It's been so long since my last post I think most of you must have forgotten me, but I'm still here, and haven't just been sat on the settee all week eating (that was just Tuesday!).
I've done a couple of hour runs on the treadmill, and on Sunday my friend hopped on the exercise bike alongside me while I ran, which helped to pass the time, and I was very grateful for the company.
As usual, today was 'long run' day, but I was a bit dismayed to see that snow had started to fall before I'd even reached the end of the road. I did a few quick mental calculations and decided that I could still do 9 miles, but that I'd follow the bus routes. That way, if the snow set in, I could hop on a bus and take the cowards route home!
I always carry small change for just such an emergency, but I've never needed to use it. I also carry a front door key, my inhaler, my mobile phone, some tissues (I always get a runny nose running in the cold!) and, if it's warmer, I carry water, too. I really need an assistant to run along side me with a bag full of my essentials. I had hoped one of the children would oblige, but they seem less than impressed at the idea.
The wind was absolutely bitter today, and which ever direction I headed it seemed to be blowing in my face, which wasn't the best. Fortunately, by the time I was heading past Northfield (3.5 miles in) the snow stopped, and other than a couple of light flurries I managed to get home in the dry.
I quite like the route I took today; the first 4 miles were mainly uphill, miles 4-6 were flatter, and the last three miles were predominantly downhill. I might well use that route in the future, as there are plenty of possible diversions to make it slightly longer.
The blister plaster did a good job today, and a friend has recommended some INNOV8 socks, so I'll keep an eye out for them. Believe it or not, the part of me that suffered most today was my ears! They were so cold they felt like they were swollen, and I really must remind hubby to find my woolly hat.
Hubby...if you're reading this...take note! Find the hat you borrowed from me, or buy me a new one! Soon!
Thursday, 27 January 2011
Friday, 21 January 2011
A present in the post
I have two pieces of good news today...
First, my Asthma UK t-shirt has arrived, so I can get busy and personalise it ready for the big day. I've been told more than once that if you put your name on your race day t-shirt, the crowds will call out your name to egg you on, and I think I'll need all the encouragement I can get.
Second, I went to see the physio this morning, and she is confident enough with my progress to leave me without a follow up appointment. If I need to go back in the next four weeks, I can just ring, but otherwise, I'm on my own. Hurrah!
I did a gentle two miles today, and although I'm a bit achy, I seem to have survived yesterdays long outing...except for the blister, which is very sore. I think it's time to invest in some new socks.
First, my Asthma UK t-shirt has arrived, so I can get busy and personalise it ready for the big day. I've been told more than once that if you put your name on your race day t-shirt, the crowds will call out your name to egg you on, and I think I'll need all the encouragement I can get.
Second, I went to see the physio this morning, and she is confident enough with my progress to leave me without a follow up appointment. If I need to go back in the next four weeks, I can just ring, but otherwise, I'm on my own. Hurrah!
I did a gentle two miles today, and although I'm a bit achy, I seem to have survived yesterdays long outing...except for the blister, which is very sore. I think it's time to invest in some new socks.
Thursday, 20 January 2011
Upping the miles
How is it a week since my last long run? Time really is going so fast, and there are just three months left until the big day.
There was a really heavy frost overnight, and the pavements crunched underfoot. It was treacherous in places, so I was exceptionally mindful of keeping my balance. That said, the sky was blue and the sun was shining brightly, and from the warmth of the house you could mistake the day for summer. One foot through the front door and into the sub-zero temperatures soon dispelled that thought!
Less than a mile in, crossing the bridge over the main road, chaos reigned. Police cars, ambulances and fire engines were attending to a multiple pile up, and traffic was being re-routed. That kind of scene always sends a shiver down my spine, and I hope no-one was seriously injured.
After three to four miles, I was making good time, but gradually the sun disappeared behind the clouds and I descended into heavy fog. This seemed to reduce the oxygen content of the air by 50%, and I had to slow down a lot to keep my breathing even. All things considered, though, my breathing is so much better than it used to be, and I managed to keep going without using my inhaler.
Miles 5-6 were better as the fog cleared and the sun was back out, but it was all uphill, and hard going. Mile 7 got me back to the bridge over the accident. The road was still closed, and police were still redirecting the traffic, but the scene felt a little calmer than before.
The last mile home felt easy (other than knowing that a blister was forming on the side of my heel, and I couldn't do anything about it), and I made it home 0.2 miles ahead of my virtual partner.
