See the full list here.
Next up:
Lemonheads ‘Outdoor Type’
This song didn’t appear on my original list of 20 when I started writing this section of the blog. It was a late substitution after I’d referred to it in the first music post.
One of the reasons for writing about music alongside the other aspects of the marathon build up, is the role I think it can play in race preparation, be that to motivate, calm nerves, take your mind off what you’re about to do or just because of some daft superstition.
During my brief flirtation with acting, before each night of one production, I wouldn’t leave the house until I’d listened to what were my favourite two songs at the time, one of which being this track from the Lemonheads’ ‘Car Button Cloth’ album. If you’re about to do something which will make you nervous or where relaxation is vital, including a short bit of music-based, mind focusing time during your preparation means you’re more likely to be in control when it comes to the big moment, whatever that might be.
Essentially this is letting the brain escape into another world, allowing for relaxation of both body and mind. Books are another option, when on the way to job interviews in the past, I’ve decided my time on the tube has been better spent in the company of an audio book, rather than thinking about the answers I might give to questions I’ve no idea if I’ll be asked. I’m in no position to do any last minute research under Central London, so I may as well think about something else.
The title of this song, ‘Outdoor Type’, is very appropriate. If you’re not then you’re going to find the months of training even more tough than the average. It’s clear the character in this song is the last person you’d find running, unlike the unfortunate other half in the relationship who appears to be finding out their new love ain’t quite what they thought they were.
“I’ve never slept out underneath the stars,
The closest that I came to that was one time my car,
Broke down for an hour in the suburbs at night,
I lied about being the outdoor type.”
Any music festival regulars have met someone like this who is clearly only there because it’s the cool thing to do.
I also like these lines:
“I can’t go away with you on a rock climbing weekend,
What if something’s on TV and it’s never shown again?”
I’m sure if we thought about it we all know someone like that.
Thursday 31 March 2011
Saturday 26 March 2011
Strike It Lucky
From the moment I got my marathon place, I wasn’t short of people offering me bits of advice. One consistent message that came across was that I would need an element of luck for my debut marathon to be a successful experience. Getting to the start line in one piece appeared to be a not inconsiderable challenge. Writing this just under three weeks away, with the last long run done before beginning to decrease the intensity of the training (tapering as it’s called), things look good for the turning up goal to be achieved.
To quote this week’s marathon email newsletter, “it's crucial to allow the body to recover from the hard training you've put in over the last few months”. This allows for any fatigue in the body to leave, and any niggles the chance to recover. In short, this is one of those, creating your own luck moment.
Unfortunately it’s impossible to have one hundred percent control over the luck thing. You can be sensible and listen to the body, cutting back or stopping altogether if you think there’s a risk of a niggle becoming more serious – as I have done a couple of times during the marathon preparation for my left calf. You can take care when running, watching out for potential ankle turners on rough ground and so on, but five months is more than enough time for a freak injury to occur.
There has been something in the two weeks before my last seven races, over the past six months, that has forced me to cut down considerably, or even stop running. Each time the rest and, on occasions visit to a physio has got me to the start line in one piece, with me either meeting, or exceeding the target set for that event.
Running being an individual, non-contact sport, the athlete has a far greater control over luck than those who play team sports. A current case in point is that of Brentford goalkeeper Richard Lee. Having been arguably the best Bee this season, especially in penalty shoot out victories in the Johnston’s Paint Trophy, Lee will miss out on a career highlight of playing in the JPT final at Wembley next Sunday. Whilst pulling off a crucial save in the home match against Leyton Orient last weekend, Lee landed awkwardly and looks set to miss the rest of the season with a shoulder injury. No one can talk to him about how you create your own luck on this occasion.
It’s with avoiding accidents in mind, as well as making sure the body is as fresh as possible on April 17th that the tapering process starts here. What this means is, nothing that will tire me out, distances and intensity will decrease, and no risks are to be taken.
The past seven days has been, give or take a mile or two, my biggest mileage week of the training period. I followed up Cranleigh 21 with between 8 and 9 on Thursday night, and 14 this morning, including a 21.35 5K at Kingston Parkrun.
To quote this week’s marathon email newsletter, “it's crucial to allow the body to recover from the hard training you've put in over the last few months”. This allows for any fatigue in the body to leave, and any niggles the chance to recover. In short, this is one of those, creating your own luck moment.
Unfortunately it’s impossible to have one hundred percent control over the luck thing. You can be sensible and listen to the body, cutting back or stopping altogether if you think there’s a risk of a niggle becoming more serious – as I have done a couple of times during the marathon preparation for my left calf. You can take care when running, watching out for potential ankle turners on rough ground and so on, but five months is more than enough time for a freak injury to occur.
There has been something in the two weeks before my last seven races, over the past six months, that has forced me to cut down considerably, or even stop running. Each time the rest and, on occasions visit to a physio has got me to the start line in one piece, with me either meeting, or exceeding the target set for that event.
Running being an individual, non-contact sport, the athlete has a far greater control over luck than those who play team sports. A current case in point is that of Brentford goalkeeper Richard Lee. Having been arguably the best Bee this season, especially in penalty shoot out victories in the Johnston’s Paint Trophy, Lee will miss out on a career highlight of playing in the JPT final at Wembley next Sunday. Whilst pulling off a crucial save in the home match against Leyton Orient last weekend, Lee landed awkwardly and looks set to miss the rest of the season with a shoulder injury. No one can talk to him about how you create your own luck on this occasion.
It’s with avoiding accidents in mind, as well as making sure the body is as fresh as possible on April 17th that the tapering process starts here. What this means is, nothing that will tire me out, distances and intensity will decrease, and no risks are to be taken.
The past seven days has been, give or take a mile or two, my biggest mileage week of the training period. I followed up Cranleigh 21 with between 8 and 9 on Thursday night, and 14 this morning, including a 21.35 5K at Kingston Parkrun.
Thursday 24 March 2011
Running Music: REO Speedwagon 'Take it on the Run'
See the full list here
Next up:
REO Speedwagon ‘Take it on the Run’
So far this list has included the likes of The Clash, Arcade Fire, Iron Maiden, Thin Lizzy and Neil Young. All legendary in their own right – even Arcade Fire despite having a far smaller back catalogue than the others.
What this list is lacking though is an 80s power ballad!
And who better to provide one than REO Speedwagon.
‘Take it on the Run’ was released in 1981, during the band’s most commercially successful era. Much as I love this song, I can’t help wonder how it was received by those that had followed the band from it’s inception in 1967, throughout a decade when their music was far less pop-minded.
I’m sure there are people reading this post that can relate to the moment of mixed feeling, as your favourite band hits the big time, whilst producing music that just isn’t quite the same as it used to be.
Reading the lyrics, there’s not a lot going on here to link to running, other than the title. The song is a blokes message to his girlfriend, after hearing rumours from a mate that she’s been unfaithful.
