Nurse...NURSE!!!!

On the way to Mum & dad's on Saturday I had a bit of a cough starting up, which I though was just from the all cold air from my run earlier...guess again!! By Saturday evening, it had turned in to quite a bad cough and my head was pounding. I woke up on Sunday and felt like an elephant had slept on my head all night!!

I got up and showered but there was no way I was going to manage a run of any sort, let alone an 8 miler. I've have been dosing up on Lemsip cold and flu ever since but I don't think I'll be running again before Christmas...gutted, no really I am! I was going to give the 8 miler a go tomorrow but I have been warned by my Mum & Tracey that I'll be in trouble with them
if I do...so I'm not messing with them!!

So that's it for now people, I'm done for the Christmas break and will resume my training after Christmas.

Have a very Merry Christmas :)

Happy Crimbo - part 1!!

Up at 0810 today so I had a bit of a lay in which was nice. This morning saw a slight change to the normal routine...no spandex! I only have one clean set of spandex which I need for tomorrow's 8 miler so today I was back in old school shorts and T-shirt.

It was quite a nice morning this morning, fresh and crisp...and I ran in daylight too!! I completed the 3 miles in 26 minutes and 13 seconds which is only 5 seconds slower than Tuesdays time...which I'm putting down to the loss of aerodynamics from not wearing spandex!! Haha

Not only am I running the furthest I've ever run before tomorrow, but I will be running an unfamiliar route as we're having a Christmas Day at Mum & Dad's today and staying over. That should be an interesting run with a belly full of turkey and Crimbo pud!! :)

No snoozing

I really didn't want to do today's run. I woke up at 0600 still very tired and the thought of a 4 mile run made me just want to curl up under the duvet even more!!

I had no time to "snooze" this morning because I had one more mile than usual to do. So I was up at 0600 and into the bathroom to freshen up and run my cold bath for when I get back. Shaved, washed and changed and I was out the door.

I had to remember to turn left at the top of the road today instead of right...left for long runs, right for up to 3 miles!! So first mission accomplished, I was going in the right direction!! It wasn't cold this morning, it actually felt quite mild which made a nice change. But it was still pitch black though, and felt like the middle of the night.

I didn't enjoy the run today, maybe because I was just a bit too tired. However I managed to get it all done in 33 minutes 56 seconds which is about 8 and a half minutes a mile so I'm pleased with the end result at least!! Next is 3 miles on Sunday before I attempt an 8 miler on Sunday for the first time ever. Something tells me that Sunday's scone will be the best ever after that!!

Day off...what's that then?

I'm off work today so I have a day of rest planned...but there was a 3 mile run to deal with first.

The alarm was set for 0600 and I was up, washed and dressed before leaving the house at 0630. I opened the front door and BANG...the cold just hit me! It was freezing today, but three miles had to be done and they were, in 26 minutes and 8 seconds which I think is my quickest time yet.

I'm almost halfway through my training plan and it's absolutely flown by so far. I think as the longer runs kick in it may not seem so quick though!! I have completed 37 training runs only missing 1 with a bruised heel and although I'm not losing any real weight, my wobbly bits are a little less wobbly!!

Next on the agenda is a Thursday 4 miler so until then, I'm putting my feet up!

He's behind you!!!

If my life was a Christmas pantomime, I would play the back end of the donkey!!!

I got up at 0800 after "snoozing" for half an hour this morning. I had a slice of toast and jam this morning because I was a bit hungry when I woke up and didn't fancy running on an empty stomach. So, hunger satisfied, spandex on, knee straps on, video camera on from the bedroom window and I was off for my second 7 miler.

It was foggy this morning and what I would describe as "fresh" as opposed to cold. It was a steady run today, which is the most important thing for the longer runs. However, you'll remember that last week my watch said 3 minutes 41 seconds when I finished so this week I wanted to make sure I got an accurate time to see how I'm progressing.

I reached the halfway point and did a time check...30 minutes 24 seconds...not bad so far. But here comes my qualification for the role of the back end of a donkey...I got back to the house with 7 miles done and dusted, checked my watch and it said...3 minutes 21 seconds!! I couldn't believe it, surely I couldn't have knocked my watch at exactly the same time as last week?!?! No of course not...the answer was simple...I have a 60 minute stopwatch!!!!!!! When it reaches 60 minutes, it starts again from zero!!! Doh!!!! So last week I did my run in 63 minutes 41 seconds with this week's run done in 63 minutes 21 seconds. That means I am averaging about 9 minutes a mile for my longer runs which is very pleasing.

Next week sees me scheduled to do 3 miles on Tuesday and Saturday, 4 miles on Thursday and an 8 miler...yes 8 miles...on Sunday. The schedule starts to get intense now, with only 2 attempts at each long run before it increases again...game on!!

For now though, it's scone time (Oh no it isn't) Oh yes it is!!!!! :)

Got a paddle?

Ok so I get home from work and it's still raining but I think to myself..it's only rain, I will only be in it for about half an hour so get to it!!

I ran my bath and got in to my spandex and waterproof top and left the house. The run started well...until I got to a HUGE flood in the road and pavement...it was so big I couldn't get through it!!! So I only managed part of the run today but I guess something is better than nothing!!!

Tomorrow sees me do my 2nd 7 miler and hopefully this time I will have a time for you too!!!

Rain Stopped Play

When the alarm went at 0700 this morning, I didn't even have to get out of bed...I could hear the wind and rain anyway!! It was hammering down so I decided not to run this morning as I couldn't see the benefit of running through that.

I'll do the run this afternoon, weather permitting, so watch this space :)

AM to PM

I decided to stay in bed an extra hour or so this morning and do the run this evening because I was just so tired!

