Article by Team BHM

February 22, 2019 at 12:56 pm

Race news  |  The 2019 race

Name: Matt Rees
Age: 31
Occupation: Online Running Coach
Running Club: Swansea Harriers
Favourite Distance: Marathon
PBs: Marathon: 2:29:55 / Half Marathon: 1:09:19
Goals: Run for my country

How long have you been running?

I started running as a new year’s resolution in 2015 aged 27, so just over 4 years now. I have always been fit through playing sports and going to the gym, but I hated running. Building muscle with heavy weights was more important to me.

Why did you start running?

I have suffered badly with anxiety for many years. One of the main reasons I started running was to try and deal with some of the symptoms of anxiety. Running has helped enormously. It is not a cure but it is a great technique to help overcome some of the challenges of life. I could go on about the anxiety and periods of depression I have faced in the past, but I try to be a much more positive person now and look forward. I still suffer, but I have much better ways of handling it now, and running is major part of that. For years I cared way too much about what people thought of me in every aspect of my life. It would drive me crazy with worry. Now I focus on my most loved ones. They are the ones that matter.

When you first started running what did your training look like?

I thought I had a fairly good knowledge of health and fitness when I started running but I soon realised that I didn’t. Despite spending many hours in the gym and playing football on the weekends my first run was hard. I went slow but it was tough. My first training plan didn’t have any intervals, tempo runs, hills, sessions, or long runs. I didn’t run easy, and I didn’t run hard. I just went out and ran at an uncomfortable pace 3 times a week. I was getting fitter but not making the gains that can be achieved through clever training.

Why didn’t this work?

It’s not that it didn’t work. I was improving, but there was so much more to running than I initially realised. The main reason my progress was restricted was because there was no variation in my plan. I was doing the same thing for every run. I had lots of enthusiasm but very little knowledge on how to train effectively.

How long did it take you to research your own regime?

I did lots of reading and asked lots of questions. I come from an academic background and love research.  I tried to soak up as much knowledge as possible. I didn’t get it right straight away. Lots of my training was through trial and error. I didn’t even realise the importance of long runs until 7 months after I had taken up running. I now see the long run as the most important run of my week. You can improve even when you don’t get it right. That’s what was happening with me. I was getting faster despite the flaws in my training. However, the more I learnt, the better I became. You can always learn something about training and your own body.

How was your training once you started to implement different types of runs?

Initially I found intervals and tempo runs difficult, but I started to improve much faster than I had been from just running the same pace every time. When I started to implement long runs in to my routine, my improvements grew even faster. My training plan started to incorporate hard sessions followed by easy days. It takes some getting used to but the rewards are worth the effort. Additionally, the variation keeps running fun. I think it is important to build these sessions on a strong foundation though. That’s where lots of runners go wrong. They neglect the base training.

Have you received much support from your clubs and family?

I joined Swansea Harriers after a few months of training on my own. I was initially apprehensive and unsure if I was good enough to join a club. However, I soon realised that the club included runners of all different abilities and ages. The club were massively supportive and I had finally found a group of people who weren’t bored by my desire to chat about running. Joining a club really helped my running education and gave me lots of opportunities that I was unaware of.

My family have been supportive, but initially they didn’t really understand my desire to run. I wasn’t a runner and a few months later I was racing and a member of a club. It took people a while to realise that running was not a fad, it was a part of my life that was there to stay. They are much more supportive now but I think they still struggle to come to terms with my commitment to running and the ambitious goals I have set myself.

Tell us about your London Marathon experience which lead to you receiving a Spirit of London Award?

I believe that helping David was the natural thing to do. When you see someone in distress, you don’t really think, you just act. I wanted to help him and make sure he finished the race which starts months before, when you start training. I was astonished by the public reaction and attention the moment received. It’s fantastic to have a positive running story and hopefully it highlights that within the running community there is so much camaraderie.

Matthew Rees (L) of Swansea Harriers helps David Wyeth (C) of Chorlton Runners reach the finish line during the London marathon on April 23, 2017 in London. / AFP PHOTO / Adrian DENNIS

What are your biggest running achievements?

I have won a number of races now. It seems crazy saying that. When I first started running I never thought I would be winning races, and yet 7 months later I won my first event, The Wales 10K in Tenby, on my birthday. That was a special day.

Since then I have gone on to win events including the Great Welsh Marathon, RnR Liverpool Half, and gold at the Welsh 10,000m Championships.

However, my favourite races are usually the races I don’t win. Don’t get me wrong I love winning, but I push myself more when there are faster competitors in the race. I get more satisfaction from really pushing my limits than winning a race. So, I really love the big events. Thousands of runners, a big build up and lots of the best runners. That’s normally when I PB.