“Heard it from a friend who
Heard it from a friend who
Heard it from another you been messin' around.”
All sounds a bit sixth form college to me.
I hate the term guilty pleasure, I don’t believe you should feel ashamed of any music you like, well, with in reason perhaps.
In short this is a bit of fluffy, catchy 80s pop-rock. Maybe a bit too catchy as I can be pretty damn sure if this gets into my head on marathon day, it ain’t going anywhere!
Next up:
REO Speedwagon ‘Take it on the Run’
So far this list has included the likes of The Clash, Arcade Fire, Iron Maiden, Thin Lizzy and Neil Young. All legendary in their own right – even Arcade Fire despite having a far smaller back catalogue than the others.
What this list is lacking though is an 80s power ballad!
And who better to provide one than REO Speedwagon.
‘Take it on the Run’ was released in 1981, during the band’s most commercially successful era. Much as I love this song, I can’t help wonder how it was received by those that had followed the band from it’s inception in 1967, throughout a decade when their music was far less pop-minded.
I’m sure there are people reading this post that can relate to the moment of mixed feeling, as your favourite band hits the big time, whilst producing music that just isn’t quite the same as it used to be.
Reading the lyrics, there’s not a lot going on here to link to running, other than the title. The song is a blokes message to his girlfriend, after hearing rumours from a mate that she’s been unfaithful.
“Heard it from a friend who
Heard it from a friend who
Heard it from another you been messin' around.”
All sounds a bit sixth form college to me.
I hate the term guilty pleasure, I don’t believe you should feel ashamed of any music you like, well, with in reason perhaps.
In short this is a bit of fluffy, catchy 80s pop-rock. Maybe a bit too catchy as I can be pretty damn sure if this gets into my head on marathon day, it ain’t going anywhere!
Sunday 20 March 2011
Cranleigh 21
The Cranleigh 21 is an established, pre-London (and other marathons happening in April) event. The benefits to be gained from it are as much in the routine pre and during the race and miles in the legs as time it takes to get round. I’ve heard stories of people having brilliant runs at Cranleigh, but never making it to the start line of which ever 26.2 miler they’re ultimately aiming for. Simon, the guide I ran with today and who I will be with at London, once came forth, not an achievement to be sniffed at by any stretch of the imagination, but the effort took too much out of him and injury meant London never happened.
With all this in mind, as I lined up for the start, it was an unusual feeling where the first objective was to come out in one piece, the time it took was almost irrelevant. By the 9 AM start, there were objectives for the day already achieved, not least, breakfast.
I used to see quarter to 6 on a Sunday morning quite a lot, but that would be heading for bed rather than getting out of it. With the race off at 9 I wanted to eat by 6:30, no later than two and a half hours before. What I ate was today’s big experiment, as luck would have it I don’t especially enjoy the sort of food recommended for runners to start the day – cereal, porridge, banana and the like. I don’t mind oats though, and it was suggested during the week that Flapjack, with its combination of oats and sugar, might do the trick. The marginally more time consuming part of the meal involved the creation of a fruit salad - basically dumping some cut up strawberries, oranges and grapes in a bowl – and with my essential day starter of black tea (drunk out of my Brentford are going to Wembley mug), I and the day were ready to face one another.
The other consumption issue which needed to be resolved today was that of during the race. I’ve been using these Power Bar gels (which are just about palatable) but up to now the necessity to stop for water during a training run (I don’t carry a water bottle when running) has meant I was yet to use one of these gels whilst moving. The hurdle of keeping going whilst squirting blackcurrent flavoured goo into the mouth and not getting it all over my face has now been crossed.
And the time? – For what it’s worth.
I did 21 miles in 2 hours 51 and 20 seconds which, my dubious mental arithmetic thinks, is 8 minute 10 mile pace average.
The race is made up of a nine mile loop, followed by one of six miles which the runners do twice. It is predominantly run on roads and paths through the surrey countryside, with short stretches through the small town that gives the event its name. Unlike the London Marathon, this race isn’t flat, you would describe the course as undulating. It’s reasonable to call this a slightly harder twenty one miles than the London Marathon, although this field is far less crowded than London will be, meaning it’s easier to get started.
The objective was to aim for 8 minute mile pace for the distance, something which was achieved in the early stages. A combination of feeling so comfortable, and some downhill stretches that inevitably encourage me to increase the pace, meant that at 9 miles I was around 30 seconds quicker than I was aiming for. A bit of self control and, eventually, fatigue meant the pace dropped a little.
So the third of the four race plan is now done, following Tadworth Ten and the Wokingham Half. With London only four weeks away, this will also be my longest run of the training period. So an important milestone reached as I prepare for my first marathon. It also meant I avoided travelling to Warrington to endure what turned out to be a massacre of monumental proportions for Harlequins at the hands of the Wolves. I saw Quins get thumped there last year, and although I thought this would be by far our toughest game of the season, I never imagined it would be anything like that considering the good form we’ve been in. We’ll just have to use Hull as a punch bag to get that out of the system next Sunday.
With all this in mind, as I lined up for the start, it was an unusual feeling where the first objective was to come out in one piece, the time it took was almost irrelevant. By the 9 AM start, there were objectives for the day already achieved, not least, breakfast.
I used to see quarter to 6 on a Sunday morning quite a lot, but that would be heading for bed rather than getting out of it. With the race off at 9 I wanted to eat by 6:30, no later than two and a half hours before. What I ate was today’s big experiment, as luck would have it I don’t especially enjoy the sort of food recommended for runners to start the day – cereal, porridge, banana and the like. I don’t mind oats though, and it was suggested during the week that Flapjack, with its combination of oats and sugar, might do the trick. The marginally more time consuming part of the meal involved the creation of a fruit salad - basically dumping some cut up strawberries, oranges and grapes in a bowl – and with my essential day starter of black tea (drunk out of my Brentford are going to Wembley mug), I and the day were ready to face one another.
The other consumption issue which needed to be resolved today was that of during the race. I’ve been using these Power Bar gels (which are just about palatable) but up to now the necessity to stop for water during a training run (I don’t carry a water bottle when running) has meant I was yet to use one of these gels whilst moving. The hurdle of keeping going whilst squirting blackcurrent flavoured goo into the mouth and not getting it all over my face has now been crossed.
And the time? – For what it’s worth.
I did 21 miles in 2 hours 51 and 20 seconds which, my dubious mental arithmetic thinks, is 8 minute 10 mile pace average.
The race is made up of a nine mile loop, followed by one of six miles which the runners do twice. It is predominantly run on roads and paths through the surrey countryside, with short stretches through the small town that gives the event its name. Unlike the London Marathon, this race isn’t flat, you would describe the course as undulating. It’s reasonable to call this a slightly harder twenty one miles than the London Marathon, although this field is far less crowded than London will be, meaning it’s easier to get started.
