Although I have now completed the Marathon, I thought long and hard about this blog and should it stay or go?
I decided that I would keep it going for a few months or until people stop reading it.
I have severe cramp for the last week and someone suggested that I go for a run to relieve this. It sounded barmy but was worth a go.
My neighbour, the one who got me running in 2009 came around and off we went for a leisurely 3km run. It is a gravel track and hilly, but I thought that it is not too far if my knees are not upto it and I have to walk. It sounds very silly that I may struggle with about a mile and a half when I ran this extra on Sunday without thinking about it!
I managed to get around with my fellow runners in 17:44 minutes and at a pace of 6'04 per km which is a nice steady pace. I burnt 285 calories completing this and my legs felt fine. The weather was warm but not sunny, how I wished for this on Sunday!!
I decided to go for the same run tonight whilst waiting for Leeds to come onto the TV. I ran at a pace of 5'11, so obviously quicker thanthe previous day and it took 14:08 minutes and burnt 266 calories. I felt terrible after this due to the heat and again feel disappointed with struggling to run this short distance, especially after running 27.5 with less trouble. I am going to have another run tomorrow around the same time and then take Sunday off, or I may go to the newly refurbished DW Gym at Birstall to have a look around and a possible swim / jog on the new runners.
That's all for now and COME ON LEEDS!!
Friday 22 April 2011
Wednesday 20 April 2011
should I or shouldn't I?
My neighbour came around tonight and asked if I wanted to go out for a run. It has been two days since the Marathon and my legs are still very sore.
I decided that the small run would be okay as it was near home and only a mere 3km, so I laced up and off I went with a possee of three others.
The weather was still warm and my legs were not too bad. I managed the 3km in a time of 17:44 and a pace of 6'04 which is one that I managed for the first 30km of the Marathon. I burnt 285 calories and felt fine but my legs are still sore. As they say, baby steps and I will have a little jaunt tomorrow with the running or alternatively I will go to the newly refurbished gym, not decided yet.
See how my legs are in the morning before I decide which one won.
It is still not too late to sponsor me, I have now completed the race and the link below will support the charity which supported me:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thank you
I decided that the small run would be okay as it was near home and only a mere 3km, so I laced up and off I went with a possee of three others.
The weather was still warm and my legs were not too bad. I managed the 3km in a time of 17:44 and a pace of 6'04 which is one that I managed for the first 30km of the Marathon. I burnt 285 calories and felt fine but my legs are still sore. As they say, baby steps and I will have a little jaunt tomorrow with the running or alternatively I will go to the newly refurbished gym, not decided yet.
See how my legs are in the morning before I decide which one won.
It is still not too late to sponsor me, I have now completed the race and the link below will support the charity which supported me:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thank you
Tuesday 19 April 2011
Post race evaluation
To look back on the actual race would be silly as it has happened now and I can not change anything.
If I could alter anything I would consider the following:
Training - I didn't do enough, it is as simple as this. I thought that 3 months training daily would have been enough, but it wasn't. I would advise anyone to train for at least 6 months on a training programme and then some more. I followed a programme, but as I had been running prior to starting, I moved into the final three months. I would also re-consider my last three weeks were they advise that you do very little. I would keep my running into the 5 miles per day rather than lowering it down by a mile a week as I felt that although my legs were rested, was it too much?
Equipment - I would wear sunscreen as it was very hot. I would also consider drinking a lot more at the beginning of the Marathon as they ran out of water toward the end. I would have shorts which were not so long and maybe a short t-shirt rather than the long one which I wore, but it prevented burning my arms. I would also suggest a hat as it stops your head burning, although I struggle to run in a hat.
Race day - Get there early and make sure that you can stretch and get into the right area. As I started at the back, I ran with those who clearly were only capable of running the Marathon between 6 and 10 hours, which means that they run at a mush slower pace than I wanted, and also meant that I had to run an extra mile over the route. I would also have a good look at the route as I was surprised that the mile markers became sparse as you ran further.
Other advice - Run at your own pace and not with someone else. You need to run at a comfortable pace for yourself, not too quick and not too slow (a bit like Trumpton clock!) and do not speak to people as you run. It is not being rude but do you really want someone telling you that you are going too fast or not going fast enough! Get yourself a pace that you want to get to markers, ie, the time to hit 10k, 15k etc. Take in as much water / liquid as you can and take more if you can. Try to run in the shade as into the sun is a nightmare. Plan a massage after the race to assist with your stretching. My legs are killing and have been since Sunday evening. Eat afterwards with your favourite food and having a place to meet and greet your loved ones in a designated area.
Enjoy it, as much as you can. It is a wonderful achievement and immediately afterwards you will say 'never again' but by the next morning, you'll reconsider this!
It is not too late to sponsor me on the below link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
If I could alter anything I would consider the following:
Training - I didn't do enough, it is as simple as this. I thought that 3 months training daily would have been enough, but it wasn't. I would advise anyone to train for at least 6 months on a training programme and then some more. I followed a programme, but as I had been running prior to starting, I moved into the final three months. I would also re-consider my last three weeks were they advise that you do very little. I would keep my running into the 5 miles per day rather than lowering it down by a mile a week as I felt that although my legs were rested, was it too much?
Equipment - I would wear sunscreen as it was very hot. I would also consider drinking a lot more at the beginning of the Marathon as they ran out of water toward the end. I would have shorts which were not so long and maybe a short t-shirt rather than the long one which I wore, but it prevented burning my arms. I would also suggest a hat as it stops your head burning, although I struggle to run in a hat.
Race day - Get there early and make sure that you can stretch and get into the right area. As I started at the back, I ran with those who clearly were only capable of running the Marathon between 6 and 10 hours, which means that they run at a mush slower pace than I wanted, and also meant that I had to run an extra mile over the route. I would also have a good look at the route as I was surprised that the mile markers became sparse as you ran further.
Other advice - Run at your own pace and not with someone else. You need to run at a comfortable pace for yourself, not too quick and not too slow (a bit like Trumpton clock!) and do not speak to people as you run. It is not being rude but do you really want someone telling you that you are going too fast or not going fast enough! Get yourself a pace that you want to get to markers, ie, the time to hit 10k, 15k etc. Take in as much water / liquid as you can and take more if you can. Try to run in the shade as into the sun is a nightmare. Plan a massage after the race to assist with your stretching. My legs are killing and have been since Sunday evening. Eat afterwards with your favourite food and having a place to meet and greet your loved ones in a designated area.
Enjoy it, as much as you can. It is a wonderful achievement and immediately afterwards you will say 'never again' but by the next morning, you'll reconsider this!
It is not too late to sponsor me on the below link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Sunday, what could go wrong?
The hotel decided that they would do breakfast at 8am rather than the 7am which I needed! So Claire kindly got up and shot to Maccy D's to get me some porridge. This tasted like puke as my stomach was turning over with nerves and concerns about the run.
Walked out of the hotel to catch the bus, which we must have missed by seconds and the next one was not for half an hour. The time that we got on the bus was 08:20 rather than 07:50 as planned. The tight gits in London made me pay for the bus trip, so not only sit on public transport but have to pay for it. Scuffers everywhere!
Got to the tube station and they let me on for free, but we missed the tube and had to wait for the next! Tried to fill up with liquid but nerves meant that the more I put in, the more wanted to come out! The tube journey seemed to take forever and I am sure that it was slower than normal. A quick change to get me to Charing Cross, as advised by the London Marathon and the normal train, which again was free. I needed to pee pee again so went to the toile only to find that it costs 30p, robbing southerners, shoud have done it on the train for free! Didn't know this at the time, so paid my money and......missed the train. The time was now 09:30 and the Marathon started at 09:45 hours. The next train arrived and we waited, and waited and waited and waited and eventually, at 09:40 the train left. It surprisingly did not take 5 minutes to get there as it appeared to go for one minute and then stop for a minute, much to the annoyance of all the late runners!!
Finally got to Greenwich station at 09:45 and was told to run the 2 miles to the start as the Marathon had started. Nice to know that the route to the start was all up hill and people were walking away and making the journey even harder. Got to the starting line at about 10:15 and joined the very back of the group. No time to warm up my joints or get fluids in and off I went.
It was worse than swimming. Why people enter a 26.2 mile run and walk within the first 500 metres puzzles me. I had to run around all of these and those who wanted to run at a speed that I could overtake walking. The huge asses of some women took minutes to get past and I struggled for the first 6 miles, trying to get around people and a couple of hills. It took me 29:41 to complete the first 5k at a speed of around 5'57 per km (I know that it doesn't correlate but I actually ran an extra mile over the full distance and the shoe timings were between the mileage gates)
The second 5k was reached in 59:12 (about 6 miles) which is about the time which I wanted to hit the quarter mark as I didn't want to go out too fast. The average pace at this point was 5'55, which was probably a little bit too quick but there was no open road and you needed to pass people or I went too slow, to the point of walking at some areas, especially on the inclines. I managed to get fluids onboard every mile and felt fine. The weather was warming up but overcast and I only had the problem of people in front of me.
The 15km point was soon upon me at 1:31'33 which again was on course for a 4:22'00 time and my pace had slowed slightly to 6'29 but again mainly due to heavy traffic on the roads. Water intake and Lucozade was being happily accepted and I was in no trouble other than the usual slower runners and walkers.
At 20km, which is just before the half way point I saw Claire and Megan and this gave me a boost. I had caught up with the 4:30 runners (although I was blissfully unaware of this) and the time was 2:03'22 which again was not too taxing and a pace that I was happy with. The average pace was 6'22 so keeping at a constant pace now. At the half way point I was 2:10'32 and an average pace over the first half at 6'32, which again was comfortable. Over the bridge now and into the Isle of Dogs.
The next 5km was harder to predict as the mileage markers seemed to disappear and it was difficult to pace myself. I hit 25km at 2:37'12 and a pace of 6'50 which again was manageable and not too taxing.
The problems started here, on the second sighting of Canary Wharf. I got the most painful cramp that I have ever had. It came on suddenly and hit both my thighs (just above the knees) on bown legs and my right calf. I had to slow right down or stop. As I have said from the start, no pain, no gain so I continued to run through the pain, not noticing that the sun was out and the temperature had risen to over 23 degrees. My head began to burn, as did my neck and lower legs. It started to become de-hydrated and unfortunately, the water stations were becoming more like oasis spots as they were too far apart and running out of water. I hit 30km at 3:16'11 and my pace slowed to 7'48 due to the above problems, having to walk in between the runs as I could not stop the pain and cramp coming though.
I reached the 35km point at 3:55'14 and was really struggling now with cramp, but grinned and beared it and ran through the pain as best I could. My estimated time of 4:30 was now looking out of reach but I had to complete it in under 5 hours (apprently all times were down by about 30 minutes due to the heat) and my pace remained at 7'49 per km, which is not bad coming into the last 6 miles but not as quick as I wanted, although not too far off the mark!
At 40km I was struggling to move, never mind run. I got to this point at 4:34'05 (which shows that I was struggling as only managing 3 miles in 40 minutes) and was still dodging people walking and stretching as well as moving to the side myself to allow runners to get past.
At the final point, I had no idea where I was, I completely lost the fact that I had run in front of Buckingham Palace and saw the finishing line and I crossed this at 4:49'56, which is slower than I wanted but with the heat and dehydration felt that it was a marvelous achievement that not many people can say that they have either done or tried to do. My average pace was 7'14 over the course, which is not as quick as my training but I had not run in the heat like it was on Sunday. This is the problem with running during the winter and not being able to prepare myself for the extreme heat.
The Marathon was complete and to be honest, due to the time, a bit of an anti-climax. I got my medal and then tried to battle my way through the 20,000 people that were in the area for meeting people. I finished up in 21194 place out of 36000 and got a limited edition t-shirt to prove it, as well as a message from Richard Branson saying congratulations and a card to say that I have completed the Marathon. I was placed 15413 within the male category and 8395 in my age group of 18-39 (last year for this one!!)and with the young bucks who are much fitter than I am. My main concern is that I ran 2 miles to get to the start and one extra mile during the race which completely shattered me.
I felt great at the conclusion of the run, although it was like a sheep dip as you passed through the finshing area and then I had to find Claire, Megan, Holly, Carol and Neil. I had a strange feeling of wanting to cry with Claire but not in front of the girls. It was so emotional as they were so proud of me. I have seen a picture and I looked absolutely knackered. I was dehydrated, sun burnt and aching. My shorts were covered in salt from sweat and I stood there, with all the rest and thought, "I've only gone and done it". Has it hit home yet, not really. I get emotional when I think about it and I immediately said to Claire that I would never do this again, but upto April 2010, I had never even thought I could do it. Will I do it again, probably. Will I do it for charity, probably not. I will post another link with what I have learnt from this experience and what I will do differently next time, if there is a next time!
We walked to the reception area for the runners and had a couple of snadwiches but had massive disappointment when I was told that there were no massage spots left and my aching limbs can feel that now!
Although I have completed the Marathon, you can still sponsor me on the link below, any amount is greatly appreciated for the charity which kindly gave me the chance to complete something which only a handful of people will ever do.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Walked out of the hotel to catch the bus, which we must have missed by seconds and the next one was not for half an hour. The time that we got on the bus was 08:20 rather than 07:50 as planned. The tight gits in London made me pay for the bus trip, so not only sit on public transport but have to pay for it. Scuffers everywhere!
Got to the tube station and they let me on for free, but we missed the tube and had to wait for the next! Tried to fill up with liquid but nerves meant that the more I put in, the more wanted to come out! The tube journey seemed to take forever and I am sure that it was slower than normal. A quick change to get me to Charing Cross, as advised by the London Marathon and the normal train, which again was free. I needed to pee pee again so went to the toile only to find that it costs 30p, robbing southerners, shoud have done it on the train for free! Didn't know this at the time, so paid my money and......missed the train. The time was now 09:30 and the Marathon started at 09:45 hours. The next train arrived and we waited, and waited and waited and waited and eventually, at 09:40 the train left. It surprisingly did not take 5 minutes to get there as it appeared to go for one minute and then stop for a minute, much to the annoyance of all the late runners!!
Finally got to Greenwich station at 09:45 and was told to run the 2 miles to the start as the Marathon had started. Nice to know that the route to the start was all up hill and people were walking away and making the journey even harder. Got to the starting line at about 10:15 and joined the very back of the group. No time to warm up my joints or get fluids in and off I went.
