So said Colette, or Coco Chanel, or one of those other French women. It applies as much to running as to one’s appearance. For the long run today, I chose a route with a lot of ascents, through Friston Forest and up to Lullington Heath, then down into the Cuckmere valley and up again onto the Firle Beacon escarpment. Though a mere fifteen miles, I did indeed suffer, and was worried that the ilio-tibial band problem of may years ago might be recurring. Some judicious stretching is required. It was a beautiful morning, though cool on the high stretches.

I do wonder about my training. By this time before previous marathons, I usually have more miles under my belt. I take comfort in the belief that fifteen miles of hard hill running is worth a lot more than fifteen miles on the flat, and that when I come to the marathon I will be ready.

Miles this week: 28.77
Four weeks to the Brighton marathon