The objective was to aim for 8 minute mile pace for the distance, something which was achieved in the early stages. A combination of feeling so comfortable, and some downhill stretches that inevitably encourage me to increase the pace, meant that at 9 miles I was around 30 seconds quicker than I was aiming for. A bit of self control and, eventually, fatigue meant the pace dropped a little.
So the third of the four race plan is now done, following Tadworth Ten and the Wokingham Half. With London only four weeks away, this will also be my longest run of the training period. So an important milestone reached as I prepare for my first marathon. It also meant I avoided travelling to Warrington to endure what turned out to be a massacre of monumental proportions for Harlequins at the hands of the Wolves. I saw Quins get thumped there last year, and although I thought this would be by far our toughest game of the season, I never imagined it would be anything like that considering the good form we’ve been in. We’ll just have to use Hull as a punch bag to get that out of the system next Sunday.
Thursday 17 March 2011
Running Music: Kate Bush 'Running Up That Hill'
See the full list here
Next up:
Kate Bush ‘Running Up That Hill’
“And if I only could,
I'd make a deal with God,
And I'd get him to swap our places.”
I wonder how many people have thought that in the last few miles of a marathon?
My favourite Kate Bush song is actually ‘Don’t Give Up’, the duet with Peter Gabriel. An optimistic and encouraging number for a marathon you might think, but since I don’t plan to be considering quitting at any stage, I decided it wasn’t relevant.
Neither is ‘Running Up That Hill’ in the context of the London Marathon, although it could be argued running 5.2 miles more than I will have done before is something of a metaphorical mountain.
‘Running Up That Hill’ can be found on the 1985 album ‘Hounds of Love’, from where it was the first single release, peaking at number 3 in the UK. The track was originally to be titled ‘Deal With God’, but EMI bosses feared this wouldn’t be received well in countries such as the US, potentially sacrificing crucial radio play.
Next up:
Kate Bush ‘Running Up That Hill’
“And if I only could,
I'd make a deal with God,
And I'd get him to swap our places.”
I wonder how many people have thought that in the last few miles of a marathon?
My favourite Kate Bush song is actually ‘Don’t Give Up’, the duet with Peter Gabriel. An optimistic and encouraging number for a marathon you might think, but since I don’t plan to be considering quitting at any stage, I decided it wasn’t relevant.
Neither is ‘Running Up That Hill’ in the context of the London Marathon, although it could be argued running 5.2 miles more than I will have done before is something of a metaphorical mountain.
‘Running Up That Hill’ can be found on the 1985 album ‘Hounds of Love’, from where it was the first single release, peaking at number 3 in the UK. The track was originally to be titled ‘Deal With God’, but EMI bosses feared this wouldn’t be received well in countries such as the US, potentially sacrificing crucial radio play.
One Month To Go!
At the time of posting this entry, my first marathon should, one month from now, assuming nothing’s gone horribly wrong, all be over.
Believe it or not, I’m already starting to think about what my next marathon might be. Genuine consideration is being given to trying to get another one done before the end of the year, and the reason for thinking about this now is, places go for even the low key ones several months in advance.
The training has gone pretty much exactly to plan, give or take the odd missed run due to a tight calf muscle. I’ve found the really long runs to be the most enjoyable, and have every intention of keeping up with those post April.
Times like 2 hours 23 for 18 miles, and 2 hours 41 for 20 suggest that, were I to keep the training up, aiming for a 3 hours 30 marathon is a perfectly realistic ambition. Given how crowded the course will be at London, the objective of getting round in something respectable remains the aim. Once I have the full distance to my name, the ambition changes to seeing how much I can improve on the London time in a less busy environment. Be that this year, next or whenever, who knows.
The question of where I’ll be and at what time on April 17th has become an issue to think about over the past week or so. As marathon day approaches those showing an interest in coming to watch have been asking for suggestions of good spots along the route, and even what time I think I’ll be there. The first is easier to answer than the second, main problem answering the latter question is I’ve no idea how long it’ll take to get over the start line!
I’m told Bermondsey and Embankment are the best answers to the where question. I would also add the bit around Aldgate East tube, not least as the pubs near by are good if watching thousands of tired runners loses it’s appeal.
Race three of my four race plan is happening on Sunday, the Cranleigh 21, a popular pre-London test for Southern-based participants. It’s a 9 AM start for the race, so will be a good opportunity to practise getting up at silly o’clock on a Sunday morning. It also means I should be back home in time for Warrington V Harlequins RL which is a 3 PM kick off. My rugby league away travel has taken a bit of a hit so far this season, but a train ticket to Castleford was booked this week – now nobody suggest I don’t know how to live!
Believe it or not, I’m already starting to think about what my next marathon might be. Genuine consideration is being given to trying to get another one done before the end of the year, and the reason for thinking about this now is, places go for even the low key ones several months in advance.
The training has gone pretty much exactly to plan, give or take the odd missed run due to a tight calf muscle. I’ve found the really long runs to be the most enjoyable, and have every intention of keeping up with those post April.
Times like 2 hours 23 for 18 miles, and 2 hours 41 for 20 suggest that, were I to keep the training up, aiming for a 3 hours 30 marathon is a perfectly realistic ambition. Given how crowded the course will be at London, the objective of getting round in something respectable remains the aim. Once I have the full distance to my name, the ambition changes to seeing how much I can improve on the London time in a less busy environment. Be that this year, next or whenever, who knows.
The question of where I’ll be and at what time on April 17th has become an issue to think about over the past week or so. As marathon day approaches those showing an interest in coming to watch have been asking for suggestions of good spots along the route, and even what time I think I’ll be there. The first is easier to answer than the second, main problem answering the latter question is I’ve no idea how long it’ll take to get over the start line!
I’m told Bermondsey and Embankment are the best answers to the where question. I would also add the bit around Aldgate East tube, not least as the pubs near by are good if watching thousands of tired runners loses it’s appeal.
Race three of my four race plan is happening on Sunday, the Cranleigh 21, a popular pre-London test for Southern-based participants. It’s a 9 AM start for the race, so will be a good opportunity to practise getting up at silly o’clock on a Sunday morning. It also means I should be back home in time for Warrington V Harlequins RL which is a 3 PM kick off. My rugby league away travel has taken a bit of a hit so far this season, but a train ticket to Castleford was booked this week – now nobody suggest I don’t know how to live!
Sunday 13 March 2011
This Week's Miles: March 13th
Having not run over last weekend, this week began with an 8 miler on Monday night, which took a shade over an hour to complete.
Tuesday sore another steady run, only 6 miles this time. I say steady, that was the plan, in fact this became a session with 3 lots of 3 to 4 minutes of tempo running, sepperated by recovery jogging.
As I finished I became aware of cramp at the bottom of my left calf, the one which I had trouble with before the Wokingham Half Marathon in February.
