BeckyBlog

A month in the life of my phone

2012-02-13T20:41:00.007Z

Home made kale chips & hazelnut mylk

Magazines

Lunch at Joel Robuchon

Just do it!

Super Bowl food

More running

Primark/Topshop goodies

Home made coconut cupcakes

Amazon goodies

Weight lifting gloves!

Snow came

Snow went
Coffee & Whoopie pie

Snow returned!

The end

Fitness Friday

2012-02-12T17:51:00.000Z

(weheartit.com)

A liiiitle bit late with my rambling fitness ramble this week. Not to worry ey.

Here's what I've been up to this last week!

Saturday - Running, 13 miles 1 hour 54 minutes

Yippeee, my first 13 miles since Run to the Beat five months ago, and I was only 4 minutes off my PB and felt pretty strong and fast. I ran up through Richmond Park and all its glory. Love it up there!

Sunday - Rest

Monday - YouTube; Yoga for Runners Post Run with Fiji Mcalpine and Tank Top Workout

I dunno what I'd do without YouTube, I've said it before, its an amazing resource for workout videos. Everything thing is there, totally free and ready when you are. It's brilliant!

Started with a post run yoga (even though I hadn't run anywhere) and then an upper body workout. The upper body stuff was good, but not as challenging as I'd hoped with my not so heavy weights, so I think next time I'll do it twice back to back.

Tuesday - Running, 2.11 miles, 16 minutes 59 seconds

Ran home from work, felt a bit tired but got home in almost a minute quicker than last time and my fastest time home to date. Hurray! I guess.. I could call that...a new PB?!

Plus 2 miles walking

Wednesday - YouTube; Pop Pilates Total Body Bangin' Workout

This is a really good workout - the chaturanga push-ups nearly KILLED me! I love Cassey, she's so cheerful, it really feels like you're just working out with her :)

Plus 4 miles walking

Thursday - Recovery running, 5.11 miles, 43 minutes

My Garmin kind of lost the plot slightly so I'm unsure of the exact time (I know the distance as I've ran it before). Made myself do a slower paced recovery type run even though they are evil and I hate them. But this was ok, I gritted my teeth, told my poor sore legs it would be over soon and got home in a respectable time and condition!

Plus 2 miles walking

Friday - Gym; 10 minutes rowing machine, 15 minutes cross trainer and 20 minutes MyRide bike

Now I have my 2000m challenge from the chap at work, I totally have my game face on when it comes to rowing! I used to just sit there to be honest, watching the time go down, now I have 2000m to do and quick! Tired it first last week and did it in 10 minutes 29 seconds, this time I totally bust a gut and did it in 10 minutes 10. Sorry to be gross but the sweat that was dripping from me by the end! And I burnt 100 calories which for 10 minutes work seems pretty decent! I love me a challenge so I'm definitely going to keep this up.

Finished off the cardio with cross trainer and then the MyRide exercise bike. Yay.

Plus 2 miles walking

I've ran 8 miles today but have a lovely restful week planned this week with only running and nowt else on the cards. I am tired, I ache, I want to sleeeeeeep. I'm marathon training for gawds sake! Need to rest me weary bones :)

Heart Day Monday

2012-02-07T19:02:00.006Z

Hello people, yes it is NOT Monday, but I didn't want to miss out on my lovely pics for the week.

I've had a manic day at work (that'll teach me for taking Monday off work) but I baked coconut cupcakes yesterday and they went down a treat :)

Finished the day with a nice speedy yet tiring run home, hurrah. I have ran a whopping 81 miles so far this year!! But I am suffering the marathon training weight gain - but I'm strength training too so can I assume some is muscle?! Pllllllease let some of it be muscle :(

Anyhoo, until the next time, nice stuff from my favourite waste of time, weheartit.com:

Fitness Friday

2012-02-04T19:22:00.000Z

(weheartit.com)

How do! I've had a good week fitness wise - have worked out out every day despite the ever present shin splints (bugger off) and a mental week at work where I had to deal with about 50 different disasters. Most involving the fact we had no labels...

Here's what I've been up to:

Saturday - YouTube: Yoga Quickie 20 minutes of Flow

Really like getting up and doing some yoga on a weekend morning :)

Sunday - Running, 9.13 miles, 1 hour 21 minutes

My marathon plan had me running 7.5 miles, but as soon as I got down to Richmond (runner's paradise) I thought, sod that, I'm keeping going! The weather was cold and perfect, loved it.

Monday - Recovery Running, 2.11 miles 20 minutes 56 seconds, Jamie Eason inspired Chest & Triceps and YouTube Yoga for Men

Started the workout evening with a recovery run home - took it nice and easy, gritted my teeth through the shin splints soreness and made it home in just under 23 minutes which is fairly respectable. Still had loads of energy in the tank so decided to do some weights and yoga!

I found somewhere (can't remember where) a 12 week (I think) weights/workout plan by Jamie Eason. I'm making a bit of an effort to strength train more so I decided to do my own modified version of her chest & triceps session.

(http://blog.bodybuilding.com/)

I did three sets of 12 reps of:

Wide Pushups (on my knees cos I'm rubbish at push ups)
Dumbell lying chest press
Dumbell lying chest flys
Narrow pushups (knees again)
Standing tricep extension
Seated tricep dips

Then, I fancied a super quick bit of YouTube yoga to finish things off. Yes, I am a laaaaady, but you can't argue with a 5 minute yoga sess, even if it is meant for the boys.

Plus 2 miles walking

Tuesday - YouTube; Pilates ab workout in Central Park, Jilly Bean 5 Minutes Abs, Jane Fonda abs, Secret to Flat abs and Six Pack abs

Ab day today, yay. I did a few new YouTube workouts, Jilly Bean 5 minute abs (which I've done many times) and the little ab section from the amazing retro Jane Fonda workout that I used to have on video when I was about 12 and LOVED!

I also did Secret to Flat abs (I've wanted to get Shaun T's Hip Hop abs for ages!) and Six Pack abs workout which I've done a few times before. I am not destined to ever get a six pack, I'll be realistic, but a strong core is certainly on the cards.

Plus 4 miles walking

Wednesday - Jamie Eason inspired Shoulders and YouTube The Beach Bum Workout Arms

Working on my strength again - more Jamie Eason inspired stuff, this time 4 reps of 12:

Bent Over Row
Seated dumbell press
Standing 'around the world'
Side lateral raise
Front raise

I then did this quick little YouTube arms workout, which started off quite gentle but I could really feel it by the end!

Plus 4 miles walking

Thursday - Running, 5.11 miles 42:40

Not bad, not bad at all. It was ruddy freezing but I somehow knocked a whopping 6 minutes off the time compared to when I last ran the distance two weeks ago. Thanks, new shoes!

Plus 2 miles walking

Friday - Gym; 25 minutes rowing machine, Back Extension machine, upper body weights, 15 minutes cross trainer and 15 minutes MyRide bike

A bloke at work is a bit of a rower and gave my some pointers on how to actually do it properly. So I gave it a go for my usual 15 minutes, I also tried a 2000m to see how fast I could do it in. Work chap gets it done in (I found out after a quick look on the net - an amazing) 7 minutes, whilst I gave my self a minor heart attack getting finished in 10 minute 29 seconds. I am ALL about a challenge so I've got the taste for it now - I'm going to blast that rowing machine next time!!

I also gave my back a good seeing to on the back extension machine (12 reps at 110 pounds, then around 30 reps at 90 pounds and an uncounted set at 70 pounds) - I can reaaaally feel it in my back today! Then finished with a wee bit of cardio, 15 mins on the cross trainer and 15 mins on the MyBike exercise bike. Yay.

Plus 2 miles walking

So a pretty fab week! And I ran 13 miles today, hurrrah!

Heart Day Monday

2012-01-30T20:09:00.000Z

Hello people, hope you are all having a fab Monday :)

I ran yesterday (9 miles) and again today (2 miles), then followed it up with 20 minutes of upper body weights and a quick 5 minutes of YouTube yoga. Now all I want is my Slanket and a hot choccy...

I am going to stay awake a wee while longer, just enough to eat my tea (meatballs) and waste a good few hours pottering about on Pinterest.

Until next time, here is my weekly fix of nice things from Weheartit.com!

Fitness Friday

2012-01-28T11:39:00.000Z

(weheartit.com)

Hello all, weekly fitness round up time!

Saturday - Rest

Sunday - Running, 2.38 miles, 18 minutes 55

One lap of my favourite route - ran at 7.56 pace - have not got close to speeds like that for MONTHS. Legs felt amazing in my new shoes and orthotics - the only thing stopping me from getting a PB was my poor heart and lungs that couldn't quite keep up with the speed of my legs!!

Monday - Gym; 20 minutes MyRide exercise bike, hip abductor machine, leg press machine, leg extension machine, back extension machine, ab machine, chest press machine, mat work including press ups, medicine ball chest presses and upper body weights, 10 minutes airwalker and 10 minutes rowing machine

Off work so treated myself to a nice long cardio strength combo at the gym. Warmed up with the fab MyRide bike then did some leg and upper body strength on the machines. I used the leg extension machine for the first time - loved it, my quads were killing! Did a bit of mat stuff too, and finished off with some extra cardio. Kind of felt like I caught some germs though so left feeling a bit rough!

Tuesday - Running, 2.15 miles, 17 minutes 37 seconds

Attempting to run three times a week - I know this is going to hurt and I know my lower legs are going to have less recovery time between runs. But I feel like I've got to do it, even if it is just an extra 2 miles a week.

I didn't feel as super speedy as I did on Sunday, but at a pace of 8.11 it wasn't bad at all.

Plus 2 miles walking

Wednesday - Shiva Yogini

Yoga workout from the Body in Balance channel. If you've got Sky, you should check this channel out if you fancy some different yoga/pilates workouts, there's quite a good variety and it's free exercise after all!

This practice was very 'back bending' which I'm not tooo keen on really. I love Cat/Cow pose and stuff like that, but anything like Camel I always feel like my head is going to drop off. But my back did feel worked so I guess that's a good thing

Plus 2 miles walking

Thursday - Running, 6.12 miles, 52 minutes 10 seconds

This was a hard run. My legs felt sore from the get-go, and running 6 miles after a long days work when its cold and dark out isn't all that appealing. I had to grit my teeth as my shins protested but got home in a respectable time and the recovered in my compression socks.

Plus 2 miles walking

Friday - YouTube; Super Stretches for Shin Splints, Yoga for Improved Health for Shin Splints, Lower Back Relief, Improve Your Outlook and Stress Reducing Rapid Kundalini

Nice bit of yoga to end the week. Would do all of these workouts again, expect the Lower Back Relief which was a bit too gentle for me.

