From Ice Rinks to Epsom Salts

We’ve reached the end of Week 4 of my 10K training plan. Officially, today was an “active rest day.” Translation: You’re supposed to take it easy but still find a way to be productive because, heaven forbid, we actually sit still. And let me tell you, I took that “active” part very seriously!

Morning on Ice: Figure Skating and Finding My Inner Glide

The day began with a figure skating class, and dare I say—I’m getting the hang of it! We spent the session working in circles, which might sound simple, but trust me, there's an art to making it look effortless. There I was, gliding (okay, maybe attempting to glide) my way around the rink, feeling pretty pleased with my progress.

We also started looking at the early movements that lead to spins. Picture this: a graceful, poised lead-up to a spin… minus the spin. So really, it was me prepping for greatness without quite reaching it—like winding up a toy car and forgetting to let it go. But hey, the foundation is there! With a bit more practice (and maybe a splash more flexibility), I’ll be setting myself up for some impressive moves soon.

And who knows? Maybe next week, I'll actually get my feet to do the spinning!

Meal Prep Marathon: Because Training Doesn’t Run on Crisps and Bananas (Apparently)

With a busy training week looming, I launched into full-on kitchen mode. Chopping, stirring, baking—it was like a cooking show without the glamour and with way more Tupperware. I whipped up enough healthy, homemade meals to last the week, all set for the post-run hunger strikes that are as predictable as rain in March.

A Well-Earned Treat: Bananas, Custard, and Ultimate Comfort

After all that meal prep, I treated myself to the ultimate comfort dessert—bananas and custard. Simple? Yes. Glorious? Absolutely. There's something so pure about a bowl of warm custard and perfectly sliced bananas. If I were to design a training fuel plan, I think this would feature prominently!

The Ultimate Recovery: Epsom Salts, Katniss Everdeen, and a Turmeric Latte

Usually, an active rest day would end at the gym spa for some hydrotherapy, but today, I opted for something a bit more “home spa” chic. Fresh sheets were already on the bed, so I drew a bath with Epsom salts, settled in with my favorite film companion—The Hunger Games: Catching Fire—and a warm turmeric latte on the side. Let me tell you, nothing says “recovery” quite like watching Katniss battle her way through the arena while you’re soaking in warm water and sipping something golden and soothing.

As I let the salts do their magic, I imagined my muscles whispering their thanks while my mind got lost in the thrill of Panem. 

Looking Ahead to Week 5: Bring on the Intensity

Today’s “rest” was just the calm before the storm—next week, it’s back to the grind with full-on training. Am I ready? Maybe. But after a recharge week like this, I feel armed with the relaxation, carbs, and just enough Katniss-inspired courage to face it head-on.

So here’s to Week 5—more mileage, more stretching, and maybe, just maybe, a spin on the ice!