Running in Spain (2)

You might already have read my previous post on running in Spain.  That was about a few of the runs that I had but for now I just wanted to comment on some of the other runners in and around Javea.

• If you happen to Google "runners in Spain" the chances are you'll be confronted with men running with bulls through the streets of Pamplona.  Not quite sure what to make of this but it certainly isn't anything like the running most people do to stay in good shape.
• One evening I got over taken by a couple of younger men out running.  They were going a fair bit faster than me and greeted me in Spanish in a friendly tone as they went passed.  I don't speak Spanish and so I'm not sure what they said but it was undoubtedly positive
• Most other runners ignored me, looking straight through me as if I wasn't there.  I think that's extremely rude but I do understand how some like to get in the right "zone" where they are totally focussed
• Apart from the woman in the above photo, every runner was male
• Most Spanish runners were very clearly fit; ex-pats often looked totally out of shape (but everyone has to start somewhere!)
• I only saw one person running with an iPod
• I felt pleased when I got mistaken as a local Spanish runner!
• The climate is ideal in October
• If you run at dusk, remember it gets dark quite quickly compared to the UK and northern Europe
• You can have specific running holidays for training purposes and access trainers, support etc
• I think that the overall running scene is limited but I might be wrong(?)

Wearing shorts in cold weather

I secretly plotted this morning's run in my mind but in all truthfulness everyone knew I was looking forward to a run.  And so I did, before anyone else was up this morning.

I had my Saucony Omni Progrids in the hallway ready to go.  My shorts, Helly Hansen base layer, so-so Montane Marathon jacket, woolly hat and gloves all at the ready to just get out of bed, slide in to them - just like Batman and Robin, or maybe Wallace and Gromit.  Did I tell you I have now made the concession of taking a mobile phone with me these days?  Mine is small enough to fit into the back pocket on my shorts and to be honest, I'm unaware it's there when I'm running, so no big deal.

Yet again this was another early morning run at dawn (6.30am onwards) when it was misty outside and (by the time I'd up the first hill) extremely photogenic.  The mist was low down in the valley and looked a bit like dry ice as trees were growing out of it.  Wonderful but without a camera you'll just have to take my word for it.

Strangely my legs felt a bit stiff throughout and I was trying to figure out why this was the case.  Okay I haven't been running since last weekend apart from a short jog yesterday.  Then I realised.  The temperature was just above freezing and cold enough for some frost to be around here and there.  Some parked cars looked as if they had ice on them.  I am thinking my wearing shorts might have contributed to the stiffness - i.e. my leg muscles were still cold and weren't getting the chance to warm up properly.

Ordinarily I only wear my Ron Hill tracksters if it is really cold i.e. sub zero.  I do remember wearing them last winter a few times but I generally ran okay in shorts through much of the winter.  Makes me feel like a proper runner and, most of all, I feel more "free" in wearing shorts.  Although there are no ill effects from this morning's 6.5 mile run, I am now wondering if it is worth digging the Tracksters out.

Come to think of it, virtually every other runner I see around here is not wearing shorts (but there are only a few people in my town who run in the winter).  They all seem to wear black tight thingies, or perhaps three-quarter length tights.  I have seen some of those Skins Compression garments in use also.

So there you go.  Might need to put my shorts away for some of the winter but certainly not my running shoes!

What a week!

Wow have I missed running this last week.  It's been one of those weeks when it just wasn't going to happen easily, what with it being my first week back after our holiday.

Evenings have been tricky this week.  Monday, we were settling back into normal family life, children back at school and I needed to be "in" during the evening.  On Tuesday I had a after dinner speaking engagement at a local Rotary Club, didn't get home until 10.30pm.  The audience were very receptive, interested, asked lots of questions in the Q&A slot at the end - but a very grey haired, white skinned and male audience nevertheless.

Wednesday evening did involve a little exercise with a 30 minute blast on my new turbo trainer in the garage - this is a gizmo for holding up the back wheel of my bicycle in the garage and allowing me to cycle on the spot.  As the back wheel runs on a roller, there is some resistance which is helpful to avoid mere spinning and no strength building effort.  I'll be blogging about this on http://thecyclehub.net/ sometime next week.  Although just 30 minutes, it was enough to get me out of breath, sweaty and stinky (much to Hannah's distain, as usual) and I'm fairly pleased with my new toy.

