Training for the London 10 Mile

After struggling with knee issues for most of my running life, and having recently discovered a love for cycling, I'd resigned myself to the fact that I probably wouldn't run any more long distance races. I've always enjoyed the half marathon. It's a big challenge, but it's possible to train for without it taking over your life, and the race is generally over within an acceptable amount of time, yet you still feel justified in eating all the food afterwards!

Anyway, despite all this I wasn't sure my legs would be up to training for another 13.1 miles, so when I was offered a place at the new London 10 mile race in Richmond Park I did pause slightly. But ultimately the opportunity to run somewhere new, and take on a unique distance (new distance = automatic PB!) was too appealing!

So here I am, slowly increasing my mileage and paying attention to any niggles! The last weekend was absolutely gorgeous weather and has made me so excited for more summer runs in shorts, soaking up the Vitamin D and getting crazy vest top tan lines.

But as the temperature heats up, drinking enough is of key importance - even being slightly dehydrated can impair physical performance, and I know morning runs are always harder for me because I wake up pretty dry-mouthed. The new BRITA fill&go Active bottle* is what I'm currently popping in my bag, or keeping on my desk at work to make sure I'm drinking enough water, and I'm a big fan!

I hate having to buy water when I'm out and contributing to the millions of plastic bottles that are thrown away every year, so always carry one myself that I can just refill. The BRITA filter in this bottle means that my water will always taste great no matter where I am in the country (each filter is supposed to last about 4 weeks), and it looks pretty stylish too. I love the handy carrying strap and the fact it all comes apart and can just go in the dishwasher when you need to clean it!

Another essential item when increasing the distance you're running (if you're female!) is a supportive enough sports bra. I've always worn the Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Bra for anything high impact, so was interested to compare it to their Active Multi Sports Support Bra* which is also designed to offer maximum support. Shock Absorber have just launched their Spring range which comes in some gorgeous colourful print designs, so I put it to the test on my last run.

The verdict? Well, it's a lot easier to get in and out of than the Ultimate Run Bra! The two fastenings are normal bra clasps and are positioned lower down on your back so it does feel a little less restricting. I don't know whether that means things move around a little more (!) but I definitely didn't feel unsupported, in fact, it was super comfortable to wear. I also didn't get any annoying chafing which I have experienced from the Run Bra previously, although that will have to be properly tested on longer runs and on sweatier/rainier days!

Big shout out also to the purple North Face t-shirt* I'm wearing in the above photos - I was sent this recently from the awesome website Simply Hike, and wore it pretty much all the time on the recent Outdoor Bloggers camping weekend, as well as on my run. It's so soft and super comfortable and I love the flattering drop-tail hem (which means its longer at the back), so no exposing yourself when you sit down!

What are you training for currently? Any new Spring kit in your wardrobe?

Beki x

*items were sent to me for review. As always all opinions are my own.