Kirsty, I am going to locate a sports therapist and seek out some expert advice to prevent this from happening again.
I am determined that this will NOT put a stop to me completing the Marathon.
Training Day 30 - 19.1.10
Despite still being incredibly achy from Sundays outdoor run, I got myself back to the gym for some further interval training today and increased the time to 40 minutes and the distance to 4.3 miles. On the first speed run I didn't think I was going to be able to go any further, every ounce of me ached but I pushed on and managed to get through the full 40 minutes, even doing some uphill jogging rather than walking towards the end of the session. At one point my chest was hurting and I wanted to stop but refused to allow myself to. It is now taking me sheer personal determination to go that little bit extra each time. If only I could afford a personal trainer!
Sunday 17 January 2010
Training Day 29 - 17.1.10
OMG!! Woweeeeeeeeeee! I went on an outdoor run today.... and I can't believe the results! When I first started running I didn't think I was even going to make it to the end of the Roman Road that I ran along last time. The air was cold and it caught my breath and hurt my chest. However once I warmed up I seemed to just not be able to stop running! Even when I felt like I couldn't go on, I couldn't walk for more than 30 seconds because my legs were clearly in running mode! I walked 4 times all together during my run, for just enough time to have a gulp of water. After I made it to the end of Roman Road, I just kept running and found my way back home! This included a fair bit of hill work too! My Husband was supposed to come back and meet me somewhere in the car, but I made it Home before he got to me!
Now here comes the good bit - I Ran for 6.35 miles according to my Nike Sensor and I ran at approximately 8 m/ph and ran for 49 minutes! I can't believe it and this achievement feels so Amazing! 3 Months ago I struggled to run for 1.5 minutes! Now I can run for nearly an hour! I just can't describe how awesome it feels! I feel very proud!
Here is a map of my run. After having tracked my route It seems I only ran 5 miles not the 6.35 that my Nike sensor states. I dont know if this is because whilst plotting my route, i haven't been accurate around corners etc? Who knows!
P.s. I am now aching in places I never knew existed and look like I have been sat in the sun for 3 days solid... Very Red indeed!!!
Now here comes the good bit - I Ran for 6.35 miles according to my Nike Sensor and I ran at approximately 8 m/ph and ran for 49 minutes! I can't believe it and this achievement feels so Amazing! 3 Months ago I struggled to run for 1.5 minutes! Now I can run for nearly an hour! I just can't describe how awesome it feels! I feel very proud!
Here is a map of my run. After having tracked my route It seems I only ran 5 miles not the 6.35 that my Nike sensor states. I dont know if this is because whilst plotting my route, i haven't been accurate around corners etc? Who knows!
P.s. I am now aching in places I never knew existed and look like I have been sat in the sun for 3 days solid... Very Red indeed!!!
Training Day 28 - 16.1.10
I decided to go back to the gym again today, I would like to aim to do interval training every day now to increase my stamina and strength. I seem to be making easy progress with the interval training.
Unfortunately my training was interrupted halfway through - my phone doubles up as my training log and my pod to keep my running... unfortunately a series of calls coming through messed up the connection with my bluetooth headset and my Nike Sensor and completely through me off my pace and focus. I was incredibly frustrated but these things happen for a reason... I now know that i have to seriously consider my music, battery life of my phone/ipod/headset/sensor etc in preparation for Marathon Day. I need the music to get into the running... it helps me focus and keep a good pace.
Unfortunately my training was interrupted halfway through - my phone doubles up as my training log and my pod to keep my running... unfortunately a series of calls coming through messed up the connection with my bluetooth headset and my Nike Sensor and completely through me off my pace and focus. I was incredibly frustrated but these things happen for a reason... I now know that i have to seriously consider my music, battery life of my phone/ipod/headset/sensor etc in preparation for Marathon Day. I need the music to get into the running... it helps me focus and keep a good pace.
Training Day 27 - 15.1.10
After a week off training due to having the flu I finally managed to get back down the Gym and back running! Despite being off for so long and being unwell I managed to record a new personal best mile at 8'42" min/mile. I pushed myself to run my last two runs at 12km/h and kept my incline speed increased to 7 km/h.
I wasn't able to do any weights today as I had a cyst removed from my back. Nothing to worry about but didn't want to burst the stitches!