It was worse than swimming. Why people enter a 26.2 mile run and walk within the first 500 metres puzzles me. I had to run around all of these and those who wanted to run at a speed that I could overtake walking. The huge asses of some women took minutes to get past and I struggled for the first 6 miles, trying to get around people and a couple of hills. It took me 29:41 to complete the first 5k at a speed of around 5'57 per km (I know that it doesn't correlate but I actually ran an extra mile over the full distance and the shoe timings were between the mileage gates)
The second 5k was reached in 59:12 (about 6 miles) which is about the time which I wanted to hit the quarter mark as I didn't want to go out too fast. The average pace at this point was 5'55, which was probably a little bit too quick but there was no open road and you needed to pass people or I went too slow, to the point of walking at some areas, especially on the inclines. I managed to get fluids onboard every mile and felt fine. The weather was warming up but overcast and I only had the problem of people in front of me.
The 15km point was soon upon me at 1:31'33 which again was on course for a 4:22'00 time and my pace had slowed slightly to 6'29 but again mainly due to heavy traffic on the roads. Water intake and Lucozade was being happily accepted and I was in no trouble other than the usual slower runners and walkers.
At 20km, which is just before the half way point I saw Claire and Megan and this gave me a boost. I had caught up with the 4:30 runners (although I was blissfully unaware of this) and the time was 2:03'22 which again was not too taxing and a pace that I was happy with. The average pace was 6'22 so keeping at a constant pace now. At the half way point I was 2:10'32 and an average pace over the first half at 6'32, which again was comfortable. Over the bridge now and into the Isle of Dogs.
The next 5km was harder to predict as the mileage markers seemed to disappear and it was difficult to pace myself. I hit 25km at 2:37'12 and a pace of 6'50 which again was manageable and not too taxing.
The problems started here, on the second sighting of Canary Wharf. I got the most painful cramp that I have ever had. It came on suddenly and hit both my thighs (just above the knees) on bown legs and my right calf. I had to slow right down or stop. As I have said from the start, no pain, no gain so I continued to run through the pain, not noticing that the sun was out and the temperature had risen to over 23 degrees. My head began to burn, as did my neck and lower legs. It started to become de-hydrated and unfortunately, the water stations were becoming more like oasis spots as they were too far apart and running out of water. I hit 30km at 3:16'11 and my pace slowed to 7'48 due to the above problems, having to walk in between the runs as I could not stop the pain and cramp coming though.
I reached the 35km point at 3:55'14 and was really struggling now with cramp, but grinned and beared it and ran through the pain as best I could. My estimated time of 4:30 was now looking out of reach but I had to complete it in under 5 hours (apprently all times were down by about 30 minutes due to the heat) and my pace remained at 7'49 per km, which is not bad coming into the last 6 miles but not as quick as I wanted, although not too far off the mark!
At 40km I was struggling to move, never mind run. I got to this point at 4:34'05 (which shows that I was struggling as only managing 3 miles in 40 minutes) and was still dodging people walking and stretching as well as moving to the side myself to allow runners to get past.
At the final point, I had no idea where I was, I completely lost the fact that I had run in front of Buckingham Palace and saw the finishing line and I crossed this at 4:49'56, which is slower than I wanted but with the heat and dehydration felt that it was a marvelous achievement that not many people can say that they have either done or tried to do. My average pace was 7'14 over the course, which is not as quick as my training but I had not run in the heat like it was on Sunday. This is the problem with running during the winter and not being able to prepare myself for the extreme heat.
The Marathon was complete and to be honest, due to the time, a bit of an anti-climax. I got my medal and then tried to battle my way through the 20,000 people that were in the area for meeting people. I finished up in 21194 place out of 36000 and got a limited edition t-shirt to prove it, as well as a message from Richard Branson saying congratulations and a card to say that I have completed the Marathon. I was placed 15413 within the male category and 8395 in my age group of 18-39 (last year for this one!!)and with the young bucks who are much fitter than I am. My main concern is that I ran 2 miles to get to the start and one extra mile during the race which completely shattered me.
I felt great at the conclusion of the run, although it was like a sheep dip as you passed through the finshing area and then I had to find Claire, Megan, Holly, Carol and Neil. I had a strange feeling of wanting to cry with Claire but not in front of the girls. It was so emotional as they were so proud of me. I have seen a picture and I looked absolutely knackered. I was dehydrated, sun burnt and aching. My shorts were covered in salt from sweat and I stood there, with all the rest and thought, "I've only gone and done it". Has it hit home yet, not really. I get emotional when I think about it and I immediately said to Claire that I would never do this again, but upto April 2010, I had never even thought I could do it. Will I do it again, probably. Will I do it for charity, probably not. I will post another link with what I have learnt from this experience and what I will do differently next time, if there is a next time!
We walked to the reception area for the runners and had a couple of snadwiches but had massive disappointment when I was told that there were no massage spots left and my aching limbs can feel that now!
Although I have completed the Marathon, you can still sponsor me on the link below, any amount is greatly appreciated for the charity which kindly gave me the chance to complete something which only a handful of people will ever do.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Friday and Saturday
After the hectic day at the Excel, we decided that we would pack a lot into Friday and do very little on Saturday, well that was the idea!!
Friday we had a full, fat boy breakfast at the hotel and set off into the big city to go to Madam Tussauds Muesum. Claire should have brought the free tickets, but forgot!!
In her wisdom, we realised that WHSmiths were providing the same offer on the rear of their receipts. So when we got to Baker Street, we went to the nearest WHSmiths, which was a five minute walk. They had no receipts with the offer on. The nearest one was about a mile away on Oxford Street, so off I walked. This shop was within Selfridges and surprisingly, they had no receipts either. They rang their nearest store, which was at Oxford Plaza and after another mile walk, we finally got a ticket, but my legs were starting to feel the strain.
We got to Madam Tussauds and walked around here for the next three hours, people bumping into you and standing on your toes. Half way around, felt a strain in my groin, which was not good. Hobbled around the final few yards and bought some deep heat. Back to the hotel and rest, altnot as much as I had hoped for.
Saturday was to be a relaxing day at Lakeside, watching a film and eating pizza to get my carbs up. This turned into a long walk around all of Lakeside and further pain to my groin. Watched Hop and then ate pizza. Drove back to the hotel and more deep heat applied.
Kit out and ready for the run on Sunday and tried to get some sleep. Very nervous and concerned about the injury.
Still not too late to sponsor me on the below link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Friday we had a full, fat boy breakfast at the hotel and set off into the big city to go to Madam Tussauds Muesum. Claire should have brought the free tickets, but forgot!!
In her wisdom, we realised that WHSmiths were providing the same offer on the rear of their receipts. So when we got to Baker Street, we went to the nearest WHSmiths, which was a five minute walk. They had no receipts with the offer on. The nearest one was about a mile away on Oxford Street, so off I walked. This shop was within Selfridges and surprisingly, they had no receipts either. They rang their nearest store, which was at Oxford Plaza and after another mile walk, we finally got a ticket, but my legs were starting to feel the strain.
We got to Madam Tussauds and walked around here for the next three hours, people bumping into you and standing on your toes. Half way around, felt a strain in my groin, which was not good. Hobbled around the final few yards and bought some deep heat. Back to the hotel and rest, altnot as much as I had hoped for.
Saturday was to be a relaxing day at Lakeside, watching a film and eating pizza to get my carbs up. This turned into a long walk around all of Lakeside and further pain to my groin. Watched Hop and then ate pizza. Drove back to the hotel and more deep heat applied.
Kit out and ready for the run on Sunday and tried to get some sleep. Very nervous and concerned about the injury.
Still not too late to sponsor me on the below link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thursday
Thursday was the day that we travelled down to London to register for the Marathon experience. It was always going to be a long day and off we went from God's county of Yorkshire to the big city.
A leisurely drive down and to the hotel, where we deposited the car for the next five days!
The bus into London and the tube and DLR to the Excel Centre.
You find your entry number slot and show your letter and id to get the official race top and the pin for your trainer. Then through to the exhibition, which starts with a huge Adidas area selling all of the race memorabilia and clothing. The girls signed the huge wall and number which was placed around the 19 mile mark. We wondered around the exhibition hall and looked at the sports sections (Nike, Asics, Brookes, Ron Hill etc) and the product sections (Lucozade, Body Armour etc) and then all of the charities who were still offering spaces with only days to go!! The girls made their banners in the Adidas area for the race.
We went to the pasta party area and got my poncho in case it rained and listened to a guest speaker. In the hall for a few hours before we had all the freebies and then left, via the BP demonstrators!
A leisurely trip back to the hotel and ate out before a much needed rest.
It is not too late to sponsor me for the run on the below link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
A leisurely drive down and to the hotel, where we deposited the car for the next five days!
The bus into London and the tube and DLR to the Excel Centre.
You find your entry number slot and show your letter and id to get the official race top and the pin for your trainer. Then through to the exhibition, which starts with a huge Adidas area selling all of the race memorabilia and clothing. The girls signed the huge wall and number which was placed around the 19 mile mark. We wondered around the exhibition hall and looked at the sports sections (Nike, Asics, Brookes, Ron Hill etc) and the product sections (Lucozade, Body Armour etc) and then all of the charities who were still offering spaces with only days to go!! The girls made their banners in the Adidas area for the race.
We went to the pasta party area and got my poncho in case it rained and listened to a guest speaker. In the hall for a few hours before we had all the freebies and then left, via the BP demonstrators!
A leisurely trip back to the hotel and ate out before a much needed rest.
It is not too late to sponsor me for the run on the below link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Tuesday 12 April 2011
last day of training, now only 5 days to go!!
Only time will tell to see how my training package went. I initially started on a pre-planned one before I realised that it would take 8 months to complete and I only had 3!! I also realised that I had surpassed the targets which they were setting as goals and that it would be a backward step.
I used the experience at work (a few people have completed this feat a number of times and we have a Mr Universe) to formulate my own running plan and with Nike+ in my trainer, off I went.
The last 3 months have been hard, with a number of wet, windy and cold dark mornings to get to work and the same on the return journey, but hopefully it will be worthwhile in the long run!
My last day was a leisurely walk of 1 mile, which took 17:37 to walk and an average pace of 10'49" per km which is better than tesyerday but not wonderful. I burnt 159 calories but as I said that is it as the gym is closed for four days and I'm off to the big city to get my freebies and poncho in case it rains!!
I am hoping that the weather is overcast with a gentle breeze rather than the heatwave experienced over this weekend or I will struggle.
Anyway, it is not too late to sponsor me on this link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
And hopefully the next time I write it maybe after the run unless I take this with me to London in which I will tell you all about my freebies!!
Have fun and see you all next week with my sore legs
I used the experience at work (a few people have completed this feat a number of times and we have a Mr Universe) to formulate my own running plan and with Nike+ in my trainer, off I went.
The last 3 months have been hard, with a number of wet, windy and cold dark mornings to get to work and the same on the return journey, but hopefully it will be worthwhile in the long run!
My last day was a leisurely walk of 1 mile, which took 17:37 to walk and an average pace of 10'49" per km which is better than tesyerday but not wonderful. I burnt 159 calories but as I said that is it as the gym is closed for four days and I'm off to the big city to get my freebies and poncho in case it rains!!
I am hoping that the weather is overcast with a gentle breeze rather than the heatwave experienced over this weekend or I will struggle.
Anyway, it is not too late to sponsor me on this link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
And hopefully the next time I write it maybe after the run unless I take this with me to London in which I will tell you all about my freebies!!
Have fun and see you all next week with my sore legs
Monday 11 April 2011
Not too late
It is not too latre to sponsor me for the London Marathon on Sunday. The link is below:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Today I have only walked a mile, which took 18:21 minutes at a pace of 11'13" per km which is a steady pace, which keeps the blood pumping and hopefully not injure or stretch any of my muscles before the run!
I managed to burn 160 calories and with the salad for lunch, keeps the weight down.
I will be walking again tomorrow in the morning and going for a swim tomorrow night, work permitting.
Then it will be a veggie day on Wednesday before the big trip down south on Thursday to register, then pile on the carbs for energy.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Today I have only walked a mile, which took 18:21 minutes at a pace of 11'13" per km which is a steady pace, which keeps the blood pumping and hopefully not injure or stretch any of my muscles before the run!
I managed to burn 160 calories and with the salad for lunch, keeps the weight down.
I will be walking again tomorrow in the morning and going for a swim tomorrow night, work permitting.
Then it will be a veggie day on Wednesday before the big trip down south on Thursday to register, then pile on the carbs for energy.
Saturday 9 April 2011
Miggy park
It was supposed to be a rest day but as the weather was scorchio (which I hope that it will not be like this next weekend in London!) I walked the mile and a half to the park with Claire, who went on her scooter and Megan on her bike.
The walk was leisurely and has helped me to 441 km since I started training (274 miles to the oldies!)
It is difficult NOT to run but I have to remain disciplined.
This next week I have a couple of miles to walk up to Wednesday and then I will be carbing up (at last) to get some fuel in.
If you would like to sponsor me, then please follow the link below, any amount is appreciated:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
The walk was leisurely and has helped me to 441 km since I started training (274 miles to the oldies!)
It is difficult NOT to run but I have to remain disciplined.
This next week I have a couple of miles to walk up to Wednesday and then I will be carbing up (at last) to get some fuel in.
If you would like to sponsor me, then please follow the link below, any amount is appreciated:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Friday 8 April 2011
catch up
Not been on for a few days as we have had a job in which has meant that work takes priority over the training. How lucky that I am on a wind down before next week!!
06/04 was another 2 miler (2:04 in fact) and this was run in 16:12 minutes at a pace of 4'55 per km which is a far crack for 07:03 in the morning. I managed to burn 321 calories and when eating salads, that is right salads (only good for rabbits) my weight is slowly coming off.
07/04 was new school 3.24km (which is around 2 miles) and this took 16:35 minutes at a pace of 5'06. I naturally put this down to the fact that I wore my running leggings and I do not know why I can not get going with these on, but I always run slower! I only managed 317 calories but had salad again. The run was at 06:48 in the morning which at the time was stupid but after working until silly o'clock it allowed the blood to keep pumping.
Today I ran 2.04 miles again at a time of 16:26. This was a leisurely run as it was the last run before the Marathon :(. I felt great but very tired due to the long hours for the past three days. I ran at 4'59 per km which is a good time for a leisurely stroll. I burnt 322 calories and ate chicken today.
It is not too late to sponsor me on the following link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thank you
06/04 was another 2 miler (2:04 in fact) and this was run in 16:12 minutes at a pace of 4'55 per km which is a far crack for 07:03 in the morning. I managed to burn 321 calories and when eating salads, that is right salads (only good for rabbits) my weight is slowly coming off.