Plus 2 miles walking

So, that was it for this week. I got strength, running and yoga in so not a bad mix of things at all :) Running again tomorrow - have a 7.5 miler planned!

Pay as U Gym

2012-01-23T19:01:00.003Z

A little while ago, the chaps behind Pay as U Gym got in touch to ask if I'd like a voucher for their website. I said yes indeedy!

The idea is - you sign up, top up your ewallet with money and use that money to buy vouchers for gyms, spas, personal training sessions and more in your area.

Once the credit was in my ewallet, I started searching for gyms and spas in my area. All the venues on Pay as U Gym are discounted so good for a bit of a bargain. I bought a pass for the Topnotch Health Club in Brentford for £8.95 (which was apparently a saving of 11%) The voucher code was texted and emailed to me and off I popped to the gym.

It started rather badly, they didn't seem to have ever heard of Pay as U Gym! Got plenty of funny looks and the manager had to be called over. She seemed to know what I was on about but didn't take my voucher code so the voucher looked unused when I logged into my Pay as U Gym account (a little annoying - like all loose ends to be tied up!)

I did get a bit of a hard sell put upon me, which really wasn't great as I said I was already a member of a gym, had no intention of changing and was just using the one day pass as a bit of a change. I also had to fill out a full medical form which was a bit of a waste of time as when you sign up to buy a voucher on Pay as U Gym you also fill in a medical form.

After a half an hour look round the gym (arragh! I just wanted to workout!) I finally got use the facilities. The gym felt a bit dated, quite an 80's feel but had everything you could want. It's spread over a few floors so you do have to walk up and down stairs to get to different bits of the gym but I stayed on the ground floor which had the machines I was after. I worked out on the rowing and cross trainer machines in the fantastic 'disco' room (all dark with a big screen and pumping music) which I loved but couldn't get on the stairmaster as they were both occupied. I also worked out on the exercise bike on the main floor, which felt a little crowded but sufficient.

Downstairs there is a weights room (had a peep inside - it was very small and a little unwelcoming! Full of great big blokes!) and upstairs were the studio rooms for classes.

All in all, good for a change and would totally recommend the disco room! The gym is quite 'chatty' though, which may be fine for some, not for me though! I like my gym because it's no frills and you can just go in and get on with it, were as with Topnotch about 50 members of staff talked to me! I spent about an hour there, so a little pricy for £8.95. I think if you made a day of it and used the sauna as well then it would be better value for money.

Next, I treated myself to a day at the K Spa in Kensington. At £30 this voucher was on the pricey side but still came in at a 40% saving (and compared to £70 for a day pass at The Sanctuary Spa, a bit of a bargain)

I felt super swish taking the day off work and pottering down to a spa for the day - this time the people on reception had actually heard of Pay as U Gym (hurrah!) so I was in with no bother :) I got shown to the changing rooms and found towels and slippers in my locker.

The spa room is pretty dinky but as I went during the day on a Friday it wasn't very busy (I was the only single person there though!). There are two saunas, a steam room, a hydrotherapy pool (that was really small, so more like a big bath!), a foot spa, bed type things for relaxing and an amazing snow room, which had real snow all over the floors and walls!

I spent a bit of time in the sauna and snow rooms, and a lovely long sit in the steam room. I went in the pool, where you can control the jets and bubbles yourself which was nice. I also used the foot spa which was just like a foot bath really. There is also jet showers for cooling off between treatments, and water readily available which is essential with all the sweating going on!

It really was a lovely place to be as a person on their own, felt really nice to have (hate this phrase) some me time! I could also see the appeal of going as part of a couple as plenty of two-somes were relaxing together on the beds.

I spent about 2 hours there in total, which was fairly good value for £30 I think. They also offer all the usual treatments that you can pay extra for but I think its worth a visit just to use the generic facilities.

My verdict on Pay as U Gym - its countrywide so fab if you're away for the weekend and need to get your workout in. It would also be handy if you wanted to try a gym before committing to signing up, or if you only use the gym every now and then and don't want to pay a contract.

Here's what Pay as U Gym say!

" What is it?

Take control of your finances as well as your fitness by using our pay-as-you-go ePass and you will only ever pay for the gym sessions you use!

Perfect for people that...

lead a busy lifestyle which might make it hard to commit to just one gym
live and work in different places
prefer to do outdoor sports and only want to go to the gym occasionally
get bored of using the same gym every week
have cancelled their old gym membership and would now like to try a few different gyms before choosing a new one to join

What gyms offer this?

ALL of the gyms on payasUgym offer a 1-Day Gym ePass or 1-Day Swim ePass. Discounted pay-as-you-go day passes are our flagship product and the most flexible way to use the gym.

How does it work?

Simply top-up your online account with credit just like with a pay-as-you-go mobile phone. You can then use your credit to buy passes for gym use at hundreds of participating gyms! The pass (called an ePass) is sent to you by SMS or email and you simply show this at gym reception to gain entry. Each pay-as-you-go ePass is valid for one person to visit their chosen gym once.

Why should I buy this from payasUgym?

Every 1-Day ePass on payasUgym is either cheaper than what you would pay at the gym or you can only get this type of pass from us, we let you know when the pass is only available at payasUgym by marking these as exclusive!"

I think I'll give Pay as U Gym a go again in the future - I have my eye on a Powerplate session and a series of person training classes :)

Have you guys tried this before, what do you think?

Disclaimer: This review is my honest opinion and I have not received payment for this or any other review

Heart Day Monday

2012-01-23T15:51:00.000Z

Hello all! I've had the day off work today (hurrah!) - spent a good few hours in the gym where I had a decent workout but have come home with a bit of a cold :(

Rest of the afternoon has been spent getting busy in the kitchen making kale chips and hazelnut mylk, and watching loads of gloriously bad day time telly. I'm planning on spending the rest of the day reading my new Runner's World Nutrition book and drinking 50 cups of tea. Bliss!

I'll leave you for now with some nice things to brighten up your Monday from weheartit.com:

New Trainers and Orthotics

2012-01-22T18:42:00.002Z

So, after months of soreness, many expensive trips to the physio and hours spent doing my exercises, the circle of life is now complete - I have new trainers!

Oooohhhh!

Ahhhhh!

My physio recommend I buy orthotics with a high arch to support my flat feet and to stop my ankles and knees rolling in when I run. My two physios put their heads together with the podiatrist and decided that the best ones for me were the Sole Signature DK Response, which I bought from here.

To go with the orthotics they recommended I get neutral shoes with a good rear foot/heal support.

Firstly I went to a branch of Sweatshop (who were so excellent and helpful when I bought my Mizuno Wave Inspire 7 in Windsor!!) - but the guy wasn't much use :( He thought my orthotics were horrendous - far too high and would damage my arches.

Soo, off I popped to a branch of Runner's Need (which my physio had recommended in the first place as they actually stock the orthotics I bought and kind of work in partnership with each other) and the chap there was much better :) I tried on quite a few shoes before trying on a pair very similar to my last - the Mizuno Wave Rider 13.

They are very much a neutral version of my last pair of shoes so I knew my feet would like them. I have had very few comfort problems with my last Mizunos (had loads of trouble when I used to wear Nikes) so I knew these would be a good bet. I went a half size up again, so no black toes for me! Plus, most importantly, the shoes are GLITTERY. And at £47 a ruddy bargain!!

My orthotics are super fancy and needed heating up in the oven. After 2 minutes cooking, I put them in my new shoes and stood in them for a few minutes whilst they moulded. They have also moulded further today when I walked to the shops in them :) They do feel different - but the soles of my feet feel very supported.

Went for a test drive in the new shoe/orthotics package today, and oh my god, it was amazing! I ran 7:56 pace!!!!!! That just blows my mind!

I'm really feeling very positive. I know the shoes aren't a cure all - but with my physio exercises and recovery techniques I am confident that I can start running 3 times a week from now on and can hopefully get through the rest of my training and race day with a lot more confidence.

I know this marathon training hasn't been ideal, and I know my time is not going to be anywhere near as good as I would have hoped - but after being injured and feeling so sad about things for all these months I just want to finish and get as close to 5 hours as possible. Ok, so I've put it out there - that's my dream finish time right now, if I can get through it in no more than 5 big ones I will be SO CHUFFED.

Do first marathons ever go to plan? Maybe not. I'm learning so much from all of this and I know in my next marathon (assuming this one doesn't finish me off!!) I will kick an awful lot more ass :D Maybe a 4:30 finish time next time??? Oooohh... I'm dreaming already..

Recent eats and treats

2012-01-21T19:26:00.005Z

Hello Chaps! I've been out and about over the last few weeks with my fab new phone and it's dinky little camera taking some snaps of the lush food I've been having, annnd some of the goodies I got in John Lewis last week with my xmas vouchers :)

(New years resolution - try and be a more consistent blogger? Here goes!)

A couple of week ago we went to Wahaca in Westfield. I'd been wanting to go FOREVER.

The food was cheap and good!

Mini mexican hot choccy shot

Delicious mango sorbet

Last weekend, we had breakfast in Giraffe, mainly because they have gone matcha mad this month and I wanted to try their offerings!

I had the matcha smoothie

And the matcha porridge

Really yummy, and fab way of using matcha. Would never have thought of putting it in a porridge! (If you're not on the matcha bandwagon yet, where have you been?!)

And tooooday, brekkie at Cafe Plum in Hammersmith!

Cappuccino and epic pancakes with fruit that kept me full for absolutely ages!!

(I poured lashings of maple syrup all over this after I took the piccies!)

That's the eats, now on to the treats!

I got a John Lewis voucher for Christmas and bought a blue Le Creuset mug, Leon baking book, OPI nail envy and topcoat duo, Mavala nail varnish (a bargain at £2!) and some Jelly Belly beans :)

And I also got myself some neeeew running shoes!! Might do a whole post on them tomorrow!

Lily Loves Lola bracelets

2012-01-21T17:53:00.003Z

A few weeks ago, Victoria from Lily Loves Lola tweeted for bloggers to sample some of her bracelet range - I said 'me, me, me!' of course, and last week Mr Postie brought me a little parcel. How lovely :)

I received three charm bracelets, each on black cord. A little gold star, a wishbone and an owl.

The charms are really dainty, and look great all grouped together.

The bracelets are lovely and I'm sure I'm going to get loads of use out of them. I like that casual festival type look, especially in summer :) My only slight gripe - for those of us with very tiny wrists, the cords proved a bit too long for me - but hubby sorted that with his boy scout knot tying skills!

The bracelets are a super bargain at £2.50 each from Victoria's online shop, so perfect for a wee pressie or treat for yourself.

Disclaimer: This review is my honest opinion and I have not received payment for this or any other review

Fitness Friday

2012-01-20T20:24:00.000Z

(weheartit.com)

Saturday - Rest

Sunday - Running, 11.25 miles, 1 hour 47 minutes 12

YES.

Now this is running!

I had planned to run 9 miles, which in it's self is the longest I have ran for a couple of months - but I was having so much fun I just kept going! I ran to the Old Deer Park and then through Richmond Park. The weather was truly perfect - cold, frosty ground and bright winter sun. I could run in weather like that for the rest of my days.

My lower legs felt like crap of course (new trainers needed, stat!) but I've felt worse before and after runs so thank goodness for that.

I really enjoyed it, and totally loved that amazing long distance after run feeling where you just feel so tired and happy at the same time :)

Monday - Gym; 10 minutes rowing machine, back extension, ab machine, seated dip, tricep extension and arm curl machine

Why I ever thought going to the gym on a Monday in January was a good idea I'll never know - the place was packed!! People were actually queing to use the machines! :(

Managed to use most of the machines I wanted to though - really tried to work my upper body as much as possible. Felt some good DOMs the next day!

Plus 2 miles walking

Tuesday - Yoga Rhythm Push the Beat and YouTube; Total Body and Mind Chill Out

Yay for yoga :)

I started with a 20 minute yoga sess that I recorded off the Body and Balance channel and the finished with a quick little Tara Styles workout. I think I will pretty much do yoga every week now, I love it so much!

Plus 4 miles walking

Wednesday - Running, 5.11 miles, 47 minutes 51 seconds

From the sublime to the ridiculous. One of the worst runs I've ever had! My lower legs felt totally effed up :( This run is best forgotten I think!

Plus 2 miles walking

Thursday - Rest

I do love an impromptu rest day every now and then!

Did do 4 miles walking though

Friday - YouTube; Til the World Ends Workout, Pop Pilates Crazy Core Workout, 10 Mins Pilates ab Workout, Pop Pilates 3 min ab workout

Bit of an ab day today. Loved all the Pop Pilates stuff, Casey is so bubbly and her workouts all feel really fun :)

The 10 min ab workout really did work my core, but it felt a bit stiff compared to Casey's stuff and it ends really abruptly for some reason! Anyhoo, hoping for a few mini DOMs tomorrow!

Plus 4 miles walking

Running shoe shopping tomorrow! Fingers crossed my mini run on Sunday will be ok!

Ta ta for now

Shin splints be gone

2012-01-15T18:35:00.001Z

I have now had 5 phsyio sessions for my shin splints - one terrible session at a will-not-name-it-not-my-place-to-tell-everyone-they-are-crap place and four at the very good, very expensive, Six Physio. (FYI they charge £78 for the first sessions and £64 thereafter. Yep...)

I have now had two sessions with a manual physio (hands on, sports massage etc) and two with a rehab physio (gets you leaping around and watches how you move). During my first session there last month, my shin splints were narrowed down to what's called tip post dysfunction and there seems to be several different reasons for this and all have been contributing to my shin/calf pain.

Flat feet. They are FLAT. I would never get in the army
My knee comes in when I run and bend. My knees sometimes actually knock together when I run!
Tight calves
Weak right hip
Lack of ankle strength and ankles rolling in when I run

Thankfully, all of this can be corrected with exercises/stretching and lovely new orthotics and trainers! I have ordered these as recommended by my physio ladies (with postage = almost FIFTY quid. I ask ya) and shall take them to a running shop next week to get shoes that can work in conjunction with it. I need neutral shoes with rear foot control and heal support, whoohoo!

I've been taped up twice by the rehab physio - both along my shins and around the ankle and foot which helped take the pressure off for a few days before the tape fell off in the bath! I really came to love the tape, almost like a security blanket! May think about getting some myself at some point, if I could figure out how to stick it on.

As well as the exercises I was given last month, I've since been given more to add to my armour!

One legged leap (all below images from Google)

10 reps per leg - leap and land on one foot with control, balance for a few seconds and leap back

Side leap

10 reps per side - leap and balance to the side with control, hold then leap to the other side

Running Man

I minute per leg - bend one knee, reach the other foot back behind you then kick that knee up in front whilst keeping the standing leg stable. Touch the raised leg behind you again but keep the weight on the bent standing leg. Moves your arms as if you were running!

Side leg raises with Dyna Band

20 reps per leg with Dyna Band tied round the ankles. Stand on one leg and raise the other out to the side. Glutes and hips will totally feel this!

Another exercise with the band tired around the ankles - keep feet flat on the floor but lift the arches whilst keeping all 10 toes on the floor. Really helps strengthen the arches and works the glutes.

Balance board

Got one of these for a bargainous £7.99 from TK Maxx! I try and do a few mins on this each day, but have longer 10 minute sessions on it when I can

Lunges on Bosu Ball

10 reps per leg. We have these at my gym so I'm definitely gonna try and keep this up! Just a basic lunge but with the added wobble of the bosu!

I had a very very painful sports message with the manual physio last week (ouch) and have started to do a little at home. I find this easier than trying to hit sore trigger points on a foam roller - this feels more precise.

So there we have it! If I keep up with the exercises my strength and control should improve. The orthotics and shoes will make the biggest difference I think - my feet are so flat that really only proper kit will lift them. And in turn my knee will stop rolling in and my ankles will be supported. I also have my eye on some fab looking shin supports that I can wear when I run (I already have a shin wrap but that's more for recovery rather than during workouts.)

Proof things are on the up - I ran over ELEVEN miles today!!! Sure, my legs hurt all the way through and my shoes feel like they are ready for the nearest skip, but I ran for so far and so long! I only set out to run 9 miles as well! Yippee.

Fitness Friday

2012-01-15T14:00:00.002Z

(weheartit.com)

Yep, it's not Friday at all. Well spotted. But I think it's fairly obvious that me and this blog are pretty here there and everywhere at the moment (make that - "always") so being late in my week's fitness round up is to be expected! Sorry blog..

Onwards!

Saturday - YouTube; Yoga for Complete Beginners

Nope, I'm not a yoga beginner, but sometimes I do love to just take it all down a notch and enjoy yoga for the twists and the breathing and just for a bit of quiet time

Sunday - Running; 7.16 miles, 1 hour 2 minutes

Longest run in absolutely forever! Was aiming for under an hour but not far off.

Plus Caitlin's Knee Moves

Monday -Rest

Did do 2 miles walking though

Tuesday - Rest

Rest again, but with my 2 miles walking

Wednesday - YouTube, Detox Yoga with Esther Ekhart and Windsor Pilates Core Challenge

Bit of detox yoga - nice and gentle as Esther's yoga always is. It doesn't really have that 'flow' that a normal yoga practice does, but not bad for a few poses.

I followed it up with half an hour of Windsor Pilates that I had skyplussed off the Body and Balance channel. Haven't worked my abs for ages so thought I really should!

Plus 2 miles walking

Thursday - Running, 5.03 miles, 46 minutes

Ran home from work! Went over Kew Bridge (really pretty in the dark) and through Kew for a bit, then back past my work towards home. My trainers have well and truly past it now I'd say, can't wait to get a new pair!

Plus 2 miles walking

Friday - Gym; 40 minutes MyRide exercise bike, 10 minutes cross trainer and 10 minutes airwalker

Cardio day , got an hours worth in which is really good. I always think with cardio 30 minutes is minimum, an hour is optimum! Loving the new MyRide bikes at the gym, being able to ride through American national parks etc makes the time fly by! The bikes are also a bit like spinning ones and a lot of the workout programs have you standing and seated which is good for variety (and building them quads!)

Plus 2 miles walking

Pretty decent workout week despite having to do stuff after work on Monday and Tuesday meaning they had to be rest days. I aim for one day's rest a week but having two days off instead does no harm every now and then.

I've had a monster run today, more on that next time!

Ta ta for now :)

Christmas and new year! Part two!

2012-01-08T18:21:00.013Z

So, time for my festive round up from Boxing Day onwards! (Obsessed with my new phone and it's many settings so apologises for the very ridiculous borders/effects on them all)

We had a lovely lazy day and then headed off to beautiful Richmond

Quick pit stop in the pub then off to the theatre for the panto!

We went to see Cinderella staring Jenny Eclair and Gary Wilmot! We had such great seats, a little private balcony for two, so fab!

The panto was brilliant, really entertaining and good all round fun.

The following day, we had a bit of time to kill so headed off to Ikea for a bookcase and a meatball lunch. Ikea meatballs are the BEST. Fact.

Then, twas time to head up to the middle of the land for a few days with hubby's parents.

Homemade damson gin (lovvvvvve) and a roaring fire. Ahhh, bliss!

More pressie opening! I got some lovely rechargeable candles, yoga socks, body shop goodies and a Time Out meal for two

Then we had buffet food!!

(made sure I got some salad on that for a few well needed vits!!)

We tried to get one of them chinese lantern things going. Blimey, they are scary!!

Alas, it crashed down in the wind and almost melted my hubby's slippers.

Then next day, we hit the road again for a rain filled three hour drive ooop north to my Mam's house in Newcastle

MORE pressies! My Mam is litterally the queen of Christmas present purchasing and never ever ever does things by halves. She buys hundreds and thousands and millions of pressies every year and it's FAB.

Many many hours later, all goodies opened :)

I got so much, too much to all list but it included jams, cider, slipper boots..

Lots of smellies and candles

Tea!
The Twilight perfume!! Am I Bella yet?!

And books (Twilight series, One Day, Cake Days, Slim 4 Life and The Runner's Body)

I've wanted Cake Days for ages, looks so nice

My Mam's house is obviously full of my Dad's stuff too, including loads of fab old photos of him in his younger days including a brilliant picture of his Met Police training days at Hendon in the 1940's.

Ahh, he looks so serious! 'ello, 'ello, 'ello, evening all.

Whilst up in my old village we spent a few hours wandering around. We went to look at my Mam's old house where she lived until she met my Dad and took some nice piccies of all the lovely old buildings and graveyard down by the high street.

1785 = old
The following night we went down to quayside in Newcastle to have a meal at hotel Du Vin

I had the coq au vin which was so SO yummy (and a glass of prosecco)

I also had an amazing after dinner cocktail (too dark to take a decent piccie!) but it was made with cream and smoked whiskey, so unusual and tasty. The barman kept asking if I was sure I wanted it, he obviously though oooh, this drink aint for girls! But I loved it.

The following day (New Year's Eve) we were off out again, this time for lunch at Battlesteads in Northumberland.

It was the COUNTRYSIDE! You don't see views like this in that there London

The pub was nice (it's award winning dontcha know) with yummy cider and good grub. I had the burger

We stopped off at Hadrian s Wall on the way back to my Mam's. Growing up in the North East means I've been to the wall about 50 thousand times, but hubz had never seen it so we braved the rain to have a gander.

Then back home to the warmth and for a bit of telly watching before getting the New Year's Eve buffet going

(ahem, new phone camera settings. Can't help myself)

We welcomed the New Year in traditional style (sat round shouting at the telly in our tracksuit bottoms) then headed off on New Year's Day back to London.

Five hours drive, it's painful every year

(ohh four pics in one. Thanks phone camera!!!)

New Years resolutions include -

Run the Brighton Marathon!!!
Get rid of my shin splints for good *shakes fist*
Continue with regular yoga and weight training
Try and swim more
Try and RELAX and do things that make me happy

So, all over for another year!

Christmas and new year! Part one!

2012-01-08T16:08:00.012Z

A long long time ago (well, two weeks) it was Christmas! And here's what we got up to in the Becky household.

Started with a lush brekkie on Christmas Eve of bacon sarnies (home made bread) and Bailey's Lattes

And teapigs Spiced Winter tea!!

We watched Muppets Christmas Carol

I made Eggnogg

And gazed longingly at the stuff under the tree

Cracked open the Babysham!

Had my daily Matcha dose!

Ate our traditional Christmas Eve meal of Lancashire hotpot

And followed it with pretty outrageous salted caramel sponges and Baileys cream

Ended Christmas Eve weeping at It's a Wonderful Life

Then, Christmas Day!

Had to start with Bucks Fizz of course

Breakfasted on panetone and Bailey's latte

Posing

Yay, I got a penguin onesie!

And lots of other goodies

Buble was my secret santa

I got a new PHONE! Reason why my twit pics have increased by 240%

Hubby's pressies

Lunch!

We sat around and watched loads of telly (Matilda, The Gruffalo's child, Juno etc)

And I drank a lot of tea out of my huge Santa mug

It was a lovely day of course. When is Christmas Day not lovely!

Fake Christmas and New Year piccies to come soooon!

Until next time, ta ta for now

Fitness Friday (on a SATURDAY!)

2012-01-07T15:15:00.000Z

(weheartit.com)

Hello all! Work plus Christmas equals a poor neglected blog. Must do better!

Here's my fitness round up for the week...

Saturday - Running, 2.14 miles, 19 minutes

Running, hurrah! It was a pretty good little run - I have started to stick to my marathon plan again - but a revised one with only two runs a week. So, I am building up the miles slowly but surely.
I ran alone around the village where I grew up with no music, just nice and quiet and calm. Fab!

Plus Caitlin's Knee Moves

Sunday - Rest

Monday - Running, 6 miles, 55 minutes 52 seconds

Ok, I'll admit it, this run was very tough. We took the hire car back to Heathrow and decided to run the 6 miles home. I was trying so hard to improve my running style (must do a post soon on what the physios have been telling me!) and I felt clumsy and without any rhythm. And my legs felt so sore :(

Plus Caitlin's Knee Moves

Tuesday - YouTube; Yoga Class Intermediate Chakra Concentration and Marathon Training 101 Yoga for Runners

Yay for YouTube, what would I do without it! Kicked things off with a gentle yoga workout and then a quick little yoga for runners

Plus 4 miles walking

Wednesday - YouTube; Yoga for Firm and Shapely Arms and Shoulders, Strong Core from the Inside Out and Yoga for Strength and Focus

Really felt like I could do with some upper body work as it had been a good few weeks since I'd done any. This yoga was a nice gentle re-introduction to it! And I love Tara Stiles so did two of her workouts as well :)

Thursday - Running, 4.88 miles, 44 minutes 30 seconds

Again, not giving a stuff about the times of any runs at the moment, it's all about getting the miles in and not feeling too sore!

I saw TWO foxes on this run, terrifying!!

Plus 4 miles walking

Friday - Gym; 15 minutes rowing machine, seated dip machine, tricep extension machine, back extension machine, hip abductor machine and 20 minutes exercise bike

Gym, yay! Not been for weeks! Decided on a cardio/strength mix just to get things moving again. Loved being back on the weights machines, have been craving those DOMs! I also had 20 minutes on the new exercise bikes that my gym's got - the MyRide, which has a cool tv screen. You ride real routes (well, they are on the screen) and it's so much more interesting than staring at that wall like a regular bike!

So, I actually think I've had a pretty good workout week - despite the post crimbo fatigue and the Evil Shin Splints. I have lots of blog post to do. I'll do them. Soon. I promise!

Ta ta for now

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

2011-12-24T14:42:00.006Z

Mulled wine + amaretto hot choccy + spicy german sausage + festiveness = hello christmas

Fitness Friday

2011-12-23T20:40:00.000Z

(weheartit.com)

Saturday - Rest

Sunday - Running, 5k, 26 minutes 48 seconds

I am running again!! And long may this continue. I don't care about times right now (this 5k is totally off my usual pace), it's all about getting the miles in and getting through my marathon in one piece.

The cold air was like daggers in my lungs and my bum was freezing (time to wear shorts over the leggings perhaps?) but my legs did their thang and I made it.

Baby steps.. :)

Plus Caitlins Knee Moves

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday - Rest

Christmas party, Physio and cinema trips after work = rest, rest, REST! :)

I did walk 2-4 miles every day though. Keeping the Christmas chubbiness at bay. Just!

Friday - Running, 2.37 miles 20 minutes 56 seconds

Ran one lap of my normal route (but in reverse for a bit of extra something something) and ruddy hell, it was a bit mental!

I went to the physio on Wednesday (bloggy post to come!! Soon!! I promise...) and tried ever so hard to run in the way she suggested. But my natural style is, well, natural to me and trying to modify it really is like patting your head and rubbing your tummy.

The aim of the game is to get my feet kicking up higher behind me. Sounds easy, is actually very tough and I was pooped after about half a mile! I've got a lot of work to do...

Plus Caitlins Knee Moves

So there we have it. Not much to report this week but having a wee break from the workout roller coaster is actually quite nice sometimes, especially at Christmas. Doubt I'll be up to much next week either as I'm away from home (Loughborough first then Newcastle) but I will certainly keep my running up as... I guess... I am officially... back marathon training?

And yes, fingers crossed I will do a post about my latest physio session, it proved very interesting!

Heart Day Monday

2011-12-19T22:22:00.000Z

I am writing this post from the future. Well, it's the past now.

Anyhoo - I am here in spirit and not body as I am actually out at my work Christmas bash RIGHT NOW. I've managed to avoid going to any work christmas parties ever EVER, until now. I assume I'm having fun?? Yes, I'm sure I am..

Hope you've all had an ace and extremely festive Monday, and here's some nice stuff to look at from weheartit.com!

Christmas overload

2011-12-18T18:07:00.006Z

Sorry, couldn't help it.

All from weheartit.com

One week to go!!!

Fitness Friday

2011-12-16T19:53:00.000Z

(weheartit.com)

Saturday - YouTube; Waking up your Spine

I'm really enjoying my weekend yoga at the mo. Before, Saturdays were always rest days and Sunday's were run days. But I am being very VERY good and am trying to get stronger and more flexible so my marathon and future running are not hideous but fabulous. So yoga and pilates are very much on the menu right now.

This one was ok - nice and short for just after waking up - but I didn't feel it in my back particularly, it felt more of an all over workout. Bit sun salutation heavy (snooze) but not tooo bad. Not on the level of the epic P90X Yoga X, where I swear I am sun salutating for four hours.

Sunday - YouTube; Morning Yoga with Neesha and Yoga for Flexibility

More sun salutations?! Yes, why ever not.

I am jealous of two things - Neesha's fab body and the fact she was staying in a Four Seasons which is my DREAM. Good little workout this, even with the sun salutation she sneaks in there.

The Yoga for Flexibility was good too - though I find Esther's workouts lack a certain 'flow'. But pigeon pose! Hurrah for that.

I also spotted this recipe for Yoga Tea. Love yoga, love tea = perfect! I made it to have with my brekkie (these muffins BTW. This is the second time I've baked them and I LOVE them) and it was fab because I'm such a fan of turmeric teas. See how good it is for you!

Monday - YouTube; Yoga for Less Stress, Yoga Hip Stretches with Dashama and Hip Yoga

More YouTube yoganess! Stared with Tara Stiles Yoga for Less Stress which I've done before (I still always have lots of stress to go round it seems!) and then tried some yoga for hips as my right hip was really hurting for some reason!

The Yoga with Dashama was pretty good (no sun salutations but includes pigeon pose!) and worked will with the Hip Yoga.

Plus 4 miles walking

Tuesday - YouTube; Pop Pilates Butt Blaster

Not a bad little workout - my butt certainly felt blasted. But the stuff lying on the floor really hurt and not in a good way!! I love Pop Pilates though, the workouts are brilliant usually!

Plus 2 miles walking
Wednesday - Running, 2 miles, 20 minutes (guess! The distance is about 2 miles and the time was pretty much 20 mins - garmin couldn't get a signal!)

Oh my goodness, I ran! First time in over 3 weeks, and it was bloomin' tough. The cold really hurt my lungs and was reminiscent of cross country at school! I was also ridiculously paranoid about my shins/calves/hips/lower back/everything else that wants to start playing up. I second guess every twinge now, and after the run whilst I was resting during the evening I kept prodding the sore bits on my shins and worrying about whether my legs are due to drop off at any moment.

I just want to feel strong and confident again. One day soon?

Plus 2 miles walking

Thursday - Rest

Bloomin' heck - woke up with SUCH a sore neck. No idea what happened there, but rather than risking a workout I spent the evening covered in Deep Heat and a snood!

Did do 4 miles walking though

Friday - Yoga Zone

Neck is on the mend, I can actually twist! Hurrah. Still feels tender to the touch though :( My body is utterly mental sometimes.

Wanted to do some yoga as I'm still on my yoga/pilates kick whilst I get strong and stretchy, but didn't want to do myself a mischief any further so decided on a super gentle workout from the Body in Balance channel.

This workout focused on the legs and included a few chair poses, warrior two and triangle. With a few downward dogs thrown in for good measure.

Plus 4 miles walking

OH MY GOD, it's nearly Christmas!!

Heart Day Monday

2011-12-12T20:06:00.006Z

I am without words again this Monday, except to say I WANT SNOW!!

weheartit.com

Physio ahoy

2011-12-11T17:46:00.004Z

It was physio time again for me last week - but this time I had a much more positive time!