I wasn't able to do any weights today as I had a cyst removed from my back. Nothing to worry about but didn't want to burst the stitches!
Thursday 7 January 2010
Training Day 26 - 07.01.10
Oh wow I have just got back from a Killer gym session! Unfortunately the weather meant i wasn't able to go yesterday but I just had to get there today and keep up the training. I'd been hoping to do an outdoor run this week but that most definately isn't going to happen in all this snow!
Well I believe I may have broken the pain barrier in todays session! I increased my incline speed, running speed and ploughed on through with the interval training. When I got to my 2nd to last run my ears started popping and I felt light headed, then on the last run I had pains going through my chest.. like stabbing pains in my lungs, sweat was pouring off me and I did think I might actually collapse but I kept going and got through to the end of the session, then went onto to the weights and seemed to find inner incredible hulk strength - despite the pain and dizzyness and blurred vision! I didn't turn green though, still very much wearing the tomato skin! It really isn't a pretty picture and I dread to think what kind of coughing, spluttering and panting noises I must make! Thank goodness my headphones drown it out in my own ears at least!
Notes: Increased running speed on treadmill to 11.4 km/h running, and 7km/h uphill speed. Increased Chest and shoulder press weights by 2.5kg. (up to 27.5kg 2x20 reps)
Well I believe I may have broken the pain barrier in todays session! I increased my incline speed, running speed and ploughed on through with the interval training. When I got to my 2nd to last run my ears started popping and I felt light headed, then on the last run I had pains going through my chest.. like stabbing pains in my lungs, sweat was pouring off me and I did think I might actually collapse but I kept going and got through to the end of the session, then went onto to the weights and seemed to find inner incredible hulk strength - despite the pain and dizzyness and blurred vision! I didn't turn green though, still very much wearing the tomato skin! It really isn't a pretty picture and I dread to think what kind of coughing, spluttering and panting noises I must make! Thank goodness my headphones drown it out in my own ears at least!
Notes: Increased running speed on treadmill to 11.4 km/h running, and 7km/h uphill speed. Increased Chest and shoulder press weights by 2.5kg. (up to 27.5kg 2x20 reps)
Monday 4 January 2010
Training Day 25 - 04.01.10
Back at the Gym today, I normally rest in between running days but i need to get in as much training as possible. Once again I did interval training but this time i increased my speed on flat runs to 11km/h and my speed on the hill walking to 6.5km/h (on an incline of 4). I got through the 30 mintues easily but the clubs treadmill will only allow a maximum of 30 minutes on the interval trainging so instead of increasing time I'm going to stick to the 30 mintues for the next few weeks but work on increasing the speed on both flat and incline so that I can build enough strength to run up hill. Im guessing this will increase my stamina on flat ground during outdoor runs.
Because I didn't include my warm up and warm down in my Nike+Ipod records, my distance covered was 3.41 miles but my average speed increased to 8'57" per mile (although i still have no idea what that is in miles per hour!).
Ive had some amazing emails and letters of support reaching my inbox today and have been brought to tears by some of them. Thank you for those of you who wrote to me with your heartfelt stories and truly encouraging and inspirational words xx
Because I didn't include my warm up and warm down in my Nike+Ipod records, my distance covered was 3.41 miles but my average speed increased to 8'57" per mile (although i still have no idea what that is in miles per hour!).
Ive had some amazing emails and letters of support reaching my inbox today and have been brought to tears by some of them. Thank you for those of you who wrote to me with your heartfelt stories and truly encouraging and inspirational words xx
Sunday 3 January 2010
Training Day 24 - 3.1.10
Today was my first training day of 2010 and after a week of boozing and partying I wasn't expecting today to go as well as it did. Having hit a brick wall with the learn to run programme but having managed to run so successfully on my boxing day outdoor run, I decided to seek advice from the gym staff. They have advised me to work on interval training whilst in the gym to build on leg strength and stamina. So today I did 30 minutes of interval training spaced out into two minute slots of running and uphill walking. I also added a 5 minute warm up and warm down and completed the training with ease... so next time I will increase the interval time to 40 mintues long. I did a lot of work on the weights for my upper body today too.
Using my new Nike + Ipod system, I recorded a distance of 3.76 miles with an average speed of 9'25" (but i have no idea what that is in miles per hour!) and a total of 468 calories burnt! Not bad... I now realise that the treadmils at the gym probably aren't that accurate and now I can see exactly what I am doing with my training progress I feel a lot more motivated again.