It certainly feels good to be back up to a reasonable training level, although I'm very conscious that I'd like to be doing more miles at this point. All in all, I enjoyed an excellent run today, and I have a very impressive blister to prove it!
There was a really heavy frost overnight, and the pavements crunched underfoot. It was treacherous in places, so I was exceptionally mindful of keeping my balance. That said, the sky was blue and the sun was shining brightly, and from the warmth of the house you could mistake the day for summer. One foot through the front door and into the sub-zero temperatures soon dispelled that thought!
Less than a mile in, crossing the bridge over the main road, chaos reigned. Police cars, ambulances and fire engines were attending to a multiple pile up, and traffic was being re-routed. That kind of scene always sends a shiver down my spine, and I hope no-one was seriously injured.
After three to four miles, I was making good time, but gradually the sun disappeared behind the clouds and I descended into heavy fog. This seemed to reduce the oxygen content of the air by 50%, and I had to slow down a lot to keep my breathing even. All things considered, though, my breathing is so much better than it used to be, and I managed to keep going without using my inhaler.
Miles 5-6 were better as the fog cleared and the sun was back out, but it was all uphill, and hard going. Mile 7 got me back to the bridge over the accident. The road was still closed, and police were still redirecting the traffic, but the scene felt a little calmer than before.
The last mile home felt easy (other than knowing that a blister was forming on the side of my heel, and I couldn't do anything about it), and I made it home 0.2 miles ahead of my virtual partner.
It certainly feels good to be back up to a reasonable training level, although I'm very conscious that I'd like to be doing more miles at this point. All in all, I enjoyed an excellent run today, and I have a very impressive blister to prove it!
Tuesday, 18 January 2011
An early start
Ok...it wasn't that early, but I did give up my lazy morning in bed (before my late night at work) to give oldest daughter a lift to school.I'm all for a bit of multitasking, so I threw on my running shoes, hopped the dog into the boot of the car, and headed on to Cofton Park for half an hour.
Even though we live on the edge of Birmingham, we're surrounded by beautiful countryside, and the dog loves nothing more than to run and run. Unfortunately, he's useless on a lead, so the only way he does get exercised is in wide open spaces, but that suits him just fine.
Some places were quite muddy underfoot - the park still hasn't recovered from the Pope's visit in the Autumn - so I headed for the higher slopes where the ground was a bit firmer. The dog usually does all he can to scupper my runs, including jumping up at me and constantly criss-crossing in front of my legs, but today he was far more interested in a small flock of magpies that had the audacity to try to land. He managed to keep them airborne for most of the time we were there, and I couldn't quite understand why they didn't just fly off somewhere out of the range of the pesky chocolate labrador.
I would tell you how far I did, but I never did get round to recharging my Garmin, so your guess is as good as mine. I didn't exactly push myself, but it was great to be out in the early morning sunshine. Now the big question is...back to bed with my book, or do some jobs before work. Hmmm....
Thursday, 13 January 2011
Recharging the batteries
Thursdays are now set aside for my longest training session of the week, and I got back up to somewhere between five and a half and six miles today. I would normally be able to tell you exactly how far I'd done, but my Garmin signalled 'low battery' at 2 miles, and finally died at just under 5 miles.
It was really warm this morning, and the rain held off, so it was a pleasant run out. My calves were still achy before I'd even set off, so I spend a few minutes warming up in the house and doing some gentle stretches, then spent a lot of time stretching when I got home.
I'd like to say that I've come home all revved up and enthusiastic to get on with the cleaning, shopping, tidying and washing that needs doing, but, like my Garmin, I think I'm running on low battery too.
Maybe an hour with my feet up is in order, and then I'll see what the rest of the day brings.
It was really warm this morning, and the rain held off, so it was a pleasant run out. My calves were still achy before I'd even set off, so I spend a few minutes warming up in the house and doing some gentle stretches, then spent a lot of time stretching when I got home.
I'd like to say that I've come home all revved up and enthusiastic to get on with the cleaning, shopping, tidying and washing that needs doing, but, like my Garmin, I think I'm running on low battery too.
Maybe an hour with my feet up is in order, and then I'll see what the rest of the day brings.
Wednesday, 12 January 2011
Plan? What plan...?
I can't believe how much the new calf exercises are making my legs ache! I'm trying to console myself with the thought that I must be doing them right, and it must be doing some good.
I couldn't face going out today, and didn't want to go on the treadmill, but knew if I did nothing I'd be cross with myself.
