Cardiff Half Marathon/London Marathon Training

I haven’t been able to run properly for around 5 to 6 weeks now. Unfortunately a few weeks back, I injured my leg and have been trying to my best (despite the odd ‘test’ run) to rest.

Being injured is very frustrating, even more so when you’re training for an event.

On October 7th, I’ll be running the Cardiff Half Marathon. I did it last year for the first time, and completed it in 2 hours 29 minutes and 3 seconds. I even got injured in training last year as well! This year, my goal is to complete the Cardiff Half Marathon quicker than last year. Ideally, I’d like to knock 15 minutes off my time and get closer to 2 hours 15 minutes. We’ll see how that goes!

Going back to my injury. The pain is quite hard to explain. It’s not pain as such, more of an ache, but it’s made worse by running.

I visited a soft tissue therapist who said that it sounded like Piriformis Syndrome:

Piriformis syndrome is a condition in which the piriformismuscle, located in the buttock region, spasms and causes buttock pain. The piriformis muscle can also irritate the nearby sciatic nerve and cause pain, numbness and tingling along the back of the leg and into the foot (similar to sciatic pain). (Source)

I’ve had a few massages, and have been doing lots of stretching at home. Thankfully, it’s now finally getting better. I’m wondering if all of the swimming I did on holiday has helped.

I’ve returned to Barre Class and I’m actually managing to run further distances on my leg each time I go out so that’s a good sign.

Will I run the Cardiff Half Marathon?

I’m pretty sure I will.

Will I run it quicker than my first attempt last year?

Here’s hoping!

As for the London Marathon, all of my training for the half marathon last year and this year has taught me a valuable lesson. I think I’m best sticking to a three day running plan as oppose to four days to start with. I need to incorporate more strength work into my routine, and stretch everyday.

I’m feeling more positive about my injury and running than I have in a long while. Long may it continue!

If you’d like to sponsor me for the London Marathon 2019, you can donate online here: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/EmilyHiggins3 I’m raising money for WellChild, the national charity for sick children.

My Sponsors

Four Walls Online have 50 years experience across the full spectrum of the property market in Cardiff and the surrounding areas. They know what local Landlords, Developers and Homeowners are looking for – and Four Walls caters for all needs, budgets, and lifestyles. Combining cutting-edge sales and lettings technology with their friendly team of experts based at their Cardiff office on Newport Road, they’re offering all the value of an online estate agency with the professionalism and personal touch of the more traditional approach.They are Rent Smart Wales ARLA, NAEA, and ALMA accredited, adhering to the very highest standards in the industry whilst driving forward best practice, particularly in the online property market. Their team comprises fully qualified property professionals who are committed to delivering outstanding customer service.

Rhiwbina Dental surgery was established over 40 years ago in Rhiwbina village. In 1997 the practise was taken over by Nick Claydon and it still remains an integral part of Rhiwbina village life. Rhiwbina Dental at the Pines in Whitchurch was established in 2010, and serves private patients in the gorgeous surroundings of a rare Georgian gem situated alongside the ancient white church in Whitchurch. The beautifully walled and landscaped gardens, edged with a lavender border, welcomes you to the practice with an air of serenity. The interior of The Pines has been carefully designed to stimulate the senses with intriguing works of art and sculptures designed to inspire and delight.