I went down to Six Kensington after work, waited FOREVER for the bus, was 10 minutes late (ack) but was seen by a very nice manual physio (I've since learned there are both manual and rehab physios) who diagnosed me with a tib post dysfunction - which I'm still not really sure what that means, but it basically explains the shin/calf pain I've been having. I have weak ankles and lack of ankle control, plus right hip weakness!

The physio filmed me on the treadmill and watched me do single leg squats and calf stretches. My calves are super tight (even the other physio said that!) and the weakness in my right hip is causing my left calf to work extra hard. I also have quite flat feet but my running shoes should help that.

I need now to see a rehab physio who I hope will work on my strength and tweak my running technique. I also need to see the manual physio again for massage etc. I've been given some exercises to do everyday which I shall do diligently, scouts honour.

Soleus stretch (each leg, 30 seconds)

(all images from google)

Calf Stretch (each leg, 30 seconds)

ITB release (this one kicks my arse - can't do it everyday (ouch factor too high) so will do it once a week instead I think! (few minutes each leg)

Single Leg Squat (15 reps each leg)

The single leg squat is surprisingly tough, it really kills me by the end!

I feel ready to start running again. I've not had leg pain for about two weeks and have laid off the high impact stuff for over 3 weeks now. So, I'm going to try running home one night this week! And hopefully by the time I need to start longer distance the physios will have sorted me out a bit further :)

So, it was a positive experience! The session was a bit rushed cos I was late (27 bus from Chiswick can bugger right off) but the physio assured me my running days are far from over and I have until next month really until I need to start marathon training again.

The session cost £68 for 45 minutes which made my eyes water a bit, but I've got to part with the dosh if I want to get this sorted.

I'm really looking forward to booking my next session!

Any of you guys familiar with tib post dysfunction? Any fab lower leg strength moves you can recommend?

Richmond day out

2011-12-10T18:23:00.007Z

Richmond is lovely.

Less than half a hour from home. Nice high street full of shops and restaurants and pubs and cafes, PLUS, the park and walk down to Petersham totally transports you to the countryside.

You can legitimately wear wellies and the city feels a zillion miles away. Just another reason why it's on my list of places I need to move to immediately.

This is one of my favourite London things - it's such a treat. An uninterrupted view from Richmond all the way to St Pauls Cathedral

It's there! All teeny in the distance

Pub and done.

Blogger's Secret Santa

2011-12-09T18:00:00.003Z

I really LOVE secret santas. And I love fab bloggers. So Laura's bloggers secret santa was a perfect match :D

Laura held this last year too and I wasn't sure whether I'd have the chance to join in so I didn't - and instantly regretted it! So this year I jumped at the chance to take part. A name was pulled out of the hat and off I went to buy my secret goodies for another blogger.

And last week I received my goodies! From Eleanor over at Eating Like a Horse :)

Chocolate chai loose tea, Reeses peanut butter cups, gold liquid liner and strawberry lipgloss! Literally perfect gifts for me!

Thanks so much Eleanor, and to Laura for hosting it! Same again next year??

Fitness Friday

2011-12-09T17:46:00.000Z

(weheartit.com)

Saturday - Rest

Sunday - Body Shaping Intensive Yoga

I've not done a workout from the Body In Balance channel for ages, really must remember to use it more cos it's very good!

I did this workout straight after waking up and it was a bit more intensive than I was expecting! It didn't 'flow' from one to pose to the next like a lot of other yoga workouts, but I quite liked that - just spending time on one pose and then moving on to something totally difficult. The modified crow pose was the hardest by far!

Monday - YouTube; Bikini Bod Yoga, plus elbow plank held for 2 minutes 2 seconds

Yoga can be boring. There, I said it. And this I'm afraid, was zzzzzzzz boring. Sun Salutations drive me to distraction at the best of time, and I really only put up with them in exchange for a nice pigeon pose or something. But this gave me nowt! And no relaxation at the end?! A crime!

Finished things off with a very shaky painful plank! Ha, I'm still so crap at them :P

Plus 4 miles walking

Tuesday - Youtube; Pop Pilates for Beginners Total Body workout and Pop Pilates 3 min Ab Challenge

Not done pilates for a while - the total body workout was fairly gentle, but it was good work work abs, legs and arms in one session. The 3 min ab challenge is fab - abs totally shaking by the end!

Plus 2 miles walking

Wednesday - YouTube; FGF Upper Body Workout

I'm such a numpty - I went all the way to the gym after work only to find the place was shut for refurbishment - and I knew it would be but I had just totally forgot! Wasted time and bus fare there, annoying!

Anyhooo, made my way back home again and decided to do upper body stuff as that's what I had planned to do at the gym. I am still doing low impact stuff until the evil shin splints have been given the old heave ho, and this Flirty Girl Fitness (ahem) workout was perfect. I've actually done this one before many moons ago - I used 5 pound weights and I felt the burn!

Plus 2 miles walking

Thursday - Rest

I went to a new physio! More on that later

I did do my 2 miles walking though

Friday - Rest

Rest again cos I took the day off work (yay) and I went to a spa! (double yay) More on that later too!!

Hope everyone has had a good week. I've been a bit quiet on the blog front this week (month. YEAR) but I've not forgotten about you guys!!

Heart Day Monday

2011-12-05T20:03:00.000Z

No words today, just pictures :)

weheartit.com

Syon Enchanted Winter Wonderland

2011-12-04T16:13:00.008Z

I think I am forever going to be ever so slightly behind with this blog, oh well, here's where we went last weekend!

Every year our local park holds an Enchanted Woodland walk event thingamejig, where all the trees and grounds are lit up beautifully. We've been almost every year since we moved here and last year in particular was so freezing cold I vowed never to go again, or to even leave the house in winter. BUT! Last Saturday the weather was mild and we braved it out. And it was lovely :)

We fuelled up before heading out on Hestons cider and mince pies.

If ONLY someone would do a blog review on them...

(Our festive balcony)

Brentford is actually Brilliant.

Husband. Very green

After all that walking and outdoors-ness, we pubbed it at one of the three local pubs we very much like, The Coach and Horses. Blog review anyone? (I am shamelessly plugging hubby's new blog, have a gander, it would make his day!)

Sausage and mash, you literally can't go wrong

Wine + ale = happy punters

Pubs in winter make me almost almost not miss summer :)

Fitness Friday

2011-12-04T10:25:00.001Z

(weheartit.com)

Saturday - Rest

Sunday - Yoga For Runners Injury Prevention with Fiji McAlpine

Firstly. How amazing is this women's name?!

I really liked this workout - I love any yoga meant for runners anyway, but I especially liked the concept of this; doing yoga to try and prevent any new running injuries but also to stretch out any existing niggles. I'll certainly do this again - it includes pigeon (my fave yoga pose!) and I loved the IT band work.

Monday - YouTube; Yoga for Athletics with Pete Guinosso

See how good I'm being with all my yoga?! :) And I think it's paying off, I'm feeling a lot more BENDY!

This is another good little workout I've just discovered. And of course, I am an athlete ;)

Plus 2 miles walking

Tuesday - YouTube; Yoga Booty Goddess Booty and A Short Daily Practice

Firtst up the Yoga Booty - hmm, is this yoga? Probably not really, but I did have a really good time doing this and had a few wee DOM's the next day, hurrah!

The Short Daily practice committed an exercise sin for me - asking to repeat everything on the other side put not actually showing it so I had to rewind! That totally winds me up! Apart from that, it was a pretty good workout with some nice balance poses.

Plus 4 miles walking

Wednesday - Rest

I went to Westfield to see Breaking Dawn with my friend. Anyone else seen it?? I've only just seen all the films in the last few weeks and have never read the books. I've asked Father Christmas for them ;)

I did do my 2 miles walking walking to work though (I also walk every day for about 30 mins at lunch, but no idea how far I go)

Thursday - Gym; Upper body weights and press ups (the lady ones), seated dip machine, chest press machine, back extension machine, ab machine, tricep extension machine and seated dip machine

I am writing this on Sunday.. and still have DOM's in my arms from this! I decided to do a dedicated strength session as I'd not hit the weights at the gym for a few weeks.

Plus 2 miles walking

Friday - Gym; 15 minutes airwalker, 15 minutes rowing machine and hip abductor machine

A bit of a lower body sess - got 30 minutes of cardio in and then blasted my inner thighs and glutes on the hip abductor machines! I start at about 70 pounds for about a set of 12 (it buuuurns) then spend about 10 minutes or more on 60 - 50 pounds, just until my legs feel dead basically! I really enjoy using that machine as I know I need to target my hips and stuff as they do get very tired when I run long distance.

Plus 3 miles walking

Quick shin splints update - they feel SO MUCH BETTER. Next step, to actually find a decent running physio that's open on a Saturday!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2011-12-02T22:30:00.004Z

I cannot believe it's almost Christmas again!!!

I have bought just one pressie so far, and the panic is rising just a touch. Plus, everyone I know is so bloomin' slow in giving me their Christmas lists. Hurry up people, I need to get cracking!

But the tree is up! We bought this spiffing fancy new one from John Lewis (love) which has left me very poor but will last us ages. I am already picturing how fab it will look in a lovely downstairs bay window whenever we finally get our dream downstairs flat... sigh.

I am sticking pretty much with my red & black theme again, and Tiger have provided some really lovely decorations this year. They all cost about a quid too which is ace.

Hello Kitty advent calender. Thanks once again to the 99p Shop

We got a real Christmas tree delivered to my office yesterday! It's about 3 foot tall and SO CUTE. I also have a fibre optic tree and a tiny pink tree on my desk so am full of festiveness. The Heston mince pies are helping too.

Do you know what I hate? When people say Christmas is for kids. Bollocks to that, it's for us lot too! :)

Running for the Stroke Association

2011-11-28T21:50:00.002Z

Shin splints or no shin splints, whether I take 4 hours or 10 hours, I am running in next years Brighton Marathon and have decided to run for the Stroke Association :)

Readers of my blog will know the influence my Dad has had on my running and I thought it very fitting for my first marathon to run with him in mind and try and raise as many pennies as possible to go to The Stroke Association, as a stroke is what sadly caused his death ten years ago.
I guess you could say strokes run in my family as my grandma died from one too, their research is so important, it's a really big killer!

I'm not sure what my Dad would make of me running "in his memory" as it were, but I'm sure he'd be well chuffed that I was even attempting a marathon in the first place!

I know it's a fair few months ago but I'm getting pretty excited about it and I know it's going to be an AMAZING achievement, even if my training is going to go to the dogs a bit with my shin splint injury!!

So - please take a look at my Just Giving page! :)

Heart Day Monday

2011-11-28T20:48:00.000Z

Hello all, happy Monday!

