Stride Magazine - Winter 2013

Winter 2013

the jogscotland magazine

jogscotland.org.uk

WIN! places at the Bupa Great Winter Run Four page special: The jogscotland Awards Inspiration: I ran a half marathon - after three strokes Cross training: Spinning plus‌ the best winter running events for your diary

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contents 04

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

contents Warm-Up Rhonda Fitzpatrick

06

Race Review Aviemore half marathon

22

News and Events

08

Mini Strides

24

SAMH Partnership

10

Scottish Slimmers

26

Race Review Peebles Duathlon

11

Race Preview Bupa Great Winter Run

28

Great Groups

12

Running for Autuism

30

Race Directory

13

In Shorts

32

Inspiration Stuart Patterson

15

Cross Training - Spinning

34

jogscotland Awards 2013

36

Run 4 It

18

Cool Down

40

Great Scottish Run

20

David Syme - Jogging Along

42

sponsors and funders

Front cover photograph: Great Scottish Run 2013

Designed and Printed by

Meet the Jog Crew 05

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Meet the Jog Crew

Billy Mitchell Head of jogscotland

Ann Davidson Programmes Co-ordinator

Sue Gyford Digital Communications and Press Officer

billy.mitchell@ scottishathletics.org.uk

ann.davidson@ scottishathletics.org.uk

sue.gyford@ scottishathletics.org.uk

07801 634198

0131 539 7341

0131 539 7350Winning is not everything, but the effort to win is.

Jog Scotty The Jog Dog! Mascot of jogscotland

Main Office

Membership Department

jogscotland@ scottishathletics.org.uk

membership@ jogscotland.org.uk

0131 539 7341

0131 273 3003

Stride – the jogscotland members’ magazine Editor: Sue Gyford sue.gyford@scottishathletics.org.uk Designer: Simon Gray, 3-56 Media Ltd Photographers: Bob Marshall Photography (LP run p9), Scott Craighead (parkrun p9), Paul Douglas Pictures (Run Balmoral p8), Steven Somerville (Jed Joggers, p9), Abal Studios (Awards pp36/37) Other photographs submitted by jogscotland members and supporters.

Published four times a year by scottishathletics. Copyright©2013 Scottish Athletics Ltd.

www.jogscotland.org.uk

www.twitter.com/jogscotland

www.facebook.com/jogscotty

Warm-Up 06

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Warm-Up: Caring – and raring to go In each edition of Stride, a guest contributor shares their love of running…

Rhonda Fitzpatrick is Jog Leader with the Jogging Buddies group at Houston in Renfrewshire.

It’s been quite a journey and I’m not finished yet!

I started running, a bit half-heartedly, back in the early 80s. My Dad got the bug and I was recruited to carry his bags and cheer him on. That began to get a bit boring, so I decided to try a few 10Ks and half marathons. I have to admit, I didn’t always completely commit to the training! I always managed to put in just enough miles to enable me to take part in the Glasgow Women’s 10K every year. I have more Tshirts from these races than I care to admit - all used as nighties as they were always too big for me.

It was about 25 years later that I decided to up my game a bit and take my running more seriously. I was reasonably fit thanks to having done a lot of hill-walking.

I Googled running clubs and came up with jogscotland which led me to Jogging Buddies. They had a group in Johnstone. I went along, a bit nervous, but came away having thoroughly enjoyed the session.

Everyone was friendly and I discovered I was a wee bit better than I had thought.

Thanks to the encouragement of Ellen, one of the Jog Leaders, I started to take part in more races and completed my first marathon in Edinburgh in 2009. I was never likely to win anything but my times started to improve and I got a bit more competitive – with myself at least. I suggested that they might think about starting a group in my home town of Houston, in Renfrewshire. I had always been a bit quiet but with the encouragement of the coaches at Jogging Buddies, I completed the jogscotland top Rhonda after running in Belfast, bottom L-R Rhonda with her Jogging Buddies after the Highland Fling relay; Members of Houston Jogging Buddies after the Glasgow 10K; Rhonda after running in Oldham

training programme and became a leader.

Over the last five or six years, running has really played a much more important part in my life. My husband, Frank, took ill. I thought my running days were over for while. It was a stressful time and I eventually realised that I had to look after my own health. I was no good to him if I was ill too. So, encouraged by Frank, I kept the running going. It gave me time to myself and I would come home ready to start again.

For the last seven years, I have worked for a charity, Carers Scotland (part of Carers UK). They support the 6.7 million unpaid carers in Scotland who look after an elderly relative, sick friend or disabled family member. Carers Scotland provides information and influences policy through research based on carers’ real life experiences and campaigns to make life better for them.

Like most carers, I didn’t see myself as a carer. It is just something you do because you love the person.

I wanted a place in The London Marathon, but having missed out on a ballot place twice before, I asked Carers UK for a charity place. I didn’t realise these were balloted too! I wouldn’t know until October if I had a place. So, I decided to kick-start the fundraising by running a half marathon in every city where Carers UK has an office – Glasgow, Belfast, Cardiff, Manchester – and finish, hopefully, with the London Marathon. So far, in less than a month, I’ve run in Belfast, Cardiff and Manchester and have gained three more nighties into the bargain! To date, I have raised over £1800 and had a whale of a time.

and being away from home takes its toll too. It was HARD! However, as always, something comes along to lift your spirits just when you need it most. People are very supportive, even if they are not runners themselves, and the wee mill town villages are very picturesque, though I must admit that I wasn’t terribly interested at the time!

