ALCHEMY FITNESS

So you've completed your first ultra?So what happens next?

3 months ago in the middle of my training I vowed never to enter a ultra again. My exact words were,''Once I've completed 100k I think I'll stick to just marathons,'' So why 2 weeks after my first ultra London to Brighton am I searching the web for my next challenge?

No one tells you how amazing you will feel during the race, in fact I didn't want it to end! Everyone looks shocked when I tell them I really enjoyed the race. In fact training for the ultra has made me fall in love with running again. Gone are the days of beating myself up for not beating my pb (personal best). When you run your first ultra it's just about surviving. Despite a dodgy tummy and one small blister, I finished in a better state than if I normally run a marathon. I bet you don't believe me but the mixed terrain through woodland and country lanes was much more gentle on my legs.

But why would I enter another ultra? Despite completing the ultra in a fantastic time of 14:15, and placing 11th female.I can't help but think can I run it faster? Could I place in the top 5? Perhaps it's in my nature but these ultra events are highly addictive and leave you wondering what is next? I've now started to train for Bournemouth marathon in October. I am aiming for a sub 3:50. However since my ultra I've learnt to listen to my body and cut myself some slack. Sometimes you just need to sit back and see how far you've come. 8 years ago I entered my first 10k and never dreamt of completing 100k. Now I'm starting to think anything is possible...

Do you want to start running? Do you want to beat your personal best?

Please email me for a free training programme or advice

Baylissholly@ymail.com