Becoming stronger..

I really don't know where time goes, it's almost a month since I checked in. With no major runs, this month has been all about being consistent with the runs and putting in the mileage

The week starts with our group run each Monday with the stretch in the evenings we are able to move pass the track and head into the National Park as far as the Abbey. The route has a few ups and downs which I need to do as I'm not a big fan of any incline. I need the practice on any sized hill!! Weather wise we have been fairly lucky with only an occasional rain shower although last Monday evening it was cold as we started. But we soon warmed up but there was no delay afterwards.

A good view helps me move forward..

During the last few weeks we have had some beautiful blue sky days. I have tried to stay consistent with my running despite the weather, which has been hard some days but some days there is nothing better than putting on your runners getting outside and going for a run. I love those days, those runs when you can switch off completely and just move in a forward motion. Runs were you notice the movement of your muscles, the sound of your breath and you smile from start to finish. I have had one or two this month which keep me motivated..

On the move...

Of the last few track runs I have done my most enjoyable was probably last week. There were plenty of people around each doing their own laps at their own pace. My plan was to run an easy mile to warm up, followed by 2 x 400m with a walk rest in between, 6x 200m with walk rest in between  then run two miles at a steady pace. The warm up was fine,  the 200m and the 400m were Ughhh.  A sprinter I am not but I did them and finished with a few steady miles. 

Lights, Runners, Go...

Running track selfie

I've also been going to the Killarney Parkrun which I love, although I need to put in a better performance soon. Last week, I went and as we started my legs felt heavy, I thought it was after Crossfit the evening before NO EXCUSE! But I felt a twinge in my lower shins and thought oh oh!! I pushed on not one of the most pleasant runs.

For the past two weeks I have been taking part in the Crossfit open, along with nearly 300,000 individuals worldwide, you do a prescribed workout each week, your judged and given a score which is uploaded to a website. As this is my first year, I have nothing to lose, all I can do it is give a go and try to enjoy it. There is a great group of people taking part at Crossfit Killarney . The support and the buzz on Friday night really adds to the overall experience and makes you push for that one extra rep.

Pre 16.1 look of dread...

Below are a pictures (photography courtesy of Ewelina Downey and Caroline O Donoghue) of me taken during 16.2, they are not my best looks, ughhh those saddlebags...

But I have to say I love the one of me and the barbell.. It reminds me of how strong I am becoming and how hard I have worked to get this far.