What’s your most memorable running moment?

I have already mentioned the iconic moment with David so I will choose something different. I think in running it has to be crossing the finish line in my debut marathon in London. It was just such a huge moment of relief and satisfaction as I knew the suffering was over and all my hard work had come to fruition. I was really proud when I looked down at my watch and saw that I had run 2:29 on my first attempt. Not many people believed I would get near that time, but I knew how much preparation I had put in during the months before. I had huge amounts of self-belief going in to that race. It was an emotional moment.

 What’s your favourite sayings?

I use lots of motivational sayings that I have heard but my favourite quote is from Bart Yasso of Runner’s World:

“I often hear someone say I’m not a real runner. We’re all runners, some just run faster than others. I never met a fake runner”– Bart Yasso.

For me this encapsulates running. Lots of people think they are not fast enough, but I think we are a community. We all go through the same things, no matter what pace you are running.

Another one I like is:

“I already know what giving up feels like. I want to see what happens if I don’t”

This one is a great mantra in a race when it hurts and your head is pleading with you to slow down.

Tell us how you use @thewelshrunner to inspire others?

I try to motivate others by sharing the ups and downs of my training on Instagram and YouTube. Most runners are going through the same things no matter what level you are, so I try to open up my training so others can learn and relate. I share tips and sessions that I use in my own training. I love the running community on social media and am inspired by all of the posts I see on a daily basis.

Article by Team BHM

February 14, 2019 at 1:47 pm

Race news  |  The 2019 race

Brighton Half Marathon: Your Essential Kit List

You’re worked hard mentally and physically to prepare for race day, and now it’s only a week away! With your training all but done, all that remains is to make sure you have everything you need on the day. Runners Need have put together a handy list of the essential kit for a successful half marathon:

Rain Jacket

We all know there’s nothing worse than being in the middle of a great run, and getting soaked by the faithful British rain! Coming prepared for the worst weather will make sure nothing can stop you smashing your goal. A lightweight, breathable rain jacket will make sure you stay dry by protecting you from the elements and ensuring sweat can still escape.

Shop all running jackets: https://www.runnersneed.com/c/clothing/jackets-gilets.html

Phone Holder Armband

An armband means you can keep your prized possession – and motivational tunes – close by during the race. Look for one which is convenient to access (so you don’t waste energy), comfortable and lightweight. Some are also washable, which may be welcome after running 13 miles!

Shop armbands and wallets: https://www.runnersneed.com/c/accessories/arm-wallets.html

Spare Socks and Shoes

Once you’ve crossed that finish line, you’ll probably want to get out of your sweaty running shoes and socks as soon as possible! Making sure you have something to change into allows your feet to begin recovering and keeps you comfortable for the rest of the day. OOFOS flip flops make great recovery shoes, as they allow your feet to air and are built to allow natural motion, so you don’t put extra strain on your feet or legs.

Shop OOFOS flip-flops: https://www.runnersneed.com/p/oofos-unisex-ooriginal-L1114200.html?colour=124

Shop running socks: https://www.runnersneed.com/c/clothing/socks.html

Running Cap

A cap is necessary to protect your head and eyes from the sun. Look for a breathable and vented cap to ensure your head stays cool, and you may want to choose one with built-in sweat bands to prevent the dreaded eye sting!

Shop all running headgear: https://www.runnersneed.com/c/accessories/hats.html

Water Bottle

A no-brainer – staying hydrated is everything during the half marathon! An ergonomically designed bottle will allow you to handle it with ease, ensuring you can hydrate without slowing down. You may opt for a handheld bottle so you can access your hydration quickly, or one which attaches to your kit.

https://www.runnersneed.com/c/nutrition-hydration/water-bottles.html

Gels

Fast-acting gels offer energy and hydration without the bulk of carrying snacks or excess water. Runners Need offer a variety of formulations with different benefits to recharge you during the half marathon.

https://www.runnersneed.com/c/nutrition-hydration/energy-recovery-gels.html

Hydration Powder

Adding an electrolyte hydration powder to your drink will boost your body’s water absorption and keep you performing at your peak.

https://www.runnersneed.com/c/nutrition-hydration/energy-recovery-drinks.html

Safety Pins

Make sure you have a few safety pins with you, so you can wear your race number with pride!

Still not sure what to go for, or need to grab some last-minute essentials? Visit Runners Need in-store to find all the kit, nutrition and expert advice you’ll need to smash the Brighton Half Marathon.