What was my time you ask? Not so proud of this one. 1:53:34. Probably not too bad, considering.

That’s three out of four half marathons out of the way. I just have a Glasgow race to find but no hurry. I have now been told that I have a place in the London marathon and am looking forward to that – I think!

Cardiff was next and it was beautiful. The weather, the city, and the people were all lovely and I completed it in 1:48:02.

Before joining Jogging Buddies and jogscotland, I never thought I could do all this. The most wonderful thing has been the satisfaction of knowing that I have helped other people to achieve goals that they never thought possible either, thereby passing on the baton that was passed to me. To see the look on the face of one of “my” runners when they cross the line of their first 10K, still brings a lump to my throat. Moments like that are priceless.

Now, Oldham was a bit different. Down to earth with a bang I’m afraid. The “Milltown to Moors” was hill after hill after hill. A climb of 1100 feet I believe, with lots of club runners – and me. I was tired even at the start, having done the two other half marathons in previous weeks. The travel

So, running is not only good for your health but also does wonders for your confidence and if you can raise money for a good cause, great! You can follow my progress at www.carerscotland.org and if you wish, you can donate on www.justgiving.com/ Rhonda-Fitzpatrick1.

Belfast was great. There were lovely people and to my surprise I came second in my age category -F50- with a time of 1:48:05.

The first I knew about it was when I received a cheque for £50 in the post!

Warm-Up 07

Frank has been well for about three years now and it made me think about using my running to help support unpaid carers.

News and Events 08

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

News and Events Run Garioch The countdown to Run Garioch 2014 has begun! Jog Scotty and jogscotland programmes co-ordinator Ann Davidson joined the jogscotland group Garioch Gazelles for the event launch at Inverurie’s Garioch Sports Centre.

The event, which takes place on March 23rd, will include a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Junior Run, with entries now open on www.rungarioch.co.uk Race Director Eric Simpson said: “Run Garioch is Inverurie's largest annual community event. Thanks to the support of all our sponsors and patrons, we’ve been able to invest heavily in race infrastructure to make the next Run Garioch on 23 March 2014 better than ever.”

Hitting the big time Congratulations to Gillian Cardno-Strachan of Fraserburgh jogscotland, who seems to have become a bit of a local celebrity!

above Scotty with Eric Simpson, Run Garioch and Ann Davidson

above Gillian Cardno-Strachan with daughter Alexx at the bank

Gillian was asked by the local TSB bank manager if she would go along and cut the ribbon to reopen their branch. She said “There are much more worthy people in the Broch but I was happy to do it if it promoted Fraserburgh jogscotland!”

Today red ribbon, tomorrow red carpet – see you in Hollywood, Gillian!

Running with Richard Members of West Dunbartonshire jogscotland were among those to join Paralympian Richard Whitehead on his incredible challenge of running from John O'Groats to Lands End. Richard was accompanied on each stretch of his journey by local runners, and between Tarbert and Clydebank these included jogscotties Chari, Gerry, Karen and Maurice (pictured).

Richard went on to complete the challenge, completing 40 marathons in 40 days, and raising an incredible £196,800 for Sarcoma UK and Scope.

above Richard Whitehead with members of West Dunbartonshire jogscotland

Parkrun 09

A revolutionary race The fourth annual LP Run (above) took place on August 18th at Meadowbank Stadium, organised by the Edinburgh Running Network. Instead of a typical race where everyone runs a set distance and records their individual time, the LP run is unique in that entrants run as many laps of the track as they can in 33 and a third minutes. Runners collect a rubber band for each lap to help them keep count. The race also boasts a music soundtrack of tunes from the 1960s, 70s and 80s selected by runners on their entry forms. The event also raised an impressive £627 for chosen charity, Down's Syndrome Scotland.

Congratulations to Edinburgh parkrun, which celebrated its fourth birthday on October 19th (pictured below). Since the event kicked off, more than 8,000 different runners have completed more than 50,000 runs – covering 251,665km in all! Refreshments were laid on after the run, and a collection raised £250 for Simpsons Special Care Baby Unit.

Jed join the GNR We received this great photo (below) of Jed Joggers on a day out to the Great North Run. Between them they raised around £4,000 for various charities – great going, ladies!

STOP PRESS! Just as we went to press, we received confirmation that the jogscotland Christmas Cracker will take place again this year on December 15th at Strathclyde Country Park.

The event will be led by our friends at North Lanarkshire Leisure Ltd, who have supported us so well in the past with this fun, festive 5K. For more details as we get them, keep an eye on www.jogscotland.org.uk, www.facebook.com/jogscotty, or ask your Jog Leader.

above Jed Joggers at the Great North Run

Scotland has also seen the arrival of its twelfth parkrun, with the launch of the new route at Victoria Park, Glasgow on October 12th. If you’re in the area, why not get down to the park on a Saturday morning and give it a go?