Inspiration struck, and I dug out an exercise DVD. I have quite a collection; some celebrity ones that would be more useful remoulded into plant pots, but a few old faithfuls that have helped me get fit in the past (especially when the children were young, and I couldn't get out to a gym).
I chose a 'Rosemary Conley Whole Body Workout', and followed the thirty minute aerobic section and twenty minute toning session.
It was surprisingly good fun to do, although I always make sure the curtains are closed. It's a bit off putting when the postman takes a shortcut past the front window and catches me doing stretches with baked bean tins for weights...trust me...it's happened in the past, and it's very embarrassing when the next recorded delivery letter arrives.
The truth is, I'm a lot further away from my plan than I would like to be, but I'm trying not to get too stressed about it. I know if I push too hard now I'll be out of the running altogether, and I've worked too hard to let that happen.
I couldn't face going out today, and didn't want to go on the treadmill, but knew if I did nothing I'd be cross with myself.
Inspiration struck, and I dug out an exercise DVD. I have quite a collection; some celebrity ones that would be more useful remoulded into plant pots, but a few old faithfuls that have helped me get fit in the past (especially when the children were young, and I couldn't get out to a gym).
I chose a 'Rosemary Conley Whole Body Workout', and followed the thirty minute aerobic section and twenty minute toning session.
It was surprisingly good fun to do, although I always make sure the curtains are closed. It's a bit off putting when the postman takes a shortcut past the front window and catches me doing stretches with baked bean tins for weights...trust me...it's happened in the past, and it's very embarrassing when the next recorded delivery letter arrives.
The truth is, I'm a lot further away from my plan than I would like to be, but I'm trying not to get too stressed about it. I know if I push too hard now I'll be out of the running altogether, and I've worked too hard to let that happen.
Monday, 10 January 2011
Stretched to the limit
I went back to see the physio today, and this was combined with an appointment with Mr Orthotics. The good news is that there is no need to adjust the orthotics that I have, and they seem to be doing an adequate job of supporting my arches.
I've been given some more calf strengthening exercises, and I have to go back to icing my ankles three times a day, and always after exercise. (Just to clarify, that's icing with cold packs, not decorating them using an icing tube filled with a buttercream mixture!) There's nothing like sitting with ice packs pressed onto your extremities when temperatures are barely above freezing outside. Why can't the icing wait until the summer?
The bad news is that even with all the stretching, icing and strengthening work, my ankle might not be strong enough for April. It's very hard to prepare for such a big challenge with this thought in the back of my mind, but I've always worked on a 'one day at a time' principle, and I don't see any reason to change that now. On that basis, I was fit enough today to do my stretches and a couple of miles on the treadmill, so that's what I did.
What tomorrow, or the day after, or next week, or next month will bring, I don't know...but maybe it's best that way.
I've been given some more calf strengthening exercises, and I have to go back to icing my ankles three times a day, and always after exercise. (Just to clarify, that's icing with cold packs, not decorating them using an icing tube filled with a buttercream mixture!) There's nothing like sitting with ice packs pressed onto your extremities when temperatures are barely above freezing outside. Why can't the icing wait until the summer?
The bad news is that even with all the stretching, icing and strengthening work, my ankle might not be strong enough for April. It's very hard to prepare for such a big challenge with this thought in the back of my mind, but I've always worked on a 'one day at a time' principle, and I don't see any reason to change that now. On that basis, I was fit enough today to do my stretches and a couple of miles on the treadmill, so that's what I did.
What tomorrow, or the day after, or next week, or next month will bring, I don't know...but maybe it's best that way.
Friday, 7 January 2011
Just when we thought it was safe to go out...
...we woke this morning to a fresh covering of snow, with more falling. Now I'm twice as glad that I made the effort to go out yesterday, because I was confined to the treadmill this afternoon. I only did half an hour today as my leg felt a bit sore after yesterdays longer run. I've spent more time than usual stretching today, and that seems to have paid off.
I really must move the treadmill a bit. It's still next to a radiator, and after a few minutes it feels like I'm running in a sauna. Although, on second thoughts, maybe that will help to get rid of some of the extra pounds that I managed to collect during the holidays!
I've had good news today...I got 38/40 in the work Christmas quiz, and came first! Sadly this doesn't bring with it a luxury holiday or a pay rise, but a sense of satisfaction, and justification for spending most of December trawling the internet for random facts and figures.
I really must move the treadmill a bit. It's still next to a radiator, and after a few minutes it feels like I'm running in a sauna. Although, on second thoughts, maybe that will help to get rid of some of the extra pounds that I managed to collect during the holidays!
