The running thread.

[shiftin_gear98]

I hope you are feeling better.

[garynortheast]

I hope you are feeling better.

Thanks Martin. I do actually, still a bit chesty, but much better.

Made it out for a run in the new shoes this morning. A mix of small lanes and trails, but no Garmin/Strava log I'm afraid. Left the Garmin switched on all week as I forgot to turn it off after I last used it and the battery was flat when I came to put it on this morning.
Started my run by running up to a friends house about a mile and a half away (and almost all uphill!) to let her poultry out as she was away. From there it was back down a parallel lane and then through a favourite piece of woodland and another shortish woodland trail by the river. Back up to the lane leading home from there and returning to the village. About 4.5 miles in all I think.

The shoes were very good. On tarmac (which they're really not designed for) I was aware vaguely through the sole of the pressure from the lugs on the outsole, but it wasn't uncomfortable and really only noticeable when I focussed on it. On a couple of bits of very smooth, shiny tarmac, there was a certain amount of suction from the lugs but a soon as I moved back onto the rougher surface it disappeared. On the trails and in the mud, they were excellent, giving good grip during both forward and lateral movement, and allowing me to push on through slippery conditions with confidence.
While not waterproof, they didn't instantly fill with water when I ran through wet conditions or puddles. They also seem to shrug off the mud somehow, needing only a quick rinse off under the tap when I got home. The foam insoles come out allowing them to be rinsed out separately.
All round, a good, comfortable, and very effective pair off shoes. I'll see how they fare over the winter.

[shiftin_gear98]

Managed to get a cheeky 3.7 mile head torch road run in tonight.

[shiftin_gear98]

Overlapped post! Glad you got out Gary. And that you are happy with your new rubber.

[garynortheast]

Well done on the late run. I haven't needed to break out the headtorch yet, although if the weather continues mild, I could be tempted. Night runs here are good fun.

[shiftin_gear98]

Got out for a run tonight. This one was a little bit different. I went with the missus to try out Bishops Stortford running club. It was OK. Not sure it's for me. But it might be nice to run with a few people.
5.1 miles seeing the sights of Bishops Stortford.

[garynortheast]

Ah nice one! I really enjoy social running, I find can make it easier to get out the door! All tarmac though I take it?

I made it out this morning for one of my short runs. Feeling pretty unfit still, with a tight chest. It was bloomin' cold too; base layer top, long sleeves running shirt, windproof running jacket and winter running tights with hat and gloves. The wind was like a knife running over the ally!
Haven't uploaded from my Garmin yet, I'll do it tomorrow.

Got a Powys Canicross social run on Saturday morning, probably 3 or 4 of us and dogs. It'll be a slow one probably as I'm not up to speed again yet, one of the other runners is only just getting going again after a nasty ankle injury earlier this year, and one other runner is just starting out. Should be good fun though. We're going for the fairly flat five mile riverside run between Dolanog and Pont Llogel.

[shiftin_gear98]

Yeah it was tarmac, apparently there is a group that do trail run on the Wed evening. It was nice to run a different route even pounding the pavements.
I'm just not sure as it all looked a little disorganised. Obviously everyone runs at different speeds so people go out with similar timed runners. However they organise themselves via the medium of Faceache.
I hate bloody Faceache, so much so I deleted my account a few months back.
Not sure I want it back in my life.


It did seem like a nice club, £45.00 for the year and that's it. No paying every time you turn up. Unlike the club in Chingford where I used to live where you paid yearly to be a member and £3.00 every time you ran.
Needless to say I didn't join that one.


I like the idea of running with people in the winter as it's just too dark to be hitting the trails on my own heading off into the abyss. And I don't really enjoy tarmac.
However for me running is about freedom and head space. So I'm not sure how much I'd use it in the summer. Who knows I might be wrong maybe for £45.00 it's worth the punt.


Besides I have kind of set myself the challenge of running that Norfolk Coastal Marathon next year if I can get back into it properly.

[shiftin_gear98]

This evenings efforts. 5.8 miles it was cold, dark and gloomy. Even a flurry or two of icey snow/hale.