Visit parkrun.org.uk for more information and to register before you go along.

Further away from home, it seems jogscotties are keen to keep up their parkrunning habit even when they’re on the other side of the world! During September and October, we had three different members taking part in parkruns in Australia. Kristen Davies ran at Claisebrook Cove, near Perth; Fiona Wootton parkran at New Farm Park near Brisbane, and Caroline Stickings ran at Aveley, also near Perth. Great work, ladies!

SAMH Partnership 10

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Sir Chris Hoy joined jogscotland in Edinburgh on October 24th to announce an important new partnership with the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH).

We’re teaming up with the charity because the links between physical health and mental health are so important.

With the help of SAMH we’ll teach Jog Leaders to ensure that their group members look after their mental health as well as their physical fitness. We’ll also spread the word that keeping active can really help your mental health and wellbeing.

In addition, we’ll deliver Jog Leader training courses to SAMH staff and service users, so that jogscotland programmes can benefit even more people.

The partnership was launched at Redhall Walled Garden in Edinburgh on October 24th with the help of Sir Chris and aspiring 2014 Commonwealth Games 800m athlete Guy Learmonth.

Sir Chris, who has been involved with SAMH and its Get Active campaign since 2009, said: “The work SAMH does across

Scotland supports thousands of people with mental health problems and it’s clear to see here at Redhall Walled Garden that increasing physical activity is one of the best steps to take towards better mental health. I’m proud to be able to support the incredible work the charity does and to meet service users who have benefited from SAMH’s resources."

Nigel Holl, Chief Executive of jogscotland’s parent body, scottishathletics, said: “Our partnership with SAMH is very important to us, and offers much in the way of assisting both organisations. Through the wellestablished jogscotland programme and our member athletics clubs, we have a focus on physical health programmes to help people start and progress with physical activity.

“The mental health benefits of physical activity are well-documented, but we know SAMH can help us improve our support in such a vital area.

“Equally, we believe that we can support the excellent SAMH networks across Scotland through links to jogging groups and athletics clubs - and help many other people benefit. This partnership is about us doing more of what we all know works – improvements in physical and mental health are inextricably linked together.”

Peebles Duathlon

Race Review

by Emma Anderson

It was with some trepidation on August 25th that I lined up under the bridge for the start of the Peebles Duathlon, my first event which wasn't just running.

I hovered at the back with others who also confessed to being first timers. The previous day had been spent removing mudguards, racks and light fixings from my hybrid bike in an attempt to make me feel better rather than go faster. The sight of teardrop shaped helmets, aero bars and time trial bikes lined up on the rails made me slightly nervous again.

Once the race was underway I settled into my pace and found it pleasant running along next to the Tweed. The family support waved from the play park on the two laps

1/2 MARATHON

S U N D A Y

Race Review 11

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

5K FUN RUN

9 T H

and then it was time for transition. Helmet on, quick drink, bike off rack, run up to the road and I was away. The route took us on the back road towards Innerleithen. It's undulating enough to be challenging, but fun too. For some reason Queen's Don't Stop Me Now was going round and round my head, but I think it helped as I pushed those pedals. Then it was back to the rack, helmet off and time to run again on slightly wobbly legs.

I was glad to see the finish line, but I'd really enjoyed myself. The field was friendly with someone who was already putting his bike back on his car cheering me on while I was still finishing my run. A delicious buffet of wraps and fruit was served afterwards and I wasn't the only first timer who was hoping to be back next year!

Emma Anderson, jogscotland member, Swanston

5K TEAM ATTACK

M A R C H

2 0 1 4

w w w . i n v e r n e s s h a l f m a r a t h o n . c o . u k Supporting

Great Groups 12

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Great Groups!

Meet some of our joggers from around the country

jogscotland Hazlehead

Penicuik Beginners Group

Hazlehead Park in Aberdeen is a popular destination for many runners, but it came as a surprise to us that there was no jogscotland group. However, thanks to the efforts of our committed group of leaders, along with support from Friends of Hazlehead, a group has now been formed.

The Penicuik Beginners Group was formed in July 2013. The jogging group was created on the back of Happy Healthy Active, a weight loss group that began in March to help people to lose weight and feel great.

Hazlehead is an ideal location offering access to trails and the excellent new 500m track.

We now have approximately 20-25 people running on a Monday and 15-20 on a Wednesday night, over the four sub-groups that we run - beginners, intermediate, fast intermediate and the fast group.

Whether you are new to running, looking for a new way to improve your fitness or a more advanced runner interested in meeting like-minded people to challenge you, we cater for runners of all levels.

If you fancy joining or for more information contact: jogscotlandhazlehead@gmail.com Carole Mathieson and Robyn Warrender

Our jogging group has been a great optional bolt-on to Happy Healthy Active.

The group is made up of different levels of abilities but we have formed great friendships over this year and this has really helped to build a strong support network that offers loads of encouragement.