With London Marathon day being five weeks today, at the time of writing, I’m not about to take any risks that might result in injury, either one which effects my preparation over the next month or worse, puts me out of the marathon altogether.
I decided there was far more to lose than gain from my usual Thursday night run, so stayed at home with what turned out to be a poor Manchester City performance in the Europa League for company. The last time I picked up a calf niggle I wrote about how Sunday morning’s aren’t the most exciting times of the week without running, neither it turns out are Thursday nights.
The rest and attention from the hot water bottle(the latter designed to loosen muscles without putting any pressure on them) did the job, and I was back out this morning. The route was planned with a number of get out points early on in case the calf played up, but an hour in and all was fine. Today’s effort ended up being the 20 miles that was hoped for at the start of the week, the distance covered in 2 hours 41 minutes (or there abouts). There was no pain or stiffness in the calf afterwards.
I experimented with Powerbar Gels again, this time using blackcurrent, which, whilst still not being what I would choose to consume, was a considerable improvement on the strawberry and banana one I used last week.
Aside from some running-based discussions, topics covered with Andrew today included Brentfords win at Charlton yesterday, Tottenham removing AC Milan from the Champion’s League on Wednesday and the fantastic victory for Quins RL at St Helens on Friday night – once I’m done with this marathon my rugby league away trips will be back on.
Instead of a day out in Warrington next Sunday, it’s the final race before London, or, if you prefer, the third of the four race plan. Cranleigh 21 is something of a pre-London favourite. It will also be the longest I’ll run before April 17th.
Total for this week: 34 miles.
Tuesday sore another steady run, only 6 miles this time. I say steady, that was the plan, in fact this became a session with 3 lots of 3 to 4 minutes of tempo running, sepperated by recovery jogging.
As I finished I became aware of cramp at the bottom of my left calf, the one which I had trouble with before the Wokingham Half Marathon in February.
With London Marathon day being five weeks today, at the time of writing, I’m not about to take any risks that might result in injury, either one which effects my preparation over the next month or worse, puts me out of the marathon altogether.
I decided there was far more to lose than gain from my usual Thursday night run, so stayed at home with what turned out to be a poor Manchester City performance in the Europa League for company. The last time I picked up a calf niggle I wrote about how Sunday morning’s aren’t the most exciting times of the week without running, neither it turns out are Thursday nights.
The rest and attention from the hot water bottle(the latter designed to loosen muscles without putting any pressure on them) did the job, and I was back out this morning. The route was planned with a number of get out points early on in case the calf played up, but an hour in and all was fine. Today’s effort ended up being the 20 miles that was hoped for at the start of the week, the distance covered in 2 hours 41 minutes (or there abouts). There was no pain or stiffness in the calf afterwards.
I experimented with Powerbar Gels again, this time using blackcurrent, which, whilst still not being what I would choose to consume, was a considerable improvement on the strawberry and banana one I used last week.
Aside from some running-based discussions, topics covered with Andrew today included Brentfords win at Charlton yesterday, Tottenham removing AC Milan from the Champion’s League on Wednesday and the fantastic victory for Quins RL at St Helens on Friday night – once I’m done with this marathon my rugby league away trips will be back on.
Instead of a day out in Warrington next Sunday, it’s the final race before London, or, if you prefer, the third of the four race plan. Cranleigh 21 is something of a pre-London favourite. It will also be the longest I’ll run before April 17th.
Total for this week: 34 miles.
Saturday 12 March 2011
Running Music: Neil Young 'Long May You Run'
See the full list here
Next up:
Neil Young ‘Long May You Run’
Having written about an obvious, well known song last week, I thought I’d go for the opposite this time.
Neil Young is someone whose music I’ve been aware of for as long as I can remember, yet I’ve never really explored it to the extent I probably should have. I’ve heard ‘Rockin’ in the Free World’ on the radio loads, I saw Pearl Jam do an excellent cover of it at the Leeds Festival one year. Recently, thanks to Planet Rock, ‘Harvest Moon’ has gone from being a song I knew to one I listen to almost on a daily basis. My Neil Young knowledge has, until recently, been a bunch of songs from throughout his career. I’m slowly but surely filling the gap in my musical knowledge by discovering more.
When I compiled the list from which I was going to pick a song from each week to write about, I added this one simply because the title was relevant, and I thought it would be something a little different to include. Along with the Thin Lizzy track from a couple of weeks ago, ‘Long May You Run’ is one of my favourites on the list.
To be accurate, this song is actually by The Stills-Young Band, and is the title track from a 1976 album which, at one stage, was meant to be a full offering with David Crosby and Graham Nash involved. The latter pair were only briefly on board however, instead releasing their own album in the same year.
The song ‘Long May You Run’ was written about a car Neil Young was especially fond of, and was the album’s first single. Young performed the track at the closing ceremony of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver – 2012 take note of what can be done. Let’s hope the Spice Girls rumour remains nothing more than an idea.
The only version I could find to link to is a live one, but very good it is too.
Next up:
Neil Young ‘Long May You Run’
Having written about an obvious, well known song last week, I thought I’d go for the opposite this time.
Neil Young is someone whose music I’ve been aware of for as long as I can remember, yet I’ve never really explored it to the extent I probably should have. I’ve heard ‘Rockin’ in the Free World’ on the radio loads, I saw Pearl Jam do an excellent cover of it at the Leeds Festival one year. Recently, thanks to Planet Rock, ‘Harvest Moon’ has gone from being a song I knew to one I listen to almost on a daily basis. My Neil Young knowledge has, until recently, been a bunch of songs from throughout his career. I’m slowly but surely filling the gap in my musical knowledge by discovering more.
When I compiled the list from which I was going to pick a song from each week to write about, I added this one simply because the title was relevant, and I thought it would be something a little different to include. Along with the Thin Lizzy track from a couple of weeks ago, ‘Long May You Run’ is one of my favourites on the list.
To be accurate, this song is actually by The Stills-Young Band, and is the title track from a 1976 album which, at one stage, was meant to be a full offering with David Crosby and Graham Nash involved. The latter pair were only briefly on board however, instead releasing their own album in the same year.
The song ‘Long May You Run’ was written about a car Neil Young was especially fond of, and was the album’s first single. Young performed the track at the closing ceremony of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver – 2012 take note of what can be done. Let’s hope the Spice Girls rumour remains nothing more than an idea.
The only version I could find to link to is a live one, but very good it is too.
Friday 4 March 2011
An Energy Experiment
Those that have seen me eat chips with my pasta washed down with two pints of cider after a ten mile run might be surprised to learn that my Sport, Health and Leisure degree includes some stuff on sports nutrition. The less surprising revelation is that I can’t remember much of what the course contained.
I do recall a diagram of a food pyramid, where all the healthy stuff was down the bottom and the more interesting but less healthy things were at the little point up top.