[shiftin_gear98]

Busy day today 5-6 hours stuck on a motorway delivering presents to family in Southampton - fun, yay.
So I set the alarm for 7am. And just did the Manuden loop. 8.5 miles. I was even up before the sun.


https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4916/45628692304_e689542ec1_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cw3Yxs)First rays of light (https://flic.kr/p/2cw3Yxs) by martin cockerell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155901659@N02/), on Flickr

[Seeker]

I was reading today that you need to run for 21 minutes to work off 1 mince pie, 110 minutes for a small Christmas pudding, sparkling wine? not too bad 9 minutes (but who drinks one small glass?)

I wish I'd read that after Christmas.

[garynortheast]

This evenings efforts. 5.8 miles it was cold, dark and gloomy. Even a flurry or two of icey snow/hale.

Busy day today 5-6 hours stuck on a motorway delivering presents to family in Southampton - fun, yay.
So I set the alarm for 7am. And just did the Manuden loop. 8.5 miles. I was even up before the sun.

You're doing better than me at the moment Martin. Good distance on the Manuden loop, we'll done sir!

I was reading today that you need to run for 21 minutes to work off 1 mince pie, 110 minutes for a small Christmas pudding, sparkling wine? not too bad 9 minutes (but who drinks one small glass?)

I wish I'd read that after Christmas.

Get those running shoes on Seeker, it's worth the effort in all ways both mentally and physically!

My Canicross social run didn't happen on Saturday. The weather here was so grim we decided to cancel it. It absolutely sheeted down most of the day. I don't mind running in the rain generally but that was well beyond!

[garynortheast]

Mabel and I made it out on this beautiful morning with a friend for a slow, rather muddy 6.7 mile run along the river (https://www.strava.com/activities/2021396496). Good to be out.

[shiftin_gear98]

Glad you found sunshine.

[garynortheast]

It was a glorious, crisp morning but it deteriorated soon after we got back. The rest of the day has been the usual glum gloom.

[shiftin_gear98]

I managed to get out after work. Only a short one, but I pushed the pace a little. My legs are feeling it now.
3.7 miles. 8.23.

[shiftin_gear98]

Got out just now, did the Birchanger Loop in the dark. 4.7 miles. Most of it mud skating. I'm quite impressed I stayed upright, I think my feet covered about 10 miles worth of skitting around underneath my body.
My fitness is slowly returning.

[shiftin_gear98]

Just squeezed in 6.7 light fading, mud slipping, drizzly miles. It was great, I loved every ankle aching step of it.

Some runs are just perfect.

[garynortheast]

Some runs are just unexpectedly really good in the most unfavourable conditions, and then another day can be hard work and not much fun in what should be perfect conditions! Glad you had the former Martin!

I had intended to go and do parkrun at Erddig yesterday but opted for a local 3.7m loop (https://www.strava.com/activities/2032155100) instead. Just couldn't face the drive to get there, knowing I had a long drive coming up later that day. Nice little run though and I felt so much better for it too.

[garynortheast]

Out this morning for a slow, muddy, misty, 4.1 mile run (https://www.strava.com/activities/2032743663) with my friend Craig from up the lane. Very enjoyable run.

[shiftin_gear98]

Didn't get out this morning, the look I got off the other half was enough to not push it when I mentioned it.

[garynortheast]

Didn't get out this morning, the look I got off the other half was enough to not push it when I mentioned it.

Lol, best to keep the peace I think! I'm going to try for tomorrow morning.

[shiftin_gear98]

Just managed to all get out as a family unit . Kids all on their bikes. Even short stuff. It was slightly slow going, but might have been down to her or me. I had Adidas Sambas on to load the car. Yeah I forgot to pick up my actual running shoes.
4.2 slightly painful miles.
Note to self. NEVER RUN IN SAMBAS.

