Common sense is not an instinct!

So much has been going on since I last posted.

Work has been getting busier.

A 10 day training camp with GB Deaf Tennis in Florida.

Experienced the deepest massage of my life.

Training has gone to plan.

Life is good.

I have been leaving my race plan down to the science up till now. Other factors that influence the decision of pace on the day?

Mental - positive attitude with a desire to push as hard as I can on the day.

Nutrition - eat the right foods, eat the right amount of food and eat the right food at the right times. Some would argue this is science. This isn't science, this is about planning and willpower.

Recovery - sleep, stretching, nutrition and work committments.

Health - so long as you are aware then physically the body can cope with the demand.

All these factors can be broken down intensely. I will do that post marathon. The deciding factor for race pace?

Common sense ?

This has been the hardest discipline to train during this 5 month period. Common sense says start with a 2:50 goal, more than likely finishing in 2:47ish. Common sense says that if I go through the first mile in 6:00 minutes then walk for 30 seconds in the second mile to balance out the sheet. Common sense says this is the start of a successful 5 year plan of action that I have set myself; and by going for a 2:50 lays a solid foundation to build on as I move forward to achieve the next goal. Common sense says I have to work the following week and need to be able to get out and train with my clients. Common sense says that I would be telling my client to run a 2:50 pace in this condition. Common sense - it has to be said can be a very frustrating quality to train in life! Although one to build on.

Instinct?

Instinct is kicking off at a pace that is likely to bite your head off when you least expect it; even though in a wierd way, you expect it! Instinct is unlocking the chain that ties down your enthusiasm just to go out and give it your best, even if that means walking the last 2 miles in agony. Instinct is not practicing what you preach. Instinct is changing the goal posts "last minute dot com" Instinct - it has to be said can be a very debilitating trait in life. Although one to cherish with no regrets .

So which one wins. 2:44:30 Marathon entails running every 10km in 39 mins flat. 6:17 average per mile. 2:48 Marathon entails running every 10km in 39:48. 6:24 per mile.

Instinct says 2:44:30 and "take those bloody awful glasses off!"

Common sense says sub 2:50 and "why are posting this camp photo of yourself online?"

I am going to use both on the day and believe the body can take a 2:44 pounding!