The only other thing lurking in the depth of my memory is a practical class we did on breakfast. We were given a bowl of oats, and had to customise it with our own choice of yoghurt, fruit and fruit juice from a job lot of options provided. I couldn’t tell you what I put in mine, but the results were pretty nice.
All good fun in a college class where you’ve plenty of time to decide between banana, orange or strawberry, but far too much faffing about in the real world of commuting.
Breakfast has never been my strong point, until recently I would leave the house without eating anything. I’ve managed to include a visit to the toaster as part of my morning routine now, and this does mean I’m not ready to kill by about half 10.
Eating before a morning run is something I’m still trying to learn. Every runner is different, some can eat close to exercise, however I need a gap of, at very least, two hours between food and run, preferably longer. With the Parkrun’s starting at 9 on a Saturday morning, that’s a pretty early start for a weekend if I want to be fed before action.
London Marathon day will be a different story entirely though. I’ll need to be up several hours before the race starts to make sure I get there on time. Plus, running 15 miles on an empty stomach is doable for me, 26.2 probably won’t be.
So, this morning, ahead of my first 18 miler (due to begin at 9 AM), I was up at the same time I would have been were I leaving to catch a bus and train, and was done with breakfast by, well, 7:15, 7 was a bit of a stretch.
The other new thing I tried today was a Powerbar energy gel. It comes in a small sashay and is basically, flavoured goo, I had Strawberry and banana. During your run you squirt it into your mouth, wash it down with water and, in theory, don’t drop in a heap through exhaustion.
I’m not a fan of isotonic drinks, energy boosters or food supplements. It’s down to personal taste as much as anything else, and the question of whether to use a sports drink or just water divides people. For the level and intensity of running which I usually do, up to now I’ve never run more than 15 miles, water has always helped me fine. I’ve also preferred not to get into a situation where I feel I rely on a certain product, as there might be a risk of not being able to get hold of it. Unless there’s a massive drought the chances of not having easy access to water are pretty low.
I have found once I’ve finished a run that’s anything longer than a half marathon I’m in real need of a sugar boost, in a marathon there will still be a lot of running to go, and as far as I know stopping for a muffin won’t be an option (chocolate of course, none of this blueberry nonsense).
The only time I’ve regularly used a sports drink was for about a year during my time with the sprint group at Leeds City. Then we used something called Strive, a citrus flavoured drink which gave an almighty sugar rush. It’s too sweet and too heavy on the stomach for distance running though, plus, a side effect is that it makes you go to the toilet, a lot, again, not ideal for longer running.
When trying anything new like this, it’s advisable to do so a few weeks before the race you have in mind for its use. If you’re going to learn your stomach isn’t willing to accomadate this interesting new product, it’s better for you to be sick on a Friday morning when no one’s looking, rather than on marathon day when thousands of people are.
I can confirm I did feel good after using the Powerbar Gel and that as the forty minutes you’re supposed to feel the benefit drew to a close, I started to tire a little. I can’t say whether that was because by then I was into new territory for distance covered, or if I needed another gel, perhaps a bit of both.
I can also confirm I’m going to be trying a different flavour next time. I’m also yet to find out my stomachs views on the subject - if it had a face it would be sporting an “I’m still to be convinced” expression. I sensed it enjoyed the Wispa I ate after I’d finished more: on that point I’m in total agreement.
Random song which has just popped into my head by the way, since I’m talking about stomachs. There was a band I used to love called Belly, their most famous song is titled ‘Feed the Tree’ and it’s a cracker! Oh, and there was a great kebab shop in Farnborough where I used to live called Bellybusters, their chicken kebabs were brilliant. Ahem, now where was I? Oh yes, sports nutrition...
I do recall a diagram of a food pyramid, where all the healthy stuff was down the bottom and the more interesting but less healthy things were at the little point up top.
The only other thing lurking in the depth of my memory is a practical class we did on breakfast. We were given a bowl of oats, and had to customise it with our own choice of yoghurt, fruit and fruit juice from a job lot of options provided. I couldn’t tell you what I put in mine, but the results were pretty nice.
All good fun in a college class where you’ve plenty of time to decide between banana, orange or strawberry, but far too much faffing about in the real world of commuting.
Breakfast has never been my strong point, until recently I would leave the house without eating anything. I’ve managed to include a visit to the toaster as part of my morning routine now, and this does mean I’m not ready to kill by about half 10.
Eating before a morning run is something I’m still trying to learn. Every runner is different, some can eat close to exercise, however I need a gap of, at very least, two hours between food and run, preferably longer. With the Parkrun’s starting at 9 on a Saturday morning, that’s a pretty early start for a weekend if I want to be fed before action.
London Marathon day will be a different story entirely though. I’ll need to be up several hours before the race starts to make sure I get there on time. Plus, running 15 miles on an empty stomach is doable for me, 26.2 probably won’t be.
So, this morning, ahead of my first 18 miler (due to begin at 9 AM), I was up at the same time I would have been were I leaving to catch a bus and train, and was done with breakfast by, well, 7:15, 7 was a bit of a stretch.
The other new thing I tried today was a Powerbar energy gel. It comes in a small sashay and is basically, flavoured goo, I had Strawberry and banana. During your run you squirt it into your mouth, wash it down with water and, in theory, don’t drop in a heap through exhaustion.
I’m not a fan of isotonic drinks, energy boosters or food supplements. It’s down to personal taste as much as anything else, and the question of whether to use a sports drink or just water divides people. For the level and intensity of running which I usually do, up to now I’ve never run more than 15 miles, water has always helped me fine. I’ve also preferred not to get into a situation where I feel I rely on a certain product, as there might be a risk of not being able to get hold of it. Unless there’s a massive drought the chances of not having easy access to water are pretty low.
I have found once I’ve finished a run that’s anything longer than a half marathon I’m in real need of a sugar boost, in a marathon there will still be a lot of running to go, and as far as I know stopping for a muffin won’t be an option (chocolate of course, none of this blueberry nonsense).
The only time I’ve regularly used a sports drink was for about a year during my time with the sprint group at Leeds City. Then we used something called Strive, a citrus flavoured drink which gave an almighty sugar rush. It’s too sweet and too heavy on the stomach for distance running though, plus, a side effect is that it makes you go to the toilet, a lot, again, not ideal for longer running.
When trying anything new like this, it’s advisable to do so a few weeks before the race you have in mind for its use. If you’re going to learn your stomach isn’t willing to accomadate this interesting new product, it’s better for you to be sick on a Friday morning when no one’s looking, rather than on marathon day when thousands of people are.
I can confirm I did feel good after using the Powerbar Gel and that as the forty minutes you’re supposed to feel the benefit drew to a close, I started to tire a little. I can’t say whether that was because by then I was into new territory for distance covered, or if I needed another gel, perhaps a bit of both.