Thursday was going to be impossible in terms of exercise as I had a long day because of work.  As part of my work I am involved with the RSA Transitions project (a kind of prison reform) which entailed an early start, getting fined £93.50 by East Coast for mistakenly catching an earlier train.  Grrrrr.  An interesting day, getting to know the team and a chance to wander around some of the 45 acres surrounding HMP Wold and HMP Everthorpe, somewhere "up north".  Got back home at 8.30pm, hungry and for some brief family time.

Friday - my parents arrive for the weekend.  No chance of sneaking out for a quick run.  This morning, Saturday, my chance came but as I had not run for almost a week I thought it best to have a short 15 minute pre-breakfast run.  Not politic to disappear for too long.

So there I am, really missing running and cycling.  Dark, shorter days don't help.  Looking forward to things getting back to normal but it won't be next weekend either.  We're having a couple of German (exchange) girls come to stay which will be great fun but probably not ideal for me disappearing in my Sauconys.

At least I wasn't the driver who reportedly knocked Bradley Wiggins off his bike.  That "mishap" must count amongst one of the most uncool mishaps to have as a motorist.  Mind you, I don't know the whole story.  For all I know it may not have been the van driver's fault.  Perhaps Wiggo was travelling a time trial speeds and not obeying the sedate 20 or 30mph speed limit?

I was interested to read in the Telegraph's Weekend supplement about the former spin doctor Alistair Campbell talk about his addiction to alcohol, along with his support for Alcohol Concern's forthcoming campaign of having a Dry January - i.e. no alcohol for one month.  This is more wishy-washy spin.  If you're a heavy drinker, why not be really radical and give up alcohol together?  This is something I strongly advocate - being tee total has never harmed anyone.  See my previous post on this - Why I am tee total.

Back to work....

Going back to work today was hard.  Hard going because we've just had a week in Spain (lovely warm climate, running country and good food) followed by a few days at home.

I always dread turning on my computer; not because I struggle to remember the passwords if I've had a good holiday, but because I dread reading what's gone wrong while I've been away and not there to fix things or possibly defend myself.  I did have a couple of welcome distractions.

We have a new Director working with us and his desk is behind mine.  We exchanged pleasantries, as one does to welcome any new colleague.  Then I spotted a water bottle on his desk - a cycling one!  I remarked on it, asking him if he was a cyclist.  He was!  Excellent!  I told him he was clearly the man for the job, never mind anything else.  He laughed politely but I'm not sure he was that impressed.

And then another "new" person came in.  Someone who has worked for us before but has returned in covering another colleague who is on long term sick leave.  Nice to see him anyway.

Oh, I should mention the biscuits.  You know how it is often traditional that for anyone who's been on holiday, they should bring in something to eat from their holiday. So I bought in a box of biscuits and, shall we say, they are "interesting" and not quite what I expected.  They certainly look nice - some chocolate, some decorated beautifully, every one is tempting.  The trouble is that as soon as you pick one up it either explodes or disintegrate in your fingers.  There are so many crumbs and bits of biscuits all over the floor - the cleaners will loathe me!

A few days ago I treated myself to a Turbo Trainer - I'll be blogging about this on my other blog soon.  All day today I was looking forward to having a good spin on it.  Alas no, not to be, for today.  I have, however, been running a fair amount over the last couple of weeks and while running is good, cycling is not good.  It is surprising how quickly we can go out of shape.  I'll be posting about my progress on this soon.  .

Running and the Glad Game

This morning's run: left the house at 6.30am.  Very dark but about to get light.  Temperature was 4 or 5 degrees C, raining and a light wind.  I was wearing my Brooks shoes (slippery I know but my Saucony's are still drying out from their last outing), Montane featherlite jacket (not very waterproof), a base layer, woolly gloves, woolly hat and shorts (thus allowing my legs to sting when pelted with rain).

First impressions - bloomin' miserable.  Why am I doing this?  Why not just stay tucked up under the duvet?  Am I mad?

A week ago we were in Spain.  Running conditions could not have been better.  Quite a contrast to this drab, wet, cold and miserable morning.

The Glad game

You might know that children's book / film - Polyanna?  A period film about a little girl who always finds something to be glad about even in the most unlikely circumstances.  The other characters in the film were often irritated by her, I can see why.    So I thought I might be equally irritating and do that now.

So, in spite of such horrible conditions, why was this morning's run something to be "glad" about?