07/04 was new school 3.24km (which is around 2 miles) and this took 16:35 minutes at a pace of 5'06. I naturally put this down to the fact that I wore my running leggings and I do not know why I can not get going with these on, but I always run slower! I only managed 317 calories but had salad again. The run was at 06:48 in the morning which at the time was stupid but after working until silly o'clock it allowed the blood to keep pumping.
Today I ran 2.04 miles again at a time of 16:26. This was a leisurely run as it was the last run before the Marathon :(. I felt great but very tired due to the long hours for the past three days. I ran at 4'59 per km which is a good time for a leisurely stroll. I burnt 322 calories and ate chicken today.
It is not too late to sponsor me on the following link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thank you
Tuesday 5 April 2011
windy miller
why is it that when you are running, the wind is always either in your face or blowing you from the side, yet when you turn around to run back, the wind either changes direction or stops rather than pushing you along?
I ran another 2 miles today but as it was windy, I had my long bottoms on. I know that it is physcological but I can not run as quick in them!
The run today with a head wind of a few miles an hour took 16:48 at an average pace of 5'06, which is disappointing. I burnt 322 calories but have put these on tonight with a takeaway!
I have lost 5 lbs in the last two weeks so I will still be carrying a bit of weight around the course but can do nothing about that now!
There are still 12 days to sponsor me on the below link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thanks
I ran another 2 miles today but as it was windy, I had my long bottoms on. I know that it is physcological but I can not run as quick in them!
The run today with a head wind of a few miles an hour took 16:48 at an average pace of 5'06, which is disappointing. I burnt 322 calories but have put these on tonight with a takeaway!
I have lost 5 lbs in the last two weeks so I will still be carrying a bit of weight around the course but can do nothing about that now!
There are still 12 days to sponsor me on the below link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thanks
Monday 4 April 2011
the next stage of the sloooowww down
It was cold again this morning at 6:30 when I aimed to run but due to traffic getting to work, I ran at 6:44 instead, but still a wind chill in the air.
I ran the 2 miles in 16:04 minutes at a pace of 4'57" per km. I have a goal to run 5 times this week with a pace under 5'30", so day one complete! I burnt 317 calories.
I have an energy gel to try tomorrow to see if it gives me the runs! It may also make me puke so it will be interesting, but this is what they advise at the 21 mile mark at the Lucozade desk. Fingers crossed that neither happen or I may look more like Paula Radcliffe than I ever thought!! I wish she would stop contacting me as I am not going to pace for her!! She needs to find someone else as it would be unfair on my first Marathon to give her a leg up.
Same planned for tomorrow but actual aim is to try to get under 15 minutes but this is not easy due to having to set the pacer before I run and the same at the conclusion, which slows my pace down to over 6'00" per km. This naturally slows my average and time down to put in my password and stop button.
Trying different tops this week and shorts to see which is comfiest for the actual day. I also tried the jelly babies to see if that works!! I suppose it would be a better trial had I been running rather than sat down on my sofa!
Only 12 days to go and here is the link, which I will be pushing daily and beyond the Marathon.
Thank you
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
I ran the 2 miles in 16:04 minutes at a pace of 4'57" per km. I have a goal to run 5 times this week with a pace under 5'30", so day one complete! I burnt 317 calories.
I have an energy gel to try tomorrow to see if it gives me the runs! It may also make me puke so it will be interesting, but this is what they advise at the 21 mile mark at the Lucozade desk. Fingers crossed that neither happen or I may look more like Paula Radcliffe than I ever thought!! I wish she would stop contacting me as I am not going to pace for her!! She needs to find someone else as it would be unfair on my first Marathon to give her a leg up.
Same planned for tomorrow but actual aim is to try to get under 15 minutes but this is not easy due to having to set the pacer before I run and the same at the conclusion, which slows my pace down to over 6'00" per km. This naturally slows my average and time down to put in my password and stop button.
Trying different tops this week and shorts to see which is comfiest for the actual day. I also tried the jelly babies to see if that works!! I suppose it would be a better trial had I been running rather than sat down on my sofa!
Only 12 days to go and here is the link, which I will be pushing daily and beyond the Marathon.
Thank you
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Saturday 2 April 2011
swimming agaist the tide
It was a nice and easy mile swim yesterday. This kept the blood pumping around my legs and the air circulating through my lungs. An early start at 9:15 as at 10:00 the hungry hippos come into the pool for their warm-up before the aqua-splash session.
You need to be finished before this time as the 'swimmin Miss Daisys' are painfully slow and naturally tut when you either pass them or dare to splash the blue rinse.
Once the aqua class has started, it is diificult to calculate the tidal flow. If the squad are walking / running clockwise, it is like tethered swimming in the fast lane due to the flow of water against you, then they turn around and all of a sudden you have your face squashed into the pool wall as you can't stop.
I am having a lazy weekend and back to the running on Monday, when I am down to 2 miles a day and a half mile swim. Just watching the calories and food this week before I need to store those carbs and rest my legs for a few days. It is only 15 days to go now!
Thanks for joining me in this blog
You need to be finished before this time as the 'swimmin Miss Daisys' are painfully slow and naturally tut when you either pass them or dare to splash the blue rinse.
Once the aqua class has started, it is diificult to calculate the tidal flow. If the squad are walking / running clockwise, it is like tethered swimming in the fast lane due to the flow of water against you, then they turn around and all of a sudden you have your face squashed into the pool wall as you can't stop.
I am having a lazy weekend and back to the running on Monday, when I am down to 2 miles a day and a half mile swim. Just watching the calories and food this week before I need to store those carbs and rest my legs for a few days. It is only 15 days to go now!
Thanks for joining me in this blog
Thursday 31 March 2011
all work and no play makes Westy miserable
It has been a few days since I had the time to blog. Unfortunately things at work have been manic and this has not allowed me time to type. I have been able to run in the morning before work as finishing between 7pm and 1am every day is tiring. I would rather do the Marathon everyday than have to keep putting these hours in everyday.
I have lowered my runs down to 3 miles or 5km if you are modern!! This is to keep the pressure off my legs and hopefully keep me injury free but allow enough mileage to keep the bllod flowing through my legs!!
The first run was Tuesday as I did not realise that I would not be able to run in the evening until then. I set off at 06:46 hours and ran the run in exactly 25 minutes, taking into account the roads to cross and cars to dodge. This was an average pace of 4'48" per km and burnt 491 calories. This was apparently a fastest mile since January 7th when I started my training.
On Wednesday I ran 3.15 miles which is just over 5km and this took 25:19 and at 06:50 hours in the rain, I didn't think was too bad, especially when Lance Armstrong informed me that it was fastest mile again!!.The average pace was 4'59" per km and a calorie burn of 496.
Today I ran 3.11 miles and had to dodge some idiot drivers pulling out of drives without looking. The time was 25:17 due to this at an average pace of 5'02 per km. This burnt calories of 490, so not a bad week.
I am aiming to swim tomorrow and due to the wind down, will do a miserly mile in the time before the bathing beauties of the savannah come wobbling in and the waves make the swimming harder, very similar to tethered swimming.
I am havng the weekend off as the Mighty Whites are back on Championship duties and the final full week is low impact and 5 days of 2 miles.
I will hopefully get through the week with no injuries and this should keep me pumped up for the big day which is 18 days away!!
Thanks for looking
John
I have lowered my runs down to 3 miles or 5km if you are modern!! This is to keep the pressure off my legs and hopefully keep me injury free but allow enough mileage to keep the bllod flowing through my legs!!
The first run was Tuesday as I did not realise that I would not be able to run in the evening until then. I set off at 06:46 hours and ran the run in exactly 25 minutes, taking into account the roads to cross and cars to dodge. This was an average pace of 4'48" per km and burnt 491 calories. This was apparently a fastest mile since January 7th when I started my training.
On Wednesday I ran 3.15 miles which is just over 5km and this took 25:19 and at 06:50 hours in the rain, I didn't think was too bad, especially when Lance Armstrong informed me that it was fastest mile again!!.The average pace was 4'59" per km and a calorie burn of 496.
Today I ran 3.11 miles and had to dodge some idiot drivers pulling out of drives without looking. The time was 25:17 due to this at an average pace of 5'02 per km. This burnt calories of 490, so not a bad week.
I am aiming to swim tomorrow and due to the wind down, will do a miserly mile in the time before the bathing beauties of the savannah come wobbling in and the waves make the swimming harder, very similar to tethered swimming.
I am havng the weekend off as the Mighty Whites are back on Championship duties and the final full week is low impact and 5 days of 2 miles.
I will hopefully get through the week with no injuries and this should keep me pumped up for the big day which is 18 days away!!
Thanks for looking
John
Sunday 27 March 2011
work and no play makes John a dull boy
Well the plan to go to the gym over the weekend took a nose dive when I worked 9 hours over yesterday, which meant that I had no time to run or swim :(
There was more overtime today but I could not manage to have three days off without exercise, so I went to the gym for a swim.
Although there were ladies in the fast lane rather than the usual water bisons but they could not keep up with my pace. As I am on a wind down, I swam 1 mile in just over half an hour which keeps the blood flowing and the muscles ticking.
The plan this week is to run between 10 - 15 miles this week over the four days and then have a couple of days rest. I also plan to swim half a mile and some weight training.
Hopefully work will not get in the way this week!
I have lost a few pounds this week which is unusual as I have done less running and eaten the same! How bizarre!!
Have fun reading and see y ou tomorrow!
It is only 3 weeks to go and if you feel that you can sponsor me, please follow the link below.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
John
There was more overtime today but I could not manage to have three days off without exercise, so I went to the gym for a swim.
Although there were ladies in the fast lane rather than the usual water bisons but they could not keep up with my pace. As I am on a wind down, I swam 1 mile in just over half an hour which keeps the blood flowing and the muscles ticking.
The plan this week is to run between 10 - 15 miles this week over the four days and then have a couple of days rest. I also plan to swim half a mile and some weight training.
Hopefully work will not get in the way this week!
I have lost a few pounds this week which is unusual as I have done less running and eaten the same! How bizarre!!
Have fun reading and see y ou tomorrow!
It is only 3 weeks to go and if you feel that you can sponsor me, please follow the link below.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
John
Wednesday 23 March 2011
last run from work
The slow down is continuing. I ran my last 5.5 mile road run today as I ran to work. It is starting to hit home that I have less than four weeks before the Marathon. I have spoken to my training team and they are happy with my progress and I have to resist the urge to train more as my body needs to recover from the 250 miles I have run since the 7th January.
The uphill run took 46:16 minutes to run the 5.40 miles and an average pace of 5'19 over the distance. I managed to rid myself of 850 calories during the run.
I am hitting the gym for the next four days to maintain the 5 miles, although one day will be a 2 mile swim. Thennext week I will step it down again with the runs not exceeding 3 miles.
I have some energy products to try prior to the Marathon as some of them apparently have side effects, which will cause a mess if I don't control them, so I will be using these at the gym; prior to training, during training and at the conclusion of the training. I am also putting more emphasis onto my core strength and getting rid of some more weight.
It is not too late to sponsor me, every little helps is the ethos of Tesco and it certainly applies to raising money for charity. The below is the link to complete this and this will remain open until June 2011.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
The uphill run took 46:16 minutes to run the 5.40 miles and an average pace of 5'19 over the distance. I managed to rid myself of 850 calories during the run.
I am hitting the gym for the next four days to maintain the 5 miles, although one day will be a 2 mile swim. Thennext week I will step it down again with the runs not exceeding 3 miles.
I have some energy products to try prior to the Marathon as some of them apparently have side effects, which will cause a mess if I don't control them, so I will be using these at the gym; prior to training, during training and at the conclusion of the training. I am also putting more emphasis onto my core strength and getting rid of some more weight.
It is not too late to sponsor me, every little helps is the ethos of Tesco and it certainly applies to raising money for charity. The below is the link to complete this and this will remain open until June 2011.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Tuesday 22 March 2011
the slow down has begun
Ran home from work today in the sunshiiiiinnnnnnneeee, which made it that much harder. I am not used to running in warm, light weather! The training to date has been dark, cold and wet.
The run was 5.23 miles and took 43:24 minutes. I did this without any water as this mileage is now well within my capabilities without pain or suffering. I never thought I would have said that 6 months ago when I started and it took nearly an hour to get home!
My pace was 5'09 per km and I ran the quickest km today at 5'06 during the run, which is surprising as I felt that I ran slowly due to the heat! If you were on a bike around the Village gym I am sorry that I did not say hello, but I had my i-phone on and just run up the hill over the motorway!
A massive 824 calories left my body today, and with the salad for lunch and chicken for tea, it is all falling into place!
Since 7th January I have now run 390.76km which is 242.81 miles in old money. Not bad for a fat lad!
I have made my debut in the Beat magazine and a small article to go with my picture, so hopefully this may drum up some sponsorship and hits onto my blog, as it has a link to this page.
If you do wish to support my causes, please follow this link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
The run was 5.23 miles and took 43:24 minutes. I did this without any water as this mileage is now well within my capabilities without pain or suffering. I never thought I would have said that 6 months ago when I started and it took nearly an hour to get home!
My pace was 5'09 per km and I ran the quickest km today at 5'06 during the run, which is surprising as I felt that I ran slowly due to the heat! If you were on a bike around the Village gym I am sorry that I did not say hello, but I had my i-phone on and just run up the hill over the motorway!
A massive 824 calories left my body today, and with the salad for lunch and chicken for tea, it is all falling into place!
Since 7th January I have now run 390.76km which is 242.81 miles in old money. Not bad for a fat lad!
I have made my debut in the Beat magazine and a small article to go with my picture, so hopefully this may drum up some sponsorship and hits onto my blog, as it has a link to this page.
If you do wish to support my causes, please follow this link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Sunday 20 March 2011
The last big one!!
It was the last long run and now it starts to peeter off. The 20 miles took 3:16:00 and an average pace of 6'04 per km and a huge 3153 calories burnt.
Split times per km: 5'14: 4'58: 5'11: 5'11: 5'12: 5'15: 5'12: 5'31: 5'44: 5'32:
5'35: 5'40: 5'35: 5'32: 5'53: 9'53: 5'55: 5'51: 9'45: 5'26
9'50: 5'35: 5'46: 5'47: 5'40: 5'49: 10'25: 5'52: 5'36: 5'28
5'36: 5'53
The large numbers are Stonegate Road hill, Harrogate Road hill, Wigton Lane hill and Park Lane hill, which I will not experience on the actual day.