I've had good news today...I got 38/40 in the work Christmas quiz, and came first! Sadly this doesn't bring with it a luxury holiday or a pay rise, but a sense of satisfaction, and justification for spending most of December trawling the internet for random facts and figures.
Thursday, 6 January 2011
Slip slidin' away
It was chilly this morning, but dry, so I went out for my run rather than being couped up on the treadmill. By the time I reached half way down the road, I'd nearly fallen over twice. The pavements and roads were covered in ground frost, and it certainly added to the challenge of staying upright.
I went out with the intention of covering 4 miles, which I did, but I took it quite easy. This was probably a good thing, as by the half way point - and the furthest distance from home - I realised that I'd forgotten to pick up my mobile phone and inhaler. I think I mentioned the other day that I felt like I had a cold coming. So far, this hasn't materialised (phew!) but I am still wheezy on and off, so keeping the pace down for the last two miles home was easily justified.
I love being out because it gives me time to think without any other distractions. This morning, I spent my run toying with titles for an exhibition that I'm currently organising at work. I wonder if I can claim that back as overtime...?!
I went out with the intention of covering 4 miles, which I did, but I took it quite easy. This was probably a good thing, as by the half way point - and the furthest distance from home - I realised that I'd forgotten to pick up my mobile phone and inhaler. I think I mentioned the other day that I felt like I had a cold coming. So far, this hasn't materialised (phew!) but I am still wheezy on and off, so keeping the pace down for the last two miles home was easily justified.
I love being out because it gives me time to think without any other distractions. This morning, I spent my run toying with titles for an exhibition that I'm currently organising at work. I wonder if I can claim that back as overtime...?!
Tuesday, 4 January 2011
Back to reality
Christmas and New Year have come and gone, and there are no more holidays or long weekends to come, so it really is back to the usual routine from today.
I'm working late tonight, so got my exercise in early by running a couple of miles. I've been a bit wheezy and sneezy this morning, so wonder if I'm coming down with a bit of a cold. I hope that it won't come to anything.
Somehow I've managed to put on half a stone in the last three weeks, so need to work hard to get rid of it again. How is it so easy to eat extra, and so difficult to work it off? I was told many years ago that eating chocolate while standing on one leg means that you don't absorb any of the calories, but I'm beginning to think that this might not be the case. Hmmm. Now where did I leave those carrot sticks...?
I'm working late tonight, so got my exercise in early by running a couple of miles. I've been a bit wheezy and sneezy this morning, so wonder if I'm coming down with a bit of a cold. I hope that it won't come to anything.
Somehow I've managed to put on half a stone in the last three weeks, so need to work hard to get rid of it again. How is it so easy to eat extra, and so difficult to work it off? I was told many years ago that eating chocolate while standing on one leg means that you don't absorb any of the calories, but I'm beginning to think that this might not be the case. Hmmm. Now where did I leave those carrot sticks...?
Saturday, 1 January 2011
Happy New Year!
I went to physio yesterday morning, and after 20 minutes of soft tissue massage was told that the flexibility is the muscle is almost normal...a proud moment...I think it's the first time any part of me has been deemed such.
Last night was New Year's Eve, and we celebrated with friends - plenty of food, some Mario Carting and Buzz playing on the Wii, a musical interlude (a combination of piano, guitar and flute playing as well as some singing), all topped off with a glass of bubby at midnight. A perfect start to a New Year.
The first day of 2011 has been grey and drizzly, but I was determined to get out. My leg is quite sore from yesterday, and I felt that a couple of miles walk would probably help. It was lovely to be joined by various family members (and the dog), although the light drizzle that we set off in turned into heavier rain half way round. It was good to get out in the fresh air, and even better to return home to bacon sarnies!
I hope 2011 will be a happy and healthy year for you xx
Last night was New Year's Eve, and we celebrated with friends - plenty of food, some Mario Carting and Buzz playing on the Wii, a musical interlude (a combination of piano, guitar and flute playing as well as some singing), all topped off with a glass of bubby at midnight. A perfect start to a New Year.
The first day of 2011 has been grey and drizzly, but I was determined to get out. My leg is quite sore from yesterday, and I felt that a couple of miles walk would probably help. It was lovely to be joined by various family members (and the dog), although the light drizzle that we set off in turned into heavier rain half way round. It was good to get out in the fresh air, and even better to return home to bacon sarnies!