One of our beginners said: “I have been attending the beginners jogging group for just over a month now and to begin with I thought I would not enjoy it. From the very first week I noticed a change in my level of fitness and look forward to meeting the group each week. The group is very supportive and we keep each other motivated. I really enjoy attending the group and plan to do some additional running now too.�

Jogging is a brilliant way to assist with weight management and change body shape. At our weight loss group we promote eating a healthy, balanced diet and also highlight the importance of being physically active. It is wonderful to see our friends getting the results they want and we are thrilled to see that new people are joining us for jogging each week!

It is still early days for our group but our aim is to be 5k ready for the beginning of 2014. Some new members have already mentioned how keen they are to tackle a half marathon so there is no doubt that this group has great potential.

Jo Skead - joskead@hotmail.co.uk

Race Directory 1 December

25 January

Inverness Santa 5k run, Bught Park, Inverness

Buchlyvie 10k, Buchlyvie

8 December

Forfar multi-terrain half marathon, Strathmore Rugby Club, Forfar

Aberdeen Santa 6k run, Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen Edinburgh Christmas 5k run, Inverleith Park, Edinburgh Funding Neuro/SAMH half marathon and 10k run, Dumbarton 15 December jogscotland NL Leisure Christmas Cracker 5k Challenge, Strathclyde Park

2 February

16 February Kirkintilloch 12.5k race, St Agatha’s Primary School, Kirkintilloch 23 February Devilla Forest 5k and 15k trail races, Devilla Forest, Fife

There’s an event for everyone, go to www.jogscotland.org.uk/events for full details.

Race Directory 13

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Race Directory 14

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Race Directory cont’d 1 March Cupar 5 mile road race, Cupar Stranraer half marathon and junior fun run, Stranraer Academy, Stranraer 15 March

Free parkrun events every Saturday at 9.30am at: Cramond, Edinburgh Strathclyde Park, Lanarkshire Pollok Park, Glasgow

Clydebank 5k road race, Playdrome, Clydebank

Tollcross Park, Glasgow

16 March

Victoria Park, Glasgow

Alloa half marathon, Leisure Bowl, Alloa

Callendar Park, Falkirk

23 March Run Garioch half marathon, 10k race, 5k run and junior fun run, Garioch Sports Centre, Inverurie 31 March Running Sisters (Tayside) 5k for women, Monikie Country Park, Angus 26-27 April Run Balmoral (junior 5K, 10K and 15 mile)

North Inch, Perth Eglinton Country Park, Irvine Beach Esplanade, Aberdeen Bught Park, Inverness Craigtoun Country Park, St Andrews Camperdown Park, Dundee And Park’n’Run, Balloch www.parkrun.org.uk

There’s an event for everyone, go to www.jogscotland.org.uk/events for full details.

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Inspiration – Stuart Patterson When 54-year-old Stuart Patterson lined up at the start of this year’s Amsterdam Half Marathon, he was among many proud participants. But for Stuart, it was a particularly extraordinary achievement – just ten weeks earlier, he had suffered his third stroke.

But health problems haven’t stopped Stuart in his tracks, as he tells us…

I’ve always done exercise, but I was originally more of a hill walker than a runner. However, when I was 46, I had a stroke. Although I had some medical conditions that may have contributed to it, the stroke came pretty much out of the blue.

It was a wake-up call, and there was no definitive reason for it, which was quite scary. When something like that happens, the two questions you want answered are “Why did it happen?” and “How do I stop it from happening again?” One of the answers to the second question was regular exercise.

It took about three months of recovery before I could go back to work and lead a normal life, but once I was feeling strong enough, I decided to try jogscotland there was a group in Rosemount, Aberdeen, so I joined them.

It wasn’t that I was unfit, but it was daunting to actually walk through the door I’m not someone who joins things, it’s safe to say, and I thought “I’m not going to like this.” But both Raymond and Margaret Simpson made me very, very welcome, and they made it quite easy to be part of.

I had another stroke in 2007, which was similar to the first one. The recovery time was similar, but it was a bit scarier to have had the same thing happen twice. I thought “What’s going on here?” But it was a case of getting back and keeping exercising, and trying to lose a bit of weight, get my blood pressure down and to keep a really close eye on my health. Running – or at least, exercise in general – is the best thing for that.

Inspiration 16

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Inspiration continued…

above with Dave and Sarah

above Amsterdam

I’d been reasonably well since my second stroke, and had begun to think “That was then, this is now - I’m through all that,” - and then, 10 weeks ago, it happened again. It was a different type of stroke this time and the only reason I’m getting for it happening is dehydration – I was hill walking on the West Coast of Scotland for three days in a row beforehand and it was very hot.

After the stroke, I couldn’t speak - the words formed in my brain but they wouldn’t come out of my mouth, and my right hand was affected. But really I wasn’t so scared as I had been the first times. I thought “Here we go again,” but things gradually came back. Physically you wouldn’t know now that I’d suffered three strokes.

I was in full training mode for the Amsterdam Marathon at the time. I can remember the ambulance journey afterwards, and my first question when I got to Raigmore Hospital in Inverness was “What about my marathon training?”

