Showing a weaker side

Yesterday I woke very early and thought about the 2 hour walk I was about to embark upon. It was beautiful weather, although quite windy so after a bit of breakfast I put on running gear, garmin and my trusty trainers and set off while Graeme went to buy Lincolns' food. I refuse to go to Halls for his food and have done ever since I became vegetarian. To be fair, I only ever went there twice before that as the smell of the place (it's an animal feed wholesaler) made me feel sick.

I was a bit cold when I first set off but that didn't last too long once I got into my stride. It was very enjoyable being out and I found myself going off in my own little world, just as I do during a run. I tried to keep as fast a pace as possible and ended up walking around 4 miles per hour. I will admit that walking faster than this (at the moment) seems an impossibility.

As I reached around 6 miles, I found the right side of my body began to tire very quickly and started to really ache. My right hip, knee and ankle felt worn out and I started to wish I was home so I could rest. I picked a very hilly route and certainly felt like I was working as hard as possible.

Getting home I sat on the sofa after 8.25 miles and congratulated myself on going the longest distance (I believe) that I have done so far this year. My foot felt worked (but not overworked) so I iced it and had a long soak in the bath. I couldn't believe how achy I felt and was astounded to find I was easily as tired as I am after doing an XL long run.

This morning I got up at 5am... Why am I not this wide awake on a "school" morning? After Sunday dinner at my mams' house I will do my deadlifts and upper body workout and that will mean I have only missed my cardio session on Tuesday this week. I can't run until I've had a foot pain-free fortnight! The podiatrist said he was relieved William and Shaun had broke that bit of news to me instead of him, as he said he feels he's always the one giving me the bad news. I don't see that as bad news though... More something to aim for.

And today my foot feels fine (phew) so 8 and a bit miles has been ok. I can't say the same for my hips that are aching like hell this morning... I'm sure losing fitness and strength so quickly will mean it will come back quickly though. My right (weaker) side needs to catch up after not taking as much weight and strain for a few months though!