2010 Progress Entrant - Iola Wilson

Contents:- -Intro- Report -1- -2- -3- -4- -5- -6- -7- -8- -9- -10- -11- -12- -13- -14- -15- -16- -17- -Final-

Report 1 - Week beginning 11/01/10

Have you stuck to the training programme? If not any reasons why?

I've stuck to my target for the week, but the programme is still a bit vague as I wanted to use the week to see where I'm at after my recent time out from running. I've had 2 gym sessions during the week, warming up on the cross-trainer, doing some rowing and then running for 30 minutes. This weekend I've done a 3.5 mile and a 6.3 mile run.

Have you done more or less than expected? Explain.

More. I had been running 5 miles for my long run but the last time was before all the snow and ice in early December, so the 6.3 mile run was further than I thought I'd manage.

How did you feel during training this week? What were the highs and lows?

Really mixed. I was forced into the gym by the icy conditions for my first two sessions - but found it pretty boring and came away feeling demotivated. Over the weekend I have run outside - in atrocious conditions on Saturday but I absolutely loved it! Conditions today were great and I really enjoyed my long run and am pleased with my time.

Are you seeing improvements; in speed, distance, breathing?

I have surprised myself with my speed and endurance this week, and had a huge improvement in attitude and motivation!

Where are you walking/running; gym, beach, roads, forests?

Two sessions on the treadmill and two on the roads.

Are you training alone/with someone else/mixture? How does this affect your training?

I have always trained alone, but think I'll try to join the harriers endurance session as I'll probably push harder running with others. I'd also like to run with my husband once a week, maybe for our long run, he is also training for the 10k.

Any injuries?

Yes, really hurt my right knee in the gym on Wednesday (whilst rowing I think) so took 2 days out and although I can still feel it after each run its not sore while I'm out running.

Are you feeling any benefits away from training as a result of the training; health, toning up, more energetic?

My husband says I'm toning up again! I've been following a healthy eating plan and have lost a few pounds. I do feel more energetic and very motivated at the moment. Neil thinks I'm generally more relaxed and happier!

Are you doing any other forms of exercise; swimming, cycling, yoga, pilates?

No, but hurting my knee has made me consider some cross-training. I may try to introduce a swimming session and will try to do some yoga to work on core strength and flexibility.

Any other observations?

Having started the week feeling quite apprehensive about how I would get on and with a couple of unhelpful sessions at the gym I've ended the week on a high note. Running outside has reminded me what I love about the sport - there is something quite exhilarating about running against a gale-force wind with your running jacket billowing out behind you like a parachute, then turning the corner and being pushed down the hill so fast you are not sure you'll be able to turn before the cliff-edge...