where are you running?

RUN 249 - Hello humidity!

2011-06-22T23:40:00.000-05:00

How fitting to return to the place of my first blog post, 248 posts ago... its comforting to know these places, to know they have always been here, and continue on without me, each place feels like an old friend i haven't seen in a while, or a best friend that i always hang out with. Catching up with them again is a beautiful thing.

[Oak Brook, IL, USA]

RUN 248 - Post Stag

2011-06-12T23:10:00.002-05:00

From 32 mile to just one... like i said, every run has its purpose, sometimes its simply to make it a mile, sweat our a hangover and to try and kick a hangover... im certain it helps... especially in the beautiful New Forest of England.

[New Forest, England]

RUN 247 - 32m for Japan

2011-05-29T23:08:00.016-05:00

Every run is for a reason, they're usually selfish if were honest. Occasionally we get the opportunity to do what we love and help other people out too. www.justgiving.com/hike-for-japan was one of those occasions. Setting a challenge tougher than you honestly think you can achieve is really the only challenge worth setting, and must be the definition of a challenge. If you have no doubt you cannot enjoy your success. I ran and hiked 16m + 16m along Beachy Head in England today, and my friends and i raised over $2000 for relief efforts in Japan, you can still give at the link above, many thanks!

[The undulating chalky south coast of England]

RUN 246 - Perfect Putney

2011-05-22T23:07:00.007-05:00

One last time along the river, a suspiciously perfect day to run, almost like London is stating its case, i'm trading these tidal river banks and tow paths for a shoreline of another sort on another continent. The only comfort is that they've been here for hundreds or years and will be there for me anytime i need them.

[Putney Bridge on the River Thames]

RUN 245 - Must stretch more!

2011-05-13T16:12:00.008-05:00

Sometime i wonder if there's a natural universe conspiring against me, giving me shin splints at the most perfect moment to encounter the beautiful world around me, hobbling along stubbornly i catch this most beautiful view, how else would i ever have found myself here; what better reason to run?

[Battersea Power station, London]

RUN 244 - Look

2011-05-11T15:45:00.011-05:00

Running through the city, you spend a good proportion of that time looking at the ground; watching your footing; the closest i've come to rolling an ankle has been on kerbs rather than cross country... im an observant person, but it doesn't hurt to be reminded to truly look at the world around you, especially while running, there is so much more to see if you look past the obvious.

RUN 243 - Run 'till you catch the sun

2011-05-05T10:57:00.000-05:00

Chasing the sunset home from work, seems so simple, run till you catch the sun. Like the Thames or Lake Michigan, its a powerful larger than life running companion which inspires greatness and mocks petty complaints of fatigue.

RUN 242 - The Banks of the Thames

2011-05-01T03:39:00.019-05:00

This spot on the banks of the Thames near Kew Gardens is fast becoming my regular turn around spot on my weekend longer runs, about 8 miles from home its a good hours run which feels even better as each step i take is one i know i'll have to take home making a 16+ mile run. Im not precious about training or timing anymore, ill happily sit and enjoy the view and its infinite detail before heading home, there is so much more to running that the physical fitness it brings, i don't ever want to forget that.

[Low tide, but coming in fast!]

RUN 241 - The perfect run

2011-04-24T03:37:00.015-05:00

A run doesn't get any better than this... 10+ miles through unexplored countryside from my parents house to visit my nan, going off my usual route to explore a little more, getting 'lost' and picking a new direction to run somewhere familiar again, discovering a small stream and following it, across varied terrain grass mud and hills through forests... and waiting at the end a happy face pleased to see me and a bacon sandwich and a cup of tea.

[no idea how i found this stream, but it took me home]

RUN 240 - No Swimming

2011-04-17T03:36:00.015-05:00

After 10 miles along the beautiful south bank of the Thames in 75 degree sun heading towards Richmond from the city, the only thing i want to do is jump in that water and swim... not ever going to happen though, killer currents and bacteria...

RUN 239 - Tide racing

2011-04-10T10:26:00.019-05:00

The turning point of my preferred run route going west along the Thames, regardless of the time of day, the tide is always there. The power of it is inspiring, and the effect is obvious, always plainly revealed on the return run, i like feeling part of a bigger world, having something to put ones efforts into perspective always gives me strength and confidence to complete them and push harder.

RUN 238 - Regular Route

2011-04-06T10:24:00.013-05:00

Home to work or vice versa, its a regular route which lets me avoid public transport (but not the public!) it provides the perfect transition from one part of life to another, combined with the physical exercise, its a mental break between the two which i maintain helps me be better at both of them.

[Central St Giles, Renzo Piano]

RUN 237 - Back on the Thames again

2011-03-27T16:05:00.008-05:00

Having been away for a while its good to be back to a familiar place, sometimes that familiarity is encouraging, other times distracting, especially on a challenging run, being reminded how much further there is to go, and how much more i'll be asking of myself can be a difficult mental struggle, but inevitably at some point that changes in my favor and becomes comforting.

RUN 236 - The Corniche, Abu Dhabi

2011-03-17T16:03:00.009-05:00

Business travel is not always as glamorous as it seems, there often are not opportunities to see the places you're visiting and working in... running is a great excuse to explore... the Corniche is like Lake Shore Drive in Chicago, a road, park, boulevard, beach along the waterfront. Abu Dhabi isn't the most beautiful place in the UAE, but still a beautiful place to run.

[The Corniche Waterfront of Abu Dhabi]

RUN 235 - Greve in Chianti, Tuscany

2011-03-08T16:02:00.012-06:00

It doesn't get much more idyllic than the rolling Tuscan countryside! an early start on a frosty spring morning exploring the hillsides, surprising a pack of dogs and not getting mauled, trying to keep the blood flowing to my frozen fingertips and wishing id brought gloves... none of it matters when the world is this beautiful!

[The countryside around a stunning Tuscan B&B]

RUN 234 - Rome, Italy

2011-03-06T16:00:00.012-06:00

Take the chance to explore a little further and trust your instincts, run with a flexible plan and you'll never be disappointed, i always seem to discover a natural climax on runs like today at the top of a hilly Roman public park.

[A perfectly roman public scene]

RUN 233 - Rome, Italy

2011-03-05T15:59:00.014-06:00

Being away from home is exciting as a runner, every step will be something new and unfamiliar, you're guaranteed to be surprised and delighted... its also a great way to scout out places to return to, like this hilltop cafe view hidden away near our hotel in Rome.

[A Roman hilltop view]

RUN 232 - 1940s dress design sketches in South Ken.

2011-02-24T15:58:00.010-06:00

Even in the city there are always beautiful interesting things to see, and you see so much more when running... there may not always be beautiful vistas, sun rises over impossibly large lakes or the banks of a powerful river, but make the effort to open your eyes and you'll see so much more.

[40's dress designs in a Knightsbridge shop window]

RUN 231 - London drizzle is a runners friend

2011-02-23T10:48:00.009-06:00

I'm actually more of a 'poor weather' runner, i love the challenge that weather presents, snow, ice wind, rain... i love sunny day runs too, but its hard to keep cool... a drizzly day is fine by me too.

[Got to watch your step though]

RUN 230 - Post run Rooftop

2011-02-22T03:50:00.000-06:00

Running A-B is always so much more satisfying; home to work or vice versa, every step is a step closer to your destination and is filled with a little more confidence. It translates more directly to our life experiences, and reminds me that so long as we have a direction, a destination or a purpose, make every step a step towards that place and no matter how much you tire, you can draw strength from the knowledge that you're making progress.

[West London skyline from our roof]

RUN 229 - R&R along the Thames path to Battersea Park

2011-02-19T16:53:00.037-06:00

Sometimes everything just works out perfectly, today was absolutely one of those days; a gentle breeze, cool air, slightly drizzly but not raining, just enough to keep the fair weather walkers and runners off the Thames path, but to top it all my wife decided to get out her bike and join me for an hour or two! running has always been a quite selfish indulgent pastime for me, one which is mine to enjoy and explore and reflect, to give me balance. My running isn't about physical fitness; i'm not the fastest, or most efficient, and certainly don't follow a strict runners diet, but i enjoy every step i take, its never a chore, i allow myself to enjoy and experience the places it takes me, even the smallest details of perhaps the most seemingly mundane place. Its a wonderful chance to observe the places we live and visit and be part of them. But to share these beautiful places and moments of chance encounter with the woman i love are an even greater joy.

[Flowers blooming in Battersea Park]

RUN 228 - Capture the moment

2011-02-15T16:52:00.022-06:00

I always run with my iphone, its useful if i get a little lost, or to call someone i'm meeting or who expects me, but mainly i carry it for the chance to capture a moment. I have 5/6 main routes either to or from work or around our home, the route is repeated time after time, but the experience of it is entirely different on every occasion, with the weather, the season, time or day, the people who share the moment or the things taking place... the local authority trimmed the trees back along the south bank, felled a few too... this log obviously rolled down the bank of the river having been cut at low tide... this angle and composition screamed out to me as i ran by... the stump in the foreground, the log on the beach and the river beyond...when the tide returns to collect the log, this image will be gone forever.