I'm not gonna lie, I've had a naff day! Too many naff days recently for my liking but nothing needs to stay the same if things aren't working out. Nothing is static and things shouldn't go a certain way just because it always has - I need to take the bull by the horns! (I don't think I've ever typed that expression... the bull by the horns?!)

My legs are feeling better so I shouldn't get too down in the dumps about them - they feel a lot less like something (maybe the afore mentioned bull??) has kicked the heck out of them. I was desperate to run tonight but did some yummy yoga instead that really helped chill me out. Plus I put my Christmas tree up tonight! Piccies sooooon. AND my mam called me up at work for the first time in my life which was both fab and weird :D

I've got to keep things in perspective - life could be much harder :,(

Here's my weheartit.com piccies for this week! :)

Hubby's 32nd Birthday

2011-11-27T16:57:00.009Z

"Better late than never" could pretty much sum up my blog. Here (from last Wednesday!!) is piccies from my hubby's birthday!

We started the day with brekkie at Syon. I had toast and jam, though it was more like bread and jam if I'm honest..

And teapigs peppermint tea!!

Then it was pressie opening time. Hubby got nice loot!

And we headed off to Knightbridge for lunch.

We ate at Heston's Dinner at the Mandarin Oriental hotel

Really lovely decor and the food was excellent. We went to Heston's pub (The Crown) in the summer - must go to The Fat Duck next!

We had a seat with a view right into the kitchen!

I had the famous Meat Fruit to start. Looks like an orange, is in fact chicken!

Gorgeous chicken for main

And brown bread ice cream for pud

And a surprise freebie - a dark chocolate and earl grey moose!

Birthday one for hubz

Then to Harvey Nicks for cocktails. Some dude took our photo :)

I had a marshmallow martini (I'm all about flavoured martinis) and hubz had something less silly. A regular martini probably.

Knightsbridge was very festive and pretty :)

As our oven was broken (we have a new one now!!) no homemade birthday cake, so instead we went to Harrods and bought some Lola's Cupcakes. Look at the sparkles!

Champers!

Happy birthday hubz!

Father Christmas, please may I have...

2011-11-26T21:13:00.006Z

Love, Becky

Fitness Friday

2011-11-26T10:07:00.000Z

(weheartit.com)

Saturday - Rest

Sunday - Rest

Monday - Yoga Meltdown Level 1

I've been doing this DVD for over a year now, and still love it! I'd really recommend it for those who love yoga and love Jillian - it's split into two levels (in a similar style to the 30 Day Shred) and I like doing level 1 because I find it the hardest!

Plus 2 miles walking

Tuesday - YouTube; Hatha Yoga Flow 3

I am making a real effort to do more yoga in the next few weeks whilst I rest from running and I am really keen to work my lower legs, give them a good stretch and to also get better core stability. I'd had a naff day at work so was pretty "grrr" during this workout but it's nice and gentle and helped calm me. A fraction!

Plus 2 miles walking

Wednesday - Gym; 15 minutes cross trainer, 15 minutes exercise bike, 15 minutes airwalker, 10 minutes rowing

Cardio time! I am sticking to low impact stuff for the next few weeks as I don't want to aggravate my shin splints any further

Plus 2 miles walking

Thursday - YouTube; Karmic Kundalini

I have never done yoga like this - it's so different! And I really liked it! At first it felt super gentle but the frog pose and the downward dog to upward dogs were a total killer!

Plus 4 miles walking

Friday - YouTube; Jilly Bean Five Minutes Abs, Yoga for Abs and Core Strength, Work in the Core Yoga for abs and Get flat, sexy abs with Tiffany Rothe Workouts 5 minute routine

More YouTube workouts! Loooove YouTube for this, it really has everything you could wish for workout-wise.

Twas an ab day so I did my old favourite Jilly Bean Five Minutes Abs and some new yoga abs and a great new Tiffany Rothe workout. The yoga abs didn't really push me enough so I won't do them again, but the Tiffany one was great - my abs were SHAAAAAKING.

Plus 2 miles walking, yay!

Quick shin splints update! I'm finding walking more comfortable, but touching my shins is really painful - I feel like I've been kicked basically, they feel soo bruised! I found a great physio in Chiswick, emailed them and they got back to me to say they are closing next month, booo! :( But, I may have found another good one in Fulham - shall email them and find out!

Heart Day Monday

2011-11-21T20:05:00.000Z

Hello! Hope everyone is having a lovely Monday :)

Sooo, I have started my second week in my new job and I think I can now safely say.. it's going well! I must admit I was a bit overwhelmed and slightly holy crapped about it last week. Just being in a brand new situation and kind of thrown in at the deep end! But like a jigsaw puzzle, it's alllll coming together. And my colleagues even got to sample some of my baked goodies today, hurrah! I've got lots to keep my busy there and am enjoying all the hard work.

I know I always say this - but I'm a being rubbish blogger and blog reader at the mo. I thought before I didn't have enough time but now my time is squeezed even more!! Even though I don't always comment, I do read all the blogs I follow, promise!

I'll leave you now with my Heart Day Monday picks this week from weheartit.com:

I'll start with the good news...

2011-11-20T16:48:00.000Z

... my xray came back fine - no problems whatsoever, so my leg is free of any fractures. Brilliant news!

Now for the bad, and frustrating news!

I went to see a physio for the first time yesterday about my sore shins. I did get some positives out of it, but mainly felt it wasn't much of a helpful experience.

The physio started with introductory pleasantries which including telling me running was one of the worst things a person could do to their body, and that I'm setting myself up for early onset arthritis in the knees and ankles. I became a bit crestfallen at this and though, oh blimey this is going to be hard work!

I told her what my problem was etc and she confirmed that it's shin splints. She told me I have very tight calf muscles so I need to stretch them. She also did some massage (OUCH) on both legs to break down the scar tissue that's formed around my bones and she also used the ultrasound machine to break it down further. All good stuff so far!

I told her I'd been running seriously for about 18 months, that I'd done a half marathon and that I've got a marathon coming up next year. She said I should never run on the roads or pavement as it's so bad on the legs. Far enough I thought, but only in an ideal world.

But then it got a little weird - she said that even though I ran as a child, because I didn't keep it up and only started up again last year I am not really built for running. She told me that children who run and continue to run into adult hood are fine to run as their bones, muscles and frame had a chance to grow and develop into a runner. She said the same about children who swim and continue to do so as they get older - their upper body's develop into that of a strong swimmers. Adults can not take up running and ever develop the strength for it because their bones etc are already formed. So, I am too old to have started running again.

She also said, humans are not designed to run regularly or to run long distance, our bodies (lower legs especially) just can not cope with that repetitive strain., She also said for a person later in life like myself (what?!!!) my recovery time is going to be that bit harder (I'm 29 by the way....yes, not 65)

I told her about my Dad of course - a man who started running in his mid/late 50's and didn't stop until he passed away at 73. I said he ran day in day out and did marathons at the drop of a hat. He trained hard and well and never had a serious injury. Her verdict? Well, he was just lucky of course.

So I asked, how can I treat my shin splints? She gave me same vague calf stretch ideas and told me to lay off the high impact stuff for a few weeks. Far enough. But she told me in the run up to my marathon to do as little running as possible and focus on stuff like the cross trainer so my cardio fitness stays high but my legs aren't getting damaged. After my marathon, I should not run more than a few times a week and should not attempt long distance. Again. EVER. She advised that I need to find the distance my body can cope with on a weekly basis and never go above that, or pay the price basically. She told me what her own distance is and suggested that mine may be as little as "a gentle 5k once a week".

She didn't ask whether I wanted any follow up treatment, because of course I am resting and never running competitively again aren't I ;)

SO. Excuse my french, but what the actual fuck?!

Firstly - please, anybody point me in the direction of factual reports that shows all us runners are running ourselves into early arthritis?

Secondly - You are NEVER to old to take up sport. Ever. If I decided to give baseball a bash tomorrow for the first time in my life I'm sure I could make myself into a half decent player given time. And I'm SURE my arms wouldn't drop off because I hadn't trained them through childhood. I started running properly last year aged TWENTY SEVEN. Is that too old?!
To train for a marathon, I need to run yes? I would love to see the state I'd be in at mile 5 if I'd just used the cross trainer instead..

If humans aren't designed to run, why do we? Why do thousands of people take up running each year at any age? Why is the London Marathon sold out every single time? Why when people do start to run do they feel amazing, physically and mentally? Are they all injured and in denial? Are they all in a wheelchair because they gave long distance a whirl??

Was my old Dad really just lucky? Was he heck. He was utterly committed to running - he put in the hours of training, he warmed up and cooled down with every run, he cross trained (stepjogger + excerise bike = match made in heaven), he wore the right kit and watched what he ate. He was naturally a very good runner despite his age, but luck never came into it. And he certainly didn't have arthritis!!
Why can I not, with dedication and proper professional advice (yes, proper, not the nonsense I was fed yesterday!) go longer, further, faster? The human body can get better given the right tools. Who's to say my body can only cope with a gentle 5k to the shops and back each week? My body has already taken me through a half marathon, was that meant to be my swan song??

I am really really surprised with the advice I was given. My brain just went into override - I do NOT have a serious injury. The woman herself told me this is probably the most common problem runners have. I am not coming back from major surgery, or a broken back, or a terrible car wreak, or suffering from a serious disease. I JUST HAVE SHIN SPLINTS.

I have ran a half marathon without serious problem so my body is very much capable of training long distance and then running long distance. I run three times a week maximum, which I think is sensible. I always build my mileage up slowly and stretch after each run. I cross train all the bloomin time, have had my gait analysed and bought proper shoes accordingly.

The issue is - I just can't do this on my own anymore. I knew it was shin splints from the word dot and I know resting alone won't sort it. I'll rest and start running again and without a proper person helping me I'll just set the shin pain off again. I need a physio to help with massage and to give me a real programme for the gym and home to help with my calves. I need to have my running technique looked out to spot what it is that could be causing it. I need to talk to someone who is at least neutral about running and not totally against it like madame was yesterday :(

Am I to expect this stance from any physio I see? This terrible blanket generalisation that none of us should really be running?

Will I be told running is for mugs and I should basically knock it on the head? I'm passionate about running, of course I am, but I'm not so obsessed with it that I can't see the wood for the trees. I know to help with the soreness I have right now I should rest for a few weeks. Got it, it shall be done. But I also know that it is not a completely mental idea for me to continue running. I know I can run three times a week and I know I can run long distance. Because I know my body is capable of it, because I grew up with a marathon runner and because I see thousands of other people doing actually the same thing and they are loving it!!