I walked 1 mile afterwards as a cool down and my legs feel fine today. (1.42km and took 14:45, burnt 139 calories and a pace of 10'23 per km)
Plan for this week is Monday off, Tuesday / Wednesday run to work (5.28 miles), Thursday to the gym, Friday, Saturday and Sunday are low level runs (4-5 miles) and will place a swim in between the runs. The final month is keep the legs going but not hardcore like the previous weeks.
I reached my goal of 150km run in under four weeks, have 11 more runs to hit the target by 08/04, I have 1916 calories to burn by 08/04 to have burnt 10000 in less than a month and 1 more run to hit 10 in under an average pace of 8'00km.
Since I started my training on 07/01, I have run 362.33km, burning 35464 calories and the furthest run was 20.28 miles. (The mileage run is 225.14 miles for the old skool!!)
Thank you for looking and have a great evening.
Westy
Split times per km: 5'14: 4'58: 5'11: 5'11: 5'12: 5'15: 5'12: 5'31: 5'44: 5'32:
5'35: 5'40: 5'35: 5'32: 5'53: 9'53: 5'55: 5'51: 9'45: 5'26
9'50: 5'35: 5'46: 5'47: 5'40: 5'49: 10'25: 5'52: 5'36: 5'28
5'36: 5'53
The large numbers are Stonegate Road hill, Harrogate Road hill, Wigton Lane hill and Park Lane hill, which I will not experience on the actual day.
I walked 1 mile afterwards as a cool down and my legs feel fine today. (1.42km and took 14:45, burnt 139 calories and a pace of 10'23 per km)
Plan for this week is Monday off, Tuesday / Wednesday run to work (5.28 miles), Thursday to the gym, Friday, Saturday and Sunday are low level runs (4-5 miles) and will place a swim in between the runs. The final month is keep the legs going but not hardcore like the previous weeks.
I reached my goal of 150km run in under four weeks, have 11 more runs to hit the target by 08/04, I have 1916 calories to burn by 08/04 to have burnt 10000 in less than a month and 1 more run to hit 10 in under an average pace of 8'00km.
Since I started my training on 07/01, I have run 362.33km, burning 35464 calories and the furthest run was 20.28 miles. (The mileage run is 225.14 miles for the old skool!!)
Thank you for looking and have a great evening.
Westy
Friday 18 March 2011
kids and water...
They love it were the famous words uttered by Rolf Harris. I had a splash today and swam a good 2 miles in just over 2 hours. I had a pacer today and this kept me going. You usually have someone who swims for about 20 lengths and then leaves but the bloke was present for about 100 lengths and then another person came in for the final 60.
Only concern was the cramp which I got in the last two lengths but this is more to do with sprinting for the final four lengths!
Feet are up for today and tomorrow, only a little bit of walking and then ready for the long one at 09:30 on Sunday.
Number came today along with my running vest and an information package. Apparently the average time for the Marathon is 4 hours and 40 minutes so hopefully I can come in around this time. They push the concept of going out too fast, which is the problem that I have at the moment when I train. The last 20 miler I completed the half marathon in under 1 hour 30 minutes. They say that the race does not begin until the final 6 miles so I need a pacer, if anyone is available!! You only need to run either 6 miles or 13.5 and then drop out!! I will have my name on my running vest which is white with red on the side.
Have a pleasant evening and COME ON LEEDS for tomorrows early kick off against the blades.
Only concern was the cramp which I got in the last two lengths but this is more to do with sprinting for the final four lengths!
Feet are up for today and tomorrow, only a little bit of walking and then ready for the long one at 09:30 on Sunday.
Number came today along with my running vest and an information package. Apparently the average time for the Marathon is 4 hours and 40 minutes so hopefully I can come in around this time. They push the concept of going out too fast, which is the problem that I have at the moment when I train. The last 20 miler I completed the half marathon in under 1 hour 30 minutes. They say that the race does not begin until the final 6 miles so I need a pacer, if anyone is available!! You only need to run either 6 miles or 13.5 and then drop out!! I will have my name on my running vest which is white with red on the side.
Have a pleasant evening and COME ON LEEDS for tomorrows early kick off against the blades.
Thursday 17 March 2011
Happy Potato Day
Well as I am TOFFO this week, I had a rest yesterday but felt that I should make a guest appearance on DW's treafmills, and I am glad that I did.
Started off with a 5 minute warm up and the guy next to me sniggered as I walked at a pace of 5km per hour. He blasted off at 10km, which is a nice pace t warm up to.
After 5 minutes I raised my level to 10k and he decided to increase by 0.5km to 'keep ahead'. The following next 5 minutes I raised the level to 10.5km and he went to 11km but I could see that he was struggling with this so I decided to have a bit of fun. I waited a further 5 minutes before raising to 11km and watched to see if he could respond, but he didn't. I then went to 11.5, 12, 12.1, 12.2, 12.3 with no response. I moved into the zone and ran at 15km and he almost fell off his treadmill, especially as I had run 5 miles before I did my interval training, which is 1 minute at 10km, 1 minute at 12km and 30 seconds at 15km. I felt great after this and it made up for doing very little on Wednesday.
I am going to the hospital with my youngest dauhgter tomorrow so will have another rest day, as with Saturday but then on Sunday I will run the 20 miles for the last time until the Marathon, which is in a month. My training will slow down after this, in terms of mileage but frequency will remain the same.
If you still wish to sponsor me or pledge, please PM me or follow the link below for sponsorship. All monies donated will go to the charities and none is taken by the just giving site.
Thanks for looking and remember, you can play the "where's Westy / Weggy" game by donating £1 to the link and PM me with my running number if yu see me. The first that does (if I get 20 people taking part) will win £10.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Started off with a 5 minute warm up and the guy next to me sniggered as I walked at a pace of 5km per hour. He blasted off at 10km, which is a nice pace t warm up to.
After 5 minutes I raised my level to 10k and he decided to increase by 0.5km to 'keep ahead'. The following next 5 minutes I raised the level to 10.5km and he went to 11km but I could see that he was struggling with this so I decided to have a bit of fun. I waited a further 5 minutes before raising to 11km and watched to see if he could respond, but he didn't. I then went to 11.5, 12, 12.1, 12.2, 12.3 with no response. I moved into the zone and ran at 15km and he almost fell off his treadmill, especially as I had run 5 miles before I did my interval training, which is 1 minute at 10km, 1 minute at 12km and 30 seconds at 15km. I felt great after this and it made up for doing very little on Wednesday.
I am going to the hospital with my youngest dauhgter tomorrow so will have another rest day, as with Saturday but then on Sunday I will run the 20 miles for the last time until the Marathon, which is in a month. My training will slow down after this, in terms of mileage but frequency will remain the same.
If you still wish to sponsor me or pledge, please PM me or follow the link below for sponsorship. All monies donated will go to the charities and none is taken by the just giving site.
Thanks for looking and remember, you can play the "where's Westy / Weggy" game by donating £1 to the link and PM me with my running number if yu see me. The first that does (if I get 20 people taking part) will win £10.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Sunday 13 March 2011
the 19 mile painmarker again
Well, the rain did not put me off this morning and off I trot at 9:30am. The same route as two weeks previous but did not have as much rest prior to the first run and I felt it toward the end of the session.
I ran the 20 miles in 3:30:23 which was far slower but the pain was unbelievable at 19 miles. I had to walk the last 1.28 miles as my calves were on fire.
the average pace for the total run was 6'26" which was affected by the rain and the slow walk home, similar to the formula one car that blows its engine and has to limp home.
I managed a huge 3,195 calorie burn in this time which will hopefully allow for some weight loss, although the tube of Pringles may counter balance this!!
My plans are to do nothing tomorrow, a small run on Tuesday of 3-4 miles and a swim on Wednesday (2 miles) I am then TOFFO for the rest of the week and will complete another couple of smaller runs before the 20 mile goalpost for the weekend. I need to find out if the gym is open or shut this week as there are mixed messages coming from the members. If it is open, I might go for a session on the rower and weights to improve my core strength and also to stop my arms from aching when I run.
That is about all as I have my feet up and looking forward to a Radox bath later!
Hope that you all had a fun weekend and see you tomorrow!
I ran the 20 miles in 3:30:23 which was far slower but the pain was unbelievable at 19 miles. I had to walk the last 1.28 miles as my calves were on fire.
the average pace for the total run was 6'26" which was affected by the rain and the slow walk home, similar to the formula one car that blows its engine and has to limp home.
I managed a huge 3,195 calorie burn in this time which will hopefully allow for some weight loss, although the tube of Pringles may counter balance this!!
My plans are to do nothing tomorrow, a small run on Tuesday of 3-4 miles and a swim on Wednesday (2 miles) I am then TOFFO for the rest of the week and will complete another couple of smaller runs before the 20 mile goalpost for the weekend. I need to find out if the gym is open or shut this week as there are mixed messages coming from the members. If it is open, I might go for a session on the rower and weights to improve my core strength and also to stop my arms from aching when I run.
That is about all as I have my feet up and looking forward to a Radox bath later!
Hope that you all had a fun weekend and see you tomorrow!
Friday 11 March 2011
Where's Westy / Weggy?
I hit the gym tonight as I needed a fwe more miles in my legs. So I went to the sweatbox that is DW, the sooner that they complete the refit the better as it was like an oven tonight and I drank 1litre of water before the end of the 5 miles. I ran this in a steady 48:29 which is not earth shattering but it made me sweat like a pig in a pork scratching factory. I ran at 5'59" per km which again is not blistering but it will allow me to get around the Marathon route in around 4 hours to 4.50 hours. I burnt 792 calrories and sweat about half my bodies water during the run.
I am just about one month away from the run (1 month and 8 days to be precise) and I have to rest for the last week, so 1 month and 1 day left! I will probably up the running next week to daily runs, whether it be to work or just a tuttle around the estate on my 4-5 mile runs. I also have planned to complete three more 20 mile runs on the next three weekends that I am off.
If you would like to play the game - Where's Westy (new friends) or Where's Weggy (old schoolers) then please follow the link and pay the minimum £1 entry fee. The first to send me a PM when you sight me and note my running number will win a prize (which is yet to be decided) and the joy of being the Wally finder of the London Marathon
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
I am just about one month away from the run (1 month and 8 days to be precise) and I have to rest for the last week, so 1 month and 1 day left! I will probably up the running next week to daily runs, whether it be to work or just a tuttle around the estate on my 4-5 mile runs. I also have planned to complete three more 20 mile runs on the next three weekends that I am off.
If you would like to play the game - Where's Westy (new friends) or Where's Weggy (old schoolers) then please follow the link and pay the minimum £1 entry fee. The first to send me a PM when you sight me and note my running number will win a prize (which is yet to be decided) and the joy of being the Wally finder of the London Marathon
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thursday 10 March 2011
a bit of breast stroking tonight ;)
Well I decided to go for a swim at 8:30pm and the pool only had four people in and no hippopotumousses to stop the rip-curl f the Westy.
I also took on board the advice from The Chief and finished the 2 mile swim with one freestyle, one breast stroke, one back stroke and one butterfly. The pool was empty by that time so I could splash, splash, splash.
A burn of around 1000 calories after a taxing day at the office!
I have stopped eating bread for the next 40 days as well as takeaways to try to help with weight loss and also for Lent.
I have seen the weather forecast for the weekend and feel that I may be getting very wet on my 20 miler this weekend so think of me when you are having your breakfast on Sunday morning!
Not much more to say really. Completed four runs this week which is 23.5 miles (at the ned of the week it will be 44 miles) and the two mile swim. Only got four weeks left of training before I slow it down for the big run.
Usual link if you would like to sposnsor me and thanks for looking.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
I also took on board the advice from The Chief and finished the 2 mile swim with one freestyle, one breast stroke, one back stroke and one butterfly. The pool was empty by that time so I could splash, splash, splash.
A burn of around 1000 calories after a taxing day at the office!
I have stopped eating bread for the next 40 days as well as takeaways to try to help with weight loss and also for Lent.
I have seen the weather forecast for the weekend and feel that I may be getting very wet on my 20 miler this weekend so think of me when you are having your breakfast on Sunday morning!
Not much more to say really. Completed four runs this week which is 23.5 miles (at the ned of the week it will be 44 miles) and the two mile swim. Only got four weeks left of training before I slow it down for the big run.
Usual link if you would like to sposnsor me and thanks for looking.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Wednesday 9 March 2011
Paul the weatherman talks......
well he was way off the mark with his forecast for today, or more specifically this morning.
He failed to inform me that it would be gale force winds, rain, hail stone, sleet and freezing. At 6am it was not the most appealing of weathers to run in, especially as my leggings were at work so I only had shorts!
Got up and set off. It felt like taking one step forward and two back as I started and then I had to dive out of the way of the puddles both on the path and the ones the vehicles were driving through.
Pace was slow due to the conditions and I ran 5.47 miles in 49:13 seconds. The run is 95% uphill and I managed a pace of 5'35 per km which I can't grumble about and 862 calories burnt. The time was three minutes slower than usual but I managed to run in the inclimate conditions.
On a course for the next two days so I will have my feet up during the day but going to the gym tomorrow for a swim, hopefully be hippo free at the time. May have a rest day on Friday due to the long one planned for Sunday.
Legs are a bit sore at the moment but the shin splints pain has gone, which is great as this was a major concern for me, but a change of running styles has allieved this problem.
If you would like to sponsor me, please feel free to on the below link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
He failed to inform me that it would be gale force winds, rain, hail stone, sleet and freezing. At 6am it was not the most appealing of weathers to run in, especially as my leggings were at work so I only had shorts!
Got up and set off. It felt like taking one step forward and two back as I started and then I had to dive out of the way of the puddles both on the path and the ones the vehicles were driving through.
Pace was slow due to the conditions and I ran 5.47 miles in 49:13 seconds. The run is 95% uphill and I managed a pace of 5'35 per km which I can't grumble about and 862 calories burnt. The time was three minutes slower than usual but I managed to run in the inclimate conditions.
On a course for the next two days so I will have my feet up during the day but going to the gym tomorrow for a swim, hopefully be hippo free at the time. May have a rest day on Friday due to the long one planned for Sunday.
Legs are a bit sore at the moment but the shin splints pain has gone, which is great as this was a major concern for me, but a change of running styles has allieved this problem.
If you would like to sponsor me, please feel free to on the below link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Tuesday 8 March 2011
remembered the code!!
Well, after the last two days of racking my brain for my password, it came back to me in a flash of inspiration whilst slaving over the stove for pancakes! Luckily I could have some as I ran further today than normal to allow for those extra calories!
Yesterday I ran from work in the sunshiiiiiinnnnnneee which was a novelty! I managed to almost hit the 5'00 per km mark but only managed 5'07", so I was so close. This allowed for a burning of 816 calories and a time of 42:48.
