The Ramadhan Diaries (part 2)

It's been a while since my last training update; mainly due to the time constraints induced by the rigours of fasting. However, training has very much remained on course and with five weeks until race day, I certainly feel comfortable with my current performance.

As suggested, swimming and (indoor) cycling have assumed a more prominent role in the proceedings. Cycling represents perhaps the most gruelling aspect of training. I'm currently reading Lance Armstrong's inspiring autobiography, in which describes how he relishes the pain brought on by endless hours of cycling; how the pain is a drug that acts as a fuel for him. I simply can't relate to this; I can barely handle a 45 minute stint. There's precious little rest bite and even maintaining a gentle pace takes its toll. Of course, I am relatively new to cycling and there will inevitably be a period of adjustment, but I am resigned to the likelihood that I won't enjoy the cycling element of training. My mindset is open to change and perhaps if I took to the roads I'd think differently, but for now at least it's merely a means to an end, with obvious physical benefits (and a fantastic way to engage in some interval drills), but little pleasure to be gained. This pain certainly exists when running, but as time goes on I'm able to get it under control and usually assume a state of pleasure within a few miles. Running should be fun; I just wouldn't bother otherwise.

Having peaked at a solid twelve mile run just prior to the start of Ramadhan, I have relaxed my longer runs slightly, in an attempt to give my legs a much needed break. However, I am aiming to notch up at least two more 12 milers before race day and may even attack an unprecedented 14 mile run, so have upped the ante in the last week or so. Fartlek is back in the mix and I'm hitting the roads at least thrice weekly. Within two weeks, I have become fully accustomed to running at midnight, in dark conditions. I may continue to do so to some extent even after Ramadhan. Indeed, in Winter this may even be necessary. Having returned home to Coventry for a while, I took on another 10 mile run yesterday; see the next post for an in depth review.

In truth, I feel I'd be able to run a half marathon tomorrow; which to a large extent means I've already succeeded in achieving my initial goals. I've proven to myself that I can endure a 90-120 minute run at decent pace, which is pretty much where I wanted to be at by this stage. However, I'm looking forward to putting all the hours of training into some tangible climax, and I can't wait for the experiences my first race will bring come October 11. With over a month to go, there are still many improvements I can make. I still think a time of 1hr 50min is plausible, although by no means a gimme. In any case, I'll remain cautious and do my best to avoid a last minute injury which, at this point, would be heartbreaking.