6 photos 6 runs...

Its amazing how a few weeks off can have an affect on your running. Previous to the injury I had picked up at the Banna beast challenge I had been treating myself for shin splints turns out they were small stress fractures. All this combined has meant my running is below what it should be 9 weeks out from the years first half marathon. I'm adding the mileage slowly but the pace I had run many miles to gain has for the most runs deserted me. I have been back at it now for a few weeks the following are the highlights..

The start of the month offered fabulous blue skies. I had to start back running by doing no more than a 5K with each run. It was glorious to be out once more and the natives seem to be enjoying the good weather too.  I felt my foot was weak as I ran the first mile or so, it began to ache so I slowed to a walk. To be honest I was afraid to push it!! After a quick stretch I ran on happy to be able to run.

As I needed to put more miles on my legs, I decided to run after Crossfit.  My legs felt fairly heavy to begin with but as I ran on they began to feel looser now It wasn't the fastest run but my leg didn't ache as much and I felt I had turned a corner. But my pacing was not there I was all over the place fast slow fast slow...no consistency.

A wet Tuesday evening found me at the track after Crossfit, I did a few 100m sprints and 200m sprints. I find the track really does help with increasing the pace, which I need. Also, I find running on tired legs helps with the longer distances. It was raining steadily, John took this picture and told me I was a crazy person!! But I really was desperate to do some running...

The smile was an indication that all was going well. I had finally been able to increase the mileage of my runs and was OK. Still a bit achy but not as achy..The sun was also out once more so an added bonus.. Although not the best running weather, as I just move and have sweat dripping off me. #SweatyBetty. But it does makes every view that bit prettier.

Friday 13th saw 'The Fitz Run' on the board as part of the evenings WOD. The run was from the entrance door up the road pass the Fitzgerald GAA Stadium by 200m and back down again.  As I took off I was running OK not at the speed of my fellow crossfitters. I crossed the road but  I noticed everyone else had not but I carried on and crossed back over further up. I  met everyone coming down against me at around 400m I slowed to a walk confused about the distance and pure habit. I don't know why I thought it was an 800m run rather than a 1.2Km run. I turned ran back down I didn't sprint. I probably should have considering how slow I was... Now I know the run I hope to improve the next time I take it on.

I might be turning a corner as yesterday I ran my best 5k in a few weeks and today I was able to put in a solid 7 miles. Both runs were on the plan but the rain that fell over the last two days meant it wasn't too appealing for running. Living in Ireland I can't use the rain as an excuse not to run although some days I do... The 5K run was just one of those 'yeah I'm having a great time' kind of runs whereas the 7 miles was a slog but not as much as I thought it would be. With todays run it took me 5 miles to ease into the run the last two felt the best and showed on the Garmin.

So over the next month or so, the mileage will increase in preparation for Julys half marathon. Hopefully at a pace that is consistent...

Taking control..

I've entitled this post 'taking control' and that's what I need to do. Of what, you maybe asking? Of what I put into my mouth is the answer. I've really let the nutrition side slide. I didn't take the losses I made in my weight and progress with it, instead I slipped back into old habits. I want to be a healthy person. Even though I run and do crossfit I am not as healthy as I could be. Of course there is also some or maybe even a lot of vanity I want to look good in my gym gear, to not worry about the jiggle of my 'gluteus maximus' as I run or squat and have thighs that don't have saddle bags attached to them. It isn't always about buying the right dress size etc.. I sometimes feel that I can't do a movement in Crossfit especially the gymnastics because I'm too large which when you consider the 1000's of people around the world who do these movements, is completely ridiculous. 

As I have been told the success to a healthy weight is 80% nutrition and 20% exercise, which is sometimes easy to forget. How easy it is to tell yourself you deserve the big cream bun after the hard workout or run. Now that's OK every now and again but lately the treats have becoming more routine and they have headed straight onto my saddle bags. 

And so, over the next few weeks I'm going to re-focus my eating habits.  Also as part of this renewal of fitness I am going to be doing some HIIT with Eric as part of the 4 week Body Shred Challenge, which couldn't have come at a better time for me.

Now don't get me wrong I haven't put an awful lot of weight back on but enough to make my jeans feel snug. It is easy to put your head in the sand, which I have done a few times, So this time I'm not going to, I'm going to get back on track and get to work.

So more funtimes ahead..

