Time - the most precious commodity

I had an excellent run last Thursday (a bank hol in Geneva), which I followed with a trip to the gym to do a legs bums and tums class. I felt great, which meant that I lulled myself into a false sense of security prior to my 5k run yesterday. I had two day muscle ache and it hurt! I felt like giving up so many times.

I did a body attack class at the gym this morning and now feel my legs might drop off at some stage in the near future. I also have blisters on my feet.

I'm finding it hard to fit the running training into my usual schedule and have come to the conclusion that time (and not money) has become my most precious commodity. Normal working hours in Geneva are longer than in Jersey and I never feel like exercise after a hard day's work (I force myself, but don't enjoy it much). Simon travels a lot and is considering asking British Airways to install a running machine in their executive lounge.

Following the events of last year I have cut right back on overtime. In fact, I'm going to be taking a full time french course over the summer, which I'm very excited about. It is something I've wanted to do for a long time. I'll be finishing each day earlier than usual (about 4.30 to 5) and I am looking forward to fitting some running into my extra summer hours.

Team Atko - any tips for two day muscle ache and blisters? Both are plaguing me at the moment!

P.S. Russ - a trainer at my gym thinks that running on a treadmill is easier than running outside (although preferable to no running at all). On the ground, you have to propel yourself forward, which takes more effort than on a treadmill where the conveyor effectively moves the ground for you and you don't have to propel yourself forward. If you can run further on the ground, I think you're onto a winner!

P.P.S. Simon has commented about the ground being safer than a treadmill. I'm sure I influenced his comment. He has witnessed me fall off a variety of gym equipment. Most recently I launched myself off a cross trainer at Les Quennevais gym. It was quite embarrasing, but at least (for a change) I didn't break anything. It is clearly going to be a challenge getting me to Newcastle in October in one piece...