[sometimes the images scream out to be captured]

RUN 227 - Every step is a history lesson

2011-02-12T16:45:00.015-06:00

Every step is a history lesson in this city, relics of the past are everywhere, often re purposed, preserved or simply allowed to deteriorate. This proud forgotten relic has served its useful purpose many years ago, and now stands to intrigue or be ignored.

[I have no idea of its purpose and almost prefer to keep it that way]

RUN 226 - Stop and look

2011-02-05T14:47:00.001-06:00

RUN 225 - Chinatown

2011-02-03T09:53:00.010-06:00

Its tough not to try and take this picture every time i pass through, its the glamorous celebration of the entrance to Chinatown, equally interesting are the side streets and back alleys which propel this machine

[the grand entrance serves as a distraction to what lies beyond]

RUN 224 - Take a break, stretch it out

2011-02-02T16:42:00.004-06:00

A slower start to today run home, tight muscles from yesterday and still recovering from Angleseys marathon, not surprising really. Stretching when traffic holds me up really helps and reminds me that it's ok to stop when racing too, it's not all about pushing pushing relentlessly, stopping or walking doesn't not equal failure, it indicates awareness of an intelligent runner, to modify form, pace or to rest or stretch when necessary, all of which will in fact get you to the finish faster than simply plodding stubbornly on. Finished really strongly and confident to pick up pace [7m - 01:01:57]

[Stretch it out after running the first mile or so]

RUN 223 - Routine Commitment

2011-02-01T17:24:00.000-06:00

After 5 coastal marathons in a little over a year I feel the need to find a new challenge, I love the rhythm of off road running, the variation in pace and the muscle control required to navigate undulating unsteady terrain is both challenging and satisfying. By comparison it makes road running almost monotonous, city street running still requires concentration and dodging pedestrians, which breaks up the rhythm, I'm not sure how I feel about returning to traditional marathoning. However I do want to work on my pace and finish time, my recent marathons and shorter road races indicate a 3-3.5hr finish time is possible, which I'd love to work towards... I

think I'm going to look for a autumn road marathon and in the meantime get back to my road roots and half marathon speed work [7m - 1:01:34]

[The slow walk to stretch out at the end]

RUN 222 - Coastal Trail Series Stage 5; Anglesey North Wales

2011-01-22T06:59:00.001-06:00

The challenge of the Endurancelife Coastal Trail Series is hard to describe; at its simplest its a marathon around the coast of the UK somewhere, but that doesn't tell the whole story. First of all, you usually discover at mile 26 that the course is a couple miles longer! and technically then an ultra. Secondly the terrain is intense, every single footfall requires complete concentration to prevent a twisted ankle or literally falling off a cliff, not to mention being knee deep in muddy bogs with soaking wet feet, and i haven't even got to the climbing or elevation change yet! seriously, who puts a mountain at the beginning and end of a marathon+!? However, these are precisely the reasons that i love this series and continue to enter them, this was my 5th in a little over a year. The scenery is stunning, and there is simply no other way to see these places in this amount of time. I've always met the most interesting and inspiring people; a guy from Thailand flew in especially for this race, as did two brothers from France in their first ever marathon (they set a great pace, but fell back with some minor injuries) plus a girl in her 20's who stormed past me carrying a 30-40lb backpack and a smile, with kind words of encouragement, and there are always first timers at the pre-race briefing who become the butt of lighthearted jokes about early injury, but always seem to make it through. The challenge is massive, and there is no hiding in the crowds, a 100 or so people strung out across 26+ miles is very different to a big city race with tens of thousands.

As for my own race, i was worried, i hadn't trained and id had back problems in the previous months, i had no idea how i'd cope, but i've succeed before when i thought i couldn't, and i know how to tap into that confidence which lets me succeed. I have a loving wife at the finish line who i call during the race and who always says the right thing, and never tells me to stop! my early pace was really steady, and fast considering the first few miles included the mountain ascent, which we would later face again. Once into the the middle part of the race i paced myself well, the toughest parts being the short road sections which we occasionally took inland to bypass some impassible feature or cove. There always seems to be a boggy wetland section around mile 20, just to make sure you're properly soaking wet, today was no exception, that's where i met our friend from Thailand who was also making his way through knee deep. Pushing through to the 'finish' with the mountain in the distance, i started to realise the course was probably longer than 26.2 ... i arrived at the base of the mountain well before the safety cut off of 1530 after which they would divert runners around. The guy at the bottom told me "just a mile to go" i had about 20 minutes to get to the finish and come in under 5hrs, doable! accept that mile to go was actually two; one up the mountain, and one down! ... literally climbing on hands and knees with burning thighs from already running a marathon distance, i crossed the line in 5hs 24mins and as always delighted to have finished, i came in 61st of 103 runners.

If you've red my other Coastal Trail Series blogs, or ever heard of 'Endurancelife', and you're a runner, sign up for any of their events, they're the most professionally organised i've ever run, and always really fun people to be around!

[Caught by surprise by one of the cameramen]

[A look back at the coastline i've just run]

[Beautiful and dangerous sections through the first half]

[Approaching the top of the mountain to complete mile 27 and begin the descent to the finish]

RUN 221 - A Bear window

2011-01-17T03:33:00.000-06:00

Like most people who spend a few years at university followed by professional training, I've moved around a lot, between cities and within them. Renting and relocating is exciting as you get to reinvent yourself and explore new places, running is a constant but the places you run change every time, even the same routes vary with the weather, seasons and people. I've struggled recently with my run/life balance, but I'm ready now to recommit to it and its documentation here. 2011 is about to kick off fast for me this weekend with my first marathon in anglesey north wales, its another of the endurance life coastal runs which I was running last year, this is a new course, level 3 (severe) which is the same as Portland, I'm apprehensive as I always am, but know I'm experienced enough to manage the race, I'm looking forward to meeting new people also crazy enough to run a marathon in north wales in january and to it kickstarting my 2011 season of running and blogging.

[Bear window display]

RUN 220 - Setting goals

2011-01-16T03:27:00.001-06:00

Setting a goal provides a challenge and establishes parameters for success, it mentally prepares me to settle into a pace and commit to the success of the run. Its good practice for race day, I like to have a race plan which I memorize and visualize myself completing.

[Beautiful but stinky too]

RUN 219 - East/West city running

2011-01-12T03:18:00.000-06:00

A to B is entirely different from B to A, city commute running can provide a much more varied running experience than weekend long runs which I typically head to the river trail for. Dodging the pedestrians and watching out for cars requires a level of attention which more relaxed longer runs does not, it’s actually good experience for the coastal trail marathons which require very precise feet placement, acceleration, deceleration, navigating narrow paths and avoiding obstacles… there are plenty of 10-15 storey staircases in the Tube system too to mimic those hill climbs!

[street art in the east end]

RUN 218 - West/East regular route

2011-01-10T03:17:00.000-06:00

This is now easily my most regular run route across the city, longer than my regular weekday runs used to be, it helps to keep my mileage up when I don’t have the time for longer weekend runs.

No idea what this arcade is on Picadilly, will probably never go in]

RUN 217 - Wintery London day

2011-01-03T11:13:00.001-06:00

Something about the weather makes running so much more exciting, it’s a massive factor every time you step outside the door, figuring out what to wear can make a run great or terrible if you get it wrong. That’s probably why I like days like today, I can tolerate the cold pretty well, the added challenge of rain or snow just makes it more exciting for me, the tougher a run and the more varied the experience the better equipped I feel to take on the next run. Although I probably need to work on my warm weather running… that still causes me the most problems!

[a rare chance to run in snow in London]

RUN 216 - South side sun!

2010-12-27T11:12:00.000-06:00

Running south is even more varied and beautiful, quieter and more residential, this icy lakefront can be all yours on a day like today, pretty amazing for a city home to millions.

[Definitely the most beautiful section of the lakefront, bbqs and weddings!]

RUN 215 - North side ice!

2010-12-23T11:10:00.007-06:00

Back with my favorite running partner, on the shores of Lake Michigan with the Chicago skyline beckoning me, the tranquility of this place, especially on an icy winters day like today its absolutely awe-inspiring. I feel massively fortunate to know this place and to share in its contrasting beauty… big city buildings and miles of unending varied shoreline.

[Worth running even covered in ice!!]

RUN 214 - Stop and look, there’s much more to see

2010-12-19T08:44:00.002-06:00

Running connects you much more closely to the world around you… it heightens the senses requiring a level of observation which isn't otherwise often experienced. Especially in city life, there are always other objectives which discourage us from taking the time to stop and really observe the unending detail around us.

