Marathon One. What did we learn?

From the Cromwell Road end has been quiet in the week following the Brighton Marathon. Running a marathon is very much a journey (26.2 miles to be exact) but it is much more than that. It’s the culmination of months of training and even getting to the start is an achievement. For some that initial achievement is enough, some will be happy with finishing, some will have a time in mind. This was my forth marathon and the first of the year. I’m immensely proud of this as I was an ardent non runner two years ago. However two weeks before the off I picked up a couple of niggles. My shoulders were tight and I was really struggling with what I suspected was plantar fasciitis. The sensible thing would have been not to run, but people had donated their hard earned money and I’d taken a a charity place. I therefore was determined to run.

On a chilly Sunday morning 8500 of us headed off on the new Brighton Marathon route. Gone was the gruelling and dull Shoreham Harbour stretch replaced with early miles out to Withdean with the half way point up on the cliffs at Rottingdean.

Lesson 1

I’d neglected multiple short runs in my training for once a week long runs. Way not enough. By about 18 miles I was in pain and struggling.

Lesson 2

Fuel and hydration – I’ve still not got this right and I was too reliant on the water stations, mainly because I didn’t want to carry water for a road marathon.

Lesson 3

Listen to your body. Running 26 miles is tough, but if something isn’t right in training, take a break, get a message and reevaluate.

Despite the positivity (and the Brighton crowds are great) I’ve been really deflated this week. I’ve finally got that sports massage and am working on the things that hurt. I’m also mindful that the next event is a month away so I’m gently getting back to training beginning with a saunter around one of my favourite locations up in Gloucester.

I’ve got to up the weekly miles and look after my body so I’m able to take on Run to the Sea on Saturday 6th May.

For details on this years charities and links to donate visit my charity page