Stretched

7.3 miles in 59:09 (PB)
Route: Highbury and Islington circuit 2

My second weekend 'long run' and a second personal best time! I'm a little surprised, as I didn't think I was in the best of shape, but it's good to know I can still cut it.

I have to admit, I was very nervous about today's run. It's the furthest distance I've done since 16 December when I had seriously problems with my knee. Since then, I have struggled over 3 or 4 miles - the idea of doing a long run (and what it might mean for my knee and, therefore, my marathon attempt) didn't appeal at all. However, while it wasn't perfect, this run could be the turning point in my marathon campaign.

I went up around the tried and tested Highbury and Islington route, adding on a lap of Finsbury Park to give me the distance my training plan called for (the fast-trackers amongst you will have noticed that my plan actually says 8 miles, but you can bugger off).

As expected, my knee began to hurt after about 2-3 miles, by the time I'd reached the new Arsenal stadium (playing Man U today, so I had to weave my way around the gooners). In contrast to previous weeks though, it didn't get significantly worse, and - with the exception of the hilly bits of the Finsbury Park track - it was generally ok and I was able to stay in a good rhythm.

As the distance increased and my knee remained ok, my confidence increased and I was able to finish in a good time. I was dreading stopping, as I thought my knee would become very painful. However. when I stretched it out using the osteo techniques, something remarkable happened. The pain just went. Completely. I have no idea how or why, but my knee felt almost normal.

I don't expect it to last, but this confirms everything I should already have known - and what I hope, dear reader, you will remember if you ever try anything like this: stretching is vital.

I am now back home and writing this log, and the knee doesn't feel too bad. I think it will be stiff later/tomorrow, but, the knowledge that I can get around 7 miles without crippling myself has given me back a heap of confidence. My calfs feel very tight - but that is one of the tings that the osteo thought might have lead to the problem in the first place.

Next week is a quieter one on the training plan - which is good because the social calendar is packed - but I am conscious that I have missed a Fartlek session this week, so I might try and make it up, if I can find a free evening.

In the meantime, let's enjoy this moment. It's one of the good ones.

Finsbury Park - spelt backwards it's 'Krapy Rub Snif'