So I got in from work about 19:35 and ran my cold bath, put the potatoes in the oven, turned on the heating and got in to my spandex before leaving the house for my 3 mile run. It was cold again tonight but not the coldest it's been so I just got on with it. Three quarters of the way around and just as I checked for traffic before crossing the road (all was clear) I caught my toe on the ground and nearly went "a" over "t"...I really am on a mission to do myself in!!!

The run was complete in 26 minutes 26 seconds tonight which is consistent with what I've been doing for 3 miles so I'm pleased with my training so far. 3 more miles on Saturday and then my second 7 miler on Sunday.

Raffle tickets are now on sale for the Brentford Football match, at a cost of £1 each - but buying a book of 5 tickets for £5 would be even better though!! To buy tickets for the raffle, please let me know in the comments section on here. The draw will take place on 09/02/2009 which means the winner will be able to choose from the following games:

• Port Vale
• Bury
• Barnet
• Wycombe
• Gillingham
• Exeter
• Accrington
• Luton

We're now up to £455 raised so far so a big thank you to everyone who has sponsored me...and for those that haven't yet, you can join the fun at www.justgiving.com/runneradams :)

Come on you Bees!!

This morning was tough...tough getting out of bed! The alarm went at 0600...then 0610...then again at 0620 before I dragged myself out of my pit. My bath was run from last night so it was a shave and a wash before getting in to my super hero spandex gear for today's run of 3 miles.

I found myself stalling, finding extra little things to do this morning because I really didn't want to go out in the cold!! But I did...eventually...and completed the run in 26 minutes 24 seconds. I managed to do the whole run safely, 3 miles with no accidents. I got to the end of the run, which finished outside the local shop, and started to walk back the short distance home and nearly ended up flat on my face after doing a heel slide on a frosty drain cover!!!!! I'm a walking disaster!!

The bath was a little too full this morning and the cold water was halfway up my back which took my breath away even more than usual. Still, I keep telling myself it's doing me good! I did my five minutes before thawing out with a nice hot shower. I've decided to stay in a hotel near Silverstone the night before the actual run so I'm not travelling up that morning...a two hour car journey's maybe not the best preparation for a 13.1 mile trot!!

I want to say a massive THANK YOU to Brentford Football club today. I received a letter from them on Friday as I had written to them asking for help with my fund raising (I chose Brentford as I was on their books as a school boy) and they have donated 2 Adult and 2 Child tickets to a Coca-Cola League game between now and the remainder of the season...FANTASTIC!! So watch this space for details of the raffle tickets :) And read the match report from the programme (below) from my game for Brentford against the mighty Tottenham!!

Have you got the time?

Firstly, Tracey was out with the girls last night and picked up this Christmas hat. One of the girls said that if I post a pic of me in the hat and spandex she will donate another £10...so this one's for you!!

So today was my first 7 miler and according to my stop watch, I did it in 3 minutes and 48 seconds!!! Something went very wrong there me thinks!! So I have no idea what time I did the run in but the main thing is I did it from start to finish without stopping at all so I'm very pleased.

It was cold and frosty this morning so again the spandex saved the day and kept me warm. I was up at 0730 and out at 0800 to get the run over and done with so I could start looking forward to my tea and scone as soon as possible...creature of habit! When I got back in I had my cold bath as usual but this morning my feet felt numb with the cold. The hot shower that followed just felt like the best ever.

So, with my first 7 miler done I'll be following it up with three 3 miler's across Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday before another 7 miler (which I will hopefully have a time for!) next Sunday...but for now, you know the drill ;)

If it aint one thing it's another!

Well this week certainly hasn't been an average week! After the false start on Thursday due to the weather, I have decided to pass on today's run due to an incident yesterday evening.

I realised yesterday that the back light on my scooter was not working so I went to a garage to pick up a spare bulb. I know it's only changing a light bulb but I was chuffed that I had managed to take the light apart and do it myself for £2.75 instead of the £50 a certain company were happy to charge me!!! Anyway, with my scooter now in full working order I started my journey home...that was until *pauses to avoid being abusive* someone decided to turn right, across my lane, without looking!! I slammed on the brakes but came off the scooter and ended up in the middle of the road with the bike on top of me - not a good situation!!

There was no serious damage to me, just a bruised knuckle and sore heel/ankle from where the bike landed. So for that reason, I have decided to rest up today so I can hopefully do tomorrow's 7 miler, as opposed to aggravating it today and having to miss the long run tomorrow. I will of course be paying my £10 fine to the MS society for missing a training session.

What I am most gutted about is the damage to my scooter...it's always the way though, you fix one thing and something else goes wrong!! Still at least no serious injuries were had. All being well, and avoiding any further incident, you will be reading about my 7 mile run tomorrow!!

Thursday Run - Take Two

After this morning's effort was washed out I got home from work at around 19:40 this evening, kissed the Wife, got changed in to my Spandex, kissed the Wife again and left the house for my run...100% record still intact :)

I've decided I prefer to run in the mornings...even though it means getting out of bed earlier! During the run tonight, not only did I have to dodge the general public coming home from work, I had to run past people's houses as they cooked their dinner's, past restaurant's where people were eating, pubs where people were drinking...and I'm out running in my SPANDEX!!!

Anyway, the run is done and dusted and was completed in 26 minutes 37 seconds...20 seconds faster than Tuesday. Maybe evening running isn't so bad, knowing that I have my dinner ready when I get home!! Only one more 3 miler to go before the big old 7 miler on Sunday...somehow I think Sunday's tea and scone will taste better than ever!!