I won't name and shame the physio, that's not my style! But I have found a different one. That will hopefully make a bit more sense to me.

Thoughts please!

A very late Fitness Friday

2011-11-20T11:14:00.001Z

(weheartit.com)

Hello chaps! Ooh, I have so much I want to blog about but have not found a stitch of time this week. Fingers crossed I can get some blogging in today whilst I'm stuck in doors waiting for my new oven! (will the glamour ever end)

Here's the fitness ramble and round up!!

Saturday - Rest

Sunday - Running, 5.3 miles, 42 minutes 43 seconds

Really had to push it cos I was running with the hubz who is super speedy!

Plus Caitlin's Knee Moves

Monday - Yoga Meltdown Level 1

NEEDED some yoga after a crazy first day at my new job! Still love this DVD, yoga with a twist.

Plus 4 miles walking

Tuesday - Running, 5.11 miles, 44 minutes 32 seconds

Ran home from work! It was super cold so didn't really enjoy it, and had to do a crazy route to try and get over 5 miles!

Plus 2 miles walking

Wednesday - Rest

Twas the hubby's birthday! Shall do a little post on it at some point!

Thursday - Gym; mat work (medicine ball & crunches), 20 minutes cross trainer, 10 minutes rowing machine, 10 minutes air walker machine and seated dip machine

Had to go to my gym a little later than I normally would so the place was heaving! :( Got a decent workout in but much prefer the gym on a nice quiet lunchtime

Plus 2 miles walking

Friday - Recovery running, 2 miles ish! 19 minutes

Well, my garmin died so this is a bit of a guess! I know the journey home from work is two miles and I think I took about 19 mins. Just an easy recovery run so the pace was gentle.

Plus 2 miles walking

I've got so much to write about regarding my shin splints!!! Post coming up soon!

Tomorrow I start my new job...

2011-11-13T19:11:00.002Z

And tonight I've been..

1. Painting my nails (Nails Inc - Jermyn Street)

2. Watching Come dine with Me (I'll never tire of this)

3. Making my Christmas list even bigger by adding stuff from Forever 21

4. And drinking tasty ginger ale whilst hubby cooks tonight's tea (we still don't have a new oven so he's cooking lamb shanks on the hob)

And trying not to freak out!! I'm actually quite calm but it might be a whole other story when I get up tomorrow...! I'll let you know how it all goes!

Fitness Friday

2011-11-12T21:41:00.000Z

(weheartit.com)

My fitness week, whoohoo!

Saturday - Rest

Sunday - Rest

Monday - Rest

Worked super duper late on Monday so had to miss my workout :(

Did do my 3.5 miles walking though

Tuesday - Running, 5k, 26 minutes 5 minutes

Soo, I went for my xray. And so far, no joy. Progress has to take account for the speed of the NHS. Which is very very slow indeed. Won't know the results for a week, and it will probably be at least a week after that before I can get appointment to actually see the docs again.

BUT. No matter. I've had a few helpful emails from various local physio's who seem to think having a stress fracture is neither by the by and the treatment they'd give me for shin splints/sore legs/stress fracture/naff running technique would be the same anyway.

So, I went for a run! It was a kind of 'oh blimey, I'm so cheesed off, arrrrgh' type run but legs felt ok and that's what matters!

Plus 3.5 miles walking

Wednesday - Gym; 30 minutes rowing machine, 20 minutes cross trainer and 10 minutes exercise bike

I tried a new gym! But, I'm going to do an ever so special post about it all in a few weeks so you'll have to wait for details! Are you excited, are you are you?! Yes.

Did a good hour of solid cardio. Was fun but weird..

Plus 3.5 miles walking

Thursday - Youtube; Cardio Edge and Tracey Anderson Method Mat Workout (arm section only)

Tried a new bit of cardio from Youtube, and it was pretty good. Worked up a sweat and managed to get some weights on as well which was fab.

And then for extra arm pain and much ridiculousness, good old Tracey A and her beyond mental arm routine.

This is what it's all about. Arms feel like lead in about 10 seconds!!

Plus 3.5 miles walking

Friday - Recovery running, 4.2 miles, 40 minutes 15 seconds

Recover running! Ouch. Am I just imagining it, or are your legs supposed to ache quite so much during and after one of these bad boys? It's all about using the muscles in a different way right? I think "recovery" is the wrong word here cos pheeewww, it is not easy.

My marathon plan had me running 5 miles, but I wanted to run 4 instead as I'm still just getting into the swing of things and whilst my leg is playing silly buggers I really want to build things up nice and slow. Using my fab new garmin I was able to run half way round my normal loop then to free style past the hospital, towards the main road, past various pubs and then back on to my loop at the other end, totally a very handy 4.2 miles.

I ran for the first time with my new Cho Pat Shin Splint Wrap and Noene insoles. I certainly didn't feel any worse so that's a positive in my book! And whilst I was running I was so happy to be out there, doing it, with legs that may be a bit worse for wear at the mo but are still able to get me from A to B. And once I've had my physio treatment, well, I'll be on fire!!

Oh, and that was amazingly my longest run since Run to the Beat in September. Maybe that's why I was so shattered I feel asleep during Derren Brown?!

Plus Caitlin's Knee Moves and 3.5 miles walking

P.S It was my last day in my job yesterday. New start on Monday! Eeeek.

Heart Day Monday

2011-11-07T21:01:00.000Z

Hello world, how's your Monday going?

I worked SO LATE today (well, late for me anyway) and didn't get home until almost 8 o'clock. I've just one week left in my current job and then next week it's all fun and fabulosity at my new place! I feel like I've been waiting for ever to start!

Shin/calf update = compression socks are now an almost permanent feature on my legs and I've been torturing myself on the foam roller pretty much every day. I have seen a slight improvement in the tenderness I was feeling when pressing my actual shin - but my calf does seem to still be 'pulling' when I walk and workout.

I have my xray tomorrow (fingers crossed...!!) and if I have the all clear I'm off for a run tomorrow evening. My new insoles arrived today and I really want to give them a test drive and see how I get in. Even though my leg has been sore, it's never actually sore during any runs which I guess is a good thing. So I'm gunning for an xray all clear and aiming to go for a few runs this week. I'll keep up with my foam rolling and try and book myself to see a physio within the next few weeks. Then hopefully, I'll be back on track with my training!

ALmost time for the Conrad Murray verdict! I've followed this trial since the beginning!! I'll leave you all for now with my usual weheartit.com piccies:

Fitness Friday

2011-11-05T18:15:00.001Z

(weheartit.com)

Fitness round up time y'all!

Saturday - Rest

Sunday - Running, 2.2 miles, 19 minutes 10 seconds

A comfortably paced run around the streets of Reading. I love running when I'm holiday, it's a fab way to see wherever you're staying.

Monday - Gym; hip abductor machine, back extension machine, ab machine, chest press machine, seated dip machine, tricep extension machine, arm curl machine, plus mat work of elbow plank, press ups and upper body weights

First time I've ever been to the gym and done no cardio whatsoever! I was trying to save my legs a bit in preparation for all the running I have to come so just stuck to strength instead.

I totally love strength training - not only does it make me feel better and look better, I see it as better preparing myself for all other exercise that I might do. If I feel stronger all over, I feel more confident when I run and just feel better prepared for whatever life may throw at me.

Tuesday - Recovery running, 5k, 30 minutes 40 seconds

Ha, I think this run was the nail in the coffin for my shin/calf - being forced to run this slow really made me realise that my leg needs a bit of help!

Well, that's my first run of the marathon training done and dusted at least so that's a positive! The plan that I'm following called for me to run at the very silly pace of 10:58 which I found utterly impossible. I ran as slow as I could and ended up at an average of 9:49. But it really hurt to run soooo slooooow. My legs ached and I felt miserable to be honest.

When I get back on the plan (hopefully by the end of next week, xray pending!!!), I'm going to go at my OWN speed from now on. I'll still run at recovery pace sometimes, but at my own recovery pace not what the good people at Asics reckon I should do!

Plus 3.5 miles walking

Wednesday - YouTube; Ultimate Stretching Routine, Post Run Stretch, Stretching Workout for Shinsplints and Stretch it Out

Yes. I needed to stretch!! Good old YouTube came up with the goods.

Plus 3.5 miles walking

Thursday - 40 Minutes Upper Body Weights

I'll be honest, I wasn't feeling it that day. I was quite distracted by my shin (boo hoo) and *ahem* the summing up in the Conrad Murray trial!

Plus 3.5 miles walking

Friday - Gym; 5 minutes rowing machine, back extension machine, ab machine, chest press machine, seated dip machine, tricep extension machine, and mat work including upper body weights, sit ups, chest press with medicine ball and press ups

More fab gym strength work. I'm really enjoying getting good and strong! I'm no Arnie, I'm still lifting relatively light weights. Here's what I'm up to at the moment -

I do six sets of twelve on each weights machine, and kind of free style with the hand weights/medicine ball and just do whatever I feel like.

The hand weights I can use comfortably at the moment is 4 lbs and I use the 6lb ones for very slow (very heavy!) bicep curls. I can't do anything else with the 6lb ones at the mo, to me they weigh a ton! I use the "yellow" medicine ball - yep, have NO idea how much it weighs!

Back extension machine - two sets at 90 lbs, two sets at 70 lbs and two sets at 50 lbs
Ab machine - two sets at 50lbs and four sets at 30 lbs
Chest press machine - Three sets at 10lbs (can not for the life of me get any heavier or go any longer at the mo!)
Seated dip machine - Two sets at 60lbs, two sets at 50lbs and two sets at 30lbs
Tricep extension machine - Two sets at 70lbs, two sets at 60lbs and two sets at 50lbs
Arm curl machine - One set at 20lbs and two sets at 10lbs (another weak spot at the moment for me)

I didn't do any leg work yesterday but normally I do the hip abductor machine with two sets at 70lbs, two sets at 50lbs and two sets at 30lbs.

Figured I'd document what weights I'm lifting currently so I can track some sort of progress. I'm quite pleased with how my strength work is going and it's given me a lot of positives in a week filled with (leg based) negatives!

Plus 3.5 miles walking

So, as I said yesterday, I've got my shin xray next week, and I've found a really good looking sports therapy place close to home with affordable (ish) prices that I may look into going to if things don't improve.

I spent 10 or so minutes working my calf on the foam roller earlier and my problem leg's calf is SO much tighter than the other. I used this technique and was totally howling out in pain (the good "foam roller" type of pain!) at how much my dodgy calf is in a knot. Which makes me think that that having a proper sports physio give it a good poke and prod would really do it some good. I wouldn't be surprised to find that it's a too tight calf that is causing the bother. Anyhoo, we shall see!