• Nobody else was crazy enough, apart from me in being out this morning.  Therefore I had the hills and tracks to myself
• On top of the hill my legs were stinging with the rain.  Back home they were tingling!
• I feel great and I have the rest of the day to enjoy that feeling of "well being", an inward smile through the much blogged about Runner's High
• One hour = 6.5 miles = 650 calories (very roughly)
• Hannah greeted me as usual when I come in from running with "Daddy, you stink".  Made me smile
• I had a really nice hot shower when I got back - lovely!  Appreciate it all the more!
• Running in horrible conditions makes me feel ALIVE
• Running in horrible conditions makes me appreciate Spain, the sunshine and warmth even more

Why go for a Fun Run?

Fancy dress and fun runs go together!

Back in October we took part in a fun run.  It was actually the first time we'd done this together as a family and we were spurred on for a number of good reasons to do this.  We really enjoyed it, in spite of it being on a drab, cold, damp Sunday afternoon near Luton Airport.

Fun runs seem to crop up in lots of places these days, either on their own (like this one) or to go along side another race.

Here's a few thoughts on why no runner shouldn't take part....

Fund raising

This particular fun run was a fund raising event.  Nobody had a problem with that as everyone knew the deal.  It was all about celebrating the life of Michelle Hulford 1990-2012 who sadly died in the summer (more information click here and here).  The theme of the event was "Live Life in Full Colour" and as a way of raising funds for the two charities she supported.  My two daughters knew her through the same school and went to the celebration service which was, everyone says, incredibly powerful and moving.  Back to the fun run... it's just a great way of getting people together for a bit of fun and a purpose.

If you can walk, you can do it

In fact running is the intention but equally walking, jogging, crawling, hopping are all fine.  It's not a race.  Naturally there were some wizz kids storming their way around the 5k course.  Amongst these was the cool and accomplished runner Jeremy Weightman who seemed to lap Hannah and myself in no time at all.  In fact I think the run was over for him and one or two others in almost no time at all!!!!

There were quite a few in the "have-a-go" category and these were especially cheered on by the supporters.

It is never too far

Fun runs are normally short distances - this one was divided into 2k and 5k.

A chance to try running for the first time

If you are new to running and maybe fancy having a go at entering a race, a fun run could be a good stepping stone.  It is an opportunity to be at the start line with others, feeling the "tension" and dash off with the others when the starting gun goes.  Because it's not a race, you can't be last.  Besides, nobody will mind if you walk or even stop for a rest!

Supporting others

I ran alongside my youngest daughter Hannah.  She's 12 and was determined to get 'round without stopping and sure enough she did - and very well too!   If you're already a "proper runner" remember you started at some point yourself, so there's the opportunity to encourage someone else by going alongside.  Even if you're not taking part yourself, there will be the need for a small army of supporters to do things: marshals  first aid, motivators, a band or two perhaps, drink stations, registration desks and so on.

You can be in fancy dress

Yes you too can run around in a red skin tight head-to-toe outfit if you want, or any other crazy costumes.

Above all, remember what it's really about

Fun runs are often charitable events, best remember that.  Raise money for a good cause; don't take the running too seriously!

My daughters - running well and having fun!

Is Tahini good for you?

Meridian Light Tahini - a tasty alternative to peanut butter

I must tell you about this jar of light Tahini which we have in our fridge.  While it is there right now, it won't last long.

This is the first time we've had it and, while it is an "acquired" taste, we think it is delicious but it does take a bit of getting used to!  It is necessary to keep it in the fridge in order to prevent it from becoming rancid.  It can be used as a dip or, for myself, I use it as an alternative to peanut butter.  It is necessary to give it a stir as the oils do naturally separate out over a few days.

What is Tahini?

Tahini is a simple food, popular in Middle Eastern cookery.  It is simply sesame seeds which have been ground into a paste.  Simple as that.  

The health benefits of sesame seeds are well known but have you tried to eat them?  Believe me, it takes some time to eat the seeds - slowly grinding them in your mouth (risking your teeth in the process) and then swishing it down with a glass of water.  Why go through all of that when you can have Tahini?

This Meridian Tahini is made only with sesame seeds.  It is hulled and roasted as part of the process although a darker version is available.  They roast the seeds for 25-30 minutes at 210°C.  The Natural and Organic products are manufactured using the sample process and equipment so texture is similar.  They do have different flavours.  The Natural Light Tahini made with hulled sesame seeds which produces quite a bitter taste.  I understand the dark Tahini is made with unhulled sesame seeds and is less bitter.  However, it is all down to personal taste but I'm enjoying the bitterness.  Makes me want to try out the darker, less bitter version afterwards - it could be even nicer.