[shiftin_gear98]

Woke up early ish (for the holidays) 7am. So went out.
Just me, and the foggy darkness turning into light.
8.8 miles. Shame my right calf muscle had had enough at 8.0 miles. Limped home. Think I might be limping most of the day now. Oh well.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4895/44666384420_6b17bf2c89_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2b41TWd)DSC_1260 (https://flic.kr/p/2b41TWd) by martin cockerell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155901659@N02/), on Flickr


https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7826/45759840624_ae22033e44_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cHD9no)DSC_1261 (https://flic.kr/p/2cHD9no) by martin cockerell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155901659@N02/), on Flickr

[garynortheast]

Ouch! Rest it for a couple of days. Great pictures though, fab sunrise!

Had intended to be out first thing too but chores, work, and weather have caught me out. Going out to do a short job for one of my clients then hope to get out for a few miles when I get back.

[garynortheast]

Made it out for 7¾ glorious miles of muddy, muggy, hilly, slipperyness (https://www.strava.com/activities/2038426515). Cracking run.

Very impressed indeed with these Higher State trail shoes, so much grip in some seriously muddy conditions.

[garynortheast]

Shrewsbury parkrun this morning (https://www.strava.com/activities/2042581514)

Eventful parkrun - forgot to start the Garmin at the beginning, forgot to stop it at the end. Pee and poo stops for Mabel slowed things down and Mabel nearly took out with her lead this poor woman running with the tailrunner by trying to run between them as I was overtaking them! Aaargh! Fortunately no harm done. Phew...

Off to Chirk Castle tomorrow morning for the Trust10k there. I'll try my best not to bring down any of the other runners!

[garynortheast]

Trust10K this morning at Chirk Castle (https://www.strava.com/activities/2044201501). Great course and nice to see such a good attendance, especially so many canicrossers! The final pull up to the finish across the fields is a bit of a killer though!

I went wearing shorts with compression top and T-shirt but tbh I could easily have done without the long sleeved comp top as it really wasn't particularly cold, especially once I'd started running.

[shiftin_gear98]

Good effort this morning Gary. You blew away a few cobwebs, and other runners!

Got out this morning for a steady loop with O. on his bike. I didn't push the pace as my leg still felt a little tight after the other day. It felt better for it.

4.7 miles.

[garynortheast]

Well done, taking it gently for a few days looks to be the way forward there then.

Mabel ran brilliantly this morning. She pulled most of the way round and even had enough in reserve to give me assistance up the final slog. She wasn't as keen yesterday though as it was all tarmac paths at Shrewsbury parkrun. She's not keen on running on hard surfaces like that. Absolute star today at Chirk however. :-)

[shiftin_gear98]

Well new year and all that, I thought I'd try something different this year. So I took some spare running gear (old trainers etc) into work.
I only get half an hour lunch, but I managed to squeeze in a 2.7 mile run. Hopefully as my fitness increase I'll get a little further down the canal path!
I'm hoping to use these runs to try to boost my speed/sprint ability. The plan is to go out 2-3 times a week as well as my normal evening weekend efforts.


DSC_1280 (https://flic.kr/p/2dZrFrL) by martin cockerell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155901659@N02/), on Flickr


https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4875/46595024522_6dd4af9a25_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dZrFrL)DSC_1280 (https://flic.kr/p/2dZrFrL) by martin cockerell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155901659@N02/), on Flickr


https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4862/46595024692_e02b48de0d_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dZrFuG)DSC_1279 (https://flic.kr/p/2dZrFuG) by martin cockerell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155901659@N02/), on Flickr


Back of Rye House Cart Track.

[chris8886]

Well new year and all that, I thought I'd try something different this year. So I took some spare running gear (old trainers etc) into work.
I only get half an hour lunch, but I managed to squeeze in a 2.7 mile run. Hopefully as my fitness increase I'll get a little further down the canal path!
I'm hoping to use these runs to try to boost my speed/sprint ability. The plan is to go out 2-3 times a week as well as my normal evening weekend efforts.



i'd say to try and stick to your regular running shoes and not use 'old' ones if possible. help yourself to avoid injury....

[garynortheast]

i'd say to try and stick to your regular running shoes and not use 'old' ones if possible. help yourself to avoid injury....
I'd tend to agree with that I think unless it's just a decommissioned pair you used to run in, and trust.

