It’s been a busy, but enjoyable week so far. Full days of work on Monday & Tuesday were followed by coaching duties in the evening. On Wednesday we headed over to Eastbourne to support Hastings Runners in the last leg relays.

Thursdays is my day off during the week and we had a fantastic time at Standen House but a 2 hour car journey home also took it’s toll.

During these times I’ve continued by own ambitious training plan, choosing to run up 1572 steps on Tuesday. 2 days later I smashed out 17km in total for my cadence sesh. That was sandwiched with easy runs on Wednesday and Saturday.

I’m working hard. Both on my coaching, to save my old business and to continue to improve my own running. Despite the hard work there are days when it feels like very little progress is being made.

It’s easy to become negative in those situations but I just wanted to point out how quickly things can change if you trust the process.

Team Orange has now grown to 17 members, it’s highest at any point. Sue and Andy Alabaster have joined in recent weeks! I’m delighted to say Shana, Louise, Kate and Sue Mann have all committed to their next training plans. To ensure I continue to provide the current level for service, I will put a cap on numbers, so get involved now to avoid missing out.

Improvement takes time, whether it be in work or fitness, put a plan in place and trust it. Progress is never linear, you’ll always have your ups and down but if you keep grinding, then ultimately success will come your way.

I really believe this is where my coaching is helping the Team. I offer feedback on every single training run. So when a member does struggle and comes back disappointed with their pace or how hard the effort level felt, I’m there to offer them a reminder that not every run feels great.

Being positive is a choice, I understand when you’re tired or have been worn down it’s far from the easiest option to select, but having someone on your side, pushing you in the right direction can make a massive difference.

Working with a running coach doesn’t mean you suddenly have to take it much more seriously. Often it’s a case of telling runners they need to slow down, or run less.

My philosophy primarily focuses on injury prevention and enjoyment. This is done with constant interaction with the members and creating sessions they enjoy. Yes some trial and error is needed at first but I believe over the course of training plans, the feedback has suggested all of the Team have enjoyed their running more and also improved their mindset.

So even when it feels like you’re working hard and making very little progress, don’t give up, trust the process. If you feel you need a little extra support, then get in touch. That’s what I am here for.

Coach Simon