Laura, I tend to eat on a relatively empty stomach (a few slices of toast or a few hours since a meal), but that's just me. As sinbad said, listen to your body. Experiment. In terms of plans, have you seen the MyAsics site (http://my.asics.co.uk/)? It seems to be pretty well regarded around here, and the plans are flexible (can change number of runs per week etc). But mostly, pick one and stick to it  I found putting all my runs in my phone's calendar really helped me to not find excuses and actually do the runs. Good luck! I managed a 3 mile walk yesterday, legs are still aching. May try a swim or really short run over the next few days, but in no big rush to get back out, think a rest is well deserved! |
So, race report... On Saturday, I was feeling so nervous. Felt like I was mad for even trying, but carbed up (chips are carbs, right?) and got a relatively early night. Slept surprisingly well (despite marathon dreams) and woke up in good time. A few slices of toast, and went to the bus stop. Except, the road was closed becuase of the marathon and there were no buses! It was only 3km, but I could have done without it. Got to the start just on time. Started off right at the back with the 5:00 pace group, but despite trying very hard to pace myself I just couldn't stick to their pace, I think I was just bursting with energy because of the event. Settled into 10min/mile pace which felt right. The start of the race was the most scenic, taking in the Rynek (main market square) and the castle. Was feeling good, but still very aprehensive that there was such a long way to go, so much untested (my longest run had been 16 miles, 7 weeks before the race!). Saw my mum at mile 6 which was a boost, and also saw a student from the school I work in who was racing, we shouted encouragement at each other. From halfway to mile 20 felt like a long way, and my right knee started feeling sore. Took a few walking breaks (of a minute or so) which seemed to help. Also had some spray on it by the medical folk. Mile 20 came, didn't really feel 'the wall', but obviously was getting tired. Managed to pass a fair number of people, even as my own pace was dropping. I think at that point I knew I could do it, so just felt less pressure. There was a horrible loop for the last 1km which was a real stuggle as I could see the end but was having to go away from it first. Nevertheless, I finished! 4:36:42, which given I was worried about the 6 hour cutoff was incredible. The race was so cheap and well-organised, can definitely recommend it for anyone thinking about next year. Thanks for all the support on the thread, has helped along the way |
Congratulations! I managed 4:36:42, way exceeding my expectations. I found it tough, but I was expecting it to be bad! Wind was only really an issue for the last few kms, and I was just grateful for the cloud more than anything. Organisation was very good, besides the km markers which could have been a lot more obvious! |
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