I’ve been very lucky that my consultant at the hospital is a runner as well, and someone who takes exercise. The advice you don’t want as a runner is what my mum says to me – “You’re doing too much, go and sit in an armchair,” - you want somone who knows what exercise is all about and encourages you.

I had absolute confidence that the consultant knew what he was talking about.

He said ‘Maybe don’t do the marathon, because with the best will in the world you’re going to get dehydrated if you do a marathon, and that’s no good. But what about a half?”

I was delighted that I’d still be able to take part in Amsterdam. I do something maybe once a year to raise money for Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland. The charity has been an incredible support – the nurses there seem to know what you’re going to say before you say it. Having that kind of understanding is fantastic. It means a lot to me to be able to raise money for them.

About three weeks after my last stroke, I did a little bit of jogging myself down the road and back, just to see how it went, and it was fine, so I got back to jogging again with jogscotland, slowly but surely. I would say to anyone in the same boat – don’t just assume that you can’t do it, take medical advice.

I’d been due to run at Amsterdam with my fellow Jog Leaders Sarah and Dave Gove. After my stroke, Dave joined me in changing his entry from marathon to half marathon, so that he could be with me at the event.

Inspiration 17 above jogscotland Rosemount

I decided ahead of time that I would see how I felt on the day, and if I didn’t feel up to it I wouldn’t run, but I felt fine - actually, I was surprisingly calm until we got to the start.

The weather was good and there were lots and lots of people, and a real buzz about the place. I ran the whole thing, and kept my pace incredibly steady all the way through, pacing myself to people nearby who seemed to be running at the same speed. When I saw a sign that said 3K to go, I thought “No problem!” – and at the end I thought I could have gone faster and could have gone further. The best thing is that we actually raised more than £900 for CHSS – more than double the original target.

I’m feeling very positive and I’ll be back for more – I’m already choosing my next half marathons. I’m so glad I got involved with jogscotland. I enjoy the leading, and I enjoy seeing people coming along and, from lacking confidence like I did, to then see them in six to eight weeks and they’re ready for their first 5K is fantastic.

It’s the camaraderie and it’s the company. Before jogscotland I was the kind of person who if my backside touches the settee, that’s me. But now, every Monday or Wednesday, rain or shine, it’s jogscotland time.

Kit Launch

Official Merchandise 2013/14

Run 4 It 18

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

We are delighted to have renewed our partnership with Scotland’s running specialists, Run 4 It. Run 4 It has also now become the official jogscotland merchandise supplier - you can see the full range of goods available below. Everything in the range comes with jogscotland logos as standard, while T-shirts, vests, hoodies and jackets can all be customised, so you can add the name of your group.

Head of jogscotland Billy Mitchell said: “We’re delighted to be renewing our partnership with Run 4 It. Their future support will enable us to keep improving and expanding our programme, helping ever more people to become healthier and happier. To also now have Run 4 It on board as our official merchandise supplier is an exciting new development that will be great for our members.”

Run 4 it 19

What's more, as a jogscotland member, you can use your 10 per cent member discount at Run 4 It to unlock reductions on the entire range. Just visit www.run4it.com/shop/jogscotland and order online using the code jog2014 to get your discount. You can also pop into your local Run4It shop to view samples.

Great Scottish Run 20

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Great Scottish Run Around 30,000 people got active on the streets of Glasgow on the weekend of 5th/6th October for the Great Scottish Run – including lots of jogscotties. Here’s a few pics from the jogscotland album…

Race Review 22

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Race Review – Aviemore half marathon The Aviemore half marathon and ‘10K for all’ are organised by the Speyside Trust to raise funds for Badaguish Outdoor Centre which helps people with disabilities to enjoy outdoor activity holidays.

The centre is in a beautiful setting in the heart of Glenmore Forest Park in the Cairngorms National Park and this year it was the starting point for both events.

Because the centre can only be reached via a forest track cars aren’t allowed to drive up to the start and all the runners have to travel by specially arranged buses from the McDonald resort in Aviemore where the races end.

When we reached Badaguish there were the usual long queues to use the toilets but there were also tea ladies handing out not just tea and coffee but also porridge. It was a chilly morning and this was very welcome.

I sipped my tea and got ready as the official warm up got underway.

The 10K runners were getting ready for their race which would start after the half marathon runners set off. Both groups use the same start and finish but the 10K course heads straight into Aviemore while the half marathon route follows trails around Loch Morlich. As we passed the first mile marker, Loch Morlich could be seen across to our right – a spectacular view. The track

was fairly firm but there were a number of rocks so I needed to pay attention to the conditions underfoot as we headed downhill. After crossing the road we were directed onto more forest trails and started to climb steeply. Anywhere else this would be a HILL but as this is the Cairngorms it’s ‘just a hill’! (I wasn’t the only one to walk at this stage) Then I spotted a smiley face made of pebbles that someone had created at the side of the path. That really cheered me up and before I knew it I had reached the water station at the top of the hill.

On the downhill stretch I managed to catch up with people who’d passed me on the way up. The course wound around the shores of Loch Morlich and even though the sunshine of the previous day had been replaced by clouds the views were still beautiful. This is probably the most picturesque half marathon in the UK and the combination of trail and road make it a bit different.