Off out for an early morning run with Mabel and a friend in the morning. Bet that's going to be a bit parky at 7.30am!

[shiftin_gear98]

When I said "old" they were the pair I updated a month ago.
But yeah I could feel they are not as comfy as my new not shiny anymore ones. I'll give them a few goes.
I don't have room to carry my current ones into work everyday on the bike. Plus my bank balance is fairly devastated after Christmas.

[garynortheast]

My bank balance is fairly devastated after Christmas.
I know the feeling! :-(

[shiftin_gear98]

Got out after work, tonight I struggled. I really wasn't feeling it.
It didn't help when I did my Superman to faceplant impression at the 4 mile mark whilst running through a wood in the dark.
I totally didn't see the tree root. 5.6 hard miles.


My body aches now from the landing, I don't bounce like I used to.

[garynortheast]

Ouch! That sounds pretty painful, especially in the cold!

Got out for a short run this morning (https://www.strava.com/activities/2055434300). Bitterly cold at -4 degrees C and at the start (7.30am) only just light enough to see. It was so hard to get moving in that temperature!

Out tomorrow morning in a local forest on MtBs with a friend and the dogs. I will be well wrapped up I can tell you now!

[shiftin_gear98]

Got out this morning, last night both boys said they wanted to come. At 8am it was just me and my hangover, their beds must have been too comfy, or their a couple of lazy little mofos.
Elsenham Loop. 9.1 miles. Knackered.
Now off for a walk with family.

[garynortheast]

Ha ha, the cold light of morning and a comfy bed changes everything!

I was out on the mtb in Dyfnant yesterday morning. Not as cold and muddy as I though it would be. My friend was bikejoring with her husky and her two collies and Mabel ran free with us. A very hilly 6 miles. Forgot to take the Garmin though so no Strava. :-(

Hopefully out at some point for a run tomorrow.

[shiftin_gear98]

I managed to get a 2 mile run in at lunch. I had looked on Google maps and seen a bit of Lee Valley Park right near to where I work. Lee Valley Park is a wetland area.
However once I'd set off I soon discovered I couldn't go where I wanted to as it's not open to the public. Probably set aside for the birds to get a bit of piece and quiet.
So I just about managed to make up the 2 miles on the paths I could find.


https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4911/32772746638_2fbbc663e3_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RW1TMQ)2019-01-07_02-10-20 (https://flic.kr/p/RW1TMQ) by martin cockerell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155901659@N02/), on Flickr

[garynortheast]

Still looks like a nice spot for a run though Martin.

Out for a grey, rainy, muddy, but really enjoyable 7.8 miles this afternoon (https://www.strava.com/activities/2062280766). Quite warm too, must've been around 8 or 9 degrees.

Planning on a short run tomorrow morning with a friend and our dogs. She's returning to running after a series of illnesses, so it'll be short and very gentle (although it will include that hill!).

[shiftin_gear98]

Got out this evening to pound the pavement. 4.7 miles.
I felt a bit more in my groove this evening.

[shiftin_gear98]

Lunch Run 2.1 miles.
I found a nice little loop to do, much better than down and back along the same bit of canal.


I really wish the weather would warm up though. The cold is really making me cough lately.
I think I nearly just lost a lung.

[shiftin_gear98]

Got home to find out my missus has signed us both up to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Half Marathon. Feb 10th.
Looks like fun.

[garynortheast]

Good news on finding a more interesting route for your lunchtime runs, and good on your missus for getting you both signed up for the half.

I'm hoping to enter the Canix Fur Nations cup in April and May. I'll only do the Welsh and English days though as I can't really afford the time or money to do the Scottish leg. The Welsh leg is at Pembrey near Llanelli, and the English leg is at Cannock.

Had hoped to get out for a run today but instead spent the entire day shuffling and sorting invoices and receipts in preparation for doing my bleedin' accounts. Deep joy :-(

[shiftin_gear98]

Made it home a little later today than normal, so did a slightly shorter run than I'd planned. Birchanger Loop. 4.8 miles. I even managed to avoid the tree roots.