Reading Malmaison weekend and Halloween mini party

2011-11-05T16:11:00.010Z

Hello chaps, little late, a post about our weekend away to Malmaison in Reading and our little Halloween party thingamejig :)

Waiting for the train, rocking my sparkly sequinned beret.

Lunch at Pret in Reading, the sarnie was a little bland but the bircher muesli pot was amazing as always.

Malmaison! This was our second stay there, we love it

The bath products are amazing!!

Glass of rosé by the roaring fire in the bar

Bought some goodies

New running gloves and water bottle from Sports Direct (i.e my spiritual home)

Number 7 and Sanctuary face stuff. Probably the most I've spent on my face in one go!

Totally fab and cute stuff from the mini bar in the hotel. I've never seen smellies for sale in a hotel room! They were only £1.50 each too!

Time to put our glad rags on!

We ate in the hotel too, Malmaisons do lovely food.

Mini pumpkin soup and tarts to start

Spooky mojito!

I had the venison which was lovely. It even had dark chocolate sauce!

Banoffee pie for pud

Drinks in the bar, sour apple martini

And my favourite, black forest martini

Halloween silliness!

Next morning, we had planned to use the hotel gym, but it looks like they've closed it! :( So we went for a 2mile run using the handy little map they provided

Breakfast at Bills
I had french toast and a green tea. It was so nice

And a little bit of cheeky shopping before heading home - cardie, candle and jumper dress from Primark, and totally cute reflective key rings from Clas Ohlson that I've started using for running. I've attached one to my CamelBak and the other to my running bum bag. Be safe be seen!

And on Monday - our little Halloween celebration!

Hubby was quite taken by his Malmaison mask

Me, wig, devil horns and a Skinny Pina Colada!

Recipe from Carrots n Cake

Ingredients:

2 oz Barcardi Rock Coconut Rum
5 oz coconut water
2 oz pineapple juice

Directions:

Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.
Shake and strain into a glass filled with ice.
Garnish with a slice of pineapple and/or a Maraschino cherry (optional).
Drink and enjoy!

Anchovy Marinated Olives, recipe from Chow

1/2 pound cured green olives, such manzanilla
1/2 pound cured black olives, such as kalamata
1 teaspoon fennel seed, crushed
1 teaspoon ground coriander seed
1 teaspoon ground cumin
4 medium cloves garlic, minced
4 oil-packed anchovy fillets, rinsed and minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons sherry vinegar

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine ingredients in a large bowl and mix well to coat olives.
Place in an airtight container and let marinate, refrigerated, at least 4 hours.

Hubby's homemade salsa

Cheese and cherry tomatoes on sticks!

Yay, fun.

Set back!

2011-11-04T18:17:00.002Z

As much as I would have loved for my marathon training to get off to a wonderfully smooth start, it has not.

You may remember a few months ago before Run to the Beat my shin/calf started playing up. I rested and got it almost back to it's best and ran Run to the Beat with no trouble and then spent a week walking around Amsterdam in which my leg felt so good I forget there was ever even a problem!

I ran a few times since and all was well. But after last weeks fartlek run some of the old discomfort came back and it's felt niggly after every run since.

I really want to get it sorted as it don't want it to turn into a real injury or start putting a stain on another part of my leg or something. So, the foam roller has been coming out each night and I've ordered fancy shock absorbing insoles and a shin splint compression wrap for when I run.

There's only so much the internet can tell me in what I need to do next regarding recovery exercises/stretching or strengthening moves etc so I really wanted to see a 'proper person' for the advice.

So I went to my GP this afternoon! I was worried they would look at me like I had two heads or know nothing about sports injuries or fob me off. And of course, they bloody well did!! :( *sigh* I knew they would to be honest but I left feeling so miserable. No questions about the soreness, no questions about how I train, the Dr didn't even look at my leg!! I managed to bag an xray for next week which is really good cos at least I'll know if I have a stress fracture or anything really bad (I will be shocked as hell if it is - to me it feels like typical shin splints/calf muscle trouble) but when I asked about a referral to a physio/sporty person I was told I couldn't get one and would have to pay myself privately. Hmm, not good.

Hopefully I'll get the all clear after my xray next week and then I can run again with my new insoles and wrap. I'm going to try and find some exercises to do and fingers crossed I can fix the niggle. And if not, I guess I'll have to pay through the nose to see a proper expert. Sometimes there is only so much you can do yourself and you need a bit of help from someone with the know-how. Thanks for nowt, NHS!!

I know at any other time I would have just laid off the running and cardio for a month or so and not given this a second thought. But it's marathon training and it's gonna be a bloody nightmare to have this turn into an injury. I've got to sort it!

Anyone else gone down the physio/sports therapist route for running bothers? Anyone had shin or calf troubles? I know this sort of thing may seem trivial to those who don't run or have a sport that's their passion, it's hard to explain to other people (and Dr's!!) who just think this is a no brainer and I should obviously just stop running. But if you run you'll understand! It's too bloody amazing to ever give up, I want to run forever, and to run with nice healthy legs.

I've been a bit emotional this week, I mean I hate the doctor's at the best of times and I was so geared up to start my marathon training. I'll look on the bright side though - I've only missed one training run so far and hopefully I'll be back running next week and there will be no harm done.

Heart Day Monday

2011-10-31T14:25:00.006Z

Three posts in one day? This is quite frankly, amazing. Might even do a fourth later if I can get my act together.

Thanks for the comments so far on my marathon post - please keep them coming!

Have you guys got anything planned for Halloween? We have a little party planned tonight, just hubby, me and a few little eats and treats. I've already carved my two pumpkins and have got lots of halloween crap for the flat from Wilkinsons. And after my gym workout today I refuelled with a pumpkin pie monster - gotta love that canned Libby's pumpkin! Sadly, no baking for a while - our oven has gone and got bust. I was going to bake my Christmas cake today and now I can't! And I can't bake Parkin for Bonfire Night now either, disaster!

I shall leave you all for now with my usual weheartit.com-ness!

A marathon task

2011-10-31T12:58:00.003Z

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The time is upon me - the start of my marathon training! I have 5 months, 26 weeks, 80 runs and 537 miles to get through before Brighton 2012.

Ok, typing all that has scared the heck out of me, lol!

It all starts tomorrow with an easy 3 mile jog. I have decided to follow a plan for the first time, rather than do my own thing like I normally do when preparing for a race. I'm nervous about the whole thing but having a plan to look to has made me feel a lot more comfortable and prepared.

I'm using the My Asics website and will be running 3 times a week. I could have choose to run more or less but I think 3 times a week is best for me. Each run also has a set pace that I need to follow, which is where my new Garmin will come in really handy! Normally I just run "slow" for a recovery run and "flat out" for everything else - but with this, I'll learn to run at a specified pace which will help me get the miles in but should help prevent injury whilst making me stronger and fitter.

My longest run will be 20 miles in March and I'm aiming to finish the marathon in 4 hours 15 minutes. As tempting as I'm sure it will be, I need not to run any further than 20 miles and shouldn't try and and push it too far in training in order to try and get a faster time. It's my first marathon and I've really got to remember that! Plans and aims can be tweaked with any future marathons I do, with this one I've got to have my sensible head on at all times.

I do feel pretty apprehensive, I have aches and pains and niggles that I really wish I didn't and have a head full of doubt at the moment. But, loads of people do this every day without bits of them dropping off, not forgetting my old Dad who didn't give this a bash until he was about 60!

Any tips for this mammoth feat would be gratefully received...

A very late Fitness Friday

2011-10-31T11:40:00.004Z

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Better late than never ey. I've been away for the weekend so am totally behind with blogging. In fact, who I am kidding, I am permanently behind with the blogging!!

Saturday - Rest

Sunday - Running, 5k, 25 minutes 17 seconds

My first run with my new Garmin! Things felt so different with the Garmin - I found watching my pace more interesting than the overall time.

Plus Caitlin's Knee Moves

Monday - Fartlek running, 5k, 26 minutes 39 seconds plus Jilly Bean Five Minutes Abs

Fartlek runs hurt. They are bloody hard! And to be honest, I don't think they do my shins any favours! I love them for the cardio aspect but my lower legs always feel sore afterwards, and not in a good way. I'm knocking them on the head. My marathon training starts TOMORROW (yep. holy crap) and I need to try and stop my poor body from going into melt down as much as possible. Anything that doesn't feel right is not going to happen!

I also finished off with Jilly Bean's abs from YouTube. This is really effective, five minutes feels like FOREVER!

Plus 3.5 miles walking

Tuesday - YouTube yoga; Mini Yoga Poses, High Heel Yoga, De-stress Yoga, Yoga for Less Stress, Headache Bye Bye and Weight Loss Challenge for Beginners

Nice to dedicate a bit of time to yoga. Should do it more often really!

Wednesday - 6 Pack in 6 Weeks Level 2

Had this DVD for a while but this is the first time I've tried Level 2. It's Jillian of course, so I wouldn't expect anything less than fast moving and much shouting! This workout is pretty good, but like a lot of 'ab specific' workouts, this didn't focus on the abs really at all. I had sore hips and glutes the next day, but not abs. I'd class this as more of a total body workout that anything that really gives the abs a good working over. 6 Pack in 6 Weeks = not bloody likely!

Plus 3.5 miles walking

Thursday - Youtube; Six Pack Abs workout, Hardcore abs and 15 minute abs

Ab time! My belly shall forever be my "problem area" where fat has made it's permanent home. But I can still work on my core and get it good and strong which will help my back, improve my running and make me an all-round superwomen.

Feel the burn!!

Plus 3.5 miles walking

Friday - Rest

Decided to skip my workout and stay at work a few hours extra. I got lots done, had a nice chat with my colleagues and gave my body a bit of rest. I've got to embrace these extra rest days, cos god knows I'm gonna need them for the next few months!

I had a lovely weekend away to Reading - I'll try and get my act together and post about it as soon as possible! Ta ta for now.

Heart Day Monday

2011-10-24T20:54:00.006+01:00

I had to actually check that it was Monday. Hmm.

Hope you are all having a nice Monday - I'm just about to settle down with a cup of tea to watch Junior Apprentice! Yes - my new job will be all about tea, three weeks today is my first day. I can't wait, I seriously wish it was tomorrow!!

Went for another run today (this was my first run in the dark EVER) cos my new Garmin is just the bees knees. My calf/shin feels a bit sore since I've got back though so I'm obviously having a freak out about it :/ I always worry so much about running things, I am convinced my legs are going to drop off! Marathon training is looming and don't I know it.

Anyhoo, I shall love you and leave you, here's nice stuff from weheartit.com: