With the summer season nearly on us and as we pack up our kit to try our hand at one or more of the multi day events in this country or further afield, I think it is important to put the following two tools in your box.

First. Treat your body with respect, it should now be a finely tuned formula 1 Grand Prix racing machine. So on every race day, make sure that you have a good breakfast to feed the machine. Make sure that you have taken on fluids; drink plenty. When you are out on the course if there is a drink stop, stop and take on water, even if it is only a few sips. Running in hot weather greatly increases the amount of fluid that your body will lose, a light breeze as well increases the loss even more. This leads to the danger of dehydration and even possible heat exhaustion; which are both very serious and should not be treated lightly. When you have finished your run drink fluids and carry on sipping fluids for a couple of hours. Feed yourself quickly with something easy for the body to absorb e.g. a banana. Chocolate will give you a quick buzz but is usually followed quickly by a steep drop in blood sugar that is not good for you. So eat and drink wisely whilst at these events. Keep the alcohol intake on the low side on the night before you run. You will enjoy your holiday running more if you keep an eye on what you are eating and make sure the fuel you are putting in is the right quantity and quality.

Second. If as a result of a mishap in the course you find you have sustained an injury. STOP.
Examine the injured area and seriously consider retiring so as to get someone to look at the injury for you when you get back to the assembly area. If you continue to run you could make a minor injury that only needed a nights RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation) turn into a major one that will bring your holiday running to a complete standstill. Likewise don't take painkillers to mask the pain so you can run the next day. The pain is your body's way of saying “that's enough.” To continue could turn the injury into a major problem that may take months to recover from.

I hope you all have a good summer season and by using your head and swallowing that bit of pride you can come home fit and well.

Andy Thornton

HANDY ANDY'S TOOLBOX 1.

HANDY ANDY'S TOOLBOX 2 & 3.

HANDY ANDY'S TOOLBOX 4, 5 & 6.

HANDY ANDY'S TOOLBOX 7.

HANDY ANDY'S TOOLBOX 8 & 9.