[garynortheast]

Out with my mate from up the lane at 7.45 this morning for a quick loop over the ally and through the forest. Just 3.6 miles, but better than nothing! Need to upload it to Strava yet.

[shiftin_gear98]

Nice Sunday morning run with my eldest on his bike. First time he's been out in a while. 7.4 miles. I had planned to go further, but he had had enough. To be fair it was really windy.

[shiftin_gear98]

Knackered after a 3.0 mile even newer Lunch loop. Basically running around Glen Faba - it's quite a nice lake.

[garynortheast]

That sounds like a right nice way to spend a lunch hour!

Out at 7.30 on my short 3.6 mile loop again this morning with my mate Craig. All either of us had time for this morning. Need to keep an eye on my knee which was a bit painful when I knelt down on it to tie my laces. OK running, but I don't want it turning into something worse.

[shiftin_gear98]

I wish I had a lunch hour, I get 30 mins.
Hopefully your knee doesn't play silly buggers.

[shiftin_gear98]

Got out this evening. 6.5 miles. It didn't help when the head torch batteries died on the first mile. At the darkest off road moment. Luckily I'd picked up spares. It took 4 attempts before my brain kicked in and I remembered to press and hold to turn on the rear light. All whilst continuing to run/stumble in the darkness.
I enjoyed the run. However my ankle is a touch tender now. Rest day tomorrow.

[garynortheast]

Watch that ankle!

Had a whiz round a local route on the mountain bike yesterday, with Mabel running with me but forgot to take the Garmin. Hoping to get out for a run at some point today when I get back from my hospital appointment.

[shiftin_gear98]

Hospital appointment - Hopefully nothing serious.


Ankle feeling back to normal this morning, once I got over the initial creakiness getting out of bed.

[garynortheast]

Hospital appointment - Hopefully nothing serious.


Ankle feeling back to normal this morning, once I got over the initial creakiness getting out of bed.

Nope, nothing to be overly concerned about. Lymph node in my neck has been up since I had that nasty cough and cold at Christmas. The doctor wanted an ultrasound done on it just to check it out. Chap doing the ultrasound had a look and said he's not concerned about it as it's not looking at all unpleasant. Back to the doctor later to chat about it with her.

Glad your ankle is OK again.

Never got out for a run in the end today, spent the afternoon dealing with the wheel bearings on the mountain bike ready for a ride tomorrow.

[shiftin_gear98]

Gary, I'm glad it's nothing serious.


Got out at lunch time did my new Glen Faba route again. Today was really muddy!
Didn't help with my time, I was nearly late back. 3.1 muddy miles.


Still I managed to snap a quick pic.
Glen Faba


https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4809/46051637444_9c49f178a9_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2daqFp3)Glen Faba (https://flic.kr/p/2daqFp3) by martin cockerell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155901659@N02/), on Flickr

[garynortheast]

No ride and no run today. :-( Spent another joyful day doing my accounts.

[shiftin_gear98]

Got out for my Friday afternoon run. 6.5 miles. Managed most of it in the light.

[garynortheast]

I'm now starting to get even more cranky and crabby than usual as I've not run since Monday. Really need to get my accounts finished and submitted as I can't think about anything else atm. :-(
Having said that, I'm trying to sort a social run with some of the other canicross runners for Sunday afternoon. Desperately need to get out.....

[shiftin_gear98]

Got out just now. 10.7 glorious miles. OK I'm slightly knackered right now. But it felt good. Especially as that 1/2 is only 3 weeks away.




https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7873/45916109715_4f662b7cbb_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cXs4J4)2019-01-21_08-58-30 (https://flic.kr/p/2cXs4J4) by martin cockerell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155901659@N02/), on Flickr

[garynortheast]

Well done Martin, Good man!

I can see an end in sight to my stint of accounts so I shall be out next week at least twice. I'm also joining a crowd of canicross runners for a hilly few miles of social running near Shrewsbury next Sunday. Looks like a really nice route too.

[garynortheast]

Yay! Made it out this morning. Just my short loop of 3.6 miles as I hadn't run for a week, and also needed to be back to get out on a job. Lovely crisp, clear morning with a great view of the snow covered Aran and Berwyn mountain ranges from the top of the allt.