Article by BHM

July 5, 2018 at 1:24 pm

Race news  |  The 2019 race

Running The Grand Brighton Half Marathon? Here’s the lowdown on how to make the most of your stay by the seaside.

The Laines

Brighton does eclectic better than anywhere and the North Laines are home to vintage boutiques, cupcake shops and cafes galore. Snooper’s Paradise is a dusty curiosity shop packed to the rafters with memorabilia from childhood and well worth a mooch around if you have any time spare around race day.

The seafront and Palace Pier

Brighton’s seafront has had a bit of a makeover in recent years, with seaside-shabby now seaside-chic. New boutiques have popped up under the arches close to the beautiful Victorian Band Stand and new-ish landmark the British Airways i360 now stands majestic on the seafront, offering views to France on especially clear days. There’s a collection of restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs on the seafront. And you can’t leave the seaside without a mosey on the Palace Pier, where you’ll find quintessential British seaside fodder: fish and chips, ice creams and candy floss.

The Royal Pavilion

Former Royal residence the Pavilion was a party palace, a seaside retreat for George, Prince of Wales, who became the Prince Regent in 1811. The building is Brighton’s answer to the Taj Mahal, with opulent Indian architecture on the exterior and contrasting Chinese décor in the interior. It’s unlike any other building in Britain – and it epitomises this eclectic, vibrant city rather perfectly.

Steve Ovett statue

Eagle eyes won’t have to walk far to see the statue of local Olympian Ovett on race day of The Grand Brighton Half Marathon – the bronze statue erected ahead of the London 2012 Olympics lies in the race village, a fitting tribute to the Brighton-born runner who went on to break the world record for the 1,500m and mile run in 1980.

Coffee shops

Independent coffee shops are thriving in Brighton and Hove and the locals have followed their noses and shunned the big chains in favour of indies producing great roasts. Small Batch has a number of outlets dotted throughout the city, then there’s Flour Pot Bakery, Café Coho, Marwoods, Bond St Coffee, plus plenty more.

Cinemas

You’ll need to put your feet up after the race and Brighton is home to four cinemas, all within walking range of the race village on the seafront. The Odeon on the seafront and Cineworld at the Marina are the places to watch blockbusters, while Komedia and the Duke of York tend to screen art house films. The latter also claims to be the oldest cinema in continuous use in Britain.

Hotel, food & drink close to Race Village

Hotels close to race village

The Grand Brighton – 4*
Premier Inn, North Street – 3*
MyHotel – 4*
Seattle Hotel – 3*
Blanche House – 3*
Hilton Brighton Metropole – 4*
Hotel du Vin – 4*
Royal Albion – 2.5*
Umi hotel – 3*
Queen’s hotel – 3*
Ibis – 2*
See more suggestions, including B&Bs, on our accommodation page.

Popular pubs

Basketmakers Arms, the North Laines
The North Laine Brewhouse, the North Laines
Brighton Rocks, Rock Place, Kemptown
The Black Dove, Kemptown
The Fountain Head, North Road
Pub du Vin, Ship Street
Earth & Stars, Windsor St

Grub

British: Bill’s, Pub du Vin
French: Mange Tout, Plateau
Veggie: Food for Friends, Terre a Terre
Meat & fish: The Coal Shed, The Salt Rooms
Pizza: Pizzaface (takeaway)
Burgers: Burger Brothers (takeaway), MeatLiquor
Pub food: The North Laines, the Bristol Bar, the Basketmakers, The Dorset, Yeoman, Earth & Stars

Sports massage, physio & osteopathy

Sundial, Queen’s Road
Body Rehab, Hove
Back in Brighton, North Street

Article by BHM

June 21, 2018 at 1:07 pm

Race news  |  The 2019 race

There are all sorts of nutrition tips out there – some good, some bad. Helping us to sort us the wheat from the chaff is sports nutritionist Renee McGregor, author of the book Training Food.

1. Coffee increases fat metabolism and can help you lose weight = myth

“There is some evidence that caffeine – rather than just coffee – can boost your metabolism a little. Is it significant enough to cause a huge amount of weight loss? Probably not. I use it with athletes when we’re looking at performance – there’s a lot of evidence to show that using caffeine in the correct manner and in the correct dose can improve performance because it will affect your perceived effort – so particularly at the end of a race when you’re feeling quite tired. Typically I’ll get people to take a caffeine gel in the final 5k at the end of a marathon or half marathon. It can really help you to feel like you’re not as tired and the effort you’re putting in is slightly easier. But in terms of weight loss, there’s very little evidence to show that the increase is enough.”

