A DAY IN THE LIFE OF PAULA RADCLIFFE – MARATHON RUNNER

8:30 am

After I get up, I always check my pulse. It’s usually 38-40 beats per minute. If it is too high, I rest for the day. It’s so important to listen to my body. I have a drink and a snack while I’m giving my daughter, Isla, her breakfast.

9:30 am

My husband, Gary, and I take Isla to kindergarten and then I start my training. I run, and Gary rides his bike next to me and gives me drinks. Four times a week, I have a cold bath or I go for a swim in a lake after training.

12:30 pm

I pick up Isla from kindergarten and we go home. I eat a big lunch of cereal and fruit. Then I have rice and salmon, or toast and peanut butter. I try to eat as soon as possible after training. After lunch, I play with my daughter.

5 pm

I go running again. In total, I run about 145 miles every week. I write about all my runs in my training journal. I record everything, including how I feel and what the weather is like.

7 pm

In the evening, I do my exercises. These keep me strong during long runs. Isla likes to climb on me while I stretch. Gary gives Isla her tea and cooks mine while I finish my exercises. Then I finish cooking dinner while Gary gives Isla her bath.

7:30 pm

Gary and I eat our dinner. I have red meat four times a week with rice, pasta or potatoes, and lots of vegetables. We also eat a lot of stir-fries, because they’re quick and healthy.

8 pm

We put Isla to bed and relax. I check my emails and watch TV or chat with Gary. I love police and hospital dramas!

10:30 pm

Time for bed. As I brush my teeth, I stand on one leg and then the other. This keeps my legs strong. Finally, I go to bed and sleep.