Nutritional information

Tahini is a very rich food and a good source of many nutrients.  In reality it is best used sparingly; little and often.  It is a good source of healthy fatty acids - thats omega 3 and 6 - which we cannot manufacture ourselves so a regular intake is of benefit to our bodies.

It also contains thiamin (helpful for the nervous system), phosphorus and calcium (benefiting bones, teeth and kidney function).  Vitamin E is as well as small amounts of zinc.  Fibre at 11.8g per 100g is good but of limited effect as the intake quantities are relatively small.

So, is Tahini good for you?  Yes, without doubt.

Meridian

We are slowly catching on to Meridian as we have quite a few of their products in our kitchen nowadays.  In fact a while ago we commented on their peanut butter.  Take a look at their website and see how they have developed quite a wide range of healthy foodstuffs.  Even Sainsbury's are selling some lines these days.

Conclusion

We love it!  Aside from using it as an alternative to peanut butter, we are going to try it in a few recipies before too long.

Surviving the winter months

Here in England I love the different seasons, right from the cosiness of the winter through to the balmy days of summer.  And yet I find my mood can drop during the winter months, especially if it drags on for too long.  I could sulk my way through in a grumpy kind of way or do something about it.  If you read my blog you'll know I achieve this by running and cycling.

This year I am not looking forward to the winter at all.  Not sure why.  Could be memories of the last two winters that brought more snow and freezing temperatures than ever.  Could be thoughts of settling back into life here at home - just a few days ago we were enjoying the lovely climate of Spain and some brilliant runs.

This morning at 6.30am, just as daylight was starting to appear, I went out for my favourite 7.5 mile hilly run.  I loved it, my running form was reasonably fluid and I stormed up a short hill on my way back.  Cold but brilliant and in my thoughts I devised my strategy for surviving this winter.  Here it is:

• Keep remembering how important exercise is; mentally and physically
• "Deal with the winter weather Doug".  This is probably my biggest obstacle.  I hate running and cycling in the dark.  It is a problem and there to be solved.  Believe there is a solution, or solutions. 
• Do NOT re-join DW Fitness Club (other than possibly taking advantage of a Christmas offer for a two week trial at a bargain price).  
• Eat well - I think I have a pretty good vegetarian diet but it does mean a bit of effort to make sure I get everything I need.  Have some enjoyment in trying out some new things (and good blog material!). It also means not eating too much or allowing some weight to creep up.  My BMI is around 22 and that's where it's staying
• Not to be afraid of spending some money if it means getting through the winter.  This is probably going to involve buying a turbo trainer to maintain cycling in those dark horrible evenings.  Could cost £100 to £200 but this outlay would last for years
• Buy some proper winter cycling clothing.  Keeping warm on the bike is my biggest challenge.  I am sure getting the clothing right is important, even though I might look a bit odd in black cycling tights and Captain Kirk-style overshoes.  But these keep you warm and dry on the bike, so just what I need.  Start with gloves and a skull cap to fit under my helmet.
• Be disciplined.  Make sure I exercise 5 out of every 7 days.  Even if it is just a 15 minute jog around our neighbourhood but ideally I need each work-out to be about an hour
• Stay healthy.  I have already had a flu jab.  Man these make you feel awful a few days later, but that's done.  Only cost £8.00 at Sainsbury's and even better my employer will reimburse me for this - this is a cost effective of maintaining a healthy workforce.  Plus we have a KPI target for this and right now it's not looking too good.  So - I'm staying warm, avoiding flu, bugs and so on.  This also means not over training - pushing too far actually can lower resistance and our natural immunity
• The countryside can be fantastic in the winter
• Look forward to Spring.  I have already signed up for the 2013 MK Marathon in May and looking forward to that.  Running through the winter will make all the difference to coming in at under 4 hours. Earlier in 2012 I did that race and love looking back on it.  All more the reason to have another go.  Naturally I'll be another year older but faster for it.

Javea Triathlon 2012

From : Euro weekly news 31.10.12

The town of Javea has just hosted its first triathlon with 340 competitors taking part in the event.    No, I'm not warming up to be a triathelite but I was sorry I missed seeing this event during our recent holiday in the town.  It would have been great, in more ways than one.

What could have been a boring newspaper account it says "....nearly went horribly wrong when many of the spectators decided to run alongside the professionals, followed by teams of Police trying to tackle them en-route".

It must have been quite a sight!  All those Police Officers running in the 5k part - perhaps good training for catching local criminals.

The official article gives a dry account and tells you who the winners are.  Roll on next year - Javea Triathlon 2013!