[Beauty in the most simple of things]

RUN 213 - My running ‘perfect storm’

2010-11-28T06:31:00.005-06:00

There are times when everything falls perfectly into place and a run magically naturally evolves to appear before you. Having the time free of constraints, and pressures to complete it to allow another task to begin, combined with visiting family or friends to create a destination A to B run rather than A to A, returning to a near perfect and varied route, with roads, fields, forestry. These things provide a clarity of mind which seem to make the difference between a typical and an amazing run.

[one of my favourite places in the world to run]

RUN 212 - Training schedule, or schedule training?

2010-11-22T13:17:00.008-06:00

Finding the constants which running can slot into seems to be my best bet to maintain the level of mileage (and sleep!) I’d like to maintain in my life, I live 7 miles from work and can run there faster than the public transportation system can take me there, combining it with my work schedule is the challenge; perhaps adjusting my run schedule and committing to that morning routine rather than the bus/tube/tube interchange is the key?

[Picadilly Circus]

RUN 211 - Every little helps

2010-11-21T13:11:00.001-06:00

It matters very little whether you run a mile, ten or twenty, the distance is insignificant compared to the psychological boost in confidence of stepping out of the door and making the effort, keeping it a regular priority is the challenge of a busy city life.

[Heading to the street below]

RUN 205 to 210 - I've been a bad, bad blogger! ... must do better

2010-11-15T09:54:00.001-06:00

I've been lazy, pure and simple. Making time to run during the week in addition to commuting and at the expense of time with my wife or socializing seems to be an eternal struggle which I feel like I’m barely winning. My next marathon (In Angelssey, North Wales in January) means that December I need to get back on track and ramp up my long runs… my mileage has been good with a 7 mile run either to or from work, but I need to push myself again, its so hard to compare the coastal trail marathons, but id really like to come in about 5hrs in Anglessey. 2011 I’m going to refocus on road races, begin with a few half marathons and 5-10k races and build some speed, with marathons in the final two thirds of the year, with a view to a bigger challenge in 2012! …

While I love the freedom of running to work and avoiding public transport, urban running is definitely different to my usual distance runs along the river where I can control pace and form, although avoiding pedestrians and cars is good practice for marathon racing, working your way through the crowds.

I’d like to get to the point where my fitness level and mileage is consistent enough to be able to build up to a marathon within a month or so, racing or running a marathon every other month seems like the best way to get that consistency and rhythm of training going, and that’s the advise I’ve had while racing around the coast of England and Wales over the last year.

I’m kind of a lone runner, I’m not really interested in joining a running group or training in a team, I’m not anti-social, it’s just that even if your running partner is of the same fitness level, either one can have a bad day, feel tired or unwell, its completely personal for me and I don’t really bow to peer pressure, my own success or failure is the biggest motivator for me. Although there are a few really good friends who I’ve run with at different stages; when I started, and needed her help to push me forward (Nici!) when we discovered a common passion and were able to share it (Victoria!, Ron!), now recently my friend (Ika!) recent ex-smoker(!), who is discovering her (perceived) boundaries and learning the biggest lesson; to push through them!… but there’s always something for me to learn too… it’s so easy to become complacent with my fitness level and fall into a pace pattern, 8:30 marathon, 7:00 half marathon, 6:00 5k… seeing Ika push through the final mile as I shout at her not to stop; that she can do it, reminds me that I can do it too… I have many other friends who have become runners, hopefully I’ll be able to run with them soon too.

I'll keep up with the daily posts from now on, promise!

[Ika & the Chicken]

[Sunrise over west London]

[Harry Potter World Première]

[Beautiful woodwork, but slightly awkward]

[Tunnel vision sets in sometimes, just run to the next light]

RUN 204 - Commute at your leasure

2010-10-29T05:56:00.025-05:00

One of the greatest things about running, is that you can actually stop whenever you like! there's so much to see around us, running takes you places you might never have gone otherwise, taking the time to stop and look around is the easiest thing to do, but so often the mental pressure to keep on going can be so strong we miss opportunities to see the world in a new way, or talk to different people. All runners stop, and all runners walk at some point, its ok, so long as you keep moving forward. [6.68m - 56:51 – 08:30/mi]

[War memorial at Hyde Park corner]

RUN 203 - 13.1 for FUN

2010-10-19T16:02:00.017-05:00

There are times, as I've said before, I really just have to run... I feel compelled, physically or emotionally... usually I have an idea of how far I might go, other times no idea, those are the absolute best, like tonight... that release of energy, where it comes from exactly i don't know, but maybe just knowing its there is enough. [13.1m – 01:39:45 – 07:37/mi]

[Running can often put you in the perfect place at the perfect time]

RUN 202 - 'Something' really is better than nothing

2010-10-16T15:57:00.011-05:00

A short run, but totally worth it, you don't have to commit hours or multiple miles every time you step outside the door, so long as you keep getting out there, rain or shine, happy or sad. [1.02m – 10:48 – 10:34/mi]

[Fulham Bank of the Thames]

RUN 201 - I Run to eat!

2010-10-13T06:12:00.011-05:00

The truth is i run to eat! (and drink) how fat and unhealthy might i be if i didn't run!!?? i often wonder that, and very often when running in the city, I'm confronted with sights like this! I didn't stop to eat a Full Fryup, but i definitely cook one that night! [6.99m – 01:00:27 – 08:39/mi]

RUN 200 - Athens, birthplace of the Marathon

2010-10-10T16:49:00.035-05:00

A pretty amazing run and view to mark my 200th blog post today! Not the longest of runs, but challenging nonetheless given the 270m climb up Lycabettus Hill to a beautiful little church, and a perfect view of the Acropolis and the Olympic Stadium. To be in the birthplace of the Marathon is awe-inspiring, running races, training and meeting other runners on the road has exposed me to an untold number of amazing people, places and stories; who inspire each other. The challenging of running is for us each to make of it what we choose; there will always be someone faster and stronger who i strive to be more like, motivating me to push myself, which in turn i hope can inspire others into discovering their potential too.

[Athens, Greece, the birthplace of the Marathon!]

RUN 199 - I really don't like treadmills, even if they're in Athens

2010-10-09T16:52:00.015-05:00

When i started running again almost three years ago, during the Chicago winter, it was in a basement gym with my friends Nici & Melissa, on a treadmill... i really enjoyed it at first, and trained up to 13/14 miles on that machine! ... that's a long time to spend staring at a wall, that's when we started running outside, and i've not been on a treadmill since. My running has become so much more that a get fit routine, so much more than the treadmill can give me... even if the view through the window is of the Athens city and mountains beyond.

[Treadmills, not for me anymore]

RUN 198 - Tube Strike #2

2010-10-04T08:02:00.000-05:00

Second 24hr tube strike today, with a couple more to come in the next couple of months. Not that I'd notice other than the heavier pedestrian traffic on the streets. Not everyone can run ur cycle to work, either physically or geographically, but I do wonder what my limits are, I'm not the first, others have wondered much more than I ever will and achieved it too... If we don't ask ourselves these questions and challenge our own preconceptions of who we are, well never know what were capable of.

[Old Street]

RUN 197 - Running makes me richer

2010-10-03T16:32:00.000-05:00

Running takes you places, obvious; yes... but what i mean is that take a typical day without a run and theres no comparison it to the variety of places and people I'm exposed to while running. That's why i don't listen to music while running and i don't run in a gym, i want to see things, go places i wouldn't have otherwise... share them with a running partner, or share your stories with friends and family... it might be a small effort by comparison to others, but i know I'm richer for it.

[Stop and look, theres so much to see which we let pass by]

RUN 196 - Freedom & power

2010-09-30T04:43:00.002-05:00

There is so much we rely on to 'survive' the lives we've created for ourselves, so much that were sure we can't live without, even those things which grind on us, take them away and we expect to suffer or fail. Rise up and you might surprise yourself how little we really need to be happy, embrace those parts of life you have the power to take into your own hands (or feet!) and the freedom brings happiness with it.

[Chinatown]

RUN 195 - Running again

2010-09-26T09:18:00.000-05:00

My running; and blogging (sorry!) routine has been right off recently, today marks the first step back to normal, it felt great to throw my gear on, run out the door and keep going as long as I had time for without tiring or pain.

[Low tide on the Thames]

RUN 194 - Race day anxiety

2010-09-19T08:58:00.002-05:00

I love race day, the thrill of the challenge, looking forward to discovering how much I can achieve under the organized pressure against myself and other competitors. It's always an exciting morning, but slightly nervous too, and I'm certainly not the easiest person to be around at that time... Races start early and there's lots to do on those mornings. I'm massively fortunate to have people who love a d support me, and put up with my anxiousness, wish me well, then cheer me across the line, hours later. I can't thank you enough! My first race in a month or more, (The inaugural Farnham Pilgrim Half Marathon) and my first run over 5 miles in a month since my back pain, I was extra anxious to say the least... I also didn't pick the easiest course to ease my way back in, multi terrain, lots of undulation, some bigger hills and lots of deep sandy bridal ways! My goal was to finish in under 2hrs which I did, and I placed 87 out of about 400, 35th in my age group, not bad all things considered... and best of all, no back pain!