'It's good to have an end to journey to, but it is the journey that matters in the end'  

- Ernest Hemmingway

Banna Beast Challenge 2016

Saturday morning arrived and having slept in I headed with out too much delay back to North Kerry. Susan and my parents came to lead the support crew and to enjoy the sea air. As we drove towards Banna, I could see a scrap of blue amid the grey sky. Arriving at the registration hotel,  I was all set for the adventure ahead.. Meeting up with Bernie, Michelle and Siobhan I had a much needed coffee, we put on our warpaint and headed towards the beach..

It was about a 10/15 minute walk down to the beach. As we arrived at the beach the second wave was heading out, we watched them warming up as the rain..

Some of us braved the elements, some of us didn't no names mentioned.. 

We were in the next wave so we headed to the holding pen. It was cold and damp by this time. I met Cyril from CrossfitKillarney, I was hoping my crossfit would help with the obstacles and I it did.  Someone shouted out various exercises in a warm up which included push ups in the wet sand, fun. They 1,2,3 and we were away, over the hay bales and a run across the sand to the first obstacle troughs and peaks. Our hands were fairly cold at this stage..

Next we headed up into the dunes, over a hay bale, under some netting  and then we hit our first set of monkey bars. They were wet and it was impossible to hang on.. Next up was an obstacle called the 'hangover cure' were you had to hang on with your arms while going from one step to another. Done! Next up was the bouncing castle which was fun in itself. We headed into the dunes under the nets one after each other like a well rehearsed troop. We then met our first fence and with a leg up I was over. After a bit of  run we had to climb up over scaffolding covered in netting, I was a bit shaky about this one as I am not great with heights. But through the encouragement and direction of the other girls I got it done. That was a real buzz,  a fear conquered and deserved a group hug, which it got. Over some tyres, through some tyres and then onto the beach again

Then there were more round bales to go over. I pulled myself over without to much bother. We then had a run a long the beach which is an obstacle in itself. Running on the beach really works the legs. At the half way mark, we headed into the dunes once more. The fun part of doing a course like this is that its not a race, there's no clock so you can slow down when you need or you take a moment to take in the fabulous view.

I am trying to remember the obstacles and the order they came in, I think generally I have them covered.
Next up was the marshy watery part of the course. Which wasn't bad until we had to wade into dark black rank smelling water, to get on to the next obstacle which was to hang upside down on more bars.. I went along the side hanging on the bars upright.

My smile says how much fun we were having..

Climbing over the plastic tubing,  we then had to run in wet squelchy runners. Ughhh..  Even at that I was really enjoying the experience. We then ran on for a while, before long I could see Susan in the distance so I knew we were nearly back at the beach.

Next up were the Monkey bars moving across them offered much laughter

Hanging round

We then had to on up a sand dune, down the sand dune, through the tyre pit and up the highest sand dune..a great workout for the quads and gluteous maximus.

Then down onto the beach, through the plastic tubing. WHAT!!!  I bent down, started and said no no not for me but the girls urged me to give it another go, which I did and as I crawled through the reasonably short tube, I heard everyone urging me forward. Done! There was only one or two more obstacles left, down on my belly I had to crawl through puddles under logs and then more running/walking along the beach. Next up over a fence

Climbing these fences etc.. may not seem too tough to some but I a year ago I wouldn't have enough upper body strength to carry me over. And then through some more tyres,

and then the final obstacle the 'Half pipes from Hell'. After an an attempt or two in some cases, Bernie was first to make it up, then Michelle, then Siobhan and then I nearly made it up.
I was there I left go and down onto my foot. I got up though and after a few minutes thought I was OK. I was disappointed, it was the only obstacle I hadn't completed I wanted to try again only my support crew wouldn't let me.

All blinged up..

To reflect on the Banna Beast Challenge it really was great fun, you need a group that you can be silly with and have a laugh with me. I will definitely sign up again for next year. And I will conquer the 'half pipes of hell'.

High on adrenaline ...

On a side note my little mishap at the end resulted in a Saturday evening spent in the A&E. A suspected fracture which turned out to be damaged ligaments means I'm out of action for a week or two. I am now sporting  a very fashionable black boot..

The 2016 Crossfit Open and I...

I haven't done much running this week. I had to give my leg a rest. I  did go to Crossfit which held no pressure this week as the open was over. I began Crossfit last autumn and quickly it has become an essential part of my weekly routine.  

