Ready to get back on the road

Wow, this virus I picked up certainly extended the period of no running. Only 2 short runs in the last month. Still, tonight I will push through and complete the Run The Lights 5K. Looks like there could be some rain showers and the temperature will be in the low 50s, but I really need a run or two under my belt before the Dallas half which is in just over a week!!!

Things are looking up

I feel so much healthier. My foot is out of the boot and I feel very rested. I went for a walk yesterday and will start running again tomorrow. I have the half marathon in a little over 2 weeks, with the 5k a week before that, so I am getting back into it at just the right time. I know you are supposed to run your last long run 3 weeks before a half marathon, but I will push it to 2 weeks before and aim to do one more long run in a week. For now I will concentrate on my short runs, regaining the strength in my legs and working in my shoes. Getting closer to my fundraising goal, but as always I would love some more donations. Remember, you can always donate at

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/AndyTate.

One day we will live in a world that is inclusive of everyone, no matter your disability. Phab Kids is committed to making this a reality and I am proud to be raising money for them through my running

Your body tells you how you're doing

Last week was a lot of running. A few slow 10 miles runs, a 7 mile and then on Saturday a 16 mile. Guess my body didn't appreciate it. I vaguely remember rolling my foot about half way through the long run but thought nothing of it. About 2 miles from the end, the foot was giving me a bit of pain. I walked the last mile and rested it for a few days. I went for a walk yesterday and felt great. I bought new running shoes after the long run thinking they may be the cure. Anyway, went for a run this morning and had to give up after a couple of miles with the same pain in the foot. This time it didn't stop when walking. So I went to urgent care and got it looked at. X-Rays look good, but there is swelling and it could a sprained ligament or possibly a stress fracture. Got an appointment next week.
Until then......

Quite a space aged boot. The blue ball is to pump it up. Makes driving the Fiat a little hard. I'll try the Pilot later.

Guess I've been quiet for a while

I've had a lot going on, but been keeping up the running. Monday I ran 10 miles, Wednesday 6 miles. I may start Friday with a nice 6 mile run then on Sunday I will start the day with a 16 miler. I think I have caught the running bug. I need to get myself some new running shoes this weekend. Just over a month until the busy month of December with 2 races!!! The half marathon should be a good test for me.

It's Official

Today I received my official registration and confirmation into the 2017 London Marathon. It makes it all the more real and spurs me on to train harder, run further and get myself into the best shape of my life. Yes, time to kick it into high gear. Aiming for a 14 - 15 mile run this Sunday. Added another 5K to the schedule, on December 2nd at Vitruvian Park in Addison. Should be a fun one running through the Christmas lights. That's just 9 days before my 1/2 marathon so should be a nice warm up.

Why Protein is essential

Carbohydrates are the fuel that makes you run. That along with electrolytes allow you to run further. I always like to eat a banana before a long run and drink a drink with plenty of carbs. The question is, what about protein? Protein is what helps rebuild our muscles after a long run or work out. Most people know that, but the question is when should you take them. The answer is, within the 30 minutes after you complete your run. Protein is broken down into amino acids which help muscles repair and grow. 30 grams of protein within 30 minutes of exercise gives the best help to your aching muscles. After this the amino acid is absorbed into the body as fat. So, don't take on board extra protein just for the sake of it. As with everything, there can be too much of a good thing. Balance is key.

You can't keep the old dog down

So, Sunday, after returning from camp I went for a long run. It was going to be 12 miles, but the weather was great and I was comfortably keeping a just under 9 minute pace. So, in the end I ran 13 1/2 miles. Guess you could say I'm ready for the half marathon in December. Took just under 2 hours and felt great. I had a good soak in the bath to recover the legs. When I got out I was unable to take deep breaths. Very strange. I ended up seeing the Dr on Monday. She tested my lungs and they are very healthy so she sent me to the Cardiologist who did some tests and told me I have a very healthy heart. So guess it was caused by the cooler air causing the lungs some distress, maybe exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. Guess I'll have to keep an eye on it. Starting to feel much better. Who knew that you would learn so much about your body just by doing a little running!!!