After the next water station it was time to join the ‘ski road’ and run downhill into Aviemore. The change from the soft conditions of the forest tracks was hard on the legs. Fortunately the few car drivers using the road were patient and courteous and the marshals did a great job of making sure that the road crossings were safe.

As I crossed the old railway bridge I knew I wasn’t far from the finish – just one more hill to climb and it wasn’t as bad as I’d remembered. A police officer was ensuring runners could cross the road safely into the finish area and it was lovely to hear shouts of “Well done Ann” from my friends who had already finished – definitely one of the benefits of being a slower runner.

In the finish area I got the chance to chat to some members of Spey Runners, the Fochabers jogscotland group. They really stood out in their lime green T-shirts and green tutus (below)!

by Ann Davidson

10 10k The Most Beautiful Run in Scotland - for Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland

Come and feel the 'S 'Spirit pirit of the Glen'

Sunday S unday A April pril 13th 2014 The most beautiful run in Scotland Scotland - a 10 kilometre kilometre road road race race set The in the stunning landscape of ic onic Glenliv et Esta te in the iconic Glenlivet Estate C airngorms Na tional P ark Cairngorms National Park

ev events@chss.org.uk ents@chss.org.uk

0300 1212 777 www.theglenlivet10k.com www.theglenlivet10k.com We are Scotland’s Health Charity Chest Heart Heart & Stroke Stroke Scotland Scotland and CHSS are are operating operating names of TThe he Chest Chest,, Hear Heartt & Stroke Stroke Association Association Scotland, Scotland, a registered registered SScottish cottish Char Charity ity R Registration egistration No No.. SC018761. R Registered egistered in SScotland cotland as a ccompany ompany limit limited ed by by guarantee guarantee No SC129114

Mini Strides 24

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Mini Strides for Junior jogscotties Run for fun at school jogscotland has been helping to put together a new booklet which teachers can use to introduce enjoyable running sessions at school.

The booklet is called “Introduction to Recreational Running in Secondary Schools” - it might be a long title, but it’s just a guide to giving secondary kids the chance to run for fun. Rather than making you go on long runs that leave you too tired to enjoy yourself, the booklet shows your teachers how to help you build up gradually and get steadily fitter, so you can really enjoy your running.

If you think your teacher would like to know about it, tell them! They can email mark.munro@scottishathletics.org.uk to find out more about it.

jogscotland

Boost your brain!

New research has found that regular exercise helps improve teenagers’ academic performance.

The study by the Universities of Strathclyde and Dundee found that exercise particularly seems to help girls do better in science.

And the more intensive the exercise, the bigger the impact on pupils’ test results.

The scientists looked at the exercise habits of nearly 5000 children aged 11, using a device called an accelerometer, which was worn on an elasticated belt.

They found that the average daily amount of moderate to vigorous exercise carried out by the youngsters was 29 minutes for boys and 18 for girls, which is a lot less than the recommended 60 minutes. Their academic performance was measured at the ages of 11, 13 and 15/16, and the researchers found that results at the ages of 13 and 15/16 year olds were better for people who had been doing the most exercise at the age of 11.

So next time you’re struggling with your homework – get outside and run around!

Introduction to...

Recreational Running in secondary schools

This resource has been created to support the delivery of recreational running to participants predominantly in a secondary school environment. Linked to the curriculum for excellence outcomes and supported by jogscotland the resource is easy to use, fun, progressive and enables participants to develop skills at their own pace.

Thank you to Active Stirling Athletics Development and Active Stirling Health and Fitness Instructors for contributing to resource materials and session plans included in this training resource.

Mini Strides 25

World Marathon Challenge Children across Scotland took part in The World Marathon Challenge on 10 October.

The challenge is organised by charity Save the Children and takes place annually during October, with schools competing across the globe. Last year more than 20,000 children across 45 countries took part in the event.

Schools join in the challenge by putting together a team of youngsters who take it in turns to run, covering a marathon distance as quickly as they can.

At Scotstoun Stadium, Kelvinside Academy and St Andrews Secondary were among those taking on the challenge, with medals presented by Laura Muir, 800m and 1500m athlete and Commonwealth Games 2014 Scotland team member.

The winning team at Scotstoun was Kelvinside Academy (pictured below) with a time of 2h 1m 53s – beating Wilson Kipsang’s world record of 2h 3m 23s.

Fiona Kennedy, a teacher at Kelvinside Academy, said: “Our pupils were really excited to take part in the World Marathon Challenge again this year and were over the moon with their world record breaking time”.

Laura Muir added: "It's great to see the kids in Glasgow taking part in the World Marathon Challenge today and being so enthusiastic about running. I really enjoyed running a few laps with them and some of them proved to be tough competition!"

Meanwhile, children from St Peter the Apostle High School in Clydebank took part in the challenge at their school on October 23rd (pictured below).

The S1 students completed the Marathon Challenge in a time of 2h 28m 07s, while the S2 students completed in 2h 19m 32s.

Maurice Donohue of jogscotland West Dunbartonshire, who joined them for the event, said: “Conditions were very windy, so all the runners did really well with their performance.”

Scottish Slimmers 26

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Looking good!