I awoke this morning and heard the sound of scraping ice off the windscreens of my next door neighbour. I almost turned over and went back to sleep but got up and put on my leggings, hat and off I went in the freezing cold. The run to work is uphill and I managed to get there in 46:16, running at 5'27" per km which is fairly good. My aim in the next month is to try to hit 40 minutes on the homeward bound journey and 45 minutes on the uphill slog. Running uphill burns a few more calories (829).
On the way home today I ran those extra miles to allow for pancakes! I ran a pace of 5'25" and 11.54 kms. A steady run allowing for a time of 1:02:33 and 1129 calories burnt.
Going to run in the morning and then probably hit the gym on Thursday due to a course. May rest Friday, but may also go to the gym and then definately resting on Saturday, in preparation for the long one on Sunday again. The 20 mile legs need to be strapped on!
That is a quick catch-up from my absent mind and hopefully I will recall my password in future and you enjoy my progress!
See you all tomorrow
John
Yesterday I ran from work in the sunshiiiiiinnnnnneee which was a novelty! I managed to almost hit the 5'00 per km mark but only managed 5'07", so I was so close. This allowed for a burning of 816 calories and a time of 42:48.
I awoke this morning and heard the sound of scraping ice off the windscreens of my next door neighbour. I almost turned over and went back to sleep but got up and put on my leggings, hat and off I went in the freezing cold. The run to work is uphill and I managed to get there in 46:16, running at 5'27" per km which is fairly good. My aim in the next month is to try to hit 40 minutes on the homeward bound journey and 45 minutes on the uphill slog. Running uphill burns a few more calories (829).
On the way home today I ran those extra miles to allow for pancakes! I ran a pace of 5'25" and 11.54 kms. A steady run allowing for a time of 1:02:33 and 1129 calories burnt.
Going to run in the morning and then probably hit the gym on Thursday due to a course. May rest Friday, but may also go to the gym and then definately resting on Saturday, in preparation for the long one on Sunday again. The 20 mile legs need to be strapped on!
That is a quick catch-up from my absent mind and hopefully I will recall my password in future and you enjoy my progress!
See you all tomorrow
John
Saturday 5 March 2011
the man from atlantis
Strange day at work, lots of work but little to do? Finished on time so after the pounding of the streets yesterday, I decided to go to the gym for a swim.
It was nice to have people in the lane who were quick and I could pace myself against.
I managed to complete 2 miles in 70 minutes, which is 10 minutes quicker than normal. I burnt 1000 calories during the time in the pool and feel fairly good due to the low impact workout, which hopefully will tone / trim the fat and assist the stamina.
The problem with swimming is that I get a runny nose afterwards and smell of chlorine, but I suppose that there could be worse things to smell of!! The speedy swimmers certainly took the hippo element out of the equation which saved me from having a splash. I finished the 2 miles with a 4X1 swim (that is one length of butterfly, back stroke, breast stroke and then front crawl - in that order)which tests the stamina and the arms at the end.
If you have not been able to sponsor me to date, any amount will do, even a pound which now will not by a litre of petrol, a 4 pint of milk, a loaf of bread or double cheeseburger at Maccy D's. The link below will help and thank you in advance
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
It was nice to have people in the lane who were quick and I could pace myself against.
I managed to complete 2 miles in 70 minutes, which is 10 minutes quicker than normal. I burnt 1000 calories during the time in the pool and feel fairly good due to the low impact workout, which hopefully will tone / trim the fat and assist the stamina.
The problem with swimming is that I get a runny nose afterwards and smell of chlorine, but I suppose that there could be worse things to smell of!! The speedy swimmers certainly took the hippo element out of the equation which saved me from having a splash. I finished the 2 miles with a 4X1 swim (that is one length of butterfly, back stroke, breast stroke and then front crawl - in that order)which tests the stamina and the arms at the end.
If you have not been able to sponsor me to date, any amount will do, even a pound which now will not by a litre of petrol, a 4 pint of milk, a loaf of bread or double cheeseburger at Maccy D's. The link below will help and thank you in advance
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Friday 4 March 2011
annual leave means running
Supposed to be bowling today, but as per last year, failed to get into the team.
Yesterday I went to the gym which was dire and boring. Managed a 11.5km cycle which burnt 240 calories and then on the cross trainer when I burnt 163 calories, so an easy day at the gym. Ate well with pasta for tea.
Friday should have been a bowling day but to relieve my anger at not being picked, I went for a run.
The route was from home to Carlton and then to Wakey and back. A grand total of 12.42 miles or 20km in the modern world!
I managed a gentle jog with a pace of 5'47" per km and a grand total of 1:53:10 but still struggling with the water intake. Have a back pack which carries the water but need to be able to run and drink at the same time. The problem is that when I do this, my nose runs (which would not be bad if it ran faster than my legs but it doesn't!) I burnt 1909 calories which is great. Need to decide whether I run to and from work on this weekend as I am in or go to the gym, decisions, decisions. (plus ESPN is on free weekend so sport, sport, sport!)
Need a trip to the shop to buy some more skins as mine are running out quicker than I can wash them. When I say I, I obviously mean Claire!!
If you would like to sponsor me, please follow the link below. Thanks for looking.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Yesterday I went to the gym which was dire and boring. Managed a 11.5km cycle which burnt 240 calories and then on the cross trainer when I burnt 163 calories, so an easy day at the gym. Ate well with pasta for tea.
Friday should have been a bowling day but to relieve my anger at not being picked, I went for a run.
The route was from home to Carlton and then to Wakey and back. A grand total of 12.42 miles or 20km in the modern world!
I managed a gentle jog with a pace of 5'47" per km and a grand total of 1:53:10 but still struggling with the water intake. Have a back pack which carries the water but need to be able to run and drink at the same time. The problem is that when I do this, my nose runs (which would not be bad if it ran faster than my legs but it doesn't!) I burnt 1909 calories which is great. Need to decide whether I run to and from work on this weekend as I am in or go to the gym, decisions, decisions. (plus ESPN is on free weekend so sport, sport, sport!)
Need a trip to the shop to buy some more skins as mine are running out quicker than I can wash them. When I say I, I obviously mean Claire!!
If you would like to sponsor me, please follow the link below. Thanks for looking.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Wednesday 2 March 2011
work, work, work
Not been on for a few days as I have been working over, which is not good for the legs but is good for the wallet, or should I say, the purse!!
Although not completed any runs, I have monitored my eating and kept it low even though the rest ate curries and other takeaway delights which I would have jumped at.
Rest day tomorrow so I am aiming to hit the gym for a few hours, that will be 90 minutes on the bike and 90 minutes on the cross trainer. I may even go for a mile swim too!!
I am supposed to be bowling on Friday but I have not heard anything so it may be back to the gym again. May do a class and a run on the treadmill as not been on this for about a month.
Working weekend so may run in the evening, dependant on the weather and work.
Sorry it is not a very interesting blog, but not been able to do anything!
Although not completed any runs, I have monitored my eating and kept it low even though the rest ate curries and other takeaway delights which I would have jumped at.
Rest day tomorrow so I am aiming to hit the gym for a few hours, that will be 90 minutes on the bike and 90 minutes on the cross trainer. I may even go for a mile swim too!!
I am supposed to be bowling on Friday but I have not heard anything so it may be back to the gym again. May do a class and a run on the treadmill as not been on this for about a month.
Working weekend so may run in the evening, dependant on the weather and work.
Sorry it is not a very interesting blog, but not been able to do anything!
Sunday 27 February 2011
20 miler
Well today was the first day that I doubted myself. I sat down last night and planned the route from South to North Leeds. It was huge. I did not sleep very well and felt very nervous in the morning, but as soon as the high visibility coat went on, it was running mode. So off I went and trotted along the designated route, although some had to be tweaked as there were no paths. I have also acquired a water camelback which helped to keep me hydrated but to say it is like carrying a 500ml bottle of coke around, I think not!
Kept myself going until I hit the first hill and I said that I would walk up these to preserve running energy so that is what I did. Once at the summit, back to the running. I was happy at 20km around 2 hours and then at around 18.5 miles, the pain came. My legs began to burn, my arms felt sharp pains in them and my stomach got a stitch, so U had to slow down again but at least it was flat at this point. Once the stitch went, I continued with the run and hit the 20 mile mark near to my finish line, but ran the last 0.5 mile to fininsh, in just over 3 hours. My legs are so heavy at the moment but hopefully, a couple of hours resting them will be fine. I left myself just under 10km for the actual race and estimate that this will take about an hour, so I may move my estimated finishing time to 4.5 hours as this is more achieveable than the 4 hours I previously wanted.
I now know how Claire feels with her MS as my legs feel like hers, although mine will return to normal later where as hers remains weak and painful. If you want to help find treatment to suspend the suffering of MS as there is no known cure, please feel free to sponsor me on the link below:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thank you for your time and have a good day
John
Kept myself going until I hit the first hill and I said that I would walk up these to preserve running energy so that is what I did. Once at the summit, back to the running. I was happy at 20km around 2 hours and then at around 18.5 miles, the pain came. My legs began to burn, my arms felt sharp pains in them and my stomach got a stitch, so U had to slow down again but at least it was flat at this point. Once the stitch went, I continued with the run and hit the 20 mile mark near to my finish line, but ran the last 0.5 mile to fininsh, in just over 3 hours. My legs are so heavy at the moment but hopefully, a couple of hours resting them will be fine. I left myself just under 10km for the actual race and estimate that this will take about an hour, so I may move my estimated finishing time to 4.5 hours as this is more achieveable than the 4 hours I previously wanted.
I now know how Claire feels with her MS as my legs feel like hers, although mine will return to normal later where as hers remains weak and painful. If you want to help find treatment to suspend the suffering of MS as there is no known cure, please feel free to sponsor me on the link below:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thank you for your time and have a good day
John
Friday 25 February 2011
painful legs
It was a very hard run today, after the PB of yesterday. As I got up at 6:15am my legs were saying NOOOOOO. No pain, no gain so off I went. It was a very slow and painful run and due to the ache in my legs, it took 3 minutes longer than normal :(
The run lasted for a mind bending 49:43 mins and poor pace of 5'45" burnt still managed a cool 844 calories but it does sound a longer run at 8.63km rather than 5.27 miles!
Have had a chat with some runners in Wakefield and they have goven me some advice regarding my shins and I will be putting this into action on Sunday.
Having a rest day tomorrow and then a 20 miler on Sunday followed by running to work Mon-Wed, to get the mileage in my legs.
I feel like Claire does with my legs but mine only lasts for minutes whilst Claire's lasts for her lifetime. It makes me glad that I don't have MS, ig you feel the same, you can sponsor me on the Marathon on the following link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
The run lasted for a mind bending 49:43 mins and poor pace of 5'45" burnt still managed a cool 844 calories but it does sound a longer run at 8.63km rather than 5.27 miles!
Have had a chat with some runners in Wakefield and they have goven me some advice regarding my shins and I will be putting this into action on Sunday.
Having a rest day tomorrow and then a 20 miler on Sunday followed by running to work Mon-Wed, to get the mileage in my legs.
I feel like Claire does with my legs but mine only lasts for minutes whilst Claire's lasts for her lifetime. It makes me glad that I don't have MS, ig you feel the same, you can sponsor me on the Marathon on the following link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thursday 24 February 2011
the sun has got his hat on
Well it was a surprise that I actually ran in the sunshine today, which was a very pleasant change to the usual wind, rain or snow!
Shins are really hurting me today after running the 8.17km (5.26 miles) in 42:50 which is the quickest time to date. This meant that I managed to run at a pace of 5'14", which again was helped by the sunshine. How bizarre that a quicker time meant less calories burnt? Only 800 burnt on the run. Claire got a surprise by me being home before 5pm!!
As I said earlier, my shins are really hurting, so if anyone knows what I can do to stop this happening, please tell me! Is it something I can do in my warm up or cool down? Some have suggested pain killers but I want to keep clear of this method.
Running to work in the morning so if you see me, give me a little toot on the horn but please do not stop as I will not be polite and get in, mainly because I'll be sweaty!
I am still attempting to reach my target for donation and the below link will direct you to the web page, which apparently has been upgraded to accept paypal.
Thanks for looking
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Shins are really hurting me today after running the 8.17km (5.26 miles) in 42:50 which is the quickest time to date. This meant that I managed to run at a pace of 5'14", which again was helped by the sunshine. How bizarre that a quicker time meant less calories burnt? Only 800 burnt on the run. Claire got a surprise by me being home before 5pm!!
As I said earlier, my shins are really hurting, so if anyone knows what I can do to stop this happening, please tell me! Is it something I can do in my warm up or cool down? Some have suggested pain killers but I want to keep clear of this method.
Running to work in the morning so if you see me, give me a little toot on the horn but please do not stop as I will not be polite and get in, mainly because I'll be sweaty!
I am still attempting to reach my target for donation and the below link will direct you to the web page, which apparently has been upgraded to accept paypal.
Thanks for looking
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Wednesday 23 February 2011
London Marathon: another long day
London Marathon: another long day: "Glad that I ran to work this morning as I had another long day at work. Waking up at 6:15 was not nice as it was both cold and wet, but it i..."
another long day
Glad that I ran to work this morning as I had another long day at work. Waking up at 6:15 was not nice as it was both cold and wet, but it is only a little bit of rain!!
The run to work was as difficult as usual, uphill, wind swept and wet.
I managed to burn 829 calories on the 5.26 mile run and it took 46:20 to complete and an average pace of 5'28" which I am more than happy with.
Since January 7th I have managed to cover 195.12km and worked off another 18440 calories in 20:06:17 hours!
My first run to work was on the 11th January and took 55:37 to complete so I have managed to take over 9 minutes off this time and the average pace has decreased from 6'38", so a minute a km off the usual rate! As you can imagine, I am over the moon with my progress. Got 2 more days of running to and from work then a gym day on Saturday and another big one on Sunday. I am just prepping my route and aiming for over 20 miles.
Not going to put the link on tonight but will place it on tomorrow, have fun and remember, it is a dangerous world out there and watch out for idiots running in illuminous yellow jackets when you are driving in your cars!
The run to work was as difficult as usual, uphill, wind swept and wet.
I managed to burn 829 calories on the 5.26 mile run and it took 46:20 to complete and an average pace of 5'28" which I am more than happy with.
Since January 7th I have managed to cover 195.12km and worked off another 18440 calories in 20:06:17 hours!
