WR team marathon training update

With only one month to go until race day, how are the Women’s Running team coping with training for the Brighton Marathon?

---

Rhalou Allerhand

- Online Editor

How’s your training going?

Suspiciously well. I’ve upped my game over the last couple of months and I feel totally prepared for race day.

How often are you running?

I actually run less currently, I’ve only been doing two or three runs a week, as I’m usually utterly exhausted after my long weekend run.

What sort of mileage are you achieving?

I’ve been doing about 10 miles in the week, and then a really long run on Sundays.

What’s been your longest run so far?

I ran 20 miles last weekend!

What’s your secret weapon for long runs?

I take my running very seriously (not!). I have a few secret weapons up my sleeve... firstly I always run in my favourite gear, with a full face of make up. I know this probably sounds weird, but if I’m made up and feel nice about how I look and ready for a day out, I enjoy the whole experience a lot more (plus you never know who you’re going to meet out there...) I also always take a tin of Vaseline with me for the inevitable chafing that kicks in once the miles really get going (sexy) and of course I rely heavily on my disco mix and a large bag of jelly babies. I’ve also taken to playing air guitar while I run. If you see a deranged air guitar-playing girl in lipstick and spandex speeding across London, don’t call the funny farm; it’s only me.

What do you take with you on a long run?

My iPod full of all my favourite songs, Maxim orange and Guarana energy gel, jelly babies, Vaseline, my phone, my Oyster card for just in case, and some pain killers. I don’t ever carry water, I know this sounds nuts, but it weighs me down, and the more I drink the more I need to pee! So I always run water free. I run in London, so if I ever do get thirsty there’s usually a café or shop within a mile.

Any hot running tips for newbies keen to run a marathon?

Make sure you’re prepared! My long runs are like a military operation now, as I’ve forgotten vitals components in the past and there’s nothing worse than being stuck miles from home without the right gear. Also rub Vaseline on your feet before you put your socks and trainers on in the morning to avoid blisters. Oh and, leave your watch at home. I swear I enjoy myself so much more if I don’t give a damn what the time is.

What’s your favourite kit to run really long miles in?

Saucony leggings, Brooks Glycerin trainers, Shock Absorber bra and a diamante necklace to make me feel snazzy! But on race day expect to see me in something daft. I am the fancy dress queen.

What’s your favourite route?

I’m currently in love with the Regent’s Canal in London. I run from Bethnal Green to Kensal Green and back again. It goes through Angel, past Camden Lock, London Zoo (the pink flamingos live right by the canal so I always stop and say hello!) and Little Venice, so it’s a lovely route, as there are lots of interesting things to look at and the scenery is constantly changing. It’s also a good route for playing my favourite fantasy home game. I can kill quite a few miles daydreaming about my ultimate canal side luxury mansion.

How do you feel physically and mentally?

I feel a million times better after going to see hypnotherapist and Women’s Running contributing editor Lisa Jackson (check out her website here www.qmhypnotherapy.co.uk). With 20 marathons and two ultra marathons under her belt, Lisa is an inspiration! She has restored my faith in myself, and my love of running. Inevitably in the run up to race day everyone in the office starts to obsess about speed and timing. I’m just not interested in speed, and would much rather enjoy myself and have a good time than worry about PBs and race strategies. Running came into my life when I needed it the most, and I feel like a religious disciple. It’s like a spiritual practice. I don’t run for anyone but myself, and the most important thing to me is to have a good time, feel happy, get into the music and enjoy the day. There are more criteria to measure the enjoyment of a race than speed. For me, if I finish with a smile on my face, then I’m winning.

Have you changed anything to fit in with marathon training?

Everything! I’ve stopped drinking; I’ve been eating healthier food, and started taking all sorts of supplements to stay healthy including CherryActive and Kelp. I feel like a monk! A happy healthy monk...

Has your attitude to running changed since you started training for a marathon?

Absolutely. Training for a marathon is a serious business and it has definitely taken over my life. Running such big miles is not easy, you have to fall madly in love with the open road, or it will eat you alive. Fortunately I've become so passionate about it that despite my weary limbs, I’m itching to get back out there every day! Running rules.

Are you varying your training?

Not as much as I intended to. I’m often quite exhausted mid week, so apart from spinning class and lots of stretching, it’s all about the running.

Have you had any injuries or aches and pains?

My knees get a bit sore, but mostly I’ve had unexpected side effects, such as mouth ulcers and styes from being run down (no pun intended). Pushing my body to extremes has made me realise how hardcore I am capable of being, but also how important it is to look after myself. On the whole I feel like I could conquer the world though. I am invincible.

If so, how have you coped?

The discovery of the ice bath has drastically improved my recovery time. It's not pleasant, but I hardly ache at all after a long run if I remember to torture myself for five minutes with a freezing bath.

How do you feel about doing the marathon now? Are you still excited and motivated?

I can’t wait for race day! I’ve got my fancy dress outfit sorted, I’ve put the work in, I feel confident that I can keep running until sundown if necessary, and I know it’s going to be the best day out ever.

How has your charity fundraising been going?

