February 2012

[Sweder]

Dan I'm intrigued by your hardtop experience (Sunday). I've long held the view that, for a city/ road marathon, road miles are important. I've not based this on anything more scientific than a hunch and the fact that road races kill my joints (ankles, knees, hips). Racehorses are walked on roads daily to toughen them up for firm ground (they pass my house every morning, greeted by me singing 'It's a Good Year For The Roses' as they defacate along the street). I'm trying to get at least one pavement/ tarmac session in per week (due another tonight) but I have no proof this will help come April 15th. What's your view?

I face a similar challenge with my race pace. Last week's tempo run was hugely disappointing, some 30 seconds per mile off where I'd like to be at this stage. As you say all we can do is hammer away and hope for the best. 5k Parkruns are as close as I get to speed work so I'll keep those up; they should help.

And re that HG interview: lol!