Hopefully, today proves just how dedicated I am to getting my training done and running this half marathon the best I can...so if you haven't already, or if you have and you want to again, HIT THAT SPONSOR ME BUTTON PLEEEEEEEASE :)

Almost...but not quite

Usually I would be writing about my run about now, but this morning I woke at 0600, had a shave and wash before putting on my gear, opening the front door and thinking....no chance!! Not only was it pitch black, cold and windy but also pouring out of the heavens!!! So I shut the door and went back to bed for half an hour!

I will do my run after work this evening to keep up my 100% training record otherwise I will pay a £10 fine to the MS Society!

Watch this space...

The Gang

Up at 0550 this morning because I have to go on a course today, so I need to leave the house a bit earlier than usual. I don't care how much of a pillock I look in my spandex...I needed it this morning!! I stepped out of the house and a wall of cold just hit me, it was freezing!!

I was around the three miles in 26 minutes 57 seconds, an average of less than 9 minutes a mile, so again I am pleased with that. Two more 3 milers to go before the first 7 miler, not only of this training plan, but of my life!! Not sure if I'm looking forward to that!!

I went to the North Surrey branch of the MS Society yesterday and met with Allan and the gang and I just wanted to say thank you to everyone there for making me feel so welcome, it was an absolute pleasure to meet you all and you have inspired me even more to succeed in the run.

From some of my conversations yesterday, I realised just how unpredictable it can be with MS. Not knowing whether they will have the energy to do the things that other people take for granted, or whether they will be feeling pains today, or numbness, or whether they should change their medication? But things that everyone had in common yesterday were a smile, a laugh and a fighting spirit...and they were inspirational. One new friend said to me that he doesn't like talking about MS because he doesn't want to get down about it, he wants to stay as upbeat as he can...so hopefully reading about my pain and suffering will raise a smile or two ;) Haha!

6 mile run - done!

My alarm was set for 0700 this morning but when I turned over at 0658 I thought...nah, and reset it for 0730!! Haha

So I was up at 0730 to run my cold bath, wash and get my spandex on!! With my nipples taped and my knee straps on, I was out the door at at 0800. I did a time check at 2 miles and I had done them in about 17 and a half minutes so I was on course for a good time. The 4 mile check read about 36 and a half minutes which was a bit slower for that break so I tried to step it up for the last 2 miles and ended up finishing the 6 miles in 55 minutes 31 seconds...2 minutes 13 seconds quicker than last week...very pleased indeed :)

I enjoyed today's run because I pushed myself and felt that I worked all the way out and all the way back. So I got back in, caught my breath, did my stretches and some sit-ups before getting in my cold bath for 5 minutes and just thought to myself ,"done"

So now I can enjoy the rest of my Sunday, starting with a trip down town and an appointment with a scone before putting the Crimbo tree up with Tracey later, but for now training week 8 has started well :)

Spandexman!!

My Spandex pants and top arrived yesterday so I was out running in them today and I managed my 3 miles in...wait for it...26 minutes 47 seconds!!! An average of 8 minutes 55 seconds per mile so I am very pleased with that after last week's dismal performance!! In all honesty, I think I only went quicker today because it felt like I was out running in Tracey's tights!!!

When I get to £400 sponsorship (only £35 to go) I'll post a picture of me wearing my spandex gear on here!!! haha

I'm having chicken and pasta tonight in preparation for tomorrow's 6 miler so there's no "bad diet" excuses. After tomorrow, I have 3 more 3 milers before my long run increases to 7 miles next Sunday so I'm making progress slowly but surely...and more importantly safely!!

So if you want to see me in my spandex...hit that "sponsor me" button and get the total up to £400 :) Again if you're on facebook, go to www.runneradams.blogspot.com

Slow is the new fast!!

So the alarm goes at 0555 this morning and I don't even make it out of bed before I start thinking I don't wanna do it today!! 7 minutes later, I bite the bullet and drag myself out of my pit and in to the bathroom for a wash, shave and brush of the teeth.

No toast this morning...couldn't be bothered to eat!! :s

I was disappointed with the time today, finished in 28 minutes and 41 seconds which is about a minute 20 slower than Tuesday. Maybe fishfingers, chips and two pints of coke is not the best meal to have the night before running...ah well!! At least my 100% attendance record is still intact :)

I have another 3 miles to do on Saturday and will be aiming for my quickest time to date to make up for today, before another 6 miles on Sunday - oh good!!

I will be going to the North Surrey MS Society drop in centre on Monday to meet Allan (Chairman) and a few of the people that go there so I'm looking forward to that.

Once again can I ask people to scroll down to my entry on 20th November and print off copies of the poster I have uploaded and put them up in your work place, local community centres, churches and shops etc to help generate some more sponsorship...these early morning run sessions are torture so I'd like to make them as worthwhile as possible - Your help would be greatly appreciated :)

Cold as ice

I've never been so cold in my entire life!! I was out the door at 0620 this morning and felt like the only person who was awake!! It was pitch black, freezing cold and I was out running in shorts...I seriously need my head seeing to!!

3 miles today and it was done in 27 minutes 25 seconds...not bad considering I seriously thought about turning around and going back home in the first 60 seconds!!

I got back and jumped in the cold bath (which felt quite warm today!!) for the usual 5 minutes and then had a nice hot shower before going downstairs for breakfast...the best part of the morning :) So by this point I am lovely and warm and could just curl up on the sofa and watch daytime tv all day but no...I had to get back out in the cold, jump on the scooter and get myself to work and I've been cold ever since!!

I received the cheque from my company director today so that has been officially added to the fund which now stands at £365 so once again a massive thank you to all that have contributed so far. For those that haven't, the "sponsor me" button hasn't moved...it's still there on the right and for those of you reading on facebook, the website is www.justgiving.com/runneradams

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow

This is what I woke up to this morning...a snow scene! Nice if you can look out at it from the warmth of your house...not nice if you've got to go running in it!!