2. Eating late at night will cause you to gain weight = myth

“This is a good old fashioned myth. There’s very little proof behind it and it really depends how sedentary you are. If you’re quite active then eating late won’t do you any harm – you don’t suddenly start storing fat overnight. If you look at the chemistry, overnight is when you’re fasting so that’s generally when you’re breaking down your stores to use for energy and to keep your blood sugar levels constant. The problem really is if you over-consume calories during the day – if you over-consume you’re going to end up putting weight on.”

3. Chocolate milkshake is great post workout fuel = truth

This is definitely true. Chocolate milk rehydrates, it’s got the right combination of carbs and protein, and it’s also got the right combination of the right types of carbs and protein. After a workout you’re going to need to refuel glycogen stores and repair muscles. You’re going to need an easily digestible carbohydrate and the lactose and sugar from the chocolate does that. And you’ll need an easily digestible protein which you’ll get from the whey in the milk, so it’s a really good choice.”

4. Haribo or jelly sweets are as good as an energy gel for fuelling during a long run = truth

“You can indeed use jelly sweets in replacement for gels; it’s very much an individual preference on what you like to take during a run. Most energy gels will provide you with 20-30g of carbohydrate, so you’d need about 5 or 6 jelly babies to get the same amount. I tend to use gels because I find them easier – I find it too difficult to chew while I’m running, but my friend prefers to eat a jelly baby every few minutes to keep her going. It’s really just preference.”

5. A high protein diet can help you to lose weight = truth

“Yes it can. I would never advocate a pure protein diet; I think you definitely need some carbohydrate in there but a high protein diet will help with satiety levels – so keeping you fuller for longer – and also help to maintain lean muscle mass while restricting your energy intake. Often when you restrict your calorie intake you’ll lose lean muscle and fat mass, but the more lean muscle mass you lose, the less metabolically active you are, so by having a high protein diet you’ll maintain your muscle, which means you’ll remain metabolically active and the weight loss will continue.”

6. Eggs increase blood cholesterol levels = myth

“There used to be a belief that eggs increased your cholesterol level, but actually you make cholesterol within your own body so if you have a very high fat diet and you are prone to high cholesterol, you will make it anyway. Eggs themselves are not contributing to high cholesterol.”

7. Your body can adapt to fat or protein as its primary energy fuel = truth

“It can and I do help ultra runners with fat adaptation, but we never ever take carbs out entirely; we periodise their intake. So if they’re going to do a track session, they will still have carbs in their diet. Your body will always use carbohydrate preferentially as fuel and it will use it a lot quicker and lot easier so you’ll be able to maintain a higher pace. It’s the fuel you tend to need in a race or high intensity session. But if you’re going out for a long slow run where you’re not worried about the pace, by all means do it fasted or without carbs in your system – so for example rather than eggs on toast you’d have eggs and avocado, or something similar. Eating in this way makes you become better at utilising fat as fuel. We all have huge stores of fat within us, no matter how thin a person is, and we become better at using that fat as fuel. So when you go into a race situation where you are taking on carbs, although you will use carbs as fuel, your body will also be burning a higher percentage of fat than normal because it’s got used to using fat as fuel as well.

“As yet, however, there is no study to prove that a high protein or a high fat diet actually improves performance – they’ve done studies to show that you can use protein and fat as a source of fuel, but there hasn’t been a study so far which has tracked performance. So far, all the scientists have said that periodising your carb intake according to when you need it can help your body to learn to use fat stores for fuel. It can be hard at first for your body to get used to, but your body does adapt.”

8. Gluten-free foods are healthier = myth

“For some people a gluten-free diet is essential, but others eat gluten-free because they think it’s healthier. But recent studies have found that a gluten-free diet when you don’t need it doesn’t benefit you in any way so there’s really no point in doing it unless you need to. Some people say they feel bloated after a bowl of pasta or bread and they blame it on the gluten, but the thing that most people don’t realise is that for every gram of carbohydrate you have in your body, you tend to store 1-4 grams of fluid as well so you do tend to feel fuller. That doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve got an intolerance to it – it can just mean you’re holding more water, and to a certain degree that’s good because it will make you feel fuller. And if you eliminate anything you don’t need to from your diet, your body will struggle a little when you introduce it in the future.”

Article by BHM

May 17, 2018 at 9:05 am

Race news  |  The 2019 race

Keen to join us on race day next year? Our early bird window will be closing very soon so don’t leave it too late to sign up.

The race date for 2019 is 24th February, so once again we’ll be one of the first half marathons on the running calendar and a perfect training run if you’re planning to run a Spring marathon.

We’re delighted to welcome back The Grand as our headline sponsor again for the 2019 race, and it promises to be another race to remember!

Get inspired with our 2018 race day video…