I am now going to aim to train in some shape or form every day as there is now only 4 months left until the Marathon!
Using my new Nike + Ipod system, I recorded a distance of 3.76 miles with an average speed of 9'25" (but i have no idea what that is in miles per hour!) and a total of 468 calories burnt! Not bad... I now realise that the treadmils at the gym probably aren't that accurate and now I can see exactly what I am doing with my training progress I feel a lot more motivated again.
I am now going to aim to train in some shape or form every day as there is now only 4 months left until the Marathon!
Tuesday 29 December 2009
Training Day 23 - Boxing Day 2009
Today I ventured out into the big wide world of outdoor running! There is a hilly road on the peak of our town called Roman Road. My Husband and the Kids took me to the start of it and followed me in the car whilst I ran the entire length of it and then some! It was very very different to running on the treadmill and actually more enjoyable despite the fact that there was a lot of uphill and down hill work involved. By the time I reached the end I had been running for 30 minutes without even realising. Lee (my husband) suggested that this is because I was concentrating on a distance rather than looking at my time every few minutes. Im definately going to do lots more outdoor running but I'll need to carefully plot routes or I might end up doing a Forest Gump!
My only regret today is that I didn't warm up and warm down properly so my calf muscles are really hurting.
My only regret today is that I didn't warm up and warm down properly so my calf muscles are really hurting.
Training Day 22 - Christmas Day 2009
My Husband bought me some new Nike running shoes for christmas... smart NIKE ID ones with my name on them in Black and Pink - My favourite colour combo! I decided to test them out Christmas Morning with my son riding along side me on his bike. I went for about a 20 mintue run but it was very difficult because all the roads were so icy so I had to run on the grass.
Wednesday 23 December 2009
Training Day 21 - 22.12.09
Right so I went back to the previous challenge in my training.. running 8 mintues/walking 5/running 8. The music I was listening to was faster and I found myself taking larger strides... I felt very much like I was properly running and although it damn near killed me, I complete it! I was very surprised to do it because I ate my lunch about 1.5 hours before running and could still feel it on my stomach, so maybe had I have ran in the morning I would have found it easier.
The sweat was POURING off my today though and my chest hurt after... I WILL get there. I WILL get there!! I am not sure whether I should do this challenge a couple more times before trying to hit the 20 minute mark... maybe I will do it twice more.......
The sweat was POURING off my today though and my chest hurt after... I WILL get there. I WILL get there!! I am not sure whether I should do this challenge a couple more times before trying to hit the 20 minute mark... maybe I will do it twice more.......
Tuesday 22 December 2009
Training Day 20 - 17.12.09
Ok its getting worse.. i'm digressing further.
I think I will go back and start the week 5 part of the course again.
Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!
I think I will go back and start the week 5 part of the course again.
Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!
Tuesday 15 December 2009
Training Day 19 - 15.12.09
Arrrrrrgggggghhhhhhh I cant get through this wall :( I managed to run for 20 mintues but had to stop for a 3 minute walk at 14 mintues then continue to do another six minutes. This is so frustrating because I cant move on to the next stage until I can get through this part and its really painfull. I didn't eat any tea last night again... so actually hadn't eaten since yesterday lunchtime. I must remember to eat tea the night before i run! I will try again on thursday.
I really have to do something about the tomato syndrome... Im actually putting the redness of the tomato population to shame now!
I really have to do something about the tomato syndrome... Im actually putting the redness of the tomato population to shame now!
Saturday 12 December 2009
Training Day 18 - 12.12.09
Today I digressed, but thats Ok, I'll push harder next time. I hit a wall a couple of weeks back but I got through it. I thought i'd be able to push myself for the 20 minute target today but I had things on my mind and really couldn't focus enough to do so. So i managed 13.5 minutes, then a 2 minute walk, then another 2 minutes running. I made up for it on the weights.
I wore shorts to the gym today it was interesting to see the muscles in my legs shaking and spasming as I was working on the leg press machine!
I also wore a blue t-shirt... Note to self... Blue t-shirts and sweaty underarms do NOT look good!
I wore shorts to the gym today it was interesting to see the muscles in my legs shaking and spasming as I was working on the leg press machine!