I can also confirm I’m going to be trying a different flavour next time. I’m also yet to find out my stomachs views on the subject - if it had a face it would be sporting an “I’m still to be convinced” expression. I sensed it enjoyed the Wispa I ate after I’d finished more: on that point I’m in total agreement.
Random song which has just popped into my head by the way, since I’m talking about stomachs. There was a band I used to love called Belly, their most famous song is titled ‘Feed the Tree’ and it’s a cracker! Oh, and there was a great kebab shop in Farnborough where I used to live called Bellybusters, their chicken kebabs were brilliant. Ahem, now where was I? Oh yes, sports nutrition...
Thursday 3 March 2011
Let Me Take You by the, erm, Sweatband, and Guide You Through the Streets of London
Before I crack on with this entry,
can I suggest you take a look at this post, where I describe guide running, how it works and what it’s like from the point of view of a blind runner.
Also, if once you've read the article below you feel in any way inspired, Joggingbuddy.com have teamed up with British Blind Sport to offer a way of putting guides and blind runners in touch with each other.
The one thing I’ve not done yet is consider what guiding is like for those with the not inconsiderable responsibility of being in control. Of course, I can’t speak from first hand experience, but I know three blokes that can.
During my time with the Stragglers I’ve raced with five people, and am using three to help with training for my London Marathon debut.
The person I probably run with the most is also called Simon. There was a time when we ran together so much that other club members would find it odd to see me with someone else, or Simon on his own. The others whose thoughts I’ve sought for this article are Andrew and Jim.
As well as sharing names, Simon and I are also the most similar in running styles. Especially over shorter distances such as 5 or 10K, our approach is to start hard, give it everything we’ve got and hope for the best in the closing stages.
Andrew on the other hand will start more conservatively, even over 5K. This tactic is something I’ve tried hard to learn from him for longer races. He ran Wokingham with me recently, and of the thirteen miles, the first was the slowest, meaning I had plenty left in the tank for the closing stages.
It’s worth stressing none of my partners impose their running style on me, if I start too hard and blow up that’s my problem, however you don’t run regularly with someone and not learn from their experience.
Jim is the man for a speed session, and the one that pushes me the most. If I announce my objective for an interval session is eight repetitions, he’ll want to know why it’s not ten. He’s also the one most likely to tell me if he thinks I’m not running as well as I should, but equally will reward with praise in bundles if he feels it’s deserved.
To some blind runners, the guide is merely providing a service, but I’ve always thought of them as training partners who just happen to be making sure I don’t have any accidents, a view that Simon, Andrew and Jim all acknowledge is a great benefit to both runner and guide.
As Andrew says, “it has given me another regular running partner, especially because you have been training for a marathon at the same time as me.” Andrew is running the Brighton Marathon one week before London.
“Guiding has definitely benefited my own running. First, it puts a commitment in the diary which I would be reluctant to break. Secondly, it encourages me to keep fit. It is necessary to be about 30 seconds per mile quicker than a blind runner. This is because we then don't need to think about our own pace too much and can concentrate on guiding.”
Jim’s version of the same point is to say, “it gets me off my butt and out running, as I have a commitment to honour when on occasions I may not have bothered. So it’s definitely very positive.”
There are those within the club that have suggested Simon’s benefit has been a significant one physically. Having had a lengthy lay off due to a serious knee injury a few years ago, the fact that not every run he does is at the higher tempo that comes naturally to him, may well have contributed to protecting against any relapse. He’s not had so much as a niggle in the two and a half years I’ve known him.
As Simon is my most regular running partner, it is natural that he gets the most questions from other runners. He rather modestly claims “if I can do it, anyone can”. Actually, it’s this kind of laid back approach which makes someone good guide runner material.
“I do not think guiding is very different from running normally. I find that when I run on my own I can switch off and think of things other than running, but still manage to look out for potential hazards. I think the same applies to guiding. We often chat about stuff whilst running but subconsciously are still looking out for potential dangers. Who said men can’t multi-task?!
“The main difference I think (between guiding and running unattached) is of a technical nature. For example the arm that is holding the band is restricted in movement. When running on my own it helps to pump the arms to generate momentum, particularly running uphill. This is not so easy when guiding. Apart from that I have found that running as a guide has the same natural feeling as running on my own.”
The message we all try to get across when asked about the guide running experience is that there’s far less to it than people might, not unreasonably, think.
Jim points out, “a sighted person anticipates that there will be all sorts of problems to overcome that simply do not exist. One might imagine that the blind runner needs to know about all kinds of things related to the surface, surroundings or characteristics of the course to enable them to run free, when in reality you seem to need little more than being told when to go, keeping up with you and advising when a turn is required.”
Whereas Simon and Andrew only have their experiences of running with me to call upon when asked about guiding, Jim has run with, and watched close up, other blind people in action.
“An old friend of mine, Mike Peters, used to guide Britain’s greatest ever blind runner Rob Matthews, until Rob emigrated to New Zealand. They had quite a successful time together at the Sydney Paralympics, 10,000m (Gold), 5000m (Silver) and marathon (Silver). I remember running behind them in the London Marathon one year, until I got dropped, and the whole process of guiding seemed effortless. It has to be said that they were running a fair pace which meant there was plenty of space around them, and Mike was very direct and assertive in his communication which seemed to be the key with all the noise going on.”
Incidentally, Rob Matthews comes up in conversations with Jim a lot, usually when I’m trying to justify why I want to do eight reps rather than ten, or am generally feeling tired and want to go home. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve been asked “but what would Rob Matthews do at this point?”
“I couldn’t give a stuff,” is usually my reply, perhaps replacing “stuff” with something stronger.
In addition to having confidence in your own ability to enable that assertiveness, what other advice do all three offer for potential guide runners?
As well as claiming anyone can do it if he can, Simon recalls our first time running together.
“We had a five minute practice within the safe surroundings of the Hawker Centre car park (where the Stragglers are based), before venturing out onto the mean streets of Ham. Before I knew it we were speeding along negotiating kerbs, lampposts and road humps without any difficulty. I also remember one of the first things you said to me was if you feel there is any chance of an accident, just grab my arm and stop. Simple advice I know but reassuring to me. Before hand I was slightly apprehensive because I had not guided anyone before, and was obviously keen not to mess it up or fall over in a heap! That said I had seen other blind runners take part in races and clearly it something that can be achieved and looks fun. So although a little nervous I was also looking forward to giving it a go.”
Similarly to Simon’s recollection of laps of a car park, Andrew suggests “choose a relatively easy stretch to run for the first time, such as a wide path or road in a park, rather than a crowded urban route with pedestrians and lampposts. Talk to your runner first, to see how much commentary they want or need, probably less than you expect, and relax and enjoy the run - it is very rewarding.
“Finally, I should just say that the double band figure of 8 is a wonderful invention!”
This is in reference to the sweat band, with a knot in the middle to create two loops, which I use to join myself with the guide.