My goodness, my head feels so much clearer and I have so much more energy after that run!!

https://www.strava.com/activities/2093605081

https://www.relive.cc/view/2093605081

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4824/45913031075_bac43a0c36_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cXbhy4)
Allt and forest run (https://flic.kr/p/2cXbhy4) by garynortheast (https://www.flickr.com/photos/67411872@N03/)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4901/39862742483_a1ce2ed248_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23JwYxv)
Allt and forestrun (https://flic.kr/p/23JwYxv) by garynortheast (https://www.flickr.com/photos/67411872@N03/)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4902/46102690584_289866db9e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2deWkHA)
Allt and forestrun (https://flic.kr/p/2deWkHA) by garynortheast (https://www.flickr.com/photos/67411872@N03/)

[shiftin_gear98]

Gary, glad you got out. Your regular run does look stunning.

For a moment today I thought about doing my lunch loop. But my legs were demanding a rest, and as it was freezing outside I let them win.

[garynortheast]

For a moment today I thought about doing my lunch loop. But my legs were demanding a rest, and as it was freezing outside I let them win.

After your run the other day I'm not surprised! Don't knacker yourself before your hm.

[shiftin_gear98]

Decided sod it the weathers too nice to be stuck indoors all day.
(I work in an industrial unit with one translucent window - so I can see it's bright, but not actually see out)


So I did my run, in reverse this time, muddy bit first to see if it helped with tired legs at the end.

Glen Faba from the other end.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4821/32963096198_30033b38b3_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SdQu5N)2019-01-22_01-42-12 (https://flic.kr/p/SdQu5N) by martin cockerell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155901659@N02/), on Flickr

[garynortheast]

Your weather looks better than ours!

[shiftin_gear98]

It's a glorious day here today, still a little bit fresh. But yeah a lovely sunny day.

[garynortheast]

Out with Mabel and my friend Craig this morning for a slow but absolutely glorious 6.7 snowy miles of trails, fields, and woodlands (https://www.strava.com/activities/2097699763).

I have some photos of the run which I'll post once I've had some breakfast.

[shiftin_gear98]

Come on it doesn't take 3 hours to have breakfast!
Just off to get changed for another lunch run.

[shiftin_gear98]

Wow, what a difference a day makes. No snow here but that was bloody freezing!

[garynortheast]

Come on it doesn't take 3 hours to have breakfast!
Just off to get changed for another lunch run.

LOL! Breakfasted, showered, changed, and did a bit of work first!

Pictures then....

Start of the run.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4878/46124728734_9269f6392c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dgThTG)
Pontllogel run in the snow (https://flic.kr/p/2dgThTG) by garynortheast (https://www.flickr.com/photos/67411872@N03/)

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7817/45935217855_d6cf04a7dc_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cZ8ZUK)
Pontllogel run in the snow (https://flic.kr/p/2cZ8ZUK) by garynortheast (https://www.flickr.com/photos/67411872@N03/)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4849/45935215875_5e2e223f2c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cZ8ZjB)
Pontllogel run in the snow (https://flic.kr/p/2cZ8ZjB) by garynortheast (https://www.flickr.com/photos/67411872@N03/)

About a third of the way now. Mabel's keen to keep moving.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7828/45935214915_9988505f19_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cZ8Z34)
Pontllogel run in the snow (https://flic.kr/p/2cZ8Z34) by garynortheast (https://www.flickr.com/photos/67411872@N03/)

My mate Craig. Heading into the woods at Pontllogel.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7872/45935213435_9c24a5a668_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cZ8YAx)
Pontllogel run in the snow (https://flic.kr/p/2cZ8YAx) by garynortheast (https://www.flickr.com/photos/67411872@N03/)

Heading back.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7818/45935211855_a13ce8300c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cZ8Y8i)
Pontllogel run in the snow (https://flic.kr/p/2cZ8Y8i) by garynortheast (https://www.flickr.com/photos/67411872@N03/)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4871/31908436337_2f704f3a4c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QBD5s6)
Pontllogel run in the snow (https://flic.kr/p/QBD5s6) by garynortheast (https://www.flickr.com/photos/67411872@N03/)

[garynortheast]

Wow, what a difference a day makes. No snow here but that was bloody freezing!

