Marathon (From Your Local Guardian)

Marathon

1:03pm Friday 20th March 2009

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Q. I’m in the marathon for the first time this year – I’ve just reached the 18 mile stage in my training. Do you have any advice for me.

A. Ok, excellent, well done! My advice to you is to mix it up, keep to one long run for the weekend and then in the week try cross training, swimming, cycling, all of these will keep your aerobic fitness going really well without overloading your shins. Shin splints at this stage could totally wreck your marathon hopes – so play safe by varying your fitness training with out losing any condition.

Q. I’m going to get out in the garden this weekend any advice?

A. The weather is just fabulous at the moment, bright sunshine and blossom everywhere, all the daffodils are out and a certain number of us feel the urge to get out in the garden and set to. That’s fine as long as you take it gently to start with. If you spend all day digging or weeding then you might find your back is pretty sore the next day. To avoid this – don’t let yourself get so absorbed that you forget the time. Take a break, pace yourself and relax in the evening with a hot bath and – if you can - persuade your loved one to massage your back that can make a huge difference – your muscles will feel so much better – back problem averted!