Andrew continues, “anything smaller, and the runners would be a bit close together. Anything larger, and it would not be responsive to changes of direction. You mentioned that some guides hold the elbow of a blind runner, that must be really difficult.”
And, by way of proving a point, Jim’s thoughts are along the same lines.
“Just chill out and enjoy the experience. Take the cue from the blind runner regarding how they want to operate and then go with the flow. Make sure that you’re at least half a minute per mile quicker than the blind runner as things are a lot harder when you’re running close to the red-line.”
It can be even worse for the guide if the person they're running with is faster than they. In the first couple of months with the Stragglers I experimented with any willing volunteer, one of which described the experience as being like taking an excitable dog for a walk.
In helping me write this article, Simon, Andrew and Jim have all related comments to experiences they have had with me, most of which have been very complimentary. I have deliberately left many of these out, since the purpose of my writing this was to give a general overview of what guiding is like in the hope more might be tempted to give it a go, rather than a beginners lesson in what to do when attached to me. I believe that blind runners have a responsibility to make the experience for the guide as easy and enjoyable as possible, on a selfish note I’d be stuck without them. The wider point is that people are more likely to offer to help if they know it'll be fun, as well as being confident they can make a difference, or at least not screw things up.
The issue of confidence people with disabilities have, and the contributing factors to the level there of, is one which can be written about until the end of time. For some, just being given the chance to run at all will have invaluable benefits, be they physical or in terms of wellbeing. However at the sharp end, or certainly where running is done for the competitive thrill of taking on a significant challenge, Jim feels self belief on the part of the runner can make a massive difference to the guide.
“A confident blind runner like yourself is relaxed and hence responsive to the smallest adjustment or instruction, and this makes it very easy to lead. If someone is hesitant, then the experience could be anything but enjoyable.”
Simon too believes it certainly helps that I am relaxed about the whole experience. “You are clearly confident with your own ability and appear to have faith in us. I have noticed that if you do happen to trip your recovery is very impressive, I suspect much better than us sighted runners. You have probably developed this skill through necessity! I do not want to tempt fate but thankfully your ability to recover from a stumble has not been called upon too often! Guiding is great fun, as you have said, in previous posts, you are never lonely! The banter is great and gives us a chance to put the world right, or at least Brentford’s promotion chances! On a serious note guiding is also a very rewarding experience, particularly when a run comes together.”
So, as I said at the top, if having read this you do think you’d fancy giving this a try, a good first point of contact is British Blind Sport. The charity has an article on its website here, referencing a partnership between BBS and joggingbuddy.com.
can I suggest you take a look at this post, where I describe guide running, how it works and what it’s like from the point of view of a blind runner.
Also, if once you've read the article below you feel in any way inspired, Joggingbuddy.com have teamed up with British Blind Sport to offer a way of putting guides and blind runners in touch with each other.
The one thing I’ve not done yet is consider what guiding is like for those with the not inconsiderable responsibility of being in control. Of course, I can’t speak from first hand experience, but I know three blokes that can.
During my time with the Stragglers I’ve raced with five people, and am using three to help with training for my London Marathon debut.
The person I probably run with the most is also called Simon. There was a time when we ran together so much that other club members would find it odd to see me with someone else, or Simon on his own. The others whose thoughts I’ve sought for this article are Andrew and Jim.
As well as sharing names, Simon and I are also the most similar in running styles. Especially over shorter distances such as 5 or 10K, our approach is to start hard, give it everything we’ve got and hope for the best in the closing stages.
Andrew on the other hand will start more conservatively, even over 5K. This tactic is something I’ve tried hard to learn from him for longer races. He ran Wokingham with me recently, and of the thirteen miles, the first was the slowest, meaning I had plenty left in the tank for the closing stages.
It’s worth stressing none of my partners impose their running style on me, if I start too hard and blow up that’s my problem, however you don’t run regularly with someone and not learn from their experience.
Jim is the man for a speed session, and the one that pushes me the most. If I announce my objective for an interval session is eight repetitions, he’ll want to know why it’s not ten. He’s also the one most likely to tell me if he thinks I’m not running as well as I should, but equally will reward with praise in bundles if he feels it’s deserved.
To some blind runners, the guide is merely providing a service, but I’ve always thought of them as training partners who just happen to be making sure I don’t have any accidents, a view that Simon, Andrew and Jim all acknowledge is a great benefit to both runner and guide.
As Andrew says, “it has given me another regular running partner, especially because you have been training for a marathon at the same time as me.” Andrew is running the Brighton Marathon one week before London.
“Guiding has definitely benefited my own running. First, it puts a commitment in the diary which I would be reluctant to break. Secondly, it encourages me to keep fit. It is necessary to be about 30 seconds per mile quicker than a blind runner. This is because we then don't need to think about our own pace too much and can concentrate on guiding.”
Jim’s version of the same point is to say, “it gets me off my butt and out running, as I have a commitment to honour when on occasions I may not have bothered. So it’s definitely very positive.”
There are those within the club that have suggested Simon’s benefit has been a significant one physically. Having had a lengthy lay off due to a serious knee injury a few years ago, the fact that not every run he does is at the higher tempo that comes naturally to him, may well have contributed to protecting against any relapse. He’s not had so much as a niggle in the two and a half years I’ve known him.
As Simon is my most regular running partner, it is natural that he gets the most questions from other runners. He rather modestly claims “if I can do it, anyone can”. Actually, it’s this kind of laid back approach which makes someone good guide runner material.
“I do not think guiding is very different from running normally. I find that when I run on my own I can switch off and think of things other than running, but still manage to look out for potential hazards. I think the same applies to guiding. We often chat about stuff whilst running but subconsciously are still looking out for potential dangers. Who said men can’t multi-task?!
“The main difference I think (between guiding and running unattached) is of a technical nature. For example the arm that is holding the band is restricted in movement. When running on my own it helps to pump the arms to generate momentum, particularly running uphill. This is not so easy when guiding. Apart from that I have found that running as a guide has the same natural feeling as running on my own.”
The message we all try to get across when asked about the guide running experience is that there’s far less to it than people might, not unreasonably, think.
Jim points out, “a sighted person anticipates that there will be all sorts of problems to overcome that simply do not exist. One might imagine that the blind runner needs to know about all kinds of things related to the surface, surroundings or characteristics of the course to enable them to run free, when in reality you seem to need little more than being told when to go, keeping up with you and advising when a turn is required.”
Whereas Simon and Andrew only have their experiences of running with me to call upon when asked about guiding, Jim has run with, and watched close up, other blind people in action.
“An old friend of mine, Mike Peters, used to guide Britain’s greatest ever blind runner Rob Matthews, until Rob emigrated to New Zealand. They had quite a successful time together at the Sydney Paralympics, 10,000m (Gold), 5000m (Silver) and marathon (Silver). I remember running behind them in the London Marathon one year, until I got dropped, and the whole process of guiding seemed effortless. It has to be said that they were running a fair pace which meant there was plenty of space around them, and Mike was very direct and assertive in his communication which seemed to be the key with all the noise going on.”
