My first Jeffing race - a 10km in Durban - and I took 9 minutes off my previous 10km race. It takes a bit of discipline to start off with the required Run-Walk-Run intervals, walking while the pack is all running and jostling for a bit of open road but you are certainly rewarded in the second half with legs that are still fresh.
I did learn something though - never forget your hat - it hides hair that has definitely seen better days! It also prevents squinting and looking down which appears to cause a display of neck wrinkles. But hey we’re there for the running and in my mind I am still golden and smooth, muscles rippling, blonde ponytail flowing out the back.
So now for the next project or two. I am eyeing a 21,1km in Umhlanga Rocks on the 15th November so that I can see what a disciplined Run-Walk-Run approach can do over that distance. I’m hoping it’s not too hilly - perhaps I should take a peek at the route profile.
I am also working my way through Allie Bailey’s “31 Days”. If you don’t know of Allie you absolutely must read “There Is No Wall”. Check her out here
Back to “31 Days”. Each chapter should be read in a day and then there is homework in a workbook. This ensures that I don’t skim through the book without thinking deeply.
We self-sabotage all the time when we set out to achieve something as our brains seek to conserve energy, avoid pain and pursue pleasure. My most common self-sabotaging thought is “you can’t run/walk that far - why don’t I change the plan and split the distance into two workouts?” Or “I can’t have just one small glass of wine before a race or long run - I may as well have two or three”. Both thoughts are utter bullshit - that damn brain is trying to avoid pain and pursue pleasure. And I do know that running a good race or completing a long run will give me way more pleasure.
So I’m hoping that by the end of 31 days I will be a mental strength ninja. I’d like to say watch this space but I’m really glad that no one can see into my brain - I may end up in an institution for mad old goats.