Now into the last leg

As D-day draws closer, the runners get into their groove and start planning for their final run. Preeti Zachariah reports

Girija Balasubramani

Padma Ram

I wasn’t able to run at all due to some personal commitments but I managed to squeeze in two cardio three strength training sessions. I am a little unhappy about losing a whole week on running but I’m sure my cardio and strength training will make up for it and I hope to be on track next week. I’m not exactly scared right not but yes, am a little concerned. I’m planning to go out for dinner with my husband a day or two before the event as I really want to relax. I am also hoping that I will get opportunities to meet and interact with other runners prior to the event.

Girija Balasubramani

I had a fall on Saturday and am bruised all over but I intend to get to that finish line, with a smile. The excitement is building up, and I must admit there is an underlying current of fear but I’m not letting it get the better of me. I can run effortlessly and am no longer gasping for breath — I did about 26.8 km last week, my sugar is under control and I feel great. I am planning to complete my last 10 km, long distance run this week as it will be the last one before D-day.

Mangalamba Varma

I have found my balance in both training and nutrition and I’m working at maintaining it. I am working out with weights , focusing on my breathing and doing some stationary cycling, besides the running. I am extremely excited and looking forward to the event, am not afraid or concerned — I’m just going to give it my best shot and see where it takes me. I want to maintain my training and nutrition plan at this level, and not try / introduce anything new at this point. With just 2 weeks to go, I guess it's not wise to surprise the body with anything new and unfamiliar.

Ravi Kumar K

I worked out normally this week — five workout days and two off days. I ran thrice — 8K on Tuesday, 6K on Thursday and a 10K on Sunday totally to about 24K. I also did a day of strength and another of cycling. I’ve lost 4-5 kilos since I started the programme and am feeling happy and much lighter — now I’m going to focus on taking it easy and keeping the injuries away.

I treated myself to some running gear — a dry-fit T-shirt and some shorts and feeling great about it. I think I’ll adjust my carbohydrate/protein intake next week — in preparation for the race.