I was wondering how to fit in some cross-training at the weekend, as required by the training schedule I'm following. I needn't have worried - it just comes naturally. Yesterday I walked approximately half a mile to the park and back, at toddler pace. Then, I cycled into town and back, a total of about three miles, some of it uphill. If the local pool had been open, I would have thrown in some bouncing in the toddler pool as well. I think that's the kind of hardcore cross-training the author had in mind.

This afternoon was my long run; I did 10 miles instead of the prescribed 9 as I'd already done a few 10s. It was fine thanks, completed a few sec/mile outside of 4 hour marathon pace, and with some steady rain at the end which made re-entering the house like stepping into a sauna - great! A sauna that provides post-run home-made bread with butter and honey, that is.

I tried out a new on-the-move food after discovering some in the larder in a snack attack during the week: Hovis crackers. About 70% carbohydrate, lightweight, don't need much chewing - a couple every 2.5 mile lap seemed to go down well, with plenty of water. Somebody please tell me if this is a stupid thing to do, because at that rate I'll get through a whole packet in the course of the marathon.

Another week beckons.

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