I really like the simplicity of this training plan. I’ve stripped it right back. Sometimes the simple option is the best. And I believe that is the case here.

The schedule has a consistency about it which is important. Aerobics Monday, Tuesday evening (easy to begin with, efforts or tempo run as the plan unfolds), Drums Alive on Thursdays, Friday evening with the gang, Sunday long run.

What I really like about this approach is Wednesday is a freebie. So rather than feel like there is no flexibility in the schedule because its so crammed, we can always have Wednesdays free to either do Rhys circuit or the Horntye run.

That means if you feel tired on a Monday, miss Aerobics, or if we need to add in some extra miles from a missed run the week before, Wednesday is our option.

There’s no need to be doing massive weekend mileage during this plan. After the HHM we’ll still have plenty of time to focus on the 100k. But that said it’s very important we don’t get lazy. You have a brilliant opportunity this winter.

An opportunity to build up your fitness slowly, really enjoy your running and get yourself in a decent shape, so when the time comes to ramp up the mileage, you’re ready.

I think getting your recovery right (nutrition and sleep) is going to be a big factor too. If you neglect that during this plan, when the time comes to do more you’ll struggle to make that step up.

It’s also a chance to build confidence too. That’s what the feedback is there for. Not just for me to tell you how great you are doing, but for you to tell yourself. Every single run or class is a challenge, every time you complete one of those, be proud of yourself. One day at a time, one session at a time.

It’s really something I’m going to emphasis within the team about giving ourselves that respect for what we are doing. Granted we’re not running sensational times or breaking any world records, but we are looking after ourselves, making good choices and that needs to be celebrated, every single time.

I really really really want you to succeed in that 100k next year. I’m delighted to have guided Jake and Anna to successful 100k races, so I know the plans themselves work, now it’s just a case of getting it done. And I’m confident you can do that.

Any questions just ask. But delighted to have you back on the team and look forward to all the self praise you are going to be sharing in your feedback.