I’m still suffering with a shin complaint, my left leg grumbles a bit particularly after I get up in the morning. Achilles is a bit painful too. I ran a couple of 4-milers, 8:45/min pace, on Monday and Tuesday this week, but then didn’t run as planned Wednesday- instead RICEd it and continued strength exercises. Hoping to run Thursday and Friday, then first open-air swim of the season on Sunday with Alick.

Update: What a difference a few days make. Ran Thursday and Friday, both shortish sessions, came out OK. Felt strong. On Saturday went with Sarah & kids to Queen Elizabeth National Park near Petersfield, and while Sarah recced the route for her HM I pushed Daisy up and down hills while Billy did the ‘space trail’. Tiring stuff. On Sunday morning I ‘swam’ in the local lake, an awful experience – couldn’t breathe properly, got panicky, didn’t enjoy it at all. Went later for an angry run with Alick, did 5 miles at about 8.24 pace, making it just over 20 miles for the week. Also, a breakthrough – tried mid-foot striking, and afterwards (and morning after) no pain in either shin, knee, achilles or anywhere! Woot. Will keep on with this and see where it goes…