I also wore a blue t-shirt... Note to self... Blue t-shirts and sweaty underarms do NOT look good!
Training Day 17 - 10.12.09
Because I completed the last training session in advance of what it should be, todays session stated that I had to run for 20 mins solid without a walking break. I got to 5 mins and thought... well if I get to 8 mins and cant go any further, i'll do a five minute walk then another 8 minute run. Before I knew it I had hit 10 minutes so tried pushing myself to the 15 minute mark.... at 18.5 minutes my head started going funny and so did my vision so i stopped there before i passed out! I think if i'd have pushed myself I may have broken the pain barrier but I didn't really want to go flying off the back of the treadmill at 10kmph!
I worked very hard on the weights today too and have also lost more weight which I am VERY happy about! My body shape is really changing now and is looking much more toned.
I worked very hard on the weights today too and have also lost more weight which I am VERY happy about! My body shape is really changing now and is looking much more toned.
Wednesday 9 December 2009
Training Day 16 - 8.12.09 Week 5
Had a few personal issues so had a bit of a delay in between training. Today I was supposed to do 3 x 5 minute runs with 3 mins walking in between but i had a lot of tension to burn off so actually jumped forward a session and completed 2 solid 8 minus with 5 mins walking in between - running at 10km/ph. My husband came to the gym to collect the keys from me and said he was watching me through the window pulling some rediculous faces! Oh the shame....
Note to self.... try not to pull stupid faces whilst achieving the tomato effect!
The next run on the schedule is a 20 minute solid run but I think i might do the 2 x 8 minute ones first just to be safe.
Note to self.... try not to pull stupid faces whilst achieving the tomato effect!
The next run on the schedule is a 20 minute solid run but I think i might do the 2 x 8 minute ones first just to be safe.
Training Day 15 - 4.12.09
Well thats week 4 completed and done nice and easily too! Week 5 is going to be much harder!
Thursday 3 December 2009
Training Day 14 - 01.12.09
Another super smashing training session at the gym! I found the 2 x 3 and 2 x 5 much easier to achieve today despite the fact that my song shuffles weren't quite as uplifiting as the other day!
I cant believe im getting through this point... I'm so excited and energised.
I cant believe im getting through this point... I'm so excited and energised.
Sunday 29 November 2009
TRAINING DAY 13 - 29.11.09
Yay! I totally smashed it at the Gym today! Although at one point I didn't think I was going to! I managed to complete the whole of the set programme for the first run in week 4 - so I ran 2x 3 minutes with 1.5 mins walk in between then 2 x 5 mins with 2.5 mins walk in between. I listened to Hardcore Classics on shuffle and my beloved Ipod could not have shuffled it better for me... each time I felt as if the pain was too much it would throw in another STOMPING tune and i'd find more motivation! Awesome! I feel so good now that I have managed to complete this part! The Wall I hit has come crashing down and Im ready for more!
I ripped it up on the weights today too... arms, legs, butt, everything all pleasantly but rewardingly aching!
I ripped it up on the weights today too... arms, legs, butt, everything all pleasantly but rewardingly aching!
Friday 27 November 2009
Training Day 12 - 26.11.09
Today I hit a wall for the first time. Even the first 3 minute run was a struggle. However in hindsight I think it may be because i forgot to eat tea the night before and then ate some toast in the morning. I definately run better on an empty stomach, but when i've eaten the night before. I managed 3 x 3 minute runs wtih 1.5 mins walking in between so I guess that wasn't too bad. I didn't do any weights work though because I forgot my towel and I dont like using the weights equiptment without having a towel to sit on! My calves are killing me too, I think I may have to investigate leg massage or administer it myself. I think I'm going to have a break now until Sunday and see how I get on. I have a feeling I may need to go back a week and start again.....but I'll try correct eating, approach first.
On another note, my weight loss has picked back up again... Im down to 9 Stone 2 Now. So thats something to feel positive about.
On another note, my weight loss has picked back up again... Im down to 9 Stone 2 Now. So thats something to feel positive about.
Wednesday 25 November 2009
Training Day 11 - 24.11.09 - Week 4
I started on the programme for week for today which involved 2 lots of run 3 minutes/walk 1.5 mins, then two lots of run 5 mins/walk 2.5 mins but I didn't read the programme properly so thought it was three minutes of walking in between so by the time i got to the final 5 minute run I only managed 3 minutes! My heart rate was up to 190! I have to say it felt good. At one point my legs were just going and I got into a really good breathing pattern... felt i bit like i was flying.... maybe I was at passing out point and didn't realise!
