Lessons of a long distance runner

1. If you have no sense of direction, plan your route and never EVER deviate from it. Don't get to Wallyford and decide instead of turning around, as planned, you'll go off down a random road because it feels like the right direction. It never is and you WILL get lost.

2. If you find yourself running past a random event, make sure marshals realise you're not participating. Do I look like I'm doing Tough Mudder? Oh ok then, perhaps I do, but honestly, who runs to somewhere near Dalkeith and then also does Tough Mudder on top of that?

3. Take heed, if random locals start laughing at you, there's a reason. One that becomes all too apparent as you turn the corner and see the steepest hill you've ever seen. Be proud when you manage to run up the entire thing.

4. Always plan toilet stops and somewhere to refill your water bottle. Not usually a problem if you've followed rule no. 1. Never have I been happier to see this road sign as I was bursting for the loo and out of water. But one question? Why does Dobbies only have blistering hot water in their toilet sinks? I had to go to their food court and get a nice lady to help me fill my water bottle.

5. Don't inadvertently turn off your GPS mapping software around mile 14.

6. If all else fails, find a local landmark and plan your route accordingly. Just make sure it's the RIGHT landmark. I saw Arthur's Seat in the distance and thought, right - brilliant head for that! You can't see Arthur's Seat from where I was, but you could see the Pentlands. It was only when I got a bit closer that I saw Hillend Ski Slope and realised I was heading for the wrong hill. New plan, keep massive hill to the left.

7. In your tired, confused and lost state, check EVERY junction for cars. Nothing to worry about just a few near misses and abrupt stops that I'm sure my quads will thank me for later.

8. Be happy that you make it home safely.

Despite the whole getting lost thing, I managed a good 20 miles, with about 4 killer hills. Perfect Loch Ness training, so that's something to be happy about!

Today's run: 20 miles
August running mileage: 96 miles
2013 running mileage: 744 miles