Ever since I completed my first training plan I couldn’t work out why every runner wasn’t using this approach? I’m still a little bewildered why more don’t spend a small amount of time planning their running.
I can only imagine there’s this assumption that it’s all about working harder and running PBs, something I appreciate would put some runners off.
Despite the title of this blog, I can dispel that myth. PBs are great, but they are the consequence of remaining injury free and training smart.
Finlay Garlick is a good example. He ran a fantastic PB of 1:28:28 yesterday. That’s fast. Finlay is 12 weeks into his training plan. A plan which has seen him run a maximum of 3 times a week and normally somewhere between 2-3 hours of running.
His improvement is a result of smart planning. Using the limited time available to him to maximise his potential and enjoyment. Yes he’s done some hard sessions but often I’ve had to tell him to slow down, and run easy!
I too proved a point that sometimes less is more by running a half marathon PB of my own at Paddock Wood despite reducing my training volume by a whopping 40%. I was a minute quicker than my previous best, clocking 1:36:30.
My first attempt at Paddock Wood came shortly after joining Hastings Runners and a year after I started running. I completed it in 2 hours and 5 minutes. I was 7 years younger as well.
I hope she doesn’t mind but I’ll mention Marie Crawford! Her race didn’t go to plan and she was unable to achieve her goal. But the fact is Marie is fitter and running better than ever before as a result of successfully completing her training plan.
Recently her new found fitness has enabled her to join groups of quicker runners that in the past would not have been possible. Whilst Paddock Wood won’t bring her fond memories, she’s enjoying her running at the moment and that’s far more important than what the watch says when you cross the finish line.
Kate Lewis and Helen Cassell also completed Paddock Wood in preparation for Hastings Half Marathon in 2 weeks time. Both producing strong performances ahead of the big race!
Jo Lambourne continued her Marathon training by completing the Lydd 20 miler in a superb time of 3 hours. The wind proved a real challenge especially in the later stages of the race. Jo is on course to run a good time at Manchester Marathon in 5 weeks time.
Darren Barzee, Will Withecombe and Ruth Spiller all gave their washing machines a run out by wading through the mud at the X-Country. Will finished 3rd in his age category for the season, a position Darren would likely have claimed in his age group, but for injury in the early part of the campaign.
The contrast between the undulating woodland at Pett and the flat hard tarmac of Paddock Wood gives runners so much variety and the opportunity to take on challenges that we enjoy.
Jo French and Debra Van Aalst even combined their running passion with a trip to sunny Cyprus to compete in the Paphos 10K. Both of them ran fantastic races despite the much warmer temperatures than we are used to here in the UK.
It’s been another great week for Team Orange. Why not get involved? I’m still offering free training plans to gain more experience and improve my coaching knowledge. Now is a great time to join.