I hope 2011 will be a happy and healthy year for you xx
Thursday, 30 December 2010
Escape from Washing Mountain
I am now officially a year older, and have vowed that I won't eat for a week after last night's Chinese buffet. I am still full to the brim, but it was lovely being able to keep going up and trying new dishes, and we certainly made the most of the opportunity! The children were very impressed by the candy floss machine, and must have eaten twice their own body weight in sugar.
Hubby has returned to work today, and I've run out of excuses for not doing the housework, so my day will be busy, too. What I really don't understand is how one family can create so much washing in less than a week. The laundry basket was overflowing, and after a good sort out I've got 8 loads to do. Each load takes just over an hour, so I've planned my day around each load...sad, isn't it?!
I put the first load in, grabbed my trainers and went out for a run. It's the first time I've been out running for a while, as I've relied on the treadmill through the snow. It's really foggy here today, and also a lot warmer than it has been. I'd overestimated how many layers I'd need to wear, and within half a mile I was very hot and rather wheezy. Even so, it was so much nicer to be out watching the world go by than stuck inside watching tv, and the 3.2 miles that I covered today passed by very quickly.
The second load of washing went in while I had a quick bath, and now the third load is in and I'm doing some tidying and helping youngest daughter to clean out her guinea pig. Who knows, by the end of the day I might just have got the 8th load washed, and tomorrow I can look forward to ironing it all. Oh the joys of being a mother!
Hubby has returned to work today, and I've run out of excuses for not doing the housework, so my day will be busy, too. What I really don't understand is how one family can create so much washing in less than a week. The laundry basket was overflowing, and after a good sort out I've got 8 loads to do. Each load takes just over an hour, so I've planned my day around each load...sad, isn't it?!
I put the first load in, grabbed my trainers and went out for a run. It's the first time I've been out running for a while, as I've relied on the treadmill through the snow. It's really foggy here today, and also a lot warmer than it has been. I'd overestimated how many layers I'd need to wear, and within half a mile I was very hot and rather wheezy. Even so, it was so much nicer to be out watching the world go by than stuck inside watching tv, and the 3.2 miles that I covered today passed by very quickly.
The second load of washing went in while I had a quick bath, and now the third load is in and I'm doing some tidying and helping youngest daughter to clean out her guinea pig. Who knows, by the end of the day I might just have got the 8th load washed, and tomorrow I can look forward to ironing it all. Oh the joys of being a mother!
Tuesday, 28 December 2010
Too much of a good thing
Over the last couple of days I've not done very much exercise, although we did go for a nice walk on the Lickey Hills yesterday with the dog, and watched the families sledging in the still-deep snow.
Today the temperatures have risen a little and the snow is finally melting, which should make it easier to get out for a run, although I stayed in on the treadmill as the pavemnets are slippery in places. I ran quite hard this morning, and as the day has gone on my ankle is feeling rather tender, but it doesn't appear to be swollen.
Tomorrow is my birthday and the celebrations have begun early. We went to Symphony Hall in Birmingham this afternoon to listen to 'The four seasons by candlelight', which was a spectacular two hours of music.
Unfortunately I'm feeling somewhat sick now as we came home and ate an entire box of Thorntons chocolates! I guess that means an extra 10 minutes running will be needed in the morning. Actually, I'd better make that an extra 20 minutes as we're going out for a Chinese birthday buffet tomorrow evening.
Today the temperatures have risen a little and the snow is finally melting, which should make it easier to get out for a run, although I stayed in on the treadmill as the pavemnets are slippery in places. I ran quite hard this morning, and as the day has gone on my ankle is feeling rather tender, but it doesn't appear to be swollen.
Tomorrow is my birthday and the celebrations have begun early. We went to Symphony Hall in Birmingham this afternoon to listen to 'The four seasons by candlelight', which was a spectacular two hours of music.
Unfortunately I'm feeling somewhat sick now as we came home and ate an entire box of Thorntons chocolates! I guess that means an extra 10 minutes running will be needed in the morning. Actually, I'd better make that an extra 20 minutes as we're going out for a Chinese birthday buffet tomorrow evening.
Friday, 24 December 2010
'Tis the season to be sneezy
Well...it was bound to happen sooner or later...I've had a rotten cold for the past few days, but I'm pleased to report that I'm finally starting to feel human again. I've not done any exercise for days, unless you count a snowy walk into the village for supplies. The good news is that - unlike the last few years when I've been ill - I haven't instantly become wheezy, and I think that my increased levels of fitness have contributed.