Over the last five weeks I took part in the Crossfit Open, this a worldwide event open to all crossfitters, each week a workout is done and your score is ranked. For most people who crossfit this is were it ends, for the fittest their aim is to get to the Crossfit games (kinda like the Crossfit Olympics!) here they will be crowned the fitness man,woman,teenager or team. Each workout is announced on the Thursday night (Pacific Time) via the internet, thursday nights over the open meant little sleep as I anxiously waited to find out what the workout would be. Friday mornings meant looking at the announcement fretting, it also meant watching my favourite part of the announcement the Ro vs Boz match up. #TeamRo all the way..

Why did I sign up? This was the question that whirled around my head on Friday 26th February. But I had and there was nothing to do only turn up and get on with it. Which I did. I was just delighted that first night to have it done. 

The main memory that I took from the first night which stayed and kept me going throughout the open was the camaraderie of my fellow competitors, the encouragement of those who supported us and the unwavering support of our coach Eric.

The first two weeks passed, I was happy enough but 16.3 nearly broke me. The workout was 10 power snatches at 35lb and 5 jumping chest to bar pull ups a 7 min AMRAP (as many reps as possible), as the clock started I did the 10 power snatches and then headed to the bar. And here I stayed, trying to get 1 jumping chest to bar pull up for the next 6 or so minutes. It was excruciating.   I cheered those around me as they achieved a full bar muscle up. I kept trying but I have to say I felt some relief when the clock went. I left that evening and went home and cried.  I know, I know, what a wuss!! But I was disappointed in myself that I just couldn't get it! 

The following week I was determined to put 16.3 behind me and give 16.4 a good go. I did OK. I got through, the 55 deadlifts, 55 wallballs and 44 calories on the rower. The wallballs wore me out. But I ended the workout smiling. 

I just love this photo (picture courtesy ewelina downey)

The last workout was for time and it was going to be a tough one. It was 21 thrusters 21 burpees, 18 thrusters 18 burpees, 15 thrusters 15 burpees, 12 thrusters 12 burpees, 9 thrusters 9 burpees, 6 thrusters 6 burpees, 3 thrusters and 3 burpees. It looks horrible in black and white and it was horrible. Burpees, I thought they were done with in 16.1.

Eric suggested to start off steady and if you can give it everything at the end, which I tried to do. It was a pure grind. The support of those cheering me on definitely got me to the end of this one. This is the workout that  caused my knees so much pain. (Thankfully, arnica and deep heat eased the bruising and tenderness.)

What did I learn over the five weeks:- 

my fellow crossfitters are an amazing bunch of people, who can raise you up even beyond what you think you can do yourself

I could have pushed myself further on some of the workouts 

I am determined to get better and do better over the next year

As I improve at Crossfit I know that my running will improve, which I look forward to. It already has improved my endurance as a runner as well as strengthen my legs. My hopes for the 2017 Crossfit Open would be that I complete each workout well and there are NO BURPEES!!

Easter running..

Easter Sunday saw me once more heading to North Kerry to take part in the Maurice Collins Memorial 4 mile run. Last year it was a real blue sky day, this year it was not! The morning was chilly, the rain was falling in heavy showers and when we arrived in Ballyheigue it was windy too. I was in a moany mood as I had a dull ache in my shin, (shin splints the runners friend, NOT!) as well as two knees which were black and blue from the burpees I had done during Fridays crossfit open 16.5.

View from the car

Not long after Michelle arrived we headed over to register. The run raises money for the Kerry Cork Health Link bus which takes patients dealing with cancer to their appointments and treatments, it is a truly worthy cause. As we signed up runners began to appear, I decided to find the toilet for the nervous pee. We were at this stage still layered up, scarfs, coats etc...

Heading back to the car I left my a few layers there but I brought a jacket but to be honest it didn't last long into the run. I warm up to quickly to carry a jacket around with me as I run. 

As I made my way to the start line I made an attempt to warm up by doing a bit of a jog and I did a few stretches. There was a nice crowd, knowing where I was at preparation wise I kept towards the middle rear end of the group. I was not going to be racing. Bernie was at the start line, after quickly outlining the route she sent us on our way. But, as I began to run my breath was literally taken,  as we all ran head on into the wind. The wind made it tough to settle into a good steady pace. At this stage there was a quick downpour, it wasn't too heavy and it was the only one of the run.

By the second mile I felt comfortable in the run especially as the wind was now at my back and as the route began to climb it didn't feel as hard as it could have. Woohoo!! I have run this route before and the previous times the weather has been glorious which made for the most amazing views. But the view of a stormy seascape added a different dimension to the vista. I had no camera with me so I can't share the view with you.
During the last mile and a half there was a runner ahead of me, we kept hopping past each other. Eventually, he pulled ahead of me but I tried as always to finish strong. Although apparently I forgot to smile..

