20 - crescendo

20M am crescendo long run at average 6.15min/M (8.30-5.20)

A CRACKING end to a very good week!

I was pretty achy by the morning in my glutes, abdomen and a bit in my quads after yesterday evening's core strength exercises. But not in a way that would slow my running.

Even so, I had the feeling trepidation I often get before a hard long run. A bit like pre-race fear. But different. More a fear of whether I'll let myself push hard. Or whether my legs will hold on or just fold.

We were in Oxford, so I ran three and a bit loops of Port Meadow for my 20 miles. I started out with Yasmin for a mile or so. Miles 2-10 were at about 6.30 pace. Miles 10-14 were at around 6.00 and the last six were hard. Probably finishing at 5.20-5.30. With opening and closing gates and a stop to retie my shoes I averaged 6.15. And I felt good - physically and mentally. Really enjoyed it.