Day 23: Layering Lessons and a Teynham Trot

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A Late Start and a Leisurely Run

Yesterday’s late-night NFL playoff game (Chiefs vs. Texans – not exactly the stuff of legends) allowed for a much-needed lie-in this morning. There’s something delightful about waking up naturally, without the intrusive blare of an alarm clock. By late morning, I was laced up and ready to take on a 40-minute base run towards Teynham.

Experimenting with Layers

In the spirit of trying new things, I decided to tweak my layering strategy today. A seasoned runner recently advised me to consider wearing one less layer than usual. The rationale? Excessive layers can weigh you down and hinder sweat evaporation. At first, the chill bit at my skin, but as I settled into my stride, the cold melted into insignificance—much like the promises of “just one drink” on an impromptu night out.

While I can’t claim any miraculous improvement in performance over the short 40-minute run, it did feel like a step in the right direction. Finding the sweet spot between freezing and overheating is an art, not a science. Pro tip: breathable materials are your best friend. Polyester wicks moisture away, and wool keeps you warm even if it gets damp. If your running gear starts feeling like chainmail halfway through, it’s time for a rethink.

Building Towards the Canterbury 10

This week has been focused on gradually increasing mileage and intensity—a satisfying challenge that reminds me of life’s unwritten rule: if it’s easy, you’re probably doing it wrong. With the Canterbury 10-mile race at the end of next week, the plan is to dial things back slightly in the coming days. Tapering before a race is essential, not just for the physical recovery but to avoid showing up on race day feeling like a squeezed-out sponge.

Looking Ahead

The London Marathon is drawing ever closer and the cocktail of excitement and nerves is starting to bubble. There’s comfort in knowing that this journey isn’t a solitary one. The support from fellow runners, both on the roads and online, is a constant source of motivation. Writing this blog keeps me accountable, but more importantly, I hope it’s inspiring others to lace up their trainers and join the fray.

After all, running is like life: the important part is not how fast you go, but that you keep moving forward. And if you happen to make a few witty observations about polyester along the way, all the better.

Location: Sittingbourne, UK

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