Name: Suzanne MacCrimmon Occupation: Senior eHealth Trainer Height: 5’7” Class Manager: Anne-Marie McGarry

Before Weight: 19 stone 4lb Dress Size: 20-22

Now Weight: 12 stone 4lb Dress Size: 12-14 7 stone lighter

Suzanne has always been a happy and confident person, but a traumatic session in a bridal shop with the realisation that she was going to be a fat bridesmaid – not for the first time - made her decide to lose some weight. “I had been an overweight bridesmaid SEVEN times!” explains Suzanne, who had had enough of feeling unfit and unhealthy.

Having tried many different slimming classes, Suzanne was determined that she would get fitter as well as lose weight, and that her goal wasn’t to lose weight for the short term, but lose it for life.

“I was desperate to lose weight, but I wanted to get fitter as well – I thought that exercising would help the weight loss and keep me motivated – and I was right.” says Suzanne, who joined jogscotland as well as Scottish Slimmers to help her new health and fitness campaign, signing up with Jackie Govan’s beginners’ running group at The Peak in Stirling. “At the end of the first block, I ran my very first 5K with some of the girls in the club and the Jog Leader,” she says.

As well as following the Scottish Slimmers Positive Eating Plan, Suzanne’s new-found love of exercise continued and she decided to raise money for charity. “My best friend’s young brother had died, and I wanted to give something back to Yorkhill Hospital which had helped him so much, so I did a number of fitness challenges and raised over £4000.”

Now that she is over 7 stone lighter, Suzanne is a qualified Zumba instructor, has recently climbed Ben Nevis, and completed a six week intensive ‘Fit Camp’ as well as a sponsored sky dive.

Suzanne recently won an award at the Scottish Slimmers Slimmer of the Year Ceremony, as she was crowned winner of the Looking Good category. “I am thrilled with my achievements – and I feel fabulous!” says Suzanne, who is adding a few more challenges to her list, “I am determined that I will run a half-marathon at some point and a marathon eventually one day.”

Turkey quesadillas

4 tbsp canned refried beans 4 x 30 g/1 oz flour tortillas 125 g/41/2 oz cooked turkey, cut into pieces 4 tbsp reduced-fat salsa 60 g/2 oz reduced-fat mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced a few crisp lettuce leaves or wild rocket 6 cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered 1 tbsp oil-free vinaigrette dressing

Serves two 16 Checks 9g fat per serving

1

Heat the refried beans for a couple of minutes in a small pan over a very low heat or in the microwave.

2

Spread the hot refried beans over the tortillas and then cover with the turkey, salsa and sliced mozzarella. Fold each tortilla over.

3

Heat a griddle pan and arrange the filled tortillas in the hot pan. Heat them through for 2–3 minutes each side, or pop them in the microwave for long enough to warm them through and melt the cheese.

4

Serve the hot quesadillas immediately with some salad leaves and cherry tomatoes tossed in oil-free vinaigrette dressing.

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Scottish Slimmers 27

Ingredients

Bupa Great Winter Run 28

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Event Preview: Bupa Great Winter Run Last year’s event turned out to be more sun-soaked than snow-blanketed but the words brisk and gloves always apply at the Bupa Great Winter Run. It’s perhaps two other words though that are more significant for those thousands gathered at the foot of Arthur’s Seat inside the first two weeks of January… refreshing and start.

The New Year for any runner is an opportunity to improve. Setting new goals of further distances, faster times and the chance to complete THAT event you’ve been looking forward to, are huge motivating factors to keep on running and brave the more testing weather between January and May. If you are still relatively new to the sport or have a running schedule of marathon proportions to look forward too, there is no better way to start the year than with a 5K in the magnificent surrounds of Edinburgh.

The course may be short, but the steep incline as you follow Queen’s Drive is challenging and rewards you with spectacular views of Scotland’s capital as you circle Arthur’s Seat.

You can also look forward to your friend gravity after the 3K mark as you pick up the pace for a big finish at the XCountry Village on Holyrood Park. Your well-earned Finishers Pack will be waiting for you, as will a great first success story towards your New Year’s resolution. The long-sleeved event day T-shirt should also serve as proud year-round reminder that you’re not scared of a bit of wintry weather!

If you’ve got some Junior racers in your family or club, the Bupa Junior Great Winter Run that kicks off the day’s timetable is an

outstanding launch pad to active futures and an enthusiasm for getting outside and into sport as part of a group.

If you’re still pondering shaking off Christmas excesses at the 2014 Bupa Great Winter Run or you’ve already decided to start the year off on the right foot, here are some helpful winter running tips for your training.

Stretch out the cold - If your warm-up routine during spring and summer could be described as minimal, it is good idea to take the time to do it properly.

Layer it on - Once you have invested in the correct running gear, you shouldn’t feel any different to when you’re striding around in June and July. You normally find that clothing and equipment will last years rather than months so it is money well spent. A breathable and waterproof running jacket is a must.

Become luminous - If you can’t fit your runs in during daylight hours, make sure you dress appropriately, in bright colours and reflective stripes.