My first run to work was on the 11th January and took 55:37 to complete so I have managed to take over 9 minutes off this time and the average pace has decreased from 6'38", so a minute a km off the usual rate! As you can imagine, I am over the moon with my progress. Got 2 more days of running to and from work then a gym day on Saturday and another big one on Sunday. I am just prepping my route and aiming for over 20 miles.
Not going to put the link on tonight but will place it on tomorrow, have fun and remember, it is a dangerous world out there and watch out for idiots running in illuminous yellow jackets when you are driving in your cars!
Tuesday 22 February 2011
first short one
Well after the exploits of the long one at the weekend, time to come back to earth with a 5.26 miler. My legs are very sore from this and my shins are killing me. How does it work? Run 15 miles and have little pain, run a third of this and pain, pain, pain.
A slow pace due to traffic and having to wait at the traffic lights so an average pace of 5'21 per km and a burn of 829 calories. The time was 45:28 which I thought was slow but one of the fastest paces that I have set, so the pace is there it is the pain to get over. Running back to work tomorrow after the pizza I am having for my tea tonight! My wife is so bad!!
It is less than 2 months now to the marathon and any donations would be gratefully received on this link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
A slow pace due to traffic and having to wait at the traffic lights so an average pace of 5'21 per km and a burn of 829 calories. The time was 45:28 which I thought was slow but one of the fastest paces that I have set, so the pace is there it is the pain to get over. Running back to work tomorrow after the pizza I am having for my tea tonight! My wife is so bad!!
It is less than 2 months now to the marathon and any donations would be gratefully received on this link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Monday 21 February 2011
swim Forrest swim
Rather than another run I decided to go for a swim instead. An easy day at work alowed for a finish time which was generous and I went to the gym prior to the stampede of workers (rather than the retired, lazy and spoilt)
The pool had a clear lane which said FAST so in I went. For the first 30 minutes I had the lane to myself and set a decent pace of two lengths per minute. It was at this point when the blue rinse brigade decided that they could swim at my pace, how wrong they were. Luckily for them, they allowed me to pass easily so I didn't have to resort to the leg pulling and dunking of them!
They only lasted around four of their lengths, which is seven of mine before they got bored and got out.
I continued with the swim and did the usual 2 miles within the 80 minutes and felt great. This allowed for a calorie burn of around 1000 which is not too bad either. Ate well today, 2 slices of taost for brekkie, two ham salad sandwiches for lunch and Claire's wonderful chicken casserole for tea. Hopefully this will assist with getting some of my weight off. It appears to have peaked at 14st 10 and doesn't want to go any lower!
Back to the running tomorrow for the next four days, including going to the gym on Wednesday and Friday. Trying weights and exercise classes on these days. Weekend off again but need complete a big run but hopefully have a new water bag and this will assist with my hydration.
Usual link below if you want to sponsor me.
Thanks for looking.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
The pool had a clear lane which said FAST so in I went. For the first 30 minutes I had the lane to myself and set a decent pace of two lengths per minute. It was at this point when the blue rinse brigade decided that they could swim at my pace, how wrong they were. Luckily for them, they allowed me to pass easily so I didn't have to resort to the leg pulling and dunking of them!
They only lasted around four of their lengths, which is seven of mine before they got bored and got out.
I continued with the swim and did the usual 2 miles within the 80 minutes and felt great. This allowed for a calorie burn of around 1000 which is not too bad either. Ate well today, 2 slices of taost for brekkie, two ham salad sandwiches for lunch and Claire's wonderful chicken casserole for tea. Hopefully this will assist with getting some of my weight off. It appears to have peaked at 14st 10 and doesn't want to go any lower!
Back to the running tomorrow for the next four days, including going to the gym on Wednesday and Friday. Trying weights and exercise classes on these days. Weekend off again but need complete a big run but hopefully have a new water bag and this will assist with my hydration.
Usual link below if you want to sponsor me.
Thanks for looking.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Sunday 20 February 2011
weekend of rest
Rest is for the weak! Everything was against me this weekend, firstly it snowed, snowed and snowed some more and then Claire's car decided that it would slide off the drive, causing Claire to damage her ligaments in her left knee.
Anyway, I decided that a run was in order and off I went to Castleford. Managed to run the 13 miles there before I realised that I had no means of hydration and thoughtthat I best not run anymore! The time for the half marathon was 1:48:00 which is not too bad for a fat lad. This meant an average pace of 5'39" over the distance which I am more than happy with! Calories went running too and a massive 1998 burnt off the flab!
I also completed a 6.23km walk, which took 1:00:34 and average 9'43 per km. I burnt off 610 calories with this and felt worse than the run!!
Back to work this week and will be running in for 4 of the 5 days in and hopefully hitting the gym on at least four days to try to tone!! I feel the splash coming on so beware hippo's!
Usual link at the conclusion of the blog, thanks for looking and have a great weekend!
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Anyway, I decided that a run was in order and off I went to Castleford. Managed to run the 13 miles there before I realised that I had no means of hydration and thoughtthat I best not run anymore! The time for the half marathon was 1:48:00 which is not too bad for a fat lad. This meant an average pace of 5'39" over the distance which I am more than happy with! Calories went running too and a massive 1998 burnt off the flab!
I also completed a 6.23km walk, which took 1:00:34 and average 9'43 per km. I burnt off 610 calories with this and felt worse than the run!!
Back to work this week and will be running in for 4 of the 5 days in and hopefully hitting the gym on at least four days to try to tone!! I feel the splash coming on so beware hippo's!
Usual link at the conclusion of the blog, thanks for looking and have a great weekend!
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Friday 18 February 2011
walk away the fat
It was a rest day and I did not make it to the gym as Ikea had two products for me to build for Megan. Surprisingly went well with the build but the items weighed a tonne and took a while to manouevre around the house.
Megan decided that she wanted to walk to school today. Pity the teachers can't do this but as they are lazy and underworked, they need their cars, except in the snow when they can't even get out of their houses. Enough of the soapbox.
Walked to and from school to take and collect Megan so walked 5.82 miles in total and burnt 916 calories, which is not too bad, although it did take just under 2 hours to complete. I kept the heart rate down to 110 bpm which is optimum to burn fat as well as calories (apparently)
Unfortunately I can't walk this far on the Marathon as no one would pay! Which allows for the following link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
This giving site gives all of the money to the charities rather than taking 10% off like others.
Thanks for looking
John
Megan decided that she wanted to walk to school today. Pity the teachers can't do this but as they are lazy and underworked, they need their cars, except in the snow when they can't even get out of their houses. Enough of the soapbox.
Walked to and from school to take and collect Megan so walked 5.82 miles in total and burnt 916 calories, which is not too bad, although it did take just under 2 hours to complete. I kept the heart rate down to 110 bpm which is optimum to burn fat as well as calories (apparently)
Unfortunately I can't walk this far on the Marathon as no one would pay! Which allows for the following link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
This giving site gives all of the money to the charities rather than taking 10% off like others.
Thanks for looking
John
Thursday 17 February 2011
off roading
A master-class today meant that it was a later run tonight. The options were a little one around the block or run down to the athletic track in South Leeds, via the A650 for some hill work. This was the option which I went for. The initial run is the same as to work but I forgot that the road to White Rose has no path so had to run on the grass, which is not the best idea when it is getting dark.
Anyway, began the run and decided that it was about 6 miles, and I was not far iff this. The actual run was 6.37 miles and too 54:49 minutes at a rate of 5'20" per km. I burnt a HUGE 1004 calories on this run!
If only I could earn a pound for every calorie which brings me nicely onto the link!!
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Again, thank you for looking and aiming for the gym tomorrow as on a rest day!!
Anyway, began the run and decided that it was about 6 miles, and I was not far iff this. The actual run was 6.37 miles and too 54:49 minutes at a rate of 5'20" per km. I burnt a HUGE 1004 calories on this run!
If only I could earn a pound for every calorie which brings me nicely onto the link!!
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Again, thank you for looking and aiming for the gym tomorrow as on a rest day!!
Wednesday 16 February 2011
splashing is sooo annoying
It was back to the gym today and into the pool. One day people will realise that Westy does not share. If you want to come into my ane, you need to swim faster than the ones today and definately need to get your hair wet. It took a few lengths for some to realise this but they did in the end and left my lane. I have a new way of removing them, initially I go for the splash option, followed by the ankle tapping as I swim behind them and finally, if these fail, I go for the yanking of the legs as the swim and go over the top of them! I need a sign on the lane when I am swimming to say that it is a fast lane and drowning is optional.
Anyway, managed another 2 mile swim today and burnt about 1000 calories off. Took about 75 minutes, including the stopping for the blue rinse lady who was actually asked to leave the lane by the lifeguard!
Nice low impact on my legs from the running. Looked at the i-phone and I have run 140.49 km since January 4th 2011, burning a huge 11794 claories over this time and running for 12 hours 16 minutes in total.
The countdown is getting closer for the actual run and the fundraising is in full swing. Will be perstering family and colleagues (not in Leeds) to get the last few pennies needed to reach / exceed the total. This is a nice link to the following!
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
If you can donate, any amount is appreciated.
Thank you for your time reading this
John
Anyway, managed another 2 mile swim today and burnt about 1000 calories off. Took about 75 minutes, including the stopping for the blue rinse lady who was actually asked to leave the lane by the lifeguard!
Nice low impact on my legs from the running. Looked at the i-phone and I have run 140.49 km since January 4th 2011, burning a huge 11794 claories over this time and running for 12 hours 16 minutes in total.
The countdown is getting closer for the actual run and the fundraising is in full swing. Will be perstering family and colleagues (not in Leeds) to get the last few pennies needed to reach / exceed the total. This is a nice link to the following!
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
If you can donate, any amount is appreciated.
Thank you for your time reading this
John
Tuesday 15 February 2011
full of gas!!!
Another day of training. Today was gas and cells. I thought it would be an easy day, however, that was soon changed when the cuffs came out again. Another beasting on the wrists especially with some over excited OSU lads. Guess who was given the 'practice dummy' label for them, that's right, it was me.
Walked the mile to the supermarket today which will have burnt some fat off the barrel but not a great deal. I have a day off tomorrow so I am either hitting the gym or going for a 15 mile run! See what the weather is going to be like tomorrow! Again, light food for lunch and an exercise in the afternoon allowed for the burning of the extra calories.
As usual, the link below is for anyone who wishes to sposnor me for the marathon, thank you for viewing.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Walked the mile to the supermarket today which will have burnt some fat off the barrel but not a great deal. I have a day off tomorrow so I am either hitting the gym or going for a 15 mile run! See what the weather is going to be like tomorrow! Again, light food for lunch and an exercise in the afternoon allowed for the burning of the extra calories.
As usual, the link below is for anyone who wishes to sposnor me for the marathon, thank you for viewing.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Monday 14 February 2011
battered and bruised
Baton and cuff course today so arms, legs and wrists are bruised from the torture of training. Apparently I have flexible shoulders which means that the trainer can put more pressure on them!
Had the usual warm up and full contact on the xourse. Ran to Asda and back on my lunch break which is probably about a mile in total, so although not a massive run, it keeps the blood running through my legs.
Gas tomorrow so another fun day!
Minimal eating today until I took the other half out for a meal, but ate a light meal and have a few calories to carry over from the previous days.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Had the usual warm up and full contact on the xourse. Ran to Asda and back on my lunch break which is probably about a mile in total, so although not a massive run, it keeps the blood running through my legs.
Gas tomorrow so another fun day!
Minimal eating today until I took the other half out for a meal, but ate a light meal and have a few calories to carry over from the previous days.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Sunday 13 February 2011
raining and pouring
It was bitterly cold this morning and the rain was the sort which falls consistently and drenches you rather than one big fall. So at 6:30 this morning, it was not the best view from my window!
Got the gear on and tried the running leggings again and off I went. The run was cold and motivation poor due to the soaking I got.
Anyway, enough of the sympathy vote, I managed to run the 8.5km run in 48:48 as it is all uphill and an average pace of 5'44" per km. 832 caloried ran from my body and with only a bowl of ready brek this morning, really looking forward to some food at 6pm. Really need to give myself some time to eat during the working day.
I am on a baton twirling course for the next two days so that should be enough exercise but I may top up at the gym as I am paying for it!
I am still collecting for Crimestoppers and the MS Society and the link below will advise on how to complete this. Thanks for looking. John
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Got the gear on and tried the running leggings again and off I went. The run was cold and motivation poor due to the soaking I got.
Anyway, enough of the sympathy vote, I managed to run the 8.5km run in 48:48 as it is all uphill and an average pace of 5'44" per km. 832 caloried ran from my body and with only a bowl of ready brek this morning, really looking forward to some food at 6pm. Really need to give myself some time to eat during the working day.
I am on a baton twirling course for the next two days so that should be enough exercise but I may top up at the gym as I am paying for it!
I am still collecting for Crimestoppers and the MS Society and the link below will advise on how to complete this. Thanks for looking. John
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Saturday 12 February 2011
back to it
Although the day was a long one and plenty of work to complete, I still kept the focus on running home at 19:30 hours. It was very cold but dry and I had my car at work if I wanted to bottle it.
There is a line on my donation link ( http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth ) that you can pay for my pain, well I put myself through it again tonight.
I ran 5.17 miles over a time of 44:40 and a pace of 5'22" per kilometer, burning a massive 814 calories, which is good as I only had a bowl of Quaker oats and a cup of soup today.
Got a run to work in the morning, which is not the best thing to be doing at 6:30 hours on a Sunday morning, but I have to get the miles in. I am also going for a swim after work tomorrow, if I get off at a reasonable time.
I am tired today and very hungry so a quick meal for tea, plenty of water / tea to re-hydrate and then bed for a sleep and recharge the batteries for the run tomorrow!
Have fun tonight and good luck to the Rhino's tomorrow after the Super Whites won again!!
There is a line on my donation link ( http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth ) that you can pay for my pain, well I put myself through it again tonight.
I ran 5.17 miles over a time of 44:40 and a pace of 5'22" per kilometer, burning a massive 814 calories, which is good as I only had a bowl of Quaker oats and a cup of soup today.
Got a run to work in the morning, which is not the best thing to be doing at 6:30 hours on a Sunday morning, but I have to get the miles in. I am also going for a swim after work tomorrow, if I get off at a reasonable time.
I am tired today and very hungry so a quick meal for tea, plenty of water / tea to re-hydrate and then bed for a sleep and recharge the batteries for the run tomorrow!
Have fun tonight and good luck to the Rhino's tomorrow after the Super Whites won again!!
Friday 11 February 2011
last rest day for a while
It is my daughters birthday today and I am going out with the family. Due to this, there was no training today, however, back to the running tomorrow.