My saddle bags are on full display must do more squats..

As I crossed the finish line to receive my bling, I had a quick peek at the Garmin and I was happy with the run I had done.

It wasn't the quickest 4 mile I have run but considering everything I can't complain. Having reviewed my mile splits on the Garmin I ran more consistently this year, which you know is my ultimate aim - to be a consistent runner. Slowly but surely it is happening..

This run has a truly stunning views, I can't wait to come and run here during the Summer when the sun shines. I will take a some pictures to show you all. 

I didn't reach my monthly mileage goal for March, at this stage of the year it's not too bad but I'll have to put together a good training plan over the next week or so which will take me through the Summer. I have a few runs coming up over the next few months and I want to put in a good effort. 

As the evenings are getting longer and brighter I'm looking forward to exploring the national park once more..

Our next outing is the Banna beast challenge it should be great fun, it is an obstacle race on the beach.Some of the group are signed up I haven't signed up yet!  But it would be a good challenge and also a good laugh. I am hoping for good weather for the participants and spectators. 

  

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.

Valentines day running - 10 miles

After all the rain of the last few months, it was great to wake on Sunday to blue skies, it was a day made for running, the temperature was low but not too cold.  Heading into Tralee, I quickly found parking. I had everything I needed for my run water, phone, earphones I was missing only one thing sunglasses, the sun really was that strong...
A short walk down to the wetlands gave my legs a stretch, after the requisite toilet stop I was ready. I would be running solo none of the girls were able to make this one. The atmosphere was good and I felt quite relaxed....

There was nothing left to do only to head to the start line. There were pacers but I didn't know where to place myself, I knew where I'd like to finish but not wanting to put my 'delicate' running psyche under any pressure, I hedged my bets and lined up between the 1.45 and 2.00 hour pacers.  I did a few squats to keep the legs warm and soon enough we were off.
I knew I was going faster than I could maintain but I moved with the crowd and as the first mile passed, I didn't feel too bad. As I headed up Caherslee, I was able to ease in to a more maintainable pace, there were plenty of people out cheering us on which was lovely. As I hit the roundabout and turned left out into the country road, I felt a slight twinge. Aghhh!! A stitch but a quick stretch and I felt fine once more. I was really enjoying the run. I felt comfortable. Out in the Tralee countryside, the road stretched ahead I tried to run relaxed and smile, which wasn't too hard considering what a beautiful day it was.
I no longer felt a chill in fact I was quite warm as I turned left toward the Kerries.  I knew the road for next few miles was hilly with a few twist and turns, so I paced it as best I could, I walked one hill, ran another and then once more...Stitch!  I did the same as before, stretched but kept moving forward. The view at the top is lovely and offers a beautiful view over Tralee Bay.
What goes up must come down and as I headed down the stitch was there niggling.. The road climbed slightly and so did I slowly. I stopped again to stretch..  As I hit the 8th mile, I was thankful for the water offered, looking out at the Atlantic ocean is always uplifting but heading past Blennerville windmill and along the canal was tough, the stitch was a constant.

I caught up to a  runner I knew Elaine from the 'Kilgarvan ag rith' running group, she had picked up a bit of a knock herself. Over the next mile or so I walked a bit, ran as best I could but I was not enjoying it at all. As I headed towards the Brandon Hotel,  Elaine passed and offered encouragement as did another runner who said the best think for a stitch was to run through it, which I assure you is a lot easier said than done! (The runner I later realised was a pacer so they do know what they were talking about).  As I crossed the road, Susan was there she said just go for it  and some how I just kept looking straight, literally with my teeth gritted I sprinted towards the finish line as fast as I could.
Crossing the line I knew what was going to happen, I got as far as the white van and began to dry heave which quickly turn into the regurgitating of every sip of water I had drank since I woke..The stewards were extremely helpful and patient, fantastic!
Having retrieved my bling and stopped my trusty Garmin, I found a bench sat down and gathered myself. Susan and mum found me and my new bit of bling taking a few deep breaths. I finished just within the 2 hours.

Eyes in need of sunglasses..

Looking back on the run, I really did enjoy it as a whole the first half I paced my run well which I really happy about. And although I didn't finish as strong as I would have liked, I know I am capable of a good strong 10 mile run at some time in the future....