So training week seven started with another 6 miler today which I managed to do in 57 minutes 44 seconds, about a minute and a half faster than last week so happy with that!

I left at about 0845 this morning and it was freezing and started to rain a little once I got going. Then on the way back the wind picked up and it was bitterly cold...maybe that's why I made it round quicker than last week!! I think I can now be classed as a hardcore runner!! lol A little snow kept all the running community in doors this morning...but not me!! lol

Well, as you regular followers will know, Sunday means tea and scone so I'm off for the usual ritual before settling down later to hopefully watch Spurs beat Blackburn!

Fast food junkie

Not working today so I had a little lay in...until 0800!! Up and out for today's 4 miler which I managed in 35 minutes and 39 seconds which is 8 minutes 54 seconds per mile...about on a par with my fastest time so far. Not bad considering I've been a bit of a fast food junkie this week!! Because we've been out and a bout this week, just for convenience I had a Burger King on Tuesday, KFC Thursday and another KFC on Friday...good, but not good if you know what I mean!! lol Still, I'll be back on track with my food when I return to work next week...unfortunately!! :)

Not looking forward to tomorrow's 6 miler, but I just have to keep reminding myself that I did it last weekend and it didn't kill me so there's no excuses. At least I don't have to do a long walk after this week's 6 miler!!

Next week is slightly easier as I only have to do 3 miles on Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday so that is some consolation to get tomorrow's run done and dusted. For now, I have some jelly and ice-cream to look forward to at a 1 year old birthday party!!

I hope you have all been printing off the poster from Thursday's blog entry and putting them up in local shops etc to help generate some awareness of my fund raising...if not, there's no time like the present!!

Tell your friends, tell all your friends...I'm fatman!!

I set the alarm for 0620 this morning and I don't even remember it going off! I don't know if I just set the time and forgot to switch it on or what but either way, I was up at 0700 and out the door at 0730 for today's 3 miler.

27 minutes and 17 seconds later and my run was done. A bit slower than the last 3 miler but at least I now know that garlic bread and pizza the night before is not the best running preparation food! Still, the miles are under my belt...along with the pizza!!

I've attached a poster with details of MS and my website addresses and I would really appreciate it if you could print it off some copies and put them up in your workplace, shops, churches etc in your local area to help with the fund raising. The more people that are aware of what's happening, the more we can raise...so get posting :)

Stuck in traffic!!

As I am off work this week I didn't run as early as I usually would today, up and out at 0730, and it cost me time!! There was more traffic than at 0630 so I had to stop and wait to cross the road a couple of times which meant that I finished my 4 miles in 35 minutes and 54 seconds...a bit slower than last time. Ah well, I know for next time!!

I had that light, fine rain during this morning's run which started off annoying but turned out to be refreshing in the end actually! No aches and pains today...the same can't be said for Sunday's aftermath!! After my run on Sunday, I went walking with Tracey and her work colleagues for a couple of hours and by the end of it my knees were killing me!! I don't know if that was from all the running and walking or just that I had my knee straps too tight during my run!! Still, I had the energy to make it down town for my tea and scone which is the main thing :)

I spoke to the chairman of the North Surrey branch of the MS Society yesterday and I have to have my article done by 9th December to make it in the next newsletter, so I'll be working on that in the next week or so.

Next on the agenda is 3 miles on Thursday but in the mean time, feel free to add to the fund by hitting that "sponsor me" button or visiting www.justgiving.com/runneradams

Hit for Six

Well today was my first 6 miler and boy do I ache!! lol I was up at 0730 this morning for my usual routine, plus the additional taping of the nipples as it was a longer run, and out the door at around 0800.

I got it done in 59 minutes 14 seconds which is by no means Olympic time but its under 10 minutes a mile for a distance I've never run before, and I didn't stop at all, so I've got to be happy with that. Now usually I would be telling you that I'm off for a cuppa and a scone down town as it's Sunday...but my dear Wife has talked me into doing a two or so hour walk with her first!! Scandalous!! lol

So far, there have been 21 scheduled training runs with a total of 74 miles and I have managed them all...hands up who thought I'd have missed a couple by now?? :) Next week's schedule is the same as the last with 4 miles Tuesday and Saturday, 3 miles Thursday followed by my 2nd 6 miler next Sunday, but for now my running (if not my walking!) is done for the day!

For those of you who read this on facebook, I know the "sponsor me" button doesn't show, so you can instead visit www.justgiving.com/runneradams to make a donation :)

In good Company

The alarm was set for 0655 today and I was up and out after a 10 minute snooze!! I did a little bit of filming this morning for my video diary when I was getting ready, so I'll be editing and putting them together soon. I have some ideas re the filming that we're are going to try and get done when we're off work next week which should be a laugh.

So, out for my 4 miles today and guess what...I averaged less than 9 minutes a mile!! Woohooo!! I completed the 4 miles in 35 minutes 33 seconds - an average of 8 minutes 53 seconds per mile :) Happy with that! I got back to the house hot, sweaty and heart pumping from the run and thinking Tracey was still in bed...then she walked out of the living room and frightened the ssssshhhhhhoes off me!! That did nothing to help my recovery time let me tell you!!

I had an email from the Chairman of the North Surrey branch of the MS Society, inviting me to do an article for their newsletter "The Link" which is great. We're just in the process of arranging it all so watch this space for more info.

I have some great news on the sponsorship front too...as well as the personal sponsors taking the fund total up to £265, I have also had two companies agree to sponsorship which will bring the total so far up to a tasty £495!!!! So a massive thank you to them from me :) I am still working to get more companies involved and would encourage anyone who is interested in a corporate sponsorship and/or knows someone who may be interested to please get in touch. In the meantime, if you want to do your bit then hit that "sponsor me" button to the right...please :)

Tonight Matthew, I'm going to be...

