Loops

My training this week seems to have generally gone in loops; both literally and metaphorically.  All of my plans have gone awry due to work (mainly) and continually shifting arrangements but the most important thing is that I’ve got two six milers under my belt.  Well, two just-over-six-milers under my belt, but who’s really counting the part-miles? (me)

Both runs have been in loops around the local area – one ended up longer than I’d planned due to getting lost, and the other was a rearrangement after my after-work running buddy had to go home early sick.  When I first started training for my first half-marathon last year, I LOVED running in loops (or rather, long laps) as it meant I knew exactly where I was, how long it’d take me to get back home if I needed to, and how far I had done/had left.  My very first four mile run consisted of two laps of streets near home, and I run a very regular loop of about five miles some mornings if I get out of bed in time and don’t have time for a session after work.  It is also good practice for the upcoming Race Your Pace half next weekend, which is four loops of the rowing lake at Dorney *shriek*.  I’ve previously raced ON the lake but racing AROUND it is going to be a completely different kettle of fish.  I’m signed up with Big Red for the 12 minute mile group, which is *slightly* slower than I’m aiming for at Barcelona, but as it’s my first marathon, I’m not putting any crazed time limits on myself.  Finished is finished, and I’ll be happy with that.  I’m actually looking forward to the race as it is followed with a Lucozade seminar with running supremo Liz Yelling.  My sister attended a similar session last year as part of the London Marathon prep and sang its praises, so I’m looking forward to some motivational awesomeness.

The running plan for this weekend currently consists of either a short run tomorrow morning or a yoga session, and then a *fanfare* sixteen mile run to Hampton Court on Sunday.  Judging by my online map, I can run all the way there along the river and then get the train back, so there won’t be any looping.  It’ll be the longest that I’ve ever run, but with the half looming next weekend and Barcelona fast approaching, I really want to get a l-o-n-g run done.  So bring it: I’m going to download an audio book to keep me company and give me something to think about whilst running at a fairly controlled pace (music tends to make me change tempo) and try out some new gels recommended by Sweat Shop.  I’m perversely looking forward to it….