Incidentally, Rob Matthews comes up in conversations with Jim a lot, usually when I’m trying to justify why I want to do eight reps rather than ten, or am generally feeling tired and want to go home. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve been asked “but what would Rob Matthews do at this point?”
“I couldn’t give a stuff,” is usually my reply, perhaps replacing “stuff” with something stronger.
In addition to having confidence in your own ability to enable that assertiveness, what other advice do all three offer for potential guide runners?
As well as claiming anyone can do it if he can, Simon recalls our first time running together.
“We had a five minute practice within the safe surroundings of the Hawker Centre car park (where the Stragglers are based), before venturing out onto the mean streets of Ham. Before I knew it we were speeding along negotiating kerbs, lampposts and road humps without any difficulty. I also remember one of the first things you said to me was if you feel there is any chance of an accident, just grab my arm and stop. Simple advice I know but reassuring to me. Before hand I was slightly apprehensive because I had not guided anyone before, and was obviously keen not to mess it up or fall over in a heap! That said I had seen other blind runners take part in races and clearly it something that can be achieved and looks fun. So although a little nervous I was also looking forward to giving it a go.”
Similarly to Simon’s recollection of laps of a car park, Andrew suggests “choose a relatively easy stretch to run for the first time, such as a wide path or road in a park, rather than a crowded urban route with pedestrians and lampposts. Talk to your runner first, to see how much commentary they want or need, probably less than you expect, and relax and enjoy the run - it is very rewarding.
“Finally, I should just say that the double band figure of 8 is a wonderful invention!”
This is in reference to the sweat band, with a knot in the middle to create two loops, which I use to join myself with the guide.
Andrew continues, “anything smaller, and the runners would be a bit close together. Anything larger, and it would not be responsive to changes of direction. You mentioned that some guides hold the elbow of a blind runner, that must be really difficult.”
And, by way of proving a point, Jim’s thoughts are along the same lines.
“Just chill out and enjoy the experience. Take the cue from the blind runner regarding how they want to operate and then go with the flow. Make sure that you’re at least half a minute per mile quicker than the blind runner as things are a lot harder when you’re running close to the red-line.”
It can be even worse for the guide if the person they're running with is faster than they. In the first couple of months with the Stragglers I experimented with any willing volunteer, one of which described the experience as being like taking an excitable dog for a walk.
In helping me write this article, Simon, Andrew and Jim have all related comments to experiences they have had with me, most of which have been very complimentary. I have deliberately left many of these out, since the purpose of my writing this was to give a general overview of what guiding is like in the hope more might be tempted to give it a go, rather than a beginners lesson in what to do when attached to me. I believe that blind runners have a responsibility to make the experience for the guide as easy and enjoyable as possible, on a selfish note I’d be stuck without them. The wider point is that people are more likely to offer to help if they know it'll be fun, as well as being confident they can make a difference, or at least not screw things up.
The issue of confidence people with disabilities have, and the contributing factors to the level there of, is one which can be written about until the end of time. For some, just being given the chance to run at all will have invaluable benefits, be they physical or in terms of wellbeing. However at the sharp end, or certainly where running is done for the competitive thrill of taking on a significant challenge, Jim feels self belief on the part of the runner can make a massive difference to the guide.
“A confident blind runner like yourself is relaxed and hence responsive to the smallest adjustment or instruction, and this makes it very easy to lead. If someone is hesitant, then the experience could be anything but enjoyable.”
Simon too believes it certainly helps that I am relaxed about the whole experience. “You are clearly confident with your own ability and appear to have faith in us. I have noticed that if you do happen to trip your recovery is very impressive, I suspect much better than us sighted runners. You have probably developed this skill through necessity! I do not want to tempt fate but thankfully your ability to recover from a stumble has not been called upon too often! Guiding is great fun, as you have said, in previous posts, you are never lonely! The banter is great and gives us a chance to put the world right, or at least Brentford’s promotion chances! On a serious note guiding is also a very rewarding experience, particularly when a run comes together.”
So, as I said at the top, if having read this you do think you’d fancy giving this a try, a good first point of contact is British Blind Sport. The charity has an article on its website here, referencing a partnership between BBS and joggingbuddy.com.
Running Music: Bruce Springsteen 'Born To Run'
See the list so far here
Next up:
Bruce Springsteen ‘Born to Run’
So I’ve reached the halfway point of my list of 20 songs which vaguely relate to running, or the London Marathon.
Following The Clash, Arcade Fire, Iron Maiden, Canned Heat, Tom Petty, Spencer Davis Group, All American Rejects, Lindisfarne and Thin Lizzy, this week we come to the previously advertised obvious song on the list.
In summer 2003, Bruce Springsteen was playing Old Trafford Cricket Ground in Manchester, a relatively short train journey from Leeds, where I was living at the time.
I seriously considered going, but, for once, was a responsible student and gave it a miss. One of my final exams was to be the following morning, and Bruce would come back.
Having still never seen Bruce Springsteen live, and not having found my degree to be a massive amount of use since, I do sometimes wonder if I should have gone. I mean, how difficult would the exam have been with only marginally less sleep than I imagine I got anyway?
Apparently ‘Born To Run’ came out at a point when Springsteen was at something of an all or nothing stage in his career. His previous work hadn’t seen him enjoy quite the success which early critical acclaim suggested he should. It was Springsteen’s first world-wide single release in August 1975, although it made little impact outside the US, where it reached number 23 on the Billboard Chart.
Next up:
Bruce Springsteen ‘Born to Run’
So I’ve reached the halfway point of my list of 20 songs which vaguely relate to running, or the London Marathon.
Following The Clash, Arcade Fire, Iron Maiden, Canned Heat, Tom Petty, Spencer Davis Group, All American Rejects, Lindisfarne and Thin Lizzy, this week we come to the previously advertised obvious song on the list.
In summer 2003, Bruce Springsteen was playing Old Trafford Cricket Ground in Manchester, a relatively short train journey from Leeds, where I was living at the time.
I seriously considered going, but, for once, was a responsible student and gave it a miss. One of my final exams was to be the following morning, and Bruce would come back.
Having still never seen Bruce Springsteen live, and not having found my degree to be a massive amount of use since, I do sometimes wonder if I should have gone. I mean, how difficult would the exam have been with only marginally less sleep than I imagine I got anyway?
Apparently ‘Born To Run’ came out at a point when Springsteen was at something of an all or nothing stage in his career. His previous work hadn’t seen him enjoy quite the success which early critical acclaim suggested he should. It was Springsteen’s first world-wide single release in August 1975, although it made little impact outside the US, where it reached number 23 on the Billboard Chart.
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