[Running up that hill...]

RUN 193 - Pain free again in Malmo Sweden

2010-09-15T17:11:00.001-05:00

A month on and only two visits to an Osteopath who could easily double as a David Brent impersonator, I find myself running along the southern Swedish coastline with an old friend and his son, with little to no discomfort in my back! The constant nagging pain I felt before which my muscles were tensing to protect has past and loosened up. The constant cut to the bone pain at the base of the spine which followed has past too, as if it had slowly migrated down and dropped right off! Good thing as my next race is in Sunday, a quiet little half marathon an hour outside London. I'll set a very steady pace and treat it like a recovery run, forget the time and just jog through to the finish. Without running I'm a less motivated, moodier, sadder person. I need it, and have promised myself to better prepare my body to ensure I keep on running...

[My running Swedish running coach]

RUN 192 - Running out of patience

2010-08-30T17:34:00.000-05:00

Saw my osteopath again last week, waited 3/4 days before running, kinda expected to be all cured, but there is still tension, i need more time, its definitely getting better, but its killing me not getting out running. I need to fix my bike and keep active while this heals, nothing keeps my attention like running does, thats something i need to work on in the future too, i need to compliment my running with other core and cross training, im not a gym person though, i think i'll look for a class the wife and i can do together. I have so much more i want to achieve.

[low tide, i should lower my expectations too]

Run 191 - High tide & High Confidence

2010-08-19T15:06:00.000-05:00

My first run after a week of niggling back pain, i never felt as strong as i did today, partly my desire to get back out there, and partly the new running shows my wife bought me. These are absolutely the best shoes i've ever had (Brooks Adrenaline GTS10) ... ive been wearing these Brooks since the GTS7, and these are by far the best. Theres so much support and theyre so light, cushioning through the midsole and the front of the foot too, cant wait to race in these! (oh and i'll be seing a chiropractor in the next couple of weeks, after which ive resolved to give more attention to core training, im unbearable when im not running!)

[High tide along the Putney embankment]

RUN 192 - So much to learn; the pursuit of truth

2010-08-19T15:05:00.000-05:00

I guess after 190 runs blogged there IS still more to learn, this journey to discover what running is to me and understand it's value may never end, or maybe, as I'm beginning to realise, the truth of any matter only reveals itself when it's over (you never know what you've got till it's gone) in which case I hope I never find out. The best we can do is recognize those people and pastimes which bring us joy, persue them with vigor and know that our lives are richer for it.

[Fulham Football Ground]

RUN 190 - New shoes & nowhere to go

2010-08-07T17:17:00.001-05:00

Full of excitement for new shoes, full of pain in my lower back after weeks of building tension (need a new mattress) can't run, not happy. Will see what tomorrow brings.

[new shoes, nowhere to run]

RUN 189 - The wrong back-pack

2010-08-04T15:52:00.000-05:00

Ok, so i guess i might have spoken too soon, runners do suffer from equipment failures too... although the real failure was in mine. Should have just taken the camel-pak, but i didn't want to carry it in addition to my work bag, so had to run with one strap over my next and the bag under my arm. Yes it slowed me down, but i had the time, and i choose not to be too obsessive about my training schedule; every run is a good run. Got changed in the (really quite nice!) toilets at Picadilly tube, from Picadilly across Green Park, past Buckingham Palace and towards Fulham, got directions to the Kings road home a nice lady and plodded on, bag under arm. Full of confidence and determination i arrived home in the perfect mood to plow through a pile of paperwork and bills that needed attention. [didnt wait for the Garmin to track the satellite, so no info today!]

[Running from the hustle & bustle home]

RUN 188 - Man-power 1 : Pedal-power 0

2010-08-02T16:45:00.014-05:00

Monday is usually a cross train day for me, cycled the 10 miles across London to work this morning, feeling energized and ready to start a busy week. Began the ride home; a little later than I’d hoped… made it about 1.5miles and blew a tire, no pump, no tools, no chance to fix it. I’m sure you can’t take a bike on the bus, and I couldn’t see myself dragging the bike underground into the sweaty tube, so I ran. That’s what I love most about running, and why I’m not interested in cycling; cycling needs too much stuff, there’s too much between my body and the endeavor. Except for social conventions, I could run home naked if I wanted to, it’s the most honest and natural expression of fitness and endurance (swimming’s a close second!) Its true, I wasn’t prepared; I had no pump, no tools etc and a more experienced cyclist would have been back on the saddle in 20 minutes I’m sure. But you know what, running that bike the final 8 miles home, I would estimate I was passed by 50-100 such people, who must wonder why I’m running 07:30/m miles pushing a bike along the pavement; not one offered any assistance. In my experience, runners have a greater sense of camaraderie which today only went to prove. So if you’re a cyclist too, and encounter someone in need, lend a hand, you might need one too one day. [8.5m - 01:05:10 - 07:38/m]

[The offending bicycle tire, not looking as flat as it is]

RUN 187 - A New Commute

2010-07-30T10:42:00.004-05:00

We’ve moved again, closer to the city, and a quarter mile from the river, my run routes just got a new lease of life, and now work is under 10 miles from home across the city, close enough for me to consider running to work a few days a week as part of my schedule. Ran the route home for the first time, got a little lost, felt a little slow but ran steady, there are options for me to shorten the run route too, throw in a bus, train or river boat, even one of Boris’ bikes and I should be able to at least run home each day, or at least move my long runs into the work week, shorter runs to the weekend and free up some more time to spend with my wife. Although im missing my coastal runs now, must sign up for the Endurancelife 2010 series, also looking at Loch Ness, Normandie, Norway ‘midnight sun run’ and a few others too for the 2010/2011 season, ill update my schedule in the next week or so. [8.72m - 01:14:01 - 08:29/m]

[Londons new cycle network goes live]

RUN 186 - Me and my Garmin

2010-07-29T17:03:00.000-05:00

Just like every other run I turned my Garmin on before changing, then walked out the door and forgot it. My instant reaction was fear, that i wouldn't know how well i was running, and that i might get les out of the time i was about to spend. That was of course untrue, just as it has been each of the other times i've forgotten my watch, or if the battery has run out on a long run. For me, the assessment of each run adds to my enjoyment and evaluation of each runs worth, the danger is that i come up short; maybe not enough distance, or not quick enough. Its definitely an extra layer of the high i get, validation that i have done a good job! but do i need it? o think i do. That's not to say i didn't enjoy running without the Garmin, and perhaps theres value in the occasional watch free run, but maybe thats because i know my body well enough now to know if im feeling strong, running hard, pushing myself or taking it too easy. I know i can run at a 7, 8 or 9 minute mile without the watch, but maybe thats not it. I look for interesting places to run, its a chance to experience more of the world around me, but thats only at most half of whats happening. What im doing is more about me, my body and my abilities, which is why i dont listen to music, i want to connect with my body and listen to its needs, my garmin helps me understand more about how im performing, and thats why im going to charge her up right now, ready for tomorrow!

[Sun setting over the River Thames]

RUN 185 - You're stronger than you'll likely ever know

2010-07-27T17:33:00.000-05:00

If theres one thing running has taught me its that I have much more potential than i'll probably ever know how to release. When i don't run i get anxious, i'm afraid of loosing momentum, i don't ever want to hear myself say "oh yeah, i used to be a runner, i ran a bunch of marathons" i suppose i'm afraid of failure. That fear motivates me, experience shows that i grow stronger and stronger, while a week off running gives a physical break, my mind seems to continue training, often when i doubt myself most is the time i prove to have made the most progress. Today, a strong run out through Fulham Palace Gardens, across Putney Bridge past the University rowing clubs, and a fast strong return leg.[3.69m - 26:22 - 07:08/m]

[River Thames & the University Rowing Clubs at Putney]

RUN 184 - Sometimes you just have to MAKE time

2010-07-17T06:50:00.000-05:00

There are days when it seems there is just too much to do, no time for everything, something has to give; sometimes it just is the morning run. There are days when thats ok, and others when the opportunity exists for something special, something out of the ordinary, and you simply have to make time. Like today, i'm in a wedding, in a city with miles of near perfect lakeside running track; and the chance to run with a good friend and catch up for a few miles together. Throw in a movie set (Transformers 3) and it makes the effort thoroughly worth while. So why not everyday?

[Helicopter filming Transformers 3 on Michigan Avenue!]