I’m running for Traidcraft. My beloved Uncle David recently died of cancer and the charity was close to his heart, so I wanted to do something in his memory. I’ve been selling miles to friends and family, so basically if they sponsor a mile, I run that mile for them, and promise to think about them while running it. As well as being something nice for friends and family, this is good for me too, as if things get tough, I just have to think about whoever bought the mile I’m running to spur me on. I’ve saved the last mile for my Uncle David, as I know when the going gets tough, he’ll be smiling down on me! If anyone wants to donate to a very good cause, please visit www.justgiving.com/Rhalou

What are your expectations come race day? Have they changed since our last update?

I’ve had a complete change of heart since having my spiritual breakthrough and falling madly in love with running (praise be to Lisa). I do respect the distance and know it’s going to be a tough slog at times, but I also can’t wait to get out there and have fun and be a bit silly and carefree on the day.

What aspect of race day are you most excited about?

I’m really looking forward to all of it! I love staying in hotels so that will be fun to start with, and I’m looking forward to the crowds, and wearing a silly outfit and running with my lovely colleagues, and also my friends Sally, Jen and Siobhan. But most of all I’m looking forward to hobbling across the finish line with a big smile on my face and then running into the sea for an ice bath! Followed by a lorry load of champagne and a big bag of chips on the beach. Then the week after the marathon, I'll start training for an ultra marathon, and then world domination ensues...

---

Christina Neal

- Editor-in-Chief

How’s your training going?

Fairly well. I don’t want to tempt fate too much but I’m reasonably happy with my training to date. I had a blip the weekend before last where I came down with flu and had to skip a long weekend run. That was frustrating but I accepted that I was ill, rested up and now I’m back to full health again.

How often are you running?

Three times a week. I do one long run on a weekend and two shorter runs during the week, one of which is speed/interval session. The other is just a mileage top up where I run for about five to eight miles.

What sort of mileage are you achieving?

My longest run was last Sunday when I managed 18 miles. I have never run that far before and it took me just under three hours. The weather stayed dry, I ran with my friend Evi and we both felt we’d really achieved something at the end of it.

What’s been your longest run so far?

18 is my record to date, this weekend I’m hoping to hit 21 miles and then I’ll start easing back.

What’s your secret weapon for long runs?

Last Sunday it was energy gels. I realized I hadn’t had enough carbs in my meal the night before and I felt a bit lethargic after five miles, so I used every gel and sugar-fix I could find. I had about three gels and some Powerbar Ride Shots, which taste like cola bottles, so they feel like a treat. The combination of all of them got me through it.

What do you take with you on a long run?

Quite a lot of stuff! My mobile phone, which I thought was essential for a long run in case my friend or I fell over or felt unwell, my house keys, which jangled every step of the way, money (in case extra food supplies were needed – any excuse to buy a Mars Bar!), three energy gels, a tissue and Vaseline! (Don’t ask!)

Any hot running tips for newbies keen to run a marathon?

Respect the distance! It’s not easy and it really does take up so much of your time. You have to bear in mind that at least one day of your weekend will be taken up by running. If you run for three hours you’ll want spend the rest of the day either sleeping or chilling out. That’s a day gone from your weekend, which is fine but worth bearing in mind. Oh, and make sure you have a supportive partner. My husband Eddie is very encouraging and doesn’t mind me taking time out for long runs.

What’s your favourite kit for your long runs?

Nike’s clothing is brilliant. I have a lightweight waterproof Nike jacket which looks smart. I also tend to run in a really old, tatty pair of Adidas Capri Pants which are the most comfortable ones I can find. I’m using ASICS Gel Kayano trainers, which give my flat feet the support they need.

What’s your favourite route?

I live in Surrey, so I prefer to seek out quiet routes where there’s a bit of greenery and tranquility, but at the same time I’m not into muddy trails. I prefer quiet, private roads so that I can admire the expensive houses as I run past them and dream! There’s a particularly posh private road I always run down which has the most incredibly smooth, flat tarmac surface in the road – it’s followed by a right turn into another stunning road with a decline. Perfect! Usually there’s lots of people walking expensive and overly pampered pooches, including a yorkshire terrier with a bow in its fur – makes me smile every time!

How do you feel physically and mentally?

During a long run I must admit I’m counting down the miles and waiting for that runner’s high that I don’t always get. Mentally I am trying to train myself to think about running in the moment rather than worrying about the next mile and the mile after that. But it’s tough. Physically? It depends on how much sleep I’ve had and how busy work has been too.

Have you changed anything to fit in with marathon training?

I have started taking magnesium supplements which were recommended to me for recovery and also for helping you sleep. I take glucosamine sulphate for joints – some people rate it and some say there’s no proof that it works, but why not? I also take a multi-vitamin supplement. I’ve been doing more yoga with my personal trainer, Ben, to alleviate stiffness. I have been eating more carbs too which is a real treat!

Has your attitude to running changed since you started training for a marathon?

Yes. I’ve realised it’s hard work and I appreciate now more than ever just how amazing marathon runners are. I also marvel at the dedication of ultra runners – athletes or not. It really is amazing. I’m also impressed by the way our bodies can adapt to increased mileage. The human body really is incredible and capable of great things, but only if we believe in ourselves.