Again, I had a rough night's sleep last night but it was made slightly easier by Spurs' performance against "the mighty 'pool" as my bro-in-law would say...to which I would respond "Can we play you every week?" :)

Up and out by 0630 this morning for a 3 mile run in my new running trainers, which are a hell of a lot more comfy with the insoles in than the last pair! So as I set off on my run, I come out of the house, turn left, then right, then right again on to the main road just as a coach goes past and pumps out a huge plume of smoke!! I felt like I was in an episode of Stars In Their Eyes!! "Tonight Matthew, I'm going to be...choking to death on coach fumes"!!!!! Not nice lol

I managed the run in 27 minutes and 27 seconds this morning...again slightly faster than my last 3 miler. I think my 3 mile route is slightly more hilly than the longer run which is why my average mile is a bit slower...I struggle up hill obviously!! Next on the agenda is a flat 4 miler on Saturday before I step up a level and take it to 6 miles for the first time on Sunday.

The fund is now up to £265 but I know there is still more to come...so if today is the day that you want to do a good thing, hit that "sponsor me" button on the right and make a donation. You won't just be helping me, you'll be helping over 85,000 people with MS...how's THAT for a good deed for the day!!!

Bionic Man

Up at 0605 today for my first mid-week 4 miler. It felt like the middle of the night when I left the house...it was pitch black! Completed in 36 minutes 18 seconds so I'm getting closer to that sub 9 minute mile.

When I was in my early teens (yes, I can remember that far back!) I had quite bad knee pains, or growing pains as the Dr called them. I've been getting similar pains since I started my training and as I am too old for "growing pains" I think the medical term for it is Patella Tendonitis (or better known to me as mashed joints! lol) so Tracey got me some "knee straps" yesterday. It's a strap that goes just below the knee cap for extra support...and what a difference it's made!! I finished the run with no knee pains today for probably the first time since I started, which is brilliant. I look a bit of a pillock though, starting to feel like the bionic man! What with my special insoles and now straps supporting my knees...all I'm missing is a mobility scooter and 13.1 miles will be a breeze!!

I've got to get myself some new running trainers too as my feet are feeling squashed now that I have the special insoles in. As usual, it was home to do my stretches and jump in my freezing bath for 5 minutes. The idea behind the cold bath is that the cold engulfs the legs, restricting the blood flow and reducing swelling. This, in turn, reduces pain...and I'm all for that!!

Next on the agenda is 3 miles on Thursday and I'm actually looking forward it...at the moment!!

Make mine a large!

Today was tough...mentally tough. I woke up at 0800 and I thought to myself "I don't want to do this run today" For the first time since I started training, I honestly did not want to run. But I did - and that's the most important thing. After a 5 minute sulk feeling sorry for myself, I dragged myself out of my pit and got my backside in to gear.

Today was a 5 miler and I completed it in 48 minutes 17 seconds. I thought that was slower than last week but I've just checked my blog entry for last week and I was quicker today...by almost half a minute!! That just goes to show that so much of this is in the mind...knowing I went faster than last week has completely changed my mindset! I was sitting here thinking "although I've done it in a slower time - at least I've done it" but now I'm thinking "That was well worth getting out of bed for - I'm improving with each run"

I was given some advice yesterday by a seasoned runner...I was told that running my long runs will be much easier if I have a hangover!! lol Feeling good when you start a run means you're only going to feel rough when you've finished, however, if you feel rough when you start the run then you'll only feel a lot better when you finish it!! So based on that theory...I'll be down the pub on Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday...all in the name of marathon preparation!! lol

This week is going to be my toughest so far, with 4 mile runs on Tuesday and Saturday, a 3 mile run on Thursday and ending with a 6 miler for the first time next Sunday. This is going to get hard...but then no-one said it would be easy!!

That "sponsor me" button hasn't been hit since my last post so if you want to break that duck, you know what to do :)

For now, my work today is done...there is a fruit scone and a cup of tea with my name on it in town so I'll catch up with you again on Tuesday :)

(Half) Marathon - The Movie!

This morning wasn't good to me...it rained!

Up at 0715 today for a 2 mile run before tomorrow's 5 miler. When I left the house it was windy and raining so in a way I was glad it was a short run. Completed in 17 minutes 16 seconds which is a bit slower than last time, but given the conditions I'll take that.

I had about 7 minutes sleep in total last night...my head was spinning with ideas. I've decided to do a mini movie/video diary about this little adventure and I was thinking about the different things I can put in it. I've had suggestions ranging from a Rocky style training montage to a Chariots of Fire Slo mo clip! I don't want to give too much away but I'm hoping the finished production will be good. I've already done my opening scene!! lol

So put a date in your diary...(Half) Marathon - The Movie is due for release in March 2009, certificate to be confirmed! :)

50 not out

I hit the big 5 0 in training miles today with a 3 mile run. I haven't been sleeping well these last couple of nights so when the alarm went at 0600 the last thing I wanted to do was run! I stole another 15 minutes before getting up and getting ready.

The usual routine of running my cold bath whilst I'm having a shave, before going to get my slice of toast. Again it was dark but not as cold as I expected today. I completed the 3 miles in 27 minutes and 44 seconds which was quicker than my previous 3 mile best - I feel I'm getting somewhere and the training is paying off...although Tracey did warn me not to over do it trying to get a new land speed record :)

I'm loving the fact that I am having no aches or pains during the day after a run now...apart from when I do a longer Sunday run, but then I always have my tea and scone down town on a Sunday...purely for medicinal purposes obviously!!