So, what has happened this week...? Youngest daughter was 12 on Wednesday, but the weather meant that her party plans were scuppered. I've promised her that she will be like the Queen this year and have two birthdays, so she can have a party in a couple of weeks time. Also this week, oldest daughter has had her grade 3 flute exam results...and she got a merit, which was fantastic news.
The sun is out today, and although it's still sub-zero temperatures the thaw has started. Surely it must be nearly summer?
So, what has happened this week...? Youngest daughter was 12 on Wednesday, but the weather meant that her party plans were scuppered. I've promised her that she will be like the Queen this year and have two birthdays, so she can have a party in a couple of weeks time. Also this week, oldest daughter has had her grade 3 flute exam results...and she got a merit, which was fantastic news.
The sun is out today, and although it's still sub-zero temperatures the thaw has started. Surely it must be nearly summer?
Monday, 20 December 2010
And still it falls
The snow hasn't thawed at all, and the roads are strewn with abandoned cars. First thing this morning I went with my friend to feed her horses. They are stabled at the top of a hill, which can be tricky to get to after it's snowed. Fortunately her car is a tenacious little beast and it got us up there without the need for pushing. It was a chilly -6 and eerily quiet, but the view across the frozen countryside was spectacular.
Second stop of the day was to physio, and I was treated to some more massage to help loosen up my calf muscles. After about 15 minutes of kneading, the physio told me she'd be back soon, and I assumed she had disappeared to see another patient. Not so. When she returned she explained that my calf had been very red, so she had given it a few minutes to rest. Happily it had recovered enough for her to 'have another go at it'. Goody. If I can walk tomorrow I'll be amazed.
I was also due to see Mr Orthotic Man today, but he hadn't been able to make it through the snow, so I have a new appointment booked in January.
Next stop involved running the gauntlet at the supermarket, then home to thaw out.
As I type this (just after 9 in the evening) the snow is falling again, so I'm going to shut the curtains tight, turn up the fire and pretend that it's August.
Second stop of the day was to physio, and I was treated to some more massage to help loosen up my calf muscles. After about 15 minutes of kneading, the physio told me she'd be back soon, and I assumed she had disappeared to see another patient. Not so. When she returned she explained that my calf had been very red, so she had given it a few minutes to rest. Happily it had recovered enough for her to 'have another go at it'. Goody. If I can walk tomorrow I'll be amazed.
I was also due to see Mr Orthotic Man today, but he hadn't been able to make it through the snow, so I have a new appointment booked in January.
Next stop involved running the gauntlet at the supermarket, then home to thaw out.
As I type this (just after 9 in the evening) the snow is falling again, so I'm going to shut the curtains tight, turn up the fire and pretend that it's August.
Sunday, 19 December 2010
Winter wonderland
Exercise this week has been gentle, but consistent. I've been doing about 30 minutes a day on the treadmill, and a little bit on the bike.
I did 50 minutes on the treadmill this morning, but it felt more like 3 hours - not because the going was tough, but because of a tv disaster. (I forgot to locate the tv controller before I got going, and what I thought was the news turned into an extended interview with Cliff Richards. That'll teach me not to be prepared!)
I don't think I'll be running outside for a few days. The sprinkling of snow on Friday turned into blizzards yesterday, and by yesterday evening we had 8-9 inches of the white stuff, and deeper where it had drifted. Temperatures have been around -5 degrees today, so there's been no thaw as yet.
I'm glad I took a few minutes to fill up the bird feeders on Friday, and the robin seems pleased, too.
I did 50 minutes on the treadmill this morning, but it felt more like 3 hours - not because the going was tough, but because of a tv disaster. (I forgot to locate the tv controller before I got going, and what I thought was the news turned into an extended interview with Cliff Richards. That'll teach me not to be prepared!)
I don't think I'll be running outside for a few days. The sprinkling of snow on Friday turned into blizzards yesterday, and by yesterday evening we had 8-9 inches of the white stuff, and deeper where it had drifted. Temperatures have been around -5 degrees today, so there's been no thaw as yet.
I'm glad I took a few minutes to fill up the bird feeders on Friday, and the robin seems pleased, too.
Monday, 13 December 2010
Still here...
There's not a lot to report, but I thought I'd better write a quick post so you know I'm still here!
My calf has been quite sore over the weekend thanks to the physio's 'gentle' massage, so the stretching exercises have been helping relieve the tightness.
