THE LATEST FROM LEADERS DICK, ANASTASIA & CORMAC
DICK WALSH – 10KM
Well we’re half way in now and what a weekend for motivation with Ireland winning their 3rd Grand Slam ever, I had one of my strongest runs yesterday in regards to feeling comfortable. My breathing is improving and I feel stronger in my legs and chest, the fresh air is also invigorating. Having a rest day today and even though you feel you should be doing something, it’s so important to just let your body recover, and I did have a few drinks during the game yesterday so I was kind of glad of the rest.
We’re now looking into week seven and it time to start stretching out my runs to 7/8km, and mix them with runs for 10 minutes and then a 2 minute walk and so on, it’s working for me, in one week I’ll do a 7km straight run. I’m excited even thinking about it. Lots of hot fresh homemade soups for the next few weeks and plenty of chicken and fish both steamed vgetables, keep away from Potatoes, Bread and Butter and you will feel great, keep smiling.
ANASTASIA CASH – HALF MARATHON
I have found the last two weeks of running to be very mixed, initially getting back into the swing of training was difficult for me. I felt very heavy and dragged after the snow.
I spent a weekend in the UK, for a work-related conference, I used this opportunity to run in another new environment; the weather was also significantly nicer in the south of England, which definitely made the running easier.
I understand how important it is to keep the body strong while running, to do this, I have started reformer pilates in Enniscorthy with Jane from Wexford Pilates. Also, I’m enjoying swimming to keep a good variety in my routine.
My clinic in Sam McCauley’s Medical Centre is very busy since the snow; numerous falls, pains from shoveling and generally stiff joints. At times it is difficult to get time for everything but being organized helps to keep the balance right. I am still only getting three runs a week in; hopefully, this will prove sufficient on the day. I managed my longest run ever this week of 11.5km, I felt delighted after it. Only another 10km to go!
CORMAC MCMANUS – 10KM
The last two weeks have been very enjoyable with some nice long runs in and a Park Run on Saturday.
The biggest problem I am finding at the moment is keeping a correct pace on the longer runs, like most people I tend to start too fast and tiring after the 5k mark but it is something I am working on along with more controlled breathing.
I have cut back on the gym work and I am looking forward to getting some more miles under my belt over the coming weeks.
My sleeping and diet is much improved which has really helped my energy levels along with a pleasant feeling of accomplishment I get after completing a run.