We've crept up to £245 now so thank you to the latest sponsors. The next goal is to push on past the £300 mark so if you want to be the one that gets the total closer to that figure, as usual the "sponsor me" button is just to the right :)

Linford!

Today's run was a shorter 2 mile effort which was appreciated! Again, although it was dark and cold it stayed dry for me which was good.

As today's run was shorter, I decided to really go for a record breaking time (Record breaking in the fat boy sense!) and I managed it in 17 minutes 3 seconds...no wonder I couldn't breath!! That, for me, was like a Linford Christie sprint!! lol

Once again, I stretched out the muscles and jumped in the cold bath for my 5 minute refresher. The blisters have got a bit better and there are no new aches or pains today. Next on the agenda is 3 miles on Thursday so I'll be pushing to beat my previous 3 mile best of 28 minutes 7 seconds.

The fund is up to £210 so far so a massive thanks to everyone who has donated...but I know we can do better :) As usual, the button to do your bit to increase that total is on the right there...

Jogger's nipple!

Struggled out of bed again today and wasn't looking forward to the run. The blister on the inside of my left foot was sore again so I took the insoles out of my trainers for the 2nd weekend run in a row. The weather held out for me this morning and stayed dry which was good.

So 5 miles was the mission today and it was mission accomplished in 48 minutes and 46 seconds which I am well chuffed with. Although I don't always look forward to the run, I always feel a sense of achievement when I get the run finished which is part of what gets me through it.

The bath felt extra cold this morning for some reason...still, I think it's doing me good so I'll keep going with it! I think I almost got jogger's nipple this morning! lol It's like a stingy, itchy feeling...not nice! I'll be getting some plasters on for the next long run I think...don't fancy that again!! lol

The rest of this week will consist of a 2 mile run on Tuesday, 3 mile run on Thursday, 2 mile run on Saturday and then another 5 miler on Sunday. It's been 3 weeks since I started my training and I only have 133 days before the actual run...not that I'm counting!!!

Faster than a speeding fat bloke!

I got my top of the range, casio classic from Argos for £7.99 to get a more accurate timing for my 3 mile run and it inspired me to my quickest finish to date - 28 minutes and 7 seconds. I may just make the Olympic 2012 team yet!!

It hurt today though as I was conscious of being timed, I pushed myself. I didn't really get to grips with my breathing again, but then it does say on the training guide that the shorter runs should be used to take yourself out of your comfort zone and I certainly did that! Still, I am please to have broken the 30 minute mark for the first time. So far, it's run number 12 and my 40th training mile completed. Tomorrow is my 2nd 5 miler so there'll be plenty of mind games going on to get me through it no doubt. I'll just have to keep reminding myself that I did it last week so there's no reason why I can't do it again!

My business cards arrived on Thursday, the ones I talked about earlier in the blog, so I am armed with my blog and sponsorship address all the time now which will hopefully get more people involved and sponsoring. Which leads me nicely on to the sponsor me button to the right!! If you haven't done so already, there's no time like the present! Hit that button and do a good thing today.

Stop Press

I made the local press!! lol (and before you ask, my headline is to the right of my picture - NOT underneath!!)

Ben, the photographer, came round yesterday morning and took some pictures in the local park. So there I was, freezing my bits off, in my shorts and vest trying to strike a pose as other people in the park walk past in massive coats, hats and gloves - hilarious, but worth it. Hopefully this will help generate some local support. Click on the article above and you should get a bigger version which will be easier to read.

Still buzzing from Spurs' result against their arch rivals (can't bring myself to write their name!!) I didn't get much sleep last night. So the alarm went at 0600 then again at 0605 before I rolled out of bed at 0610. Not only was it cold and dark again, but now it was raining too! "Ah well" I thought "I'm up so I may as well get it done" So I was out the door at 0635 for another 3 miles. I think the time is right to get myself a stopwatch so I can start recording exact times and begin to work on getting round a bit quicker.

Back in, about half an hour later, to my freezing bath and muesli before getting ready for another day at work. Next on the agenda is 3 miles on Saturday and then another 5 miler on Sunday...cant wait!!!!

The fund is up to £200 and counting so thank you to all that have contributed so far. For all the newcomers to this blog, just hit that "sponsor me" button to the right there and do your bit for the Multiple Scelrosis Society...go on, you know you want to :)

Double figures

Training session number 10 today and I got through it with no new blisters, aches or niggles...things are looking up!

Up at 0600 this morning to make sure that the morning bathroom rota wasn't effected and both the Wife and I got to work on time...and boy it was cold! Contemplated staying in bed for all of 5 minutes before dragging my tired self out of my pit and downstairs for my usual slice of toast. The training programme said 3 miles today so 3 miles it was. After completing the 5 mile run on Sunday, I decided it's time to try and do the shorter runs a bit quicker...whoops!

I don't think I actually managed to get control of my breathing today until I had finished so I obviously went a little faster than usual which is good. I need to keep reminding myself that I am only into my 3rd week of training in a 22 week programme so I don't have to be at Olympic pace right away!!

I got a phone call from the local paper yesterday and they are printing an article on my event and fund raising which is great!! At least it will help spread the word and hopefully generate more support and money. They're meant to be coming tomorrow to take a picture of me for the article!! lol I asked my wife what she thought the headline of the article would be to which she replied "Fatboy does the Marathon"!! lol I'm glad she doesn't write for the paper!! Once the article has been published I'll get a copy on here for you to read.

So far the fund is up to £155 so a massive THANK YOU to all that have donated so far...and to all those that haven't, the button is on the right there!! :)

High Five

This morning I woke to the news that Juande Ramos has been sacked as Spurs boss and replaced By Harry Redknapp...that gave me something to take my mind off of the 5 mile run ahead of me!!

