Gearing up (a bit)

Yesterday's 11k training was good in that I controlled my pace and ended with a negative split.

Typing a sentence like this makes me feel I'm a running-version of a geek, but as I'm the only reader of my blog that does not matter even a tiny bit. Just as long as I still understand this lingo in ten years.

I'm not doing well yet on my goal for the year. The plan was to run at least three half marathons (including the Brussels 20k) in under two hours. Each, I mean. I'm at zero so far. My first big shot at it will be said 20k in, what is it, five weeks? Much distance training will be required.

Travel has not been helpful, or better: the full work schedules while I travel. I had a chance to get used to running in the heat in Dubai, but only did one lame half hour of sprints and tempo runs. I had a chance for altitude training in Addis Ababa, but again only time to put in one half hour of start and stop jogging.

Dedication is what I need, folks. Dedication. Can I take inspiration from Luc, who did his first marathon in 3:30 in Antwerp last week?

Slack

I tend to have these bouts of demotivation for running after finishing big races. And so, after the double of Paris and Tervuren, I have been sitting on my bum and not put any significant effort in.

With the big one, the Brussels 20k, only eight weeks away, that needs to change. And as there is some travel planned over the coming weeks with reduced training opportunities, I have to make the most of my time in Brussels.

So I'm sitting at the computer, all dressed up, big mug of coffee downed, leverworst sandwich (with a slight touch of ketchup, yum!) eaten. Only socks to put on, belt with iPod, shoes, and I'll be ready to go.

Get up, stand up!