Considering how much snow we have and how low the temperature was, it didn't actually feel all that cold, even at 7.30 this morning, especially once we were moving.

[shiftin_gear98]

Jealous. That looks epic.

[garynortheast]

It was a cracker of a run. I love running around here in the snow.

Here's where we went.
https://www.relive.cc/view/2097699763

[shiftin_gear98]

That links quite cool.

[shiftin_gear98]

Got out this evening. 5.8 miles. Last time I ran just as I was getting back to work I have a gate to open. As I slowed to a stop a muscle in my upper leg, just above my knee at the back pinged. I hadn't noticed it since, until I started running. The first mile tonight was more of a limp. Still as I'm a stubborn **** and wouldn't quit I pushed on through. My leg feels a bit tender now. However it doesn't feel as bad now after a couple of glasses of wine!

[shiftin_gear98]

I set myself a challenge this month. To run 100 miles. I'm at 80.9 so far with 6 days left. No pressure.

[garynortheast]

He he, easy easy! But not if you bugger your leg! :-(

[shiftin_gear98]

Just back from "shopping" at Freeport. Never much fun. Apart from the Asics outlet store! The reason for going to Freeport was to return a pair of trainers my missus got me for Christmas. They were Adidas, and more fashion than practical. Anyhow just looking in the Asics store when I spotted the last chance corner. Found a pair of fuzeX Rush road shoes. Price tag said £100.00 reduced to £50.00. The naff Adidas ones were £48.00 so close enough. Yet they rang through as £28.00! Bargain.
I'll post a pic up on Monday when back at work. Now I just need to get a few tarmac runs in before the 10th! They are really comfy out of the box so shouldn't be an issue.




EDIT


https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4808/45999892375_b182673159_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2d5RtoF)Bargain (https://flic.kr/p/2d5RtoF) by martin cockerell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155901659@N02/), on Flickr

[garynortheast]

Wow, absolute bargain there Martin.

I only have one pair of road shoes, a cheapy pair of Everlast. Only worn them about a dozen times as I almost never run on tarmac. They're likely to live up to there name at this rate!

Off out to run with a bunch of Canicross runners at a very picturesque nature reserve on a hill near Shrewsbury tomorrow morning. There'll be about nine or ten of us, all with at least one dog each. Should be a huge amount of fun, really looking forward to it.

[shiftin_gear98]

Just back from my morning run, and as the kids stayed around nans last night I was able to run with the missus. 6.7 miles. Pushes my total up to 87.6.


Slightly burred snowdrops.


https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7886/45999895015_85d3285636_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2d5Rubc)2019-01-29_07-53-39 (https://flic.kr/p/2d5Rubc) by martin cockerell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155901659@N02/), on Flickr

[garynortheast]

Well done Martin, another 13 miles and you've done it. Two more runs and you're there.

Cracking social run at Earls Hill nature reserve today (https://www.strava.com/activities/2107739566) with a great bunch of canicross runners, nine of us and dogs. Three of us split off to run up to the trig point on Earls Hill itself, and then came down the other side to meet the rest again who had opted for the flatter route. Serious climb up the hill even by my standards as someone who can't run anywhere here without a lot of ascent and descent.

Forgot to start the Garmin (again!) but was saved by a fellow runner who had recorded the route and tagged me. We were within a few yards of each other all the way round so it's a pretty accurate reflection of my time and route.

Very enjoyable six miles.

[garynortheast]

Out again this morning for a slow, very muddy run (https://www.strava.com/activities/2108644831) with my mate Craig (who hated the muddiness!). I enjoyed the run though and the weather was fab too, cold but crystal blue early morning sky. An excellent 4.7 miles of trails. Legs are aching a bit now though!

[shiftin_gear98]

I had hoped to go out at lunchtime, but as I wasn't at work and at home looking after a puking child until my missus was back from a hospital appointment I didn't get the chance. Now I'm stuck at work!!