Yep, today I stepped up the mileage to 5 miles for the first time. Yesterday however, I'd have told you there's no chance I'd make it!! I haven't run that far before and the blisters on the soles of my feet are in such a tender place I couldn't see how I could run comfortably. But I decided to take the insoles out of my trainers, which caused the blisters, and take a chance with the heel pain instead.

I made it through the 5 miles today by playing mind games. The first 2 miles were pretty straight forward as I did the same course for the 4 mile run. Once I got the the 2 mile point, I told myself that I only had an extra half mile before I can turn around and come back. When I got to that point, I told myself I've only got half a mile before I get back in to familiar territory. Then, at that point, I simply told myself that I've done these 2 miles before so there's no reason why I can't do them again!! It worked. If I get the mind right, the feet will follow...I'm starting to enjoy it!

I've got today and tomorrow to rest up now, and hopefully enjoy Spurs first league win of the season, before I'm back pounding the streets for a 3 mile trot on Tuesday morning.

I can see my breath!!!

I've only just got warm...and I finished my run 2 hours ago!! It was freezing this morning. I was up at 0730 and out the door at 0800. Wearing my shorts, t-shirt and waterproof jacket I was off and running for the last 3 mile run before tomorrow's first 5 miler. As I turned the first corner and my breathing started to get deeper, I could see my breath it was that cold!!

My breathing was good today, under control, and I felt my recovery time when I finished was pretty sharp as well - I guess the training is paying off. Passed the Belly Buster and Bakery without too much of a problem this morning as I didn't get the whiff I normally do!! The cold bath felt even colder today...no surprise there...but still quite refreshing. My 5 minutes in the bath was spent just chillin (pardon the pun!) and thinking about the main task ahead.

I contacted the local newspaper yesterday to see if I could get a feature in it to try and generate some local support and sponsorship, so fingers crossed something comes of that. If anyone has any contacts that they think could help me generate some funds for the MS Society then please please let me know as all ideas are welcome :)

Once again if you haven't already, or even if you have and you want to again, please hit the sponsor me button to the right there and give what you can to the MS Society. It's an amazing cause for amazing people.

All we hear is, radio...JACKIE!!

I contacted Radio Jackie 107.8 yesterday and the awesome Steve Mowbray mentioned this blog and my justgiving page on his morning show!! He told his listeners that supporting the MS Society was a great cause and wished me luck. Hopefully it might generate a bit more support and money for the cause...thank you Steve!!

I was up and out at 0645 hours again this morning for my run. The toughest bit today was actually getting out of bed!! Once I was out I got my head down and just ran. Managing to get control of my breathing a bit easier and earlier with each run which is great. I've got my first lot of blisters today...and believe it or not they're from the insoles designed to make my run more comfortable!! They are pinching slightly just on the instep of each foot. Never mind...I'll take that over the pain in my heels any day!

I really need to find a new 3 mile route...although the belly buster cafe was closed this morning, the Ewell bakery wasn't and I got a whiff of fresh bread and cakes as I went past. But as tough as it was (and those of you who know me will know just how tough that would be!!) I passed the test by running straight past the door without going in!! I got back and straight into my freezing cold bath that I'd run before going out. I could quite easily have slept in it this morning!!

Just a gentle reminder to those that haven't yet made a donation to the MS society...the button is on the right there, just for you :)

afternoon update: The legend that is Mick Brown just gave me an afternoon shout out on radio Jackie - Thanks Mick

Run Forest!!

I went and bought some "orthotic insoles" yesterday, designed by bio-mechanical experts according to the packaging. They are meant to help relieve pain in the heel, shin, knee and back and you know what...they work!! :) I wore them for a couple of hours at work yesterday and they were brilliant. I've got a pair in my work shoes and another pair for my running trainers...it'll take more than a sore foot to stop me!! However, because they raise the foot in the shoe a little, I now have a couple of blisters on the back of my heel!! lol No pleasing some people eh!!

I was up at 6.25 again this morning. Usual routine of brushing my teeth, a quick shave and a slice of toast and I was out the door with my new insoles easing my run. It was dark and cold this morning, I wanted to get the run over and done with as quickly as possible today...until I remembered the cold bath waiting for me when I got home!! It seems the "runners community" I met on my first run is only a part time/weekend thing...I was the only one out this morning. At least that's how it felt anyway.

I got my breathing under control after about a mile today. It's weird, for that first mile I seemed to be panting like a nutter. Yet the last two miles I was breathing a lot more normally.

3 more miles on Thursday, then again on Saturday before I step it up to a 5 mile run on Sunday...that should be interesting!!

Promotional Cards

I've decided to get some business cards printed up to help generate some sponsorship. I think they look cool!! I thought they would be handy to have with me all the time. There's never really a bad time to tell people about what I'm doing and how they can help...and you never know who you're gonna bump in to!!

My foot is still sore today...thinking I may need some extra support in my trainers, like some insoles or something. I'll probably do that for tomorrow's run and see how it goes.

Sunday - A day of rest!!

I wish!! I've done my 4 miles today and my foot is killing me - but it's OK Mum, I'm not over doing it :)

I strapped my right foot up before going out this morning to try and support it but by the time I got halfway I thought I was going to have to walk back...that was until I took the strapping OFF!! Once off, it eased the pain a little and I was able to complete the run. 42 minutes today which is more than the last 4 mile run but bearing in mind I had to get my strapping off I don't think it's too bad!

I'm going to see how my foot is tomorrow night before deciding if I'm going to do Tuesday's run but for now, it's Sunday morning...that could only mean one thing...down town for a scone and a cuppa!!

