Ugghhh...

I have not had the best couple of weeks, as far as fitness is concerned. Since the high of enjoying a strong, exciting run at the Great South Run on 28th October, it's been all lows on the running front. Last week was Half Term, so I didn't have a lot of time to workout, as the kids were my constant companions. I also had a flu jab in the week, which  (I think) made me feel a bit unwell.

On the Tuesday, I ran 3 miles really slowly. It was a bit soon after Sunday's race, I think, but I was really looking forward to going out in the dark for the first time this autumn! My legs felt pretty heavy, and I didn't run again until Friday morning. It was pouring with rain then, and there was even some hail. I didn't feel good, and it wasn't much fun.

Time to get out the high-viz clothing!

Then on Sunday I tried a longer run, but it just didn't happen. I ran 4.6 miles at 9 min/mile pace, and stopped and walked for a bit in the middle. I felt tired and achey. In fact I really hated it, and couldn't wait to get home. It's been a long time since I felt such disaffection for running!

This week hasn't been any better. On Monday and Tuesday I was busy with other things and didn't do any exercise. I've had some cold symptoms too - blocked nose, achey muscles, sore throat, and I think I have the beginnings of a cough... Ugghhh.

Today I forced myself out for a run, and it wasn't too bad - my pace was fast at 8.28 min/miles over 4 miles, but I felt exhausted afterwards. My legs are still heavy and not back to their usual state.

I can't really complain after so many weeks and months of great running and training this year. It's been by far the best period of running I've ever had, and I've done quite well in avoiding both illness and injury. I suppose it's only fair that it should catch up to me some time.

The problem is, I'm entered for a Half Marathon this Sunday! It's another coastal route, but this one is 5 times round a looped course. As it's a very flat course, ideally I'd be looking for a PB (wind conditions depending), but as things stand, I'm not even sure I'm capable of running 13.1 miles. I'm eating apples and drinking orange juice, and hoping to shake off any bugs, but I think my body is just tired and protesting about all the running I've been doing. Fair enough.

Unless I come down with a proper heavy cold, I'm pretty sure I'll make the start line, and if the worst comes to the worst, I'll plod round and enjoy the view. Or I might feel great by Sunday, what with all this tapering, and smash a PB out - here's hoping for the latter!