Did lots of weights work and some abs work too. Had to check myself out in the mirror after... my arms and legs are starting to look visibly more toned now! Still lots of work to do on the Belly.
Im very much looking forward to day 12!
Did lots of weights work and some abs work too. Had to check myself out in the mirror after... my arms and legs are starting to look visibly more toned now! Still lots of work to do on the Belly.
Im very much looking forward to day 12!
Sunday 22 November 2009
Training Day 10 - 21.11.09
It's been over two weeks since I last trained to the ongoing virus I had. BUT it doesn't seem to have put me too far back although I did try and push myself harder. I decided to go inbetween what i was doing last and what i was moving onto, so tried to do 3 run/walks of 3 minutes but due to the virus having been on my chest, i struggled on the 3rd run and only managed about 1.5 mins.
I did a little weight work and thought it best not to push myself further just incase.
That can wait for next session!
I did a little weight work and thought it best not to push myself further just incase.
That can wait for next session!
Friday 13 November 2009
Lack of Training
Due to being unwell I haven't been training now for a week. Feeling under the weather has ruined my diet too, because I keep eating all the wrong foods.... chocolate, takeaway etc because I dont have the energy to cook. Im hoping to be back down the gym on Sunday and I'm really hoping that I haven't taken too many steps back. I will probably re-do last weeks programme to see how I get on.
Thursday 5 November 2009
Training Day 9 - 5.11.09
I am really starting to struggle now. I dont know if its the fact that I only had 4 hours kip because my baby girl was unsettled or if I've over done it this week. My legs are aching and I'm feeling a little despondant as I've not lost any weight or any inches so far. Although I'm only on my 3rd week of training, I have been going to the gym for about 6 weeks now and Im not sure if I look any different. Maybe my legs and butt are more toned... Its my Belly thats getting me down.. Im doing lots of Core work but it doesn't seem to be having an effect.
On Saturday I am supposed to start week 4 which is a lot more running and I'm feeling slightly daunted.
I Must get my Positive Attitude back - PMA! (not PMT!)
On Saturday I am supposed to start week 4 which is a lot more running and I'm feeling slightly daunted.
I Must get my Positive Attitude back - PMA! (not PMT!)
Tuesday 3 November 2009
Training Day 8 - 3.11.09
I had to go in the evening again today so I didn't get to do any weights. I ran a bit faster today at 10.5km/h instead of 10.3 but found it really hard to breathe at one point, although i still managed to get in an extra rep of 3 minutes running which made me feel quite good. On the cool down I realised I'd been running on an higher incline than normal so I figure thats why I couldn't breathe too well. I forgot my towel though and there was no tissue left so I had to go round the gym all sweaty and Tomato-fied looking for the gym worker to get something to mop me up!
Sunday 1 November 2009
Training Day 7 - 01.11.09 - Week 3
Wow! Today was really hard work! My legs hurt after the very first part of the run! It was Halloween yesterday and we had a bit of a mini party, lots of junk party foods and alcohol flowing, so my body wasn't really fueld right for running. I still pushed myself and made myself complete my training. Did my floor work and Lots of weights work. Im going to invest in some smaller weights to work out with inbetween running days, so I can tone my upper body more.
Todays Summary.... My legs are propper aching!
Todays Summary.... My legs are propper aching!
Thursday 29 October 2009
Training Day 6 - 29.10.09
Today was a bit harder than normal. I've been up working since 5:30am and its been a bit of a stressful day.I normally go to the gym in the morning or at lunchtime, but went at tea time today. It was packed so I didn't feel very comfortable and didn't do my tummy toning on the mats. I did however skip forward a day in my training. Instead of finishing off this weeks run/walk 1.5mins x 6, i began next weeks schedule... run/walk 1.5mins x 2 then run/walk 3 minutes x 2. Helped along by the soundtrack of Hardcore Classics... and "now you're gone" kicking in as i started my first 3 minute run... i pushed myself and passed it! I did realise though that at one point i was actually 'blowing' breathe out of my mouth and thought that i must have looked a bit of a pleb!
