Author: Vicky
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Philadelphia Marathon Training: An Update
This year I decided that instead of running my favourite marathon, Chicago, I’d take on Philadelphia. I made this choice for a few reasons: I also decided that after a few years of self-coaching my way back to marathon fitness, I’d work with a coach this time (more on the…
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Bitten by a Dog While Running? Here’s What to Do
Exactly a year ago, I was running in DC, down Embassy Row, to be precise, on an easy evening run when a dog ran at me from behind and bit my arm. You might be wondering, “How on earth did that happen?” or “What did you do to provoke the…
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Best Running Trails Near Heathrow Airport: Explore Harmondsworth Moor
Recently, my husband and I spent a night at Heathrow Airport ahead of a long-haul flight back to the US. While our hotel ticked the basic boxes, it didn’t have a gym, and knowing that we had a full day of sitting ahead of us, I was determined to get…
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Exploring the Wrekin: A Classic Hike in Shropshire’s Countryside
Final Thoughts I’m so glad we finally made the climb. It was a personal milestone, a nostalgic reconnection with my roots, and a surprisingly challenging bit of exercise, all rolled into one. I’d recommend it to anyone visiting Shropshire, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just fancy a beautiful walk…
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Discovering Shrewsbury’s Parkrun Experience
A couple of weeks ago, while visiting family in the UK, we spent a few days in my hometown of Shrewsbury – a picturesque, medieval market town nestled in a bend of the River Severn. With its Tudor buildings, winding alleys, and warm community feel, it’s a lovely place to…
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Exploring Philadelphia’s Schuylkill River Trail
Last weekend, my husband and I drove up to Philadelphia to visit a friend of his who was in town. Since it’s about a three-hour drive from DC, we decided to make a weekend of it, booking a hotel, strolling through the city, grabbing lunch, and enjoying an afternoon drink…
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The Importance of Taking a Break After a Marathon
Whether you crossed the finish line with a PB, gritted your teeth through every mile, or soaked in the scenery on a coastal course like the Big Sur International Marathon, one thing is true for all marathoners: recovery matters. After weeks, and often months, of commitment, training, and race-day focus,…
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Big Sur Marathon: A Wild, Windy and Wonderfully Scenic Adventure
When I entered the Big Sur Marathon lottery last year, I didn’t fully grasp what I was signing up for. I’m used to big-city marathons; flat, fast courses with huge crowds of spectators and high energy from start to finish. Big Sur, by contrast, is the polar opposite: small, hilly,…
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Big Sur Weekend: The Start of the Racecation Adventure
I’m writing this from the plane – we’re currently en route to San Francisco for a long weekend in California, and I’m so excited! We’ve been planning this trip for ages, and there’s so much to see and do. Once upon a time, back when I still lived in the…
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Exploring Lady Bird Lake in Austin
Last week, I traveled to Austin for SXSW EDU for work. It was my first time in the city, and I was excited, not only for the conference but also to catch up with a wonderful friend who lives there. I’d also heard amazing things about running in Austin, and…
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Adapting Your Marathon Training to Winter Conditions
Training for a marathon during winter can be a real challenge. The dark mornings and evenings, coupled with unpredictable weather, can easily derail your plans for long runs and speed workouts. So, how can you stay consistent and on track when nature isn’t cooperating? While I always prefer running outdoors,…
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Winter Running Gear: What You Really Need
Firstly, let me say that I enjoy running in the winter. It requires a bit more organization than summer running, but I appreciate the newly discovered speed, thanks to the cold temperatures, as well as the ever-changing scenery and crisp, sunny days. Of course, not all runs are like that.…
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