heavy in my legs. If that wasn't the perfect finish to my Cyprus Challenge, a clanging sign of how much I can get back out of the training I put in - and motivation to keep running - I don't know what is.Time: 1:11:59Pace: 11:41/milePosition: 339/343
the way around the coast of Britain (or as near as they can get to the coast!) and back to Blackpool. 'Barry' the CoastersGB baton will travel with them, passing from runner to runner.The mammoth distance has been split by organisers into 20 stretches
with you. Sidestep injuryThe soft surface of trails can be a welcome relief for legs used to the bone-shaking impact of concrete or Tarmac. The uneven ground will also work your ankles and knees harder than road running, so if you're planning a taxing route
short stretching routine before you crack on with your main training session. Taking time to stretch (gently) at this point will help prevent injury. Start by stretching to 50-60 per cent of your range of movement for 10-15 seconds, and increase
, that it was easier to push more water past me. My legs being more buoyant meant I had a better position in the water.After Hyde Park, I've got one other open water swimming event this season - a 1500m river swim in Marlow, Buckinghamshire. I'm nervous about doubling
last time, a total shock to the system for someone used to flat road races. This time, I'm slower - but wiser.Time: 37:36Pace: 10:07 m/mPosition: 331/365
in the pool searching for the vaguest remnants of my swimming muscle memory. I've drawn up a plan with 3-4 sessions a week, regular swims of 1000-1500m interspersed with shorter sprints and drills.Deep breath - it's going to be a busy couple of months!
, increase the speed settings to make sure you're always sprinting at 8/10 effort. If you've only got time for a short workout, this short sharp session (10-15 minutes) does the trick. Warm up with an easy jog on an 0.25-1
Immediately after a hard run or race, slow down to a walk rather than stopping abruptly. By keeping your legs moving - and pumping new blood to your muscles - you'll help your legs flush out waste products. Grab an extra layer of clothing too as your core
of periodisation, it can seem tough between 'peaks'. Runner Lasse Viren, dubbed The 'Flying Finn', won very little other than his four Olympic gold medals, from double victory in the 5000m and 10,000m at the 1972 and 1976 Games. He mastered the art of peaking