A neighbour called in unexpectedly on Saturday morning, and I felt quite embarrassed by the accumulation of papers, dog toys and general household clutter that had built up over the previous weeks. I spent the next five hours in a cleaning and tidying frenzy while the children hid in their rooms and the dog cowered in his basket. Everything is sparkling now, and I'm following the family around to check that they're upholding my standards.
Yesterday turned into an unplanned - but very deserved - rest day. It was lovely, but proved to be the calm before the storm, as work today was utterly exhausting!
I jumped on the treadmill as soon as I walked through the door this evening as I knew a moment of hesitation or procrastination would mean no exercise. I am pleased to say that I clocked up 3km. Not far, but, as the saying goes, every little helps!
My calf has been quite sore over the weekend thanks to the physio's 'gentle' massage, so the stretching exercises have been helping relieve the tightness.
A neighbour called in unexpectedly on Saturday morning, and I felt quite embarrassed by the accumulation of papers, dog toys and general household clutter that had built up over the previous weeks. I spent the next five hours in a cleaning and tidying frenzy while the children hid in their rooms and the dog cowered in his basket. Everything is sparkling now, and I'm following the family around to check that they're upholding my standards.
Yesterday turned into an unplanned - but very deserved - rest day. It was lovely, but proved to be the calm before the storm, as work today was utterly exhausting!
I jumped on the treadmill as soon as I walked through the door this evening as I knew a moment of hesitation or procrastination would mean no exercise. I am pleased to say that I clocked up 3km. Not far, but, as the saying goes, every little helps!
Friday, 10 December 2010
Time flies
I don't know where this week has gone. Work has been busy, and all the evenings have been taken up, too. At least the snow has melted, and the weekend has started!
The best day of my week was yesterday, for two reasons.
Reason number one: I was in a training session, and we split into groups and were given the task of defining motivation, and drawing a picture to represent what motivation means to us. When it came to sharing our ideas, one of the groups explained that I was their inspiration for motivation, and linked all their ideas to the motivation needed to complete a marathon. Along side was a stick figure, labelled 'Jas'. I was really touched, and brought their drawing home and have pinned it up by my treadmill for days when I need reminding about motivation. (I am, however, a little concerned that they labelled the marathon as 27.5 miles...I thought 26.2 was far enough!)
Reason number two: my oldest daughter played a flute solo in her school concert last night, and did a very good job, too. I'm very proud of the effort she's put in to practicing, and think she did an amazing job. It's good to be a mum.
And now to exercise. I've been consistently covering about 2 miles a day, as well as doing my stretching exercises. I'm pleased to report that my ankle hasn't been swelling at all, and I've had no pain. Hoorah!
I went to see the physio this afternoon, and she is pleased with how the stretching has increased the flexibility in my hamstrings, and is beginning to loosen up my calves.
I was 'treated' to some deep tissue massage, which brought tears to my eyes, and has left me with an incredibly tender calf. Before my next appointment in a couple of weeks time I've been given some eccentric loading exercises to do, which are apparently brilliant for the achilles tendon.
My usual physio isn't available for my next appointment, and I've been promised that the person I see next time is a lot firmer with their massage. Gulp. Any firmer and they'll be down to the bone!
The best day of my week was yesterday, for two reasons.
Reason number one: I was in a training session, and we split into groups and were given the task of defining motivation, and drawing a picture to represent what motivation means to us. When it came to sharing our ideas, one of the groups explained that I was their inspiration for motivation, and linked all their ideas to the motivation needed to complete a marathon. Along side was a stick figure, labelled 'Jas'. I was really touched, and brought their drawing home and have pinned it up by my treadmill for days when I need reminding about motivation. (I am, however, a little concerned that they labelled the marathon as 27.5 miles...I thought 26.2 was far enough!)
Reason number two: my oldest daughter played a flute solo in her school concert last night, and did a very good job, too. I'm very proud of the effort she's put in to practicing, and think she did an amazing job. It's good to be a mum.
And now to exercise. I've been consistently covering about 2 miles a day, as well as doing my stretching exercises. I'm pleased to report that my ankle hasn't been swelling at all, and I've had no pain. Hoorah!
I went to see the physio this afternoon, and she is pleased with how the stretching has increased the flexibility in my hamstrings, and is beginning to loosen up my calves.
I was 'treated' to some deep tissue massage, which brought tears to my eyes, and has left me with an incredibly tender calf. Before my next appointment in a couple of weeks time I've been given some eccentric loading exercises to do, which are apparently brilliant for the achilles tendon.
