Great South Run Training Diary - Part 2

Since my last training blog, I certainly feel like I have turned a corner in the road to recovery from my ankle injury. An awesome speed training session with my running club, Fareham Crusaders proved that my fitness levels and stamina are improving and I completed my first race since the injury on Sunday, only a minute slower than last year's time over the same course. It has really boosted my confidence and re-motivated me towards reaching the ultimate goal: completing the Great South Run.

But I know I cannot afford to be complacent. I may not be feeling the effects of the injury anymore but rehab exercises will still have to feature in my training plan, not easy when I also want to increase my mileage. With this in mind, I joined in with our Core Conditioning Class on Tuesday lunchtime as an easy way to get a more 'rehabby' session in. Neil Dayus explains: "The core musculature plays a vital role in running. It stabilises the movement of the limbs during gait and provides a stable base from which propulsive power can be developed efficiently, saving us effort and reducing the chances of an injury." I have been fairly focussed on increasing my mileage and improving the strength and stability in my ankle and as a result, the importance of core training has occasionally been sidelined. However, the 45 minute lunchtime class is an ideal way of fitting this training into my schedule and it means I can still run in the evening with my club. If you can't make the class, I strongly recommend booking a session with Neil so he can advise you on core exercises you can fit into your routine - it really does make a difference! Call 02393 233140 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .