Running
There’s nothing like signing up for a scheduled running event to get you running!
I’ve run on and off for a while; starting with the Nike 5k around Regents Park in London and then dabbling in a few half marathons and varying trail runs over the years. My first one around Silverstone Racetrack around 15 years ago had me strapped from ankle to knee running injured - a vast contrast to my Arthur Lydiard Half completed in my Crossfit days; my fastest and best to date.
Running on the good days feels like you can conquer the world. Time on your feet to clear your head, freedom at its best. And on the bad? Struggling with stitch, breathing, heat, achy muscles… it can be a slog to say the least!
With the Motutapu 10k Dual fast approaching and my run career on hold since having Georgia (other than the occasional 5k and regular traveling sessions), I figured it was time to step it up a notch!
Keep in mind as you read this; this is not a couch to 5k programme. This was just my approach to get from 5-10km this time round!
Week 1: 7km for time.
Week 2: Consolidate 7km route (aiming for faster)
Week 3: 8km turned into 9
Week 4: Max distance in 1:06 (time from last week)
Week 5: Consolidate - 10.5km for time (last weeks distance)
Week 6: 10km for time (plus an extra 2 to get some extra time on my feet)
Week 7: 10km ‘off the clock’ (no timer, no expectation.. just an opportunity to check in with how it all feels)
My tips if you’re wanting to start running;
The hardest part is putting on your trainers and committing to a run in the first place. Getting a benchmark time / run under your belt is a great way to start though and with that ticked off you can only get better!
Redoing an initial run, comparing and consolidating runs can be so beneficial. How did each hill feel? Could you run a little further than last time before you stopped, were your times different, how did your body feel? Be kind to yourself with this; it takes time to find your groove with running so a few seconds taken off your time, a couple of extra driveways run before stopping all makes a difference.
Use an app to track run stats but equally enjoy a run ‘off the clock’ to really tune in to the things mentioned above.
Prevent injury by listening to your body and gradually increasing time on your feet and running distances when ready and able to.
Run with a mate! You can’t beat the added accountability that comes with this, plus it plays a great part in making the time go faster.
Understand that magic happens when you are uncomfortable and you need to feel comfortable with that!
I have to say, how much I am loving my new Saturday morning running routine. It’s locked in my diary each week and I am actually enjoying my time pounding the pavement again. It’s a great place to be!