My usual physio isn't available for my next appointment, and I've been promised that the person I see next time is a lot firmer with their massage. Gulp. Any firmer and they'll be down to the bone!
Sunday, 5 December 2010
Weighty matters
Exercise over the last couple of days has been more of the same - time spent on the treadmill. I was busy all morning and afternoon, and it was early evening by the time I got to exercise today, so it was already dark and cold outside. I'm grateful again for the flexibility a treadmill at home is giving me, as I think today would have otherwise been a write-off.
I know I've lost some weight over the past six months - about a stone, I think - and hubby has been trying to lose some weight recently, too. Unfortunately, our old scales are hideously inaccurate and are always +/- half a stone, depending on how you stand on them/look at them/breathe near them. With this in mind, we've treated ourselves to some fancy digital ones. They match the bathroom(!), and their large digital readout tells your weight in stones, pounds or kilos.
I've never been terribly bothered by my actual weight - if my jeans fit, then all is good, but if the buttons won't do up, it's time to cut back on treats. That said, it's nearing time for my annual asthma check up, and the asthma nurse is far more concerned with my weight - and isn't slow in telling me when I need to lose a bit.
My first step on the new scales was a bit of a shock as I seemed to have put on twenty eight pounds overnight, but a quick recalibration gave a figure about seven pounds higher than the old scales. A bit disappointing, but not a huge surprise. It means that my BMI is about 24.5, which puts me in the 'normal' range - just.
I guess I could do with losing another 7-10lbs...or maybe I should just try growing 4 inches taller.
I know I've lost some weight over the past six months - about a stone, I think - and hubby has been trying to lose some weight recently, too. Unfortunately, our old scales are hideously inaccurate and are always +/- half a stone, depending on how you stand on them/look at them/breathe near them. With this in mind, we've treated ourselves to some fancy digital ones. They match the bathroom(!), and their large digital readout tells your weight in stones, pounds or kilos.
I've never been terribly bothered by my actual weight - if my jeans fit, then all is good, but if the buttons won't do up, it's time to cut back on treats. That said, it's nearing time for my annual asthma check up, and the asthma nurse is far more concerned with my weight - and isn't slow in telling me when I need to lose a bit.
My first step on the new scales was a bit of a shock as I seemed to have put on twenty eight pounds overnight, but a quick recalibration gave a figure about seven pounds higher than the old scales. A bit disappointing, but not a huge surprise. It means that my BMI is about 24.5, which puts me in the 'normal' range - just.
I guess I could do with losing another 7-10lbs...or maybe I should just try growing 4 inches taller.
Friday, 3 December 2010
Back on track
Temperatures are still well below freezing outside, but it was toasty on the treadmill as I did my allotted distance today.
The controls are easy to master, and I soon warmed up...and then got hotter and hotter until I was positively cooking. The treadmill is next to a radiator, and I think I'll have to get into the habit of turning it off before I start exercising.
It looks like we'll have to make a slight adjustment to the belt, as it's running a little too near the left hand side and needs to be more central, but other than it seems pretty perfect, and I'm really pleased with my purchase.
I'm still doing the stretching exercises the physio gave me to do, and I think they're starting to pay off as I'm becoming more flexible. I've never been able to touch my toes, but I can now...just! I'm back with the physio in a week's time, and I hope she'll be pleased with how I'm getting on.
The most exciting part of the day by far was oldest daughter taking her grade 3 flute exam. She's practiced really hard, and she was pleased with how it went. At least the examiner she had this time was friendly and put her at ease. It'll be a long couple of weeks waiting for the result, and I'll let you know what mark she gets.
The controls are easy to master, and I soon warmed up...and then got hotter and hotter until I was positively cooking. The treadmill is next to a radiator, and I think I'll have to get into the habit of turning it off before I start exercising.
It looks like we'll have to make a slight adjustment to the belt, as it's running a little too near the left hand side and needs to be more central, but other than it seems pretty perfect, and I'm really pleased with my purchase.
I'm still doing the stretching exercises the physio gave me to do, and I think they're starting to pay off as I'm becoming more flexible. I've never been able to touch my toes, but I can now...just! I'm back with the physio in a week's time, and I hope she'll be pleased with how I'm getting on.
The most exciting part of the day by far was oldest daughter taking her grade 3 flute exam. She's practiced really hard, and she was pleased with how it went. At least the examiner she had this time was friendly and put her at ease. It'll be a long couple of weeks waiting for the result, and I'll let you know what mark she gets.
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