Are you varying your training?

Yes, I do two resistance sessions per week with my trainer, Ben. We work on abs, core and balance. That really helps. Yoga at the end of each session really benefits the body too. And I still love the cross-trainer for clocking up miles without impact!

Have you had any injuries or aches and pains?

My right knee gets a bit stiff at times but rest and ice always work! My nerve pain in my left hamstring, which I’ve had for years, hasn’t been too bad.

If so, how have you coped?

I think my rest days have really helped. I never run on consecutive days.

How do you feel about doing the marathon now? Are you still excited and motivated?

Yes – mainly I want to get it done!

How has your charity fundraising been going?

Fairly well. Lots of friends have given me support but a few have been very quiet when the Facebook requests have gone out. I’m running for Alzheimer’s Society which is a great charity.

What are your expectations come race day? Have they changed since our last update?

No, I’ve always said I want to get round without pain or injury – if it takes more than four hours then so be it!

What aspect of race day are you most excited about?

Crossing the start line – because that means it’s really happening – and crossing the finishing line. Then having champers and fish and chips on the beach afterwards!

---

Claire Chamberlain

- Sub Editor

There’s only one month to go until race day…

How’s your training going?

It was going quite well – I’ve managed two half marathons since Christmas, with a PB in one of them, and was up to 18 miles on my long run. But one cold, a hacking cough and several nasty blisters later and I’ve come to a bit of a halt. Hopefully I’ll be back in my trainers soon though!

How often are you running?

I was running about three times a week – an interval session, a tempo run and a long run, with the odd spinning and yoga session thrown into the mix.

What sort of mileage are you achieving?

My last long run was 18 miles, so I was pretty much on track! Unfortunately I’ll probably be missing my next long run (20 miles) because of aforementioned blisters. I’m praying for a speedy recovery though!

What’s been your longest run so far?

18 miles – it was a tough one!

What’s your secret weapon for long runs?

Jelly Babies are my all-time favourite pick-me-up on a long run. And my new secret weapon is my good friend Kathryn – she’s just started running and meets me to run some of my long run with me. It’s great having someone to chat to, to take my mind off the miles!

What do you take with you on a long run?

Only the essentials – water bottle, Jelly Babies, house keys and mobile phone.

Any hot running tips for newbies keen to run a marathon?

Take it slowly and enjoy it! Adding just a mile or two to your long run each week will soon see you covering a decent distance. And don’t ever freak out about having to run 26.2 miles – always break it down in your head so it’s less daunting. I think of it as eight (and a bit!) 5K runs. Simple!

What’s your favourite kit to run really long miles in?

My amazing Saucony ProGrid Guide 4 trainers are my main essential. Then I have some great adidas capris that are super comfy, a running vest and adidas jacket when it’s cold.

What’s your favourite route?

I’ve just moved house, so I have all-new running routes to get used to. I love the section of my run that takes me through woodland tracks – it’s great being surrounded by nature rather than pounding the pavements all the time.

How do you feel physically and mentally?

Physically, my feet are pretty sore right now… blisters are nasty! But other than that, I’m feeling great. I’m counting my blessings I haven’t been hit with any knee or hip injuries so far.

Have you changed anything to fit in with marathon training?

I’m making sure I eat lots more fruit and veg, and more carbs for energy, and more protein for recovery. In fact, I’m so hungry because of the training, I’m pretty much eating more of everything! I did try to cut out alcohol, too. It didn’t really happen. I think I may have to leave that until closer to the big day!

Has your attitude to running changed since you started training for a marathon?

Having done a marathon before (London in 2009), I knew how much effort would have to go into my training, but it always gets hard as you edge closer to marathon day. As the miles go up, the exhaustion sets in and you get paranoid about getting ill. I can’t wait for marathon day, but I’m kind of excited about being able to go for a nice 10K jog in the countryside again, without having to worry about upping mileage for a set event!

Are you varying your training?

Doing interval training as well as going for long runs adds variety to my running – and the yoga and spin classes are great when I can't face the roads again!

Have you had any injuries or aches and pains?

Apart from the blisters, nothing terrible – just the normal aching legs after high mileage!

If so, how have you coped?

Ice baths are key when it comes to aching legs, followed by a nice hot shower to warm up again.

How do you feel about doing the marathon now? Are you still excited and motivated?

I’m definitely excited about race day – marathons always have great crowd support and I’m hoping the atmosphere in Brighton will be fab!

How has your charity fundraising been going?

It’s been going pretty well so far, and I still have a few weeks to go to hound my family and friends! I’m raising money for eating disorder charity Beat (www.b-eat.co.uk), because my beautiful sister used to suffer from anorexia.

What are your expectations come race day? Have they changed since our last update?

My expectations have stayed pretty similar throughout my training. Obviously I’d love to beat my previous marathon time (even by a few seconds would be nice!), but to be honest, if I can just get around the course with a smile on my face that’ll be enough for me!

What aspect of race day are you most excited about?

Running in a city I love (I went to university in Brighton and it still feels like home to me), soaking up the great race-day atmosphere… and seeing that finish line get ever closer at the end!