RUN 183 - Run, Swim, Run with an old 'friend'

2010-07-13T16:05:00.004-05:00

Running to the Lakefront mid afternoon on a scorching hot Chicago afternoon, excited like i'm heading to visit an old friend. The lake draws ever closer, my pace is great considering the heat, then i hit the beach, full of families and singles enjoying the sun, sand and, lake... the heat is stifling and oppressive, not great for running, but i'm doing much better than i expect to, and feel strong over the sand across the beach. I found a quieter spot and took of my shoes and watch and waded into the beautifully cold water, soaking my shorts and running vest before continuing back home. The lakefront is the perfect running environment, wide open space free of traffic and distractions, flat, with a variety of running surfaces, beaches and water to cool off in. Running here is easy, every step is a joy and a gift which i will never take for granted. I don't get the chance to run here as much as i used to, so now appreciate its running perfection even more... if you have the chance to run here, make the most of it... i know i will. [4.51m - 32:25 - 07:11/m]

[Hollywood Beach, Chicago North Side]

RUN 182 - Back to the Lake

2010-07-12T16:04:00.002-05:00

The draw of this beautiful lakefront is so immense to me as a runner, having to wait 3/4 days to get here is heart wrenching. Running demands so much mental strength and motivation, theres something comforting about running with such a massively powerful natural body. Much like the coastal marathons I've run the last few months, being in the presence of such beauty, power and tranquility seems like the perfect accompaniment to the act of running itself. I've never run in an environment more consistently motivating and emotive as the Lake Michigan... each step along its ever changing shoreline is a gift to be cherished. [4.01m - 35:14 - 08:48/m]

[The far north shore with the city beyond]

RUN 181 - Gunnersbury Park 10k

2010-07-04T02:03:00.009-05:00

About a mile from home, the perfect substitute for a sunday morning training run in the park. A little too close to midday for my liking, the weather was hot, but breezy in the exposed open field course, but shaded during a good portion through the trees as we weaved through the figure 8 2 lap course. After 15 minutes of casual confusion finding the subtly marked start line, a group of about 140 runners lined up to hear our marching orders. The lady addressed the crowd saying, “if anyone expects to run sub 40 minutes, then please step forward” … the crowd laughed in unison and all took a step back! … my 10k PB was about 46 minutes, which was a year ago, and I hadn't raced anything less than a marathon or half since then... I had no idea how speedy I might be today, but I held my ground and hung with a couple other guys who did the same. The start was called and were off up a slight hill to the first turn in the open field, i'm shooting for about 7:30/m but, like always, I started out too fast and ran the first 2 miles about a minute quicker than that! … settling down, I can see the field in front of me, first place is obviously way out of all our league and had a big lead, but counting back, im in 12th place running with one other guy, and one a few hundred yards behind. I make it into the shade and through the first lap and im feeling pretty good, forgot to fill my water bottle, but took one at half way drank half and poured the other over my head. My pace felt good around 7:00/m and I started thinking about pulling ahead of the guy in front, whos pace seemed a little less steady... then my iphone and drivers licence fall out of my belt and I loose a load of time going back for the phone, and then the id also! (should have worn the cheapo iphone armband!) the marshall directing the course says “you have to make up that time now!” like I didnt know already. I pushed on, id lost 2 places, and had about ¾ of a lap to go... I pushed on, steady in the sun and faster in the shade, passing one more guy as I approached the final turn towards the incline up to the finish, I cheered on the fun runners as I lapped them, encouraging their efforts, which relatively are often as great as mine... with the finish area in sight I opened up to see what I had left in reserve, the great thing about these races is that you can make them as challenging as you like while having some fun, testing out your fuel tanks, I sprinted up through the finish and it felt awesome to know that I had more left in me... next time i'll use it on the track. A new PB and 11th place out of maybe 140, 3 minutes faster than my previous 10k PB, and only a minute off of third place, what could I have done had I worn the armband and pushed a little more!? … a real fun run, well organised, if a little casual, no complaints except for one sport where the course turned 90 degrees, could have used a marshal, otherwise, great race and another medal for the collection!

[Lining up with fellow +40m 10k runners]

RUN 180 - Run, Drink, Run

2010-07-01T02:04:00.009-05:00

Being a runner requires dedication yes, but it also requires an ability to mold life around this pastime which I love so much, being open to ways it can become part of everything you do already, rather than it being an effort to include; at odds with the other aspects of life. Giving it that same priority is the only way to embrace the highs it offers and avoid it becoming a little practiced hobby, a fuel for self imposed guilt.

[Brook Green, London]

RUN 179 - Kensington Palace Gardens

2010-06-28T15:11:00.000-05:00

Ran across Hyde Park and the Serpentine towards High St Kensington on my way west. The parks are beautiful and packed this time of year, especially on such a hot day. I had my camelpak with me this time though so remained well hydrated, but the sun was still pretty hot and i had to adjust my pace to keep cool, i guess i'm learning after all! I think i got a little too much sun though, feeling quite lethargic now. [5.12m - 46:35 - 09:06/m]

[Kensington Palace Gardens]

RUN 178 - Thank Clif for shot bloks!

2010-06-27T16:29:00.000-05:00

Summer arrived with a vengeance this weekend, and as a runner, the heat is no friend of mine, and lately so are early mornings. So today i find myself running through the building heat of the mid morning. I was eager to get out the door too and didn't take enough water, probably didn't adjust my pace for the conditions either. Basic mistakes which i've made before, told myself i'd not make again and then forgot all about my promise to myself. Fortunately i had some Clif Shot Bloks in my belt which really help replace all the electrolytes i'd been profusely sweating out and really helped me home, this is why i don't race in the summer, since my first marathon in Chicago 2007; heat acclimatisation is perhaps the key, whether the issue is 'heat stroke' or the heat affect on blood pressure is interesting discussed here using the 2007 Chicago Marathon as a case study. The definition of 'extreme' temperatures therefore depends on what you're accustomed to and your training. Todays conditions were certainly 'extreme' compared to the previous months, and i was reminded of the need to prepare and consider those conditions before heading out the door. Runtheplanet.com have some great dvise here. You, and I, would do well to take note. [7.36m - 01:02:33 - 08:30/m]

[cooling off in the shade before heading home]

RUN 177 - "Run-River Boat-Run"

2010-06-22T15:13:00.006-05:00

Another beautiful evening, another beautiful commute; sprint down to Blackfriars, hop on the river boat (to Putney this time - bar on board by the way!) and a easy 4m run home along the south bank of the Thames over Hammersmith bridge and into Chiswick. Heckled by some yobs, kept on running, calves were a little tight from yesterday, must remember to stretch more post run. The boat ride is a little slow, but its a good break after the sprint down the the pier, time well spent i still believe. [4.15m-33:22-08:02/m]

[The sun sets over the river, lighting up the route ahead]

RUN 176 - "Run Forest Run..."

2010-06-21T15:22:00.000-05:00

I can't recall how many times some random pedestrian has spoken these three words to me as i'm running. Usually through a city on a day which most other people might choose not to run, i think it's a compliment, at least thats the way i choose to take it. People don't question cyclists in the same way, is it that the perceived effort of running is greater and perhaps unobtainable? not necessarily true; a 3 mile run home is perhaps as challenging as a 6/7mile bike ride. People often don't understand why we run, especially with a backpack home from work... why not take a bus or a train? i'm not sure why, maybe its because i know i can, or i want to find out if i can. [5.0m-42:27-08:29/m]

[The Italian Gardens in Hyde Park]

RUN 175 - Back to the River

2010-06-20T15:58:00.001-05:00

I haven't been feeling great the last couple of weeks, hence my reduced and sporadic running schedule, it was partly a cold which caused a cough which moved to my chest, but as that subsided, the stuffy and irritated nose persisted. With the cough gone, I'm thinking i may have some allergies or hay fever which I've never suffered from before... i don't like it and it definitely doesn't help when running. I'm taking something for it now and hope that it keeps it at bay. I always think that running when you least want to is the best time to do so, the rewards are always greater. Summers are difficult for me, i don't like running above 65/70 degrees so much, hopefully it will rain more! i do however like that! I'm not planning any marathons through July/August and will stick to local shorter races, I hope to pick up a bi-monthly marathon schedule beginning in September and get a few races in Europe. [4.45m-37:31-08:25/m]

[The end of the north side Thames Path as it hits Brent...]