I did 2 x 15 reps at 60kg on leg press, 2 x 15 reps on chest press at 20kg and some other machine that i cant remember the name of, but it works on the arms, at 30kg - its a machine where you have to press your chest against a pad then pull your arms back. But my arms are too short to reach it!
I did 2 x 15 reps at 60kg on leg press, 2 x 15 reps on chest press at 20kg and some other machine that i cant remember the name of, but it works on the arms, at 30kg - its a machine where you have to press your chest against a pad then pull your arms back. But my arms are too short to reach it!
Wednesday 28 October 2009
Training Day 5 - 27.10.09
This morning I really didn't feel like training, I was so tired! But i made myself go and was glad I did, infact i felt like I could have done more. I built up the confidence to ask one of the gym staff to show me some new weights machines so I strengthen my legs more, and discoverd that to tone up muscle, you need to do lower weights (but not easy weights) with higher reps. My sound track today was Hardcore Classics.. definately got me motivated!
One down side about the training... I'm getting spots of my face from sweating :( Hopefully my skin will get accustomed to it and settle down. Its not a very dignified sport is it?
One down side about the training... I'm getting spots of my face from sweating :( Hopefully my skin will get accustomed to it and settle down. Its not a very dignified sport is it?
Sunday 25 October 2009
Training Day 4 - 25.10.09 - Week 2
Today is the start of week 2 of my training. I got up early and was at the gym by 8am on a sunday! Thats good for me and made me feel proud of myself for having the motivation! Todays training involved a 5 minute warm up, followed by 6 sets of 1.5 minute runs followed by 2 minutes of walking. I upped the speed to 10.5 km/ph and worked on incline number 1. I was throughly helped musically, by a mix i downloaded from Raw Elements by DJ Scar! After the running i did sets of 15, 18, 10, 10, 14 stomach crunches and then a bit of weights work. I've put my self on a new diet today too, im trying out liquid meals... to see if they help keep my energy levels up as I have been eating a lot of junk lately. I'd like to try and lose some more weight now.
I end this post by saying I now have photographic evidence of the Tomato Effect... but I wont be posting it here! Not yet anyway!
I end this post by saying I now have photographic evidence of the Tomato Effect... but I wont be posting it here! Not yet anyway!
Saturday 24 October 2009
Training Day 3 - 22.10.09
Wow! Today I completed the end of my 1st week of training! Its the monthlys though so I've been eating all the wrong foods this week, however I have still successfully passed week 1. The running session was much easier today too! Had a bit of an awkward moment at the gym.... was waiting to go on the mats to do my abdominal toning excersises but there were already two people on there. Being pushed for time I took the decision to go ahead and do my excersises in the middle of both of them! LOL! They both got up and left... I hope I didn't smell!
Monday 19 October 2009
Training Day 2 - 19.10.09
Wow, today was a lot harder than the first day! My muscles still ache from then and my left butt cheek feels like its been kicked... I hope I haven't done any muscle damage already! My shins feel achy today too. I did drink alchohol last night so maybe thats why it all seemed harder...
Note to self: Do not drink lager the night before a training session.
Note to self: Will have to become acustomed to the 'Tomato' Look!
Note to self: Do not drink lager the night before a training session.
Note to self: Will have to become acustomed to the 'Tomato' Look!
Training Day 1 - 17.10.09
Well here my journey begins. I have only told 3 people about my goal.. My Husband, My Best Friend and My Mum. That way I am not under so much outside pressure to suceed and can go through this at my own pase.
I have found a 9 week training program designed to get a person into running, and I have to do 3 training sessions per week to begin with.
This week, after my warm up, I have to run for 1 minute, then walk for 1.5 minutes and repeat this 8 times. I have decided to do this on a slight incline on the treadmil to help build up strength in my legs.
I completed Day 1 today and it wasn't as hard as thought it would be, although the sweat was pouring off me and when i got back to my car, i realised i looked like a tomato :-/
I have found a 9 week training program designed to get a person into running, and I have to do 3 training sessions per week to begin with.
This week, after my warm up, I have to run for 1 minute, then walk for 1.5 minutes and repeat this 8 times. I have decided to do this on a slight incline on the treadmil to help build up strength in my legs.
I completed Day 1 today and it wasn't as hard as thought it would be, although the sweat was pouring off me and when i got back to my car, i realised i looked like a tomato :-/
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