I've done it!!

Well I ran my 13th training mile today...so effectively I've run the half marathon. All I have to do now is work on my time of 7 days!!

It was the thought of all the people that have sponsored me so far that got me out of my bed this morning, although I did hit the snooze button for another half hour. My calves are at me again today and I'm not looking forward to tomorrow's 4 mile run...my first back to back run since starting my training, but it has to be done I guess. No pain no gain!! lol

So week 1 is complete, only another 21 weeks of training to go and am I enjoying it?? Honestly, no not yet, but I'm sure I will start enjoying it soon...I hope I will anyway!! On the bright side, the Belly Buster was closed when I went past this morning!! lol

The total raised so far is £115 which is great, and thanks to everyone that has contributed...but it's a long way off of my 3 mil target so if you haven't done it yet, the button is on the right there :)

Rule 1 - Once in, don't move!!

Another 3 training miles done this morning and I'd like to say it's getting easier...I'd like to a but I can't quite yet!!

I nearly didn't make it today...got 3/4 of the way through the route and got to the "Belly Buster Cafe" with a sign outside saying 2 sausage, 2 bacon, 2 eggs, beans, tomatos, fried bread and tea....and it smelt wicked...it's the closest I've come to quitting!! lol But I thought "no, I've got a freezing cold bath and a lovely bowl of muesli to look forward to when I get home"!!! I made it round without stopping today, again just over the half hour mark.

I ran my bath before I left and when I got back, did my stretches and climbed in...OH MY GOD!!! Once I was over the initial cold shock, I sat there as the freezing water cooled my aching legs and I started to get comfy - then I made a fatal mistake...I moved!! The freezing water splashed up my back and took my breath away...I had to go through the initial cold shock again!! Rule 1 - Once in, don't move!!

Just a note for anyone who wants to donate...just click on the "sponsor me" button just to the right of and above this paragraph...it's really easy to do and even a small donation would make a difference to everyone at the MS Society so come on, don't be shy :)

Up at 06.25 hours!

The alarm went this morning at 06.25 and as I rolled my aching body out the bed, I thought to myself "what are you doing Rob??" But a slice of toast and a brush of my teeth and I was out the door for training run number two.

3 miles today, and once I got started it wasn't too bad. The legs got going, the heart rate increased and I was off. I focussed on trying to control my breathing and I got round in 32 minutes today, with my only stop being to cross the road without bouncing off a car...so that's allowed!!

I did my stretches when I got home...legs still killing me from Sunday's run...and was able to relax knowing that it's done for today and I can rest up until Thursday morning. I've been told that the best thing to do when I get in from a run is spend 5 mins in a freezing cold bath...I can't help but think people are enjoying seeing me suffer!! lol :) As I said, I am new to all this so any advice is welcome and I'm gonna give it a go after my run on Thursday and see how it goes.

Ouch!!

After the first run yesterday, I thought "this is OK, I don't feel too bad"...that was until I woke up this morning. I can't move!! lol

My legs are killing me, my back and shoulders are killing me and I think I must run at a funny angle because the outside of my right foot is killing me. I feel like I have had a serious beating! lol And I have to do it all again tomorrow!

I've been told that the first weeks are the worst weeks, having to get up and run again when you are still feeling the aches and pains from the last session. Apparently, after a while, I wont feel the aches nearly as much and will be feeling fresh for each run...I want to fast-forward to that point!!

I keep telling myself that early pain will result in long term gain and hopefully I will enjoy the actual 1/2 marathon as opposed to struggle through it...I hope I'm right!!

I want to take a moment to say a big THANK YOU to the people that have sponsored me so far and got my total to date up to £85. Every pound makes me that much more determined so please feel free to email this blog address and, just as importantly, the link to my "sponsor me" page to anyone and everyone...if it means just one more person will help me to help the MS Society then it is worth doing :)

First one down!!

I'm off and running!!!

I managed my first run this morning...4 miles with two 30-second walking breaks and completed in 39 minutes - not bad for day 1 me thinks!! At that pace I'll have the whole run done in 2 hours 10 minutes which would be quite a tidy time in my opinion :)

My calves are killing me though!! lol I've done my stretches to try and ease tomorrow's pain - I just hope it works!!

I've lived in this area for nearly four years now and spoken to probably 3 people in my road in that time...during a 4 mile run this morning I had 5 other runners acknowledge me. It seems I'm now part of a runner's community!!

Next on the agenda is 3 miles before work on Tuesday but for now, I'm off down town for a cuppa and a fruit scone :)

Training starts Tomorrow!!

Ok so I start training tomorrow with a 4 mile run/jog/walk!!! Feeling very nervous now...with the training starting it makes it all real!!!

I've planned my training schedule above but I'm struggling to get me head around the fact that I have to do well over 200 training miles for a 13.1 mile run...would I not be better doing NO training, saving all of my energy and just going straight in to the race?!?!?

Guess not! Wish me luck...

The Morning after!

Well, it's Sunday morning...the day after I decided to take part in the Silverstone Half Marathon after missing out on the London Marathon for the 3rd year in a row...what have I done!?!?

Oh well...it's done now so no turning back!!

Once I have sorted out my training and got my head around everything, I will be posting updates on here so keep an eye out. This is the first time I've done anything like this and I think there is somewhere on here where you can leave messages etc so feel free to leave me any message of SUPPORT!!!!! :)

Also, just a reminder that I am supporting the MULIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY OF GB & NI and would really appreciate it if you could take a moment to click the link below and make a donation. Regardless of how big or small it may be, I will know I have one more person supporting me on what will be the biggest physical challange of my life so far!!

http://www.justgiving.com/runneradams

Thanks...and keep an eye out for the next installment!!