Weight is going well, now lost 1.5 stone since 7th January but still have a bit more to lose to achieve a comfortable weight for the Marathon.
Aiming to run home tomorrow and have decided that any runs to work will be followed by a gym session in the evening. Claire is having to buy somemore running tops as they are being used too often!!
Thanks for viewing and usual link is below. (Tomorrow's blog will be better with the facts of running!)
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Weight is going well, now lost 1.5 stone since 7th January but still have a bit more to lose to achieve a comfortable weight for the Marathon.
Aiming to run home tomorrow and have decided that any runs to work will be followed by a gym session in the evening. Claire is having to buy somemore running tops as they are being used too often!!
Thanks for viewing and usual link is below. (Tomorrow's blog will be better with the facts of running!)
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thursday 10 February 2011
lazy day
I aimed to go to the gym tonight but unfortunately Megan fell over whilst training at the Leeds Indoor Athletics Arena and may have broken her arm!! Hospital here we come rather than the gym. Another lazy day for me then!!
I will have to run home tomorrow, work and back on Saturday and to work on Sunday. Training course for baton and cuffs on Monday and Tuesday so that should be exercise enough.
Sorry it is soooooo boring but these things happen!
John
I will have to run home tomorrow, work and back on Saturday and to work on Sunday. Training course for baton and cuffs on Monday and Tuesday so that should be exercise enough.
Sorry it is soooooo boring but these things happen!
John
Wednesday 9 February 2011
2 months and 7 days
It sounds that it is a long way away but it is coming up quickly.
The run to work yesterday was hard work as my legs are aching, in particular, my shins.
I had a rest period during the run to combat this and felt like it was a very slow time, however, I reached the 8.60km mark at 49:49 minutes, which is my fastest time to date and I am over the moon with this. It equates to 5'47" running rate, which is slower than the previous day but the morning run is all up hill. I burnt another 842 calories which is good as I worked a 14 hour shift and ate very little.
Not managed to exercise today due to another extended tour of duty today but I have a resy tomorrow so that means a gym session rather than the road running.
I am still aiming to raise money for the MS Society and Crimestoppers and anything given will be used well by these charities. The usual link is below:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thank you for looking and please comment if you want other information or further information on any section of this blog. Watch this space for pictures which were taken today!!
The run to work yesterday was hard work as my legs are aching, in particular, my shins.
I had a rest period during the run to combat this and felt like it was a very slow time, however, I reached the 8.60km mark at 49:49 minutes, which is my fastest time to date and I am over the moon with this. It equates to 5'47" running rate, which is slower than the previous day but the morning run is all up hill. I burnt another 842 calories which is good as I worked a 14 hour shift and ate very little.
Not managed to exercise today due to another extended tour of duty today but I have a resy tomorrow so that means a gym session rather than the road running.
I am still aiming to raise money for the MS Society and Crimestoppers and anything given will be used well by these charities. The usual link is below:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thank you for looking and please comment if you want other information or further information on any section of this blog. Watch this space for pictures which were taken today!!
Monday 7 February 2011
2 months and 9 days to go
Back to the running today. Ran home from work in a time of 45:40, which according to Lance Armstrong was my quickest to date and included the quickest mile!!
Felt like a slow run due to the rain, the wind and my numb bum from the bowling!! It is obviously similar to a star in a reasonably priced car, except I don't have the Stig!
My running speed is now down to 5'24" per kilometer and another 826 calories burnt, which may help with the pizza from the weekend in London!!
Legs are still abit sore but as they say, no pain, no gain!!
Got to run to work tomorrow as my car is there and aiming to complete the run to and from work. Got to do some sunny running this week so the gym is calling for Thursday. Looking at the new timetable for a couple of classes to try to get the barrels of flab to go down quicker.
Some people have asked if I am running in fancy dress and I can say that I am. My costume is a Paula Radcliffe one so when you see the costume run into the finish line around 2 hours, remember that it is me!! When you see the lardy lad running some 3 hours behind her, that is Paula.
Time for the usual link of sponsorship. If you have already made a pledge, thank you, if not please enjoy the blog and thank you for looking!!
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Felt like a slow run due to the rain, the wind and my numb bum from the bowling!! It is obviously similar to a star in a reasonably priced car, except I don't have the Stig!
My running speed is now down to 5'24" per kilometer and another 826 calories burnt, which may help with the pizza from the weekend in London!!
Legs are still abit sore but as they say, no pain, no gain!!
Got to run to work tomorrow as my car is there and aiming to complete the run to and from work. Got to do some sunny running this week so the gym is calling for Thursday. Looking at the new timetable for a couple of classes to try to get the barrels of flab to go down quicker.
Some people have asked if I am running in fancy dress and I can say that I am. My costume is a Paula Radcliffe one so when you see the costume run into the finish line around 2 hours, remember that it is me!! When you see the lardy lad running some 3 hours behind her, that is Paula.
Time for the usual link of sponsorship. If you have already made a pledge, thank you, if not please enjoy the blog and thank you for looking!!
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Sunday 6 February 2011
rest weekend!
Not been on for a few days as I have been in the big city. Initially went down to bowl on the Friday, which I suppose is exercise and then we walked for about 6 hours on the Saturday, which again is a lower form of exercise to the running, but has the same impact of calroie and fat burning.
Long drive back today but I am now back home!
Have a plan for the week of running to and from work and a swim on Thursday. Got to get back into the running, although the weather forecast does state that it is going to be heavy snow overnight, so we will have to see!
Speak to you all tomorrow with a better exercise bolg than today.
Long drive back today but I am now back home!
Have a plan for the week of running to and from work and a swim on Thursday. Got to get back into the running, although the weather forecast does state that it is going to be heavy snow overnight, so we will have to see!
Speak to you all tomorrow with a better exercise bolg than today.
Thursday 3 February 2011
Rest day
It was a rest day today so there was to be no exercise, but I have managed to drive down to the big city smoke for a bowling tournament tomorrow. Although not the rigorous exercise of running it is enough to keep me fit. Going into the city centre on Saturday so will walk lots of miles, may get a pedometer app for my phone to see the exact mileage. Sunday we are aiming to watch the New Year celebrations for the Chinese community. Then the drive back to god's county and preparation for the four runs I need to complete next week.
Wednesday 2 February 2011
2 months, 14 days to go!!
week 2: day 4
Long day at work but last day of exercise needed to be completed. Having run 24 miles in 3 days I needed a rest from pounding the paths, so the pool for a splash around was called for. A quick check on the gym website showed that there were no classes on in the pool so I could have a blast in the water, which had a bizarre blue light under the water. I'm hoping that it wasn't one of the ultra-violet colours when someone has an accident in the pool!!
Swam the full 2 miles, which in the 20m pool equates to 160 lengths, which takes around 80 minutes, which isn't too bad and burns a massive 1000 calories.
Not too good on the food front today, as only had a tuna and sweetcorn sandwich, a couple of slices of sun-dried tomato bread and a chilli. Having a rest day tomorrow and then bowling on Friday. Not taking my laptop down so will attempt to blog on my phone, but if not, I will update on my return. Will be doing lots of walking on Saturday around London and watching the Chinese New Year on Sunday so I am sure that my diet will be taking a bashing!!
Usual link below:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thank you for taking the time to view this
John
Long day at work but last day of exercise needed to be completed. Having run 24 miles in 3 days I needed a rest from pounding the paths, so the pool for a splash around was called for. A quick check on the gym website showed that there were no classes on in the pool so I could have a blast in the water, which had a bizarre blue light under the water. I'm hoping that it wasn't one of the ultra-violet colours when someone has an accident in the pool!!
Swam the full 2 miles, which in the 20m pool equates to 160 lengths, which takes around 80 minutes, which isn't too bad and burns a massive 1000 calories.
Not too good on the food front today, as only had a tuna and sweetcorn sandwich, a couple of slices of sun-dried tomato bread and a chilli. Having a rest day tomorrow and then bowling on Friday. Not taking my laptop down so will attempt to blog on my phone, but if not, I will update on my return. Will be doing lots of walking on Saturday around London and watching the Chinese New Year on Sunday so I am sure that my diet will be taking a bashing!!
Usual link below:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thank you for taking the time to view this
John
Tuesday 1 February 2011
it was wet, windy and hard
When the alarm clock rang this morning at 6am and said, WAKE UP, I felt like throwing it away. I looked outside the window and saw the dark, the rain and heard the wind blowing a gale. I thought, just a little snooze and I'll get up at 7am and drive to work!!
Then I remembered that I ran home yesterday and my car was at work, d'oh. So up I got and away we went. Not sure how I managed the first mile, which had the rain hitting me in the face, with the wind blowing me backwards. I completed the run in 50 minutes, which I am happy with and was only 3 minutes slower than the presvious run and 5 minutes quicker than week one, so I have to be happy with that.
My shins are a bit sore at the moment so I am going splashing in the hippo pool tomorrow, so watch out waterbabes!!
I also started to hit the work floor with my sponsor form and would like to thank all those who gave me their time and most importantly their pledges. Remember, you can pledge now and pay later! This brings me nicely onto the just giving link!! All the monies raised goes directly to the charity, nothing is taken off for the set-up of the site, unlike other sites!
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thanks for looking
John
Then I remembered that I ran home yesterday and my car was at work, d'oh. So up I got and away we went. Not sure how I managed the first mile, which had the rain hitting me in the face, with the wind blowing me backwards. I completed the run in 50 minutes, which I am happy with and was only 3 minutes slower than the presvious run and 5 minutes quicker than week one, so I have to be happy with that.
My shins are a bit sore at the moment so I am going splashing in the hippo pool tomorrow, so watch out waterbabes!!
I also started to hit the work floor with my sponsor form and would like to thank all those who gave me their time and most importantly their pledges. Remember, you can pledge now and pay later! This brings me nicely onto the just giving link!! All the monies raised goes directly to the charity, nothing is taken off for the set-up of the site, unlike other sites!
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thanks for looking
John
Monday 31 January 2011
2 months 16 days to go
Back to work today and back to the running. It was bitterly cold in the Leeds area tonight and did not help with the running. So an 8km which began at 16:20 hours and lasted for a whole 44:46 minutes, which means that it was 3 minutes quicker than last week. An average rate of 5'26" per km and burning off 806 calories. Not bad for a Monday!!
Got to run to work tomorrow as my car is remaining at work overnight and need to decide whether to hit the gym on Wednesday or carry on the road running. I think the gym will work as I am bowling on Friday. Nice weekend off in London watching the Chinese New Year celebrations.
Usual link is below
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Got to run to work tomorrow as my car is remaining at work overnight and need to decide whether to hit the gym on Wednesday or carry on the road running. I think the gym will work as I am bowling on Friday. Nice weekend off in London watching the Chinese New Year celebrations.
Usual link is below
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Sunday 30 January 2011
half marathon run
With having Friday and Saturday as rest days I needed to push myself today, so off to the gym and at 10:00hours set the treadmill to 10km an hour and off we went. No surprise that 2 hours later, the full 20km completed at a nice steady pace which I would call a jog rather than a run. Had to slow slightly for the water intake which I need to practice as I can't slow on the actual run. Tried a new pair of socks which have given me a corking blister on my little toe.
Burnt 1981 calories which is nice and although my legs are aching, feel that I can go and do another few miles this afternoon!!
Only planning four days exercise this week as I am bowling at the weekend, although not doing this for a year may be similar to the run today! Aim this week is to complete two runs home, which will equate to 11 miles and probably hit the gym on the other two days, but may alter this to four runs, see how I feel and the weather!
Food today is soup for lunch and light meal for tea to try and break the stone loss barrier for the month.
As usual, the link below is for the donations and if you want to pledge, so you can play later, then PM through facebook, thanks for your time.
John
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Burnt 1981 calories which is nice and although my legs are aching, feel that I can go and do another few miles this afternoon!!
Only planning four days exercise this week as I am bowling at the weekend, although not doing this for a year may be similar to the run today! Aim this week is to complete two runs home, which will equate to 11 miles and probably hit the gym on the other two days, but may alter this to four runs, see how I feel and the weather!
Food today is soup for lunch and light meal for tea to try and break the stone loss barrier for the month.
As usual, the link below is for the donations and if you want to pledge, so you can play later, then PM through facebook, thanks for your time.
John
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Friday 28 January 2011
Rest day
Done nothing today as had opticians and Megan got a merit award at school so did the fatherly thing. I had a day off the exercise as I have completed four days on the trot and lost 10lb in the past three weeks. The target of 2 stone before the Marathon is looking a little nearer and more achievable.
Aim for the weekend is to be spent in the gym, doing light things tomorrow, just to get the blood flowing in the legs after the rest day and then a run on the treadmill on Sunday, may look for 10 miler, just have to see how busy it is and how I feel on Sunday. Running to work for the rest of the week.
Got a few pairs of socks to try for comfort prior to London which is a priority to allow for the completion of the course. For thise at work, the sponsor form is coming on Monday so be warned. If you are not at work and are reading this, you can donate on the below link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
See you all tomorrow with some fitness news rather than a rest day!
Aim for the weekend is to be spent in the gym, doing light things tomorrow, just to get the blood flowing in the legs after the rest day and then a run on the treadmill on Sunday, may look for 10 miler, just have to see how busy it is and how I feel on Sunday. Running to work for the rest of the week.
Got a few pairs of socks to try for comfort prior to London which is a priority to allow for the completion of the course. For thise at work, the sponsor form is coming on Monday so be warned. If you are not at work and are reading this, you can donate on the below link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
See you all tomorrow with some fitness news rather than a rest day!
Thursday 27 January 2011
2 months and 20 days to go
2-4:
Ran to work this morning and it was bitterly cold. Brrrrrrr. Managed to knock 8 minutes off my previous run and this was the up hill run to work. It is a steady slope and doesn't stop. I also managed my fastest mile, according to Lance Armstrong!!
Running uphill at about 5:44 km/h and burnt another 815 calories but had a takeaway for tea, which is bad but much needed. Lost 9lbs this week and having a day off tomorrow, spending it with the better half.
Back to the gym at the weekend though as got to get fitter and lose another stone yet.
Having a big push next week on the sponsorship front so please read the link below:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thank you
Ran to work this morning and it was bitterly cold. Brrrrrrr. Managed to knock 8 minutes off my previous run and this was the up hill run to work. It is a steady slope and doesn't stop. I also managed my fastest mile, according to Lance Armstrong!!
Running uphill at about 5:44 km/h and burnt another 815 calories but had a takeaway for tea, which is bad but much needed. Lost 9lbs this week and having a day off tomorrow, spending it with the better half.