RUN 174 - Choosing to prioritize

2010-06-16T03:18:00.001-05:00

It's tough to find enough time in the day to do everything you want to without feeling fatigue, but what do you prioritize when it all becomes too much? Most likely the gym or wherever you exercise suffers, it's all too easy to say you just don't have the time or energy. Personally, I've never felt worse after running than I did beforehand, 'lack of energy' is an excuse I can motivate myself through. As fir the former, next time ask yourself how your time is better spent, did you get more from those 30-60 minutes than you might have got running? For me the answer is so far always "no"

[no map needed when running west, follow the setting sun]

RUN 173 - where are you running; one year on

2010-06-15T17:25:00.000-05:00

Well, I seem to have missed my blogs one year anniversary! only by just over a week, so lets just celebrate it today! 170 [ish] posts during that time, you'd think i'd have answered the question by now and can close the book... not likely... its not that i haven't given a variety of reasons where and why i run, its just that i know there are many more to be discovered. I ran south towards the river today from Islington, about a mile and a half and caught the river boat to Chelsea Harbor, and then ran home from there, another 5 miles of so... i got a bit lost,and it took longer than i thought, but that isn't the point. When i did get home, i was so energized, i had the energy and motivation to cook dinner, clean, do laundry, try on the new clothes with my wife which my mother-in-law sent us, eat dinner and shower within an hour of getting home. I'm sure like me you've come home many times, drained from the struggle to get home by bus, train, sat in traffic and fighting through busy sidewalks. Running makes me happy, and it makes me a better person to be around... there might not be a better reason than that, but that won't stop me running or blogging... thanks for following and hopefully you can relate to some of these rambling, runner or not. [6.17m - 50:41 - 08:12/m]

[a relaxing mid-run boat ride helps moderate the distance]

RUN 172 - [re]Learning to go with the flow

2010-06-14T17:47:00.001-05:00

Theres nothing wrong with relearning a lesson, best to be glad you did and move on. Its all to easy to let life dictate your routine and squeeze out those activities or responsibilities which don't seem to contribute to our basic needs. The hierarchy of those needs is certainly up for debate, for most of us making money and paying bills usually seem to make their way to the fore. They are however quite unimportant in meeting [most] or our psychological needs, the people, places and activities which please us are all to easily forgotten. Taking a step back, recognizing those basic facts and checking if they've become applicable to you will in my view improve your life immeasurably more than the accumulation of money. Of course bills need paying, but its vital that we asses our lives regularly to ensure the balance of needs is met, for yourself and those you spend your lives with. Learning to work with the other uncontrollable aspects of your life is the key; find ways to adapt to achieve the same end result rather than vainly trying to impose old habits on constantly changing circumstances... like me, you'll be much happier for it. [5.91m - 48:45 - 08:14/m]

[England's imperial past shines even on the dullest London day]

RUN 171 - You don't have to sit in traffic or on a crowded train, run to work!

2010-06-02T14:39:00.000-05:00

Have an expensive, hot, crowded commute by public transport? think about running; or cycling... look around as you sprint walk to descend deep underground and catch a train home, you'll see people doing things differently, you can walk up oxford street quicker than a bus. There are no delays when you run or ride a bike home, no fighting for a seat, no sweaty peoples armpits in your face, plus you'll have combined your commute with your daily workout, saved time and its cost you nothing. Sure it's not going to work every day, drunk running is just as dangerous as drunk driving; but three days a week should be feasible, give it a try, believe me, you'll feel empowered. The only thing you have to watch out for is people 'running' to catch a bus or train! [8.78m - 01:24:50 - 09:39/m]

[Tourists and people running for buses make fun obstacles!]

RUN 170 - Bank holiday Sunday post-marathon jog

2010-05-30T13:44:00.010-05:00

Felt very restless this morning, a week after the Exmoor marathon, i guess my mind and body are back in sync and ready to run, it felt good to be moving again, although i could definitely still feel the effects of 5000+ ft of elevation change over the course of that race. Good to be back on level ground and enjoying the quiet early streets of our neighborhood.

[A quiet peaceful city morning]

RUN 169 - Endurancelife Coastal Trail Series; Stage 7 - Exmoor

2010-05-22T15:04:00.000-05:00

I feel like i should say i faced my most difficult challenge this weekend, running the Endurancelife Marathon (27.1m instead of the usual 26.2!) final stage in the 2010 Coastal Trail Series on Exmoor, England. However, writing this a few days later, with the benefit of heinsight, i'm not so sure. Yes, it was definitely a massive challenge, and after fighting with one particularly massive 900ft(?) hill around mile 17, even the slightest hint of an assent brought my forward progress to a painful crawl. But, i never stopped moving; only to greet my family, take a photo or check in at the official pit stops, if i had to walk i walked up the hills.

Usually in a marathon or any race, time is a reliable measure of improvement, but not here, one race bears absolutely no relation at all to the next. From the freezing rain and driving winds in The Gower (28.2m!), to the ankle twisting rocky paths of Cornwall, to the heat and massive inclines of Exmoor, the series has been absolutely stunning! and i'll definitely be signing up for some of the new course next year, i'd definitely recommend you do too. Regardless of what kind of runner you are, theres a course for you, 10k, half or full marathon. Forget pace, just run and enjoy the stunning scenery. The Endurancelife people do an amazing job organizing the events, as good as any big city world renowned marathon.

With that said, am i a converted road runner? am i a trail runner now? no, if i wasn't a city dweller, then perhaps, but i wouldn't want to ever limit myself but such a narrow definition. I'm going to switch to some shorter distances over the summer months (i don't do well in heat!) and plan on more marathons in the fall when the weather cools down a little again, (thats the plan at least! we'll see if i stick to my word) and i can hit some of the european city marathons, hopefully all this hill training has improved my physical and mental stamina and i can improve my PB.

[27.1m - 05:48:06 - 12:50/m]

[The first steps of many, and on level ground!]

[Runner Jam in the middle of nowhere, up a 'small' hill!]

[Not your usual marathon route ahead, somewhere out there is the finish]

[Running across the first ridge, after climbing the first hill]

[Stunning views across the Exmoor Coastline, downhill for once!]

RUN 168 - Thames path rediscovered & navigating life's path

2010-05-19T04:22:00.005-05:00

Life's journey along this random path of opportunity never ceases to amaze me, patience and in the worlds natural way of righting itself is a difficult thing to live with, but pays dividends in the end. You can never know what might lie in your path around the next bend, good or bad, its how we deal with whats presented to us and having faith ourselves to overcome and move towards the upswing. Running can often be the same, especially in a distance race. My next coastal marathon is this weekend, today's run was beautifully sunny but hotter than I'd prefer. Dealing with that extra factor will elevate what is already a significant challenge, but i have faith in my ability, both mental and physical. I've never finished a race or a run feeling worse than when i started, i know what pain to expect, and i know my wife and parents will be there to pretend I'm looking great even if I'm not, and they'll never tell me i can't do it, and I'll never give up. That feeling of confidence, justified by past performance is a powerful motivator. [3.46m - 28:20 : 08:11/m]

[Bridge carrying the Tube south over the Thames]

RUN 167 - Sound advice from the Eco Village

2010-05-12T09:58:00.003-05:00

If life gives you lemons, you better make lemonade. Following the path of least resistance can be more challenging than striving to achieve ones preconceived goals in the face of adversity. An open-mindedness to life opportunities could be social utopia, living out ones natural course as it presents itself to you on life's journey. That however is not a widely accepted way to live in this society, we're expected to identify a goal and work towards it diligently and without compromise, whatever the cost. Success is measured by the effort and sacrifice made to achieve those goals. The question is, is that sacrifice worthwhile? maybe it is, maybe not, hindsight brings answers, but the risk is regret. Be the change you want to see? its a mantra of confidence, dismissive of doubt and weakness, as valuable to the runner in me as in my daily life, but equally difficult to live by. It speaks of effort and dedication, which every runner knows of, and the payback that's forthcoming. Its translation to everyday life is the real challenge. [3.75m - 31:35 - 08:25/m]

[Settlers of an Eco village, an example to us all]

RUN 166 - Malmo, Sweden

2010-05-06T07:39:00.000-05:00

When to run? when you feel guilty? because of its scheduled? because you slept well and feel full of energy? ... those are all great times to do so, however nothing like as satisfying as running when you don't want to, when you feel weak and tired, when you've driven in a truck to Sweden helping a friend move countries. Running when it seams most unlikely to do so has always given me back the most unexpected joy. [2.31m - 20:13 - 08:45/m]

[The Turning Turso, Sweden]

RUN 165 - Eve & Gumball 3000

2010-05-01T17:37:00.002-05:00

Sometimes I have to run, whether I want to or not, my wife knows when, and she tells me. It always clears my mind, gives me space and perspective and time. First run today in a week after last weeks marathon on the Cornish coast, and only three weeks until next months marathon on Exmoor, my race strategy was much stronger last week, I'm going to work on cross training a little more during these next weeks, build a little more leg and core strength and scale back the mileage since there is only 3 weeks until the race. Today i put in a solid 6 miles or so into the city to catch the Gumball 3000 start from London to New York; saw Michael Madsen, Xibit, Trinity Jade Jagger and Eve, who looked as stunning as the stickered up dream cars about to drive thousands of miles across Europe and North America, all within the speed limit of course. You just never know what or who you're gonna see when you lace up and hit the road. [6.24m - 51:12 - 08:11/m]

[Eve at the Gumball 3000 on Pall Mall]

RUN 164 - Endurancelife Coastal Trail Series Stage 6: Cornwall

2010-04-24T04:09:00.001-05:00

The Endurancelife Coastal Trail Series (CTS) just gets more and more amazing! I was lucky enough to run and finish the Marathon course along the west coast of Cornwall today, from St Just, along the coastal path about 13 miles north towards St Ives (where Pirates of the Caribbean is about to start filming) before heading inland through the village of Zennor and across the farmlands back to St Just. Every step threatened to twist an ankle on the rocky terrain, with punishing assents of up to 700ft followed by fast tricky descents to cross rivers, bogs, ancient abandoned tin mines all while avoiding cows, bulls and not getting blown off the cliff into the Atlantic!

The course is tough, single file for much of the first half and tough to overtake without causing injury, but that probably helped me keep pace. I finished faster than both The Gower and Portland in 5hr 24m 49sec, a provisional 47th out of 120 in the marathon. It might not sound like a great finish, but theres no comparison to a road course, in a race where finishing is the goal of most who enter and in a field of massively impressive runners i'm feeling happy and strong, looking forward to testing my endurance in a road race later in the year.

I ran much better without the camelbak, and thanks again to my amazing wife and parents, they kept me fully motivated throughout the course with water, food and cowbells! much to the satisfaction of many of my fellow runners too.

The elevation chart clearly shows this was my toughest course so far, but the path itself was just as challenging, with hardly a single step landing on flat ground the entire way.

I continue to be amazed and inspired by the people i meet; first time marathoners, experienced fell/cross country runners who have tackled the Himalayas, arctic circle and beyond; a cancer survivor running his 130th marathon; and the camaraderie of runners willing to give up their race to help someone injured, i came across just such a pair helping a seriously dehydrated runner limp to the 11mile checkpoint, which was fortunately only a couple of miles away, an air ambulance fly by not long after, hopefully he got out ok. These races are extremely well planned out and managed, the entire day runs like clockwork from my point of view and i can't thank Endurancelife enough for everything they do to create these amazing races, i absolutely recommend any of their events, marathons and longer, or half or 10ks, theres something for everyone.

London marathon is tomorrow, I have to say i wish i was running it, its an entirely different kind of challenge, much more celebratory than the Coastal Series, but i'll always have the satisfaction of knowing what i've achieved today, and as always, i'm massively proud and looking forward to the next ... Exmoor on May 22nd!

[26.2m coastal - 5:24:49 - 12:23/m]

[First major assent up from ruins of a tin mine below]

[The rugged coast of the miles already run behind]

[Some flat ground finally before heading uphill again]

[Typical terrain and another river crossing]

RUN 163 - Pre marathon jog in the park

2010-04-21T08:05:00.002-05:00

Running coastal trail marathons doesn't allow me to obsess over time, until i run any of these courses again another year i cant track any progress as each course is so massively different from each other. That does help make 'training' more relaxed, which i like, i run for fun, not for fitness or to achieve any specific goals, i just enjoy doing it. However i cant help wondering now, how fast might i be over a flatter road course, time to find an autumn road marathon. [2.17m - 15:49 - 07:17/m]

[Once around the park in Chiswick]

RUN 162 - Acton Green Common & Carb Loading

2010-04-20T12:39:00.005-05:00

Another beautiful day in London, perfect for a light jog around Acton Green Common and back up Chiswick high street, stopped off at the flea market outside Sainsbury's to pick up a few things before heading home. I'm torn in this week before the Cornwall Coastal Marathon, i'm getting more sleep and feel full of energy, the weathers great for running, but i'm 'resting' and loading up on carbs and water, both of which i love. I cut my mileage back by a little more than half in the week before the race, sipping water throughout the day, forcing myself to drink more than i normally do, snacking on fruits, cereals and delicious Cliff bars, which i stocked up on when i was in back in Chicago in February. I'm going to need all the energy i can muster for this race, im finding it harder not to think about my finish times, and wondering what i might be capable of in a road race without 100's or 1000's of feet of elevation change, need to find a flyaway race in September or October! [About 3m - forgot to charge my Garmin]

[Scene of the battle of Turnham Green in 1642]

RUN 161 - Fulham FC, & Ash clouds

2010-04-17T08:52:00.002-05:00

The skies are clear, not a single plane in the sky, but no ash cloud visible either! Last long run before next weeks Coastal Trail marathon in Cornwall, its going to be tough and rugged terrain, 1000's of feet of elevation change and; which its been near impossible for me to train for, but i'm feeling confident, strong and fast, fast for me anyway. I need to set a steady pace in the first half and save my energy for the hills of the second half. I look forward to the mental challenge as much as the physical, the chance to prove to myself that i'm capable of doing this. I don't train as hard or as scientifically as i could, i don't want to, i like running, and i want to enjoy every single time i go out, the races provide the drama and chance to test myself. Regardless of everything else in my life, this is entirely down to me and me alone. I'm not racing anyone other than myself. [9.85m - 01:17:37 - 07:52/m]

[A park along the River Thames near Fulham FC]

RUN 160 - Upper Mall & The Dove

2010-04-15T07:44:00.002-05:00

Beautiful sunny day, breezy by the river along the Upper Mall though. I ran from home, up the the Mall and along to The Dove, a 17th century pub with the smallest bar room in the country! 33sqft if i remember correctly. Felt strong today after a day off yesterday, my cold has almost completely shifted and my legs feel strong, all bodes well for the race next week. I've decided to not use the Camelbak this time, i want to try and travel lighter and try and improve my performance and endurance. [4.27m - 32:51 - 07:41/m]

[The Dove on the Upper Mall]

Run 159 - Ravenscourt Park & Carters Steam Fair

2010-04-13T10:34:00.003-05:00

Carters Steam Fair is in Ravenscourt Park this week, so i ran through today to check it out. lots of cool old fairground stuff, with old arcade games that my sister and i used to play when we were kids on the pier at Weston, might take my wife over there one night this week and enlighten her to this cultural marvel. The weather was beautiful perfect for running today. I've always felt that running improves my outlook, makes me more positive and confident. We've got a sick pet today, with a vet visit scheduled for the morning, its all that's on my mind right now. Running usually puts life's kinks into perspective for me, today i feel like running itself has been put in perspective. I'm OK with that, each run teaches me something. [3.54m - 28:50 - 08:49/m]

[Carters Steam Fair]

RUN 158 - Easy run on the Thames path to Richmond

2010-04-12T06:01:00.002-05:00

I picked up a chesty cold last week, sinus's were all blocked up too, so i didn't run. Its painful not to, but i know from experience that for me personally its better to force myself to take the break and come back running healthy rather than continuing to run at 50% and risk making myself sicker. Especially as my next race is two weeks away, i got a couple of 20+ mile runs in, and I'm ready to taper, although i quite often feel like I'm not trying hard enough, the consistency of my mile pace over long distances is improving a lot, which says otherwise. 10 miles today takes me to Richmond and back along the Thames path. Those 5 miles from Chiswick going west are mostly paved or some light gravel, past 5 miles, the path is back to grassy mud; just as it is for about 3 miles east of Chiswick into the city. I think I'm going to plan my long runs for May's Exmoor marathon a little more carefully and take a train out of the city, looking for some more challenging training grounds. [10.07m - 01:22:31 - 08:11/m]

[Flood water from the Thames, Kew Gardens beyond]

RUN 157 - From Greenwich back to reality

2010-04-03T07:18:00.002-05:00

Running takes you away, both physically and mentally, it's escapism and it's freedom. However it will always bring you back to where you started, usually recharged with new ideas and renewed enthusiasm, other times no distance is great enough, but it certainly doesn't hurt to try. I started today's run on a typically drizzly London morning at Greenwich knowing that the Thames path will take me all the way home, hopefully around 22 miles, the route came up a little short but it was worth the effort to travel across London at 6am on a Saturday morning to be able to run in a new place, and also to be running A-B straight home. The Thames path is a wonderful run route, perfectly signposted the entire way, i made one mistake on the whole route... i might head for the Thames Barrier next weekend. [20.59m - 2:52:25 - 08:22/m]

[No map required, just follow the sign]

RUN 156 - Light is not only at the end of the tunnel

2010-03-31T17:10:00.003-05:00

While i've always been a person who embraces change without fear, they challenge you to grow and discover who you are and what you can be. It is also important for me that i have constants in my daily life; my wife is the first, without her all else looses focus, she challenges me to, but supports me when i need it, even when she needs me too. The second is running. Its a constant completely within my own control, there's 100% payback, whatever i put in I get back directly to me, its a win win for me. When so much else in life slips through your fingers, or is simply out of reach, or presents itself to you not without a struggle; running makes me feel strong, powerful, confident. It helps me reach my core, to remind me of who I am, and what i am truly capable of, the resolve, determination, confidence, stubbornness that marathoning and trail running teaches me bubbles up to the surface with each step i take in a pair of running shoes. Unlike many addictions, it clears the mind and shows the way forward, and that's why i love it so much. [9.01m - 1:09:40 - 07:40/m]

[Light, not only at the end of the tunnel]

RUN 155 - An early morning run... too early for some?

2010-03-30T01:51:00.004-05:00

Definitely could have done with a little more sleep today, i got up early to help my wife get ready to go off to Ireland for work; a trip she does every couple of weeks, so i saw her off and headed out for my run. The outward half felt slow and heavy, the coffee helped, running back felt much better, and was slightly faster. Even so i averaged 07:40/mi which is a minute faster than my average pace of 2009, but I didn't feel i was pushing hard, i think i'm going to signup for the Bristol Half Marathon in May, its a few weeks before my last Trail Marathon of the season on Exmoor and would be a good fast race shortly before my taper. Still struggling to get much more than a nod from 50% of my fellow runners i encounter... one really excitable hello from a Australian guy though, are Londoners really all that grumpy!? [5.98m - 45:55 - 07:40/m]

[Infinite variation in the banks of this great river]

REVIEW 2 - Garmin Forerunner 301 [www.garmin.com]

2010-03-29T04:19:00.003-05:00

So a friend is thinking of buying a running watch and wanted my opinion... i've been using the Garmin Forerunner 301 for the past 3 years, which she knew, what she didn't know was that i'd been thinking for a while of upgrading myself. A good opportunity then for us both to learn a little more about the marvels of Garmin!

The 301 is a really awesome watch, i bought mine from ebay for about $60 when i was living in Chicago. It was old at the time, and is now clearly even older now, but is it outdated? Lets start with the 301:

I use my Garmin on every run, and i take it everywhere, its taught me to understand my body, my form and to recognize my own pace, so god forbid if i ever run without it, i kind of know how fast im running. There are lots of reviews detailing all the functions, if thats what you're looking for try here. I'm going to tell you how i use mine and what i like about it.

I set data to automatically split data mile so I can see how long each mile took what the pace was, the number of calories burnt, average high and low heart rate and more. You also get all that for the overall workout too of course

I also set performance ranges, so if I run too fast or too slow it tells me, same for heart rate which is more important, it also let's me monitor average pace which is what I track most closely over time.

Heart rate is really important it let's you monitor your fitness level, my maximum heartrate has come down a lot over the last couple years. It comes with a heart rate chest strap, which wirelessly transmits to the watch, placement can sometimes be tricky.

All the data syncs to the computer via USB and you can view it in tables or with graphs, it also displays the run route on a map.

There are two other settings for bike riding and "other" for other sports, which i've used for snowboarding, which generates some really cool graphs, especially of elevation change.

You have to get used to not looking at it all the time and focus on the actual run, i typically look at each mile split to check pace, it'll beep at each mile and display data for that last mile. There are also different training modes like a virtual partner where you set a certain pace or finish time and the watch tells you if you're ahead or falling behind.

Yes it is a little bulky, and yes it can take 5-10 minutes to track the satellites, but its light and the battery life is great, probably about 10+ hours per charge, it charges from USB so i dont even use the charger usually just plug it into a PC. The bulkiness isn't an issue to me at all, its comfortable to wear, just doesn't look as cool as the 205, 305 or 405

I've not had the chance to use either of these newer watches, so i'll save judgement until then. The data display appears the same, there are additional graphical screens which the 301 doesn't have at all and i believe that the speed of satellite tracking is improved, but i've heard battery life isn't so good. Other than being slightly smaller too i'm not sure what additional benefits either has over the 301? If you do, please let me know!

RUN 154 - Thames Path & finding inspiration

2010-03-27T12:14:00.005-05:00

Headed further east on the Thames path than I'd run before, although eventually caught up with parts of the path I've run before i was able to discover the linking pieces. I expected the trail to extend further, but found more hard surface than i expected, would probably have run better with the road shoes and not the trail shoes. Pace and strength remained strong though which bodes well for road marathons in the autumn once the trail marathons are over. It's funny how if you look hard enough the world puts forward the tools you need, a tree felled after probably a 100 years of growth, fighting on to be born again. [20.48m - 2:50:49 - 08:20/m]

[Life goes on in the face of adversity]

RUN 153 - Ravenscourt Park & Camel-Paks?

2010-03-25T07:36:00.002-05:00

Spring is definitely here, no need for wind or water proof jackets anymore, its warm enough to run with a single layer finally, i feel lighter and faster. I've been running with my waist belt again in place of the camel pak which i've been using while racing in the coastal trail marathons, but I'm thinking i should switch back to the waist belt. I used to have problems keeping it stable on my hips, but that doesn't seem to be the case now, and i definitely feel lighter and faster without carrying the extra backpack. So I'm practicing rationing water and Shot-Bloks and plan on replenishing supplies in the race when my wife meets me. I'd like to pick up another half hour at least if possible on next months race, although, unlike road races, these coastal routes are not comparable at all and this next one in Cornwall has more elevation change than the last, but its good to have a goal, and a backup goal too! [3.74m - 29:21 - 07:50/m]

[Spring has sprung at Ravenscourt Park]

RUN 152 - West London to Syon Park & more

2010-03-24T07:33:00.002-05:00

I love runs where i can 'kill two birds with one stone' today i needed to check out some new areas around our home, running there saves time and gives a dual purpose to the run, an additional mental stimulant, more useful the longer the run. My route took me past Syon Park in west London and back home again, i discovered two new stores i was looking for and a few more possible running routes along a tributary of the Thames. My pace was also consistent and faster than the norm, I need to download my Garmin and examine my annual and quarterly averages. [6.02m - 46:33 - 07:43/m]

[Apparently 'Private' this seemed to be an entrance to Syon park]

RUN 151 - Leyland Court & not so quiet country roads

2010-03-23T08:35:00.005-05:00

Back in Bristol for a few hours today, took the opportunity to run out through some country roads, was expecting to find a footpath to divert off to but didn't, so had to run on along the road, should have waited a little longer for traffic to die down, country commuters speeding along the back roads of South Gloucester probably weren't expecting to see me there, and with no sidewalk, limited grass verges i turned back a little early, picked up the pace and made good use of the hills to make the most of it all. I take running shoes with me everywhere, just in case, i love those opportunities to run in new places, and if i forget them, i've been known to buy new ones rather than miss an run route! [3.14m - 24:13 - 07:43/m]

[Beautiful but busy roads]

RUN 150 - Teddington Lock & Beyond

2010-03-20T09:38:00.004-05:00

Long runs can reveal so much that is consealed by a shorter distance, both physically and mentally. Simply being on your feet for hours on end can be a struggle, having the mental stamina to push through each mile after mile, while remembering to monitor pace, form, fluid and food intake can take a toll. Add to that an injury or even the hint of one building and the miles can seem longer and longer. My strategy is to break the distance down, an 28m A-A route becomes two 9m runs, focus on the mile pace & time and ignore the totals, that also helps stabilize the effort and keep to an overall race plan. That said, I was really excited to discover the Thames pathway runs all the way to Gloucester... 180miles! [17.72m - 02:39:20 - 08:59/m]

[Teddington lock on the River Thames]

RUN 149 - Kew gardens Victoria gate, and more

2010-03-18T07:18:00.005-05:00

Running lets you experience the world much more closely, the details of the places, the people and the weather are much sharper, your connection to them much stronger, focused as each of them approach you from the distant road or trail ahead. Places you may never have realized existed suddenly offer themselves to you. [4.01m - 31:56 - 07:57/m]

[View into Kew from Victoria Gate]

RUN 148 - Private gardens and Royal Parks

2010-03-17T05:33:00.004-05:00

Headed west on the streets today towards Notting Hill, my 6m A-B route didnt quite get me to Holland Park, i looped around the Royal Crescent just east of Shepards Bush roundabout. Designed in 1839 with these private gardens in front, inspired by its older namesake in Bath, the contrast of wealth and near poverty is as close as anywhere in London. Beautiful old houses stand next to, well, just old houses, next to 50's/60's 'carbuncles' where old houses were bombed in the war. The private gardens are of course beautiful, but, they're private, so you and i can't go in. Thats ok, we don't need them, we have the Kings beautiful old dear hunting grounds, Hyde Park, Regents Park, and all the other outstanding Royal Parks in London which, as spring/summer approaches, will soon be filled with people like you and me, running and picnicking in peace. Royal Crescent's gardens are perfectly situated 3 miles into todays run, where i can loop around and head back home. [6.4m - 43:33 - 06:48/m]

[Royal Crescent Gardens, London]

RUN 147 - Is that a Mosque or a house off the Great West Rd??

2010-03-16T03:45:00.003-05:00

Leading a happy contented life while still challenging yourself is a difficult balance often with dramatic highs and lows. With great risk comes great rewards, a simple fact often forgotten at the low points. Have confidence in yourself and be secure enough to allow those you love and live your life with to help you, but remember that they need you too. There are crutches everywhere, many positive, many less so, indulgent tendencies can often overcome which offer little support. For me, in addition to my wife; my love... i have running, its overindulgence when i need it may seem obsessive to some, but its benefits are undeniable. It can challenge me so greatly such that all else is placed in perspective, and the 'high' that I'm sure i get is almost as addictive as my other irresistible vice... chocolate! another balancing act in my life, to run or to eat chocolate!? [3.92m - 29:16 - 07:27/m]

[Mosque or a house? I can't find out!?]