Running buddies - Running with a partner or in a group will help to ensure your safety if the worst happens. With the other obvious advantage of a more interesting and social experience, the extra eyes and ears should also motivate and keep you turning up for more.

Hidden sweat - If the normal waves of perspiration aren’t appearing, it’s easy to forget about re-hydrating. Your sweat rates will be lower, but that does not mean your fluid intake should match. Carry water with you on longer runs or a sports drink for an added kick to aid freeze-filled personal bests.

COMPETITION – COMPETITION – COMPETITION – COMPETITION – COMPETITION

Win a place at the 2014 Great Winter Run Just email sue.gyford@scottishathletics.org.uk with WINTER in the title, and your name in the body of the email.

One entry per email address. Entries close on Sunday December 15th.

Tiree 29

Louise Hutchison 30

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Running for Autism

by Louise Hutchison above Louise with Liam

It was April 2012 and I was sitting watching the London marathon as I do every year. I noticed how many “normal” people were taking part (by normal, I mean not proper elite runners) I turned to Roy, my husband, and said, “I'm going to run that before I peg it,” - he choked on his coffee. I was overweight and couldn't tell you the last time I did any exercise.

I'm a busy mum to two wee boys, with my own small business and I work full time that was my excuse - but something that Sunday morning made me decide I wanted to run.

I looked on the website and found the Bupa Great Edinburgh Run. It was 10K and held in October, so I had six months to get fit - I was going for it. I called my friend Sandi and she said she was up for it, so I paid for my place. I decided to do it for charity to get my lardy behind out the door to train and discovered a local charity called Perth Autism Support. This was probably the biggest find in our family’s life, and not just for my fundraising. My youngest son Liam was four, and was on the waiting list to be tested for autism. I contacted Angie, the charity’s manager, and we decided between us that I would do a weekly blog on their Facebook and Twitter pages to keep me motivated during my training.

So that Sunday evening (after searching the wardrobe for a pair of trackies) I went out, round the corner and up the hill to find I was struggling! I managed half a mile before my lungs were on fire and my legs were dead weights.

I continued my small half mile route every other morning before anyone was awake. I was getting faster and better every time was out and started to tell people about what I was up to - everyone was so supportive.

I started using a training plan and completed both the Perth Race for Life 5K and the Kilt Run at 8K as part of my training.

My other son Sam had been watching what I was up to and asked if he could run with me in my big race. He’s only six, so I thought 10K was too much for him, and he opted for the Bupa Edinburgh mini event instead. He asked if he could run for Perth Autism Support too! I was so humbled by my wee boy’s actions. So was half of Perth and after two days his JustGiving page had raised over £200! His photo was in the local paper and he got an award at school for putting people before himself. I’m so proud of my Sam and I never realised the impact my plodding around had on others.

September came and Liam got his diagnosis. He has Autism Spectrum Disorder. I'm relieved he will now get the help he needs and that questions have been answered. I've also started noticing how good I feel after a run, how I'm more chilled out and calm. The fact my husband tells me to get out for a run when I'm proper grumpy shows that it’s the best stress relief ever!

Race day came and we were up out the door and in Edinburgh for 9am. My race was first. It was a hilly 10K and I completed it in 80mins. Sam was up next and did his 2.5K pretty quickly.

I was chuffed to bits that I can run 10K but I kept looking at half marathons.....

above Fiona MacIntyre, Rhona and Graham Maxwell, Claire Copland, Zoe Robertson, Louise Hutchison and Hollie Simpson

above Louise with Sam (left) and Liam

Soon I had that post-run depression when you have nothing to aim for. Then one of my friends told me I wouldn't be able to run a half marathon. That weekend I ran out to my grandad’s house a few villages away in Balbeggie and ran back home. 14 miles! I signed up for the Inverness half in March 2013.

I decided to fundraise again for Perth Autism Support. The charity have been great through Liam’s diagnosis. They have fun things for him to attend like trampolining and have a siblings club for Sam. Roy and I decided I would do 100 miles in races for PAS in 2013.

I entered the ballot for the Great North Run 2013 in January and planned the races I would run this year. I decided that 10Ks and half marathons were the best way to do my challenge. At this point, one of my customers asked me if I had thought of starting a running group. I laughed it off, but then off I went to look online and discovered there's was a jogscotland Leaders Course coming up.

I went along to the course and loved it! It was nice to meet so many people who are excited by running. It spurred me on to keep going with my challenge.

I started my group, Perth jogscotland, in May, and although I was nervous at first, I got through it. I love how well our team do.

We’re currently working up to a 10K next year but we are already smashing 5Ks. I ran the Inverness half without stopping. I was aiming for 2 hours 30 and came in ten minutes later – I was happy with that and I loved it!

I then did the Rock’n’Roll half in Edinburgh, St Andrews 10K, Balfron 10K, Glasgow women’s 10K, EMF marathon (team relay),

Kilearn 10K, Perth Kilt Run (with some of my jogscotland group, their first 5K) Perth 10K, Great North Run, Baxters River Ness 10K, Great Scottish Run and the Great South Run in Portsmouth with my three man support crew of Roy, Sam and Liam.

I've amazed myself