Back to the gym at the weekend though as got to get fitter and lose another stone yet.
Having a big push next week on the sponsorship front so please read the link below:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thank you
Wednesday 26 January 2011
2months and 21 days to go
2-3
Ran home from work and a little bit more, 5.20 miles in 46:57 minutes and 820 calories burnt off the tummy. Average speed of 5'36" per km which is getting there for the Marathon. Have to run to work as left the car there, so no pain, no gain!
Last day of exercise tomorrow as I am having Friday off. Back to the gym on Saturday as no football on and the same again in Sunday.
Usual link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
In the words of Tesco: Every little helps!
Ran home from work and a little bit more, 5.20 miles in 46:57 minutes and 820 calories burnt off the tummy. Average speed of 5'36" per km which is getting there for the Marathon. Have to run to work as left the car there, so no pain, no gain!
Last day of exercise tomorrow as I am having Friday off. Back to the gym on Saturday as no football on and the same again in Sunday.
Usual link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
In the words of Tesco: Every little helps!
Tuesday 25 January 2011
2 months 22 days
week 2-2
Swam tonight, the full 2 miles again. Felt like stopping after 1 mile but someone dare to challenge me, in my lane, so I stayed in and blasted them out of the water within 10 lengths. Grrrrrrr
My right shoulder is feeling the pressure of the training and is really hurting tonight.
Ate well again today, chicken for lunch, omellette / omellette? for tea and then the gym.
Running at work tomorrow so that is a 8km in the running bank but will have to leave the car at work, unless I run to and from work?
Big push next week with sponsorship so I may as well as post the link now!
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thank you for your time reading this and if anyone would like to be a pacer in the pool, let me know, any number of lengths will be accomodated!
Swam tonight, the full 2 miles again. Felt like stopping after 1 mile but someone dare to challenge me, in my lane, so I stayed in and blasted them out of the water within 10 lengths. Grrrrrrr
My right shoulder is feeling the pressure of the training and is really hurting tonight.
Ate well again today, chicken for lunch, omellette / omellette? for tea and then the gym.
Running at work tomorrow so that is a 8km in the running bank but will have to leave the car at work, unless I run to and from work?
Big push next week with sponsorship so I may as well as post the link now!
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Thank you for your time reading this and if anyone would like to be a pacer in the pool, let me know, any number of lengths will be accomodated!
Monday 24 January 2011
2 months, 23 days, 11 hours and 58 minutes
week 2 -1
Course again so hit the gym later in the evening. Very busy but luckily wanted the cross trainer, and there are loads of them.
Put the time on 90 minutes and off I trotted. Started off at a steady pace of 133 and kept this up on level 7 for the entire time. Hit 6.22km this time and burnt 926 calories off, so feel great and certainly better than the last time I used the machine, however, my legs felt like lead afterwards. Quick stretch off and back home to update my blog!
Good eating today, chicken for lunch, pork for tea although had some carbs in potato but finding it hard to stop this. I will concentrate on eliminating carbs for a couple of days and see how I feel with the exercise.
Thinking of swimming for 2 miles tomorrow and then back to Utopia and running the 8km to and from work.
Usual link is at the bottom.
Thanks for reading
John
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Course again so hit the gym later in the evening. Very busy but luckily wanted the cross trainer, and there are loads of them.
Put the time on 90 minutes and off I trotted. Started off at a steady pace of 133 and kept this up on level 7 for the entire time. Hit 6.22km this time and burnt 926 calories off, so feel great and certainly better than the last time I used the machine, however, my legs felt like lead afterwards. Quick stretch off and back home to update my blog!
Good eating today, chicken for lunch, pork for tea although had some carbs in potato but finding it hard to stop this. I will concentrate on eliminating carbs for a couple of days and see how I feel with the exercise.
Thinking of swimming for 2 miles tomorrow and then back to Utopia and running the 8km to and from work.
Usual link is at the bottom.
Thanks for reading
John
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/johnwestgarth
Sunday 23 January 2011
last day of week one
Work was heavy today, listening to tapes all day. Having a rest from exercise and on a course tomorrow and Tuesday.
Plans for the week are:
Monday - gym - cross trainer for 90 minutes
Tuesday - gym - swim
Wednesday - run 8km to work and back again
Thursday - run 8km to work and back again
Friday - rest day
Saturday - gym / run not sure yet but definately at least 10km to complete.
Ate well this week and have new options for food this week due to advice from buddies.
Please spread the blog to your friends who may be interested.
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fuk.virginmoneygiving.com%2Fjohnwestgarth&h=ed125
Have fun and be careful out there
Plans for the week are:
Monday - gym - cross trainer for 90 minutes
Tuesday - gym - swim
Wednesday - run 8km to work and back again
Thursday - run 8km to work and back again
Friday - rest day
Saturday - gym / run not sure yet but definately at least 10km to complete.
Ate well this week and have new options for food this week due to advice from buddies.
Please spread the blog to your friends who may be interested.
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fuk.virginmoneygiving.com%2Fjohnwestgarth&h=ed125
Have fun and be careful out there
Saturday 22 January 2011
2 months, 25 days, 13 hours and 8 minutes to go!!
Day 6 and back to the gym. Long day at work and felt like giving the gym a miss, but 'no pain - no gain' so drove to the gym and went for the swim which I said I would do.
The pool was empty (in the fast lane) and only a few 'leisure' swimmers in the pool, so splashed like a baby in a bubble bath. Decided that a mile would suffice tonight, so that is what I did, a full 80 lengths and feel great.
The chef did a lovely meal of lean pork chops with wedges and peas. This balanced my lunch meal of chicken and a pudding of pineapple.
I think weigh days will be Monday's so fingers crossed for a decent number. The swimming burnt about 500 calories which is a ggod return for a 45 minute swim (had to stop for five minutes to chat to a friend!)
The link to pass to your friends who may which to sponsor / pledge a donation towards me:
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fuk.virginmoneygiving.com%2Fjohnwestgarth&h=29072
Have fun reading, John
The pool was empty (in the fast lane) and only a few 'leisure' swimmers in the pool, so splashed like a baby in a bubble bath. Decided that a mile would suffice tonight, so that is what I did, a full 80 lengths and feel great.
The chef did a lovely meal of lean pork chops with wedges and peas. This balanced my lunch meal of chicken and a pudding of pineapple.
I think weigh days will be Monday's so fingers crossed for a decent number. The swimming burnt about 500 calories which is a ggod return for a 45 minute swim (had to stop for five minutes to chat to a friend!)
The link to pass to your friends who may which to sponsor / pledge a donation towards me:
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fuk.virginmoneygiving.com%2Fjohnwestgarth&h=29072
Have fun reading, John
Friday 21 January 2011
85 days to go.....blog 5 for week 1
Early finish on my course so went to the gym and took full advantage of the lack of people there. Aim for today was to ride the bike for the hour and I achieved this although I had a very stiff bum at the end!!
The ride burnt 700 calories and a distance of 30km, which made feel better than the cross trainer. Future cross trainer will need to be at least 90 minutes of running to burn the calories.
I feel like I am on the Biggest Loser show at the moment, burning calories, eating a healthier diet and exercising.
Back to work tomorrow but not running in as going for a swim on Saturday and then I have a further course on Monday so the 8km run to work will re-commence on Wednesday.
As per usual, the link is for any sponsorship that you can spare.
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fuk.virginmoneygiving.com%2Fjohnwestgarth&h=29072
John
The ride burnt 700 calories and a distance of 30km, which made feel better than the cross trainer. Future cross trainer will need to be at least 90 minutes of running to burn the calories.
I feel like I am on the Biggest Loser show at the moment, burning calories, eating a healthier diet and exercising.
Back to work tomorrow but not running in as going for a swim on Saturday and then I have a further course on Monday so the 8km run to work will re-commence on Wednesday.
As per usual, the link is for any sponsorship that you can spare.
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fuk.virginmoneygiving.com%2Fjohnwestgarth&h=29072
John
Thursday 20 January 2011
London Marathon: Day 4 blog - 87 days to go
London Marathon: Day 4 blog - 87 days to go: "Back to the gym and the cross trainer today. Not sure why it was cross as I was gentle with it! Anyway, ran on the trainer (if that is what ..."
Day 4 blog - 87 days to go
Back to the gym and the cross trainer today. Not sure why it was cross as I was gentle with it! Anyway, ran on the trainer (if that is what you do?) for the hour and burnt 600 calories and ran a mere 4km. Thought it would burn more than that but felt fine running for that amount of time. Will be trying 90 minutes next time that I go to that machine.
Food wise, had tuna for lunch and a jacket with chilli for tea, so hopefully my weight is going down like the Hammers are from the Premier League.
Usual link for those who are considering the sponsor / pledge offer, remember that you can pledge now and pay later if times are hard.
Gym plan for tomorrow is a bike, not the type that wears lycra, but the ones with wheels! Aiming for an hour on the machine, dependant on my boney bum on those rock hard seats.
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fuk.virginmoneygiving.com%2Fjohnwestgarth&h=29072
Food wise, had tuna for lunch and a jacket with chilli for tea, so hopefully my weight is going down like the Hammers are from the Premier League.
Usual link for those who are considering the sponsor / pledge offer, remember that you can pledge now and pay later if times are hard.
Gym plan for tomorrow is a bike, not the type that wears lycra, but the ones with wheels! Aiming for an hour on the machine, dependant on my boney bum on those rock hard seats.
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fuk.virginmoneygiving.com%2Fjohnwestgarth&h=29072
Wednesday 19 January 2011
Day 3 - 87 days to go
Brain has had a meltdown today on the course and in need of rest, as are my legs from the swim last night. Tonight is a rest day as the Mighty Whites are playing football tonight, COME ON LEEDS (priorities!)
Good eating again today, with a jacket with tuna for tea, so hopefully tummy is going down.
Plan for tomorrow is to hit the cross trainer for an hour and burn those calories.
The all important link!
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fuk.virginmoneygiving.com%2Fjohnwestgarth&h=29072
If any would like to "pledge now, pay later", please PM me and I will add you to the sponsor form.
Remember that a run is temporary, the Marathon will last a lifetime
Good eating again today, with a jacket with tuna for tea, so hopefully tummy is going down.
Plan for tomorrow is to hit the cross trainer for an hour and burn those calories.
The all important link!
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fuk.virginmoneygiving.com%2Fjohnwestgarth&h=29072
If any would like to "pledge now, pay later", please PM me and I will add you to the sponsor form.
Remember that a run is temporary, the Marathon will last a lifetime
Tuesday 18 January 2011
Day 3 - 88 days to go
Another course day today so not much done. Going to the gym at 8pm for a 2 mile swim, which will burn about 1000 calories. If anyone wants to try it, I do 160 lengths in a 20 metre pool and it takes me 1hr and 10 minutes!
Pasta for tea, which compromises of meatballs and spaghetti. I had tuna and fruit for my lunch so hopefully will assist in the flab shakedown!
Link to donation:
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fuk.virginmoneygiving.com%2Fjohnwestgarth&h=29072
If you wish to pledge, please PM me on Facebook or my personal email address.
Thank you for your time and support.
John
Pasta for tea, which compromises of meatballs and spaghetti. I had tuna and fruit for my lunch so hopefully will assist in the flab shakedown!
Link to donation:
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fuk.virginmoneygiving.com%2Fjohnwestgarth&h=29072
If you wish to pledge, please PM me on Facebook or my personal email address.
Thank you for your time and support.
John
Monday 17 January 2011
Day 2 - 89 days to go!!
Start as I mean to go on.
Ate well today, protein, protein, protein was the word of the day, eating fish and chicken.
Ran 5km on the treadmill and burnt 357 calories, along with the 10km bike ride, burning a further 171 calories.
Lost 6lb in weight so that is coming off nicely.
Aiming for a 2 mile swim tomorrow if there are no hippo's in the pool to slow me down!
I have posted the donation site as I will with every blog but if you want to pledge monies, please PM me or email me directly. If you pledge, don't need the money until after the run. Maybe a better option in this financial climate.
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fuk.virginmoneygiving.com%2Fjohnwestgarth&h=29072
Ate well today, protein, protein, protein was the word of the day, eating fish and chicken.
Ran 5km on the treadmill and burnt 357 calories, along with the 10km bike ride, burning a further 171 calories.
Lost 6lb in weight so that is coming off nicely.
Aiming for a 2 mile swim tomorrow if there are no hippo's in the pool to slow me down!
I have posted the donation site as I will with every blog but if you want to pledge monies, please PM me or email me directly. If you pledge, don't need the money until after the run. Maybe a better option in this financial climate.
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fuk.virginmoneygiving.com%2Fjohnwestgarth&h=29072
Sunday 16 January 2011
Week one
Week one of the official training countdown has begun. Only 90 days left!!
Ran 33 miles this week on the road and the legs were a bit sore but have recovered with a few days off.
I am on a course this week and will be hitting the gym rather than the streets, so watch out treadmills, cross trainers, weights and the pool. They will be getting hit hard.
I am running for a charity and if you would like to donate, please follow the instructions on the link below.
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fuk.virginmoneygiving.com%2Fjohnwestgarth&h=29072
I need to raise £1500 to run and I have started the push for donations. If all my Facebook friends give at least £1, I will raise £903 just from them!! Add this to the £300 raised from my kind friends at the West Yorkshire bowling tournament, and the £150 donation by my family, it is getting there.
I am also aiming to lose 2 stones before the race and any advice on diets would be appreciated. Lost 6lbs this week from the 5000 calories burnt in the running.
I will update this blog daily now, as I have set it up and inform you all of the miles / calories and weight loss.
Thank you for your time in looking at this blog and feel free to add comments, if you can?
John
Ran 33 miles this week on the road and the legs were a bit sore but have recovered with a few days off.
I am on a course this week and will be hitting the gym rather than the streets, so watch out treadmills, cross trainers, weights and the pool. They will be getting hit hard.
I am running for a charity and if you would like to donate, please follow the instructions on the link below.
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fuk.virginmoneygiving.com%2Fjohnwestgarth&h=29072
I need to raise £1500 to run and I have started the push for donations. If all my Facebook friends give at least £1, I will raise £903 just from them!! Add this to the £300 raised from my kind friends at the West Yorkshire bowling tournament, and the £150 donation by my family, it is getting there.
I am also aiming to lose 2 stones before the race and any advice on diets would be appreciated. Lost 6lbs this week from the 5000 calories burnt in the running.
I will update this blog daily now, as I have set it up and inform you all of the miles / calories and weight loss.
Thank you for your time in looking at this blog and feel free to add comments, if you can?
John
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