[shiftin_gear98]

Well I got out not once but twice today. Did my lunch run and set a new 5 km pb. Then I've just been out now looking for snow. I didn't find any just lots of rain. Still I did clock up 4.8 miles of tarmac around Stansted. My new road shoes are noticeably smoother and more comfortable on the black stuff. Really happy with my £28.00.

Up to 95.6 miles this month.

[garynortheast]

Up to 95.6 miles this month.

Nearly there!

I had been going to take the mtb over to the forest today but the weather put paid to that plan unfortunately. Tops of my legs are also really tight after the last couple of days of running so it was probably as well to rest up a bit.

[shiftin_gear98]

I was fed up staring at my screen today, so set off for what turned out to be a really bloody cold run.
Yet again I did my Glen Faba route, this time with frozen lungs.




SO CLOSE now. 98.6 miles.
I'm going to have to go out again this evening, to freeze again just to edge it over the 100 mile goal.

[garynortheast]

No run for me today. It was -9C this morning. I don't mind running in cold weather but that was just a bit TOO cold. :shock:

Went for a brisk walk with Mabel in a nearby piece of woodland instead.

[shiftin_gear98]

Forced myself back out into the cold for a quick (ish) road loop of the village.

Target reached. 101.4 miles ran in Jan.

Now for a rest, until tomorrow.

[garynortheast]

Yay! Well done!

[chris8886]

Forced myself back out into the cold for a quick (ish) road loop of the village.

Target reached. 101.4 miles ran in Jan.

Now for a rest, until tomorrow.



Top effort! Well done.

[shiftin_gear98]

Thanks.

[garynortheast]

Short and very gentle jog/walk this afternoon (https://www.strava.com/activities/2119805425) with a friend who is dealing with heart problems. Very cold still with lots of ice to contend with on the trails.

[shiftin_gear98]

Just back from a lovely sunny 6.8 mile run. Shame I twinged my back on the first mile. Now where did I leave that deep heat. There's walls to sand.
I'll add pic's tomorrow at work.
Edit: pics of the run, not walls.


https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7910/32038598647_6389ea562c_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QP9caR)DSC_1321 (https://flic.kr/p/QP9caR) by martin cockerell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155901659@N02/), on Flickr


https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7869/32038598797_7176eb402f_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QP9cdr)DSC_1322 (https://flic.kr/p/QP9cdr) by martin cockerell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155901659@N02/), on Flickr


https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4891/32038598477_a51acfbfcc_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QP9c7V)DSC_1323 (https://flic.kr/p/QP9c7V) by martin cockerell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155901659@N02/), on Flickr

[shiftin_gear98]

Shame my back is still fudged this morning. The Deep Heat and Ibruprofen have finally kicked in.
It wasn't fun taking 12 mins to get dressed this morning. Only to get to work soaked from the bike to have to do it all again!
No running for me for a few days.


Fingers crossed it's back to normal for Sunday!!

[garynortheast]

Rest up Martin. A few gentle back exercises before you try running again I think.

Mabel and I had a very pleasant 7 mile run this morning with my friend Craig. Bloody Garmin didn't record it though, grrr! Craig has the run recorded so I'll get him to either send me the gpx file so I can load it onto Strava, or I'll ask him to stick it on Strava and tag me.

[shiftin_gear98]

If my back let's me (it's still not very happy) it looks like I might be getting dizzy on Sunday.
They have finally put up the route for the 1/2.


https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7816/46932468612_1f215b4e03_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2evgaPj)Olympic Park Half Marathon (https://flic.kr/p/2evgaPj) by martin cockerell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/155901659@N02/), on Flickr

[garynortheast]

'Struth, that doesn't look like an easy route to follow!

[shiftin_gear98]

I know it's like they let my 4 year old loose with a map and a crayon.

Plus there's about 2500/3000 runners, those bottle necks won't be much fun.

[garynortheast]

Good early morning run of just short of 8 miles (https://www.strava.com/activities/2127880371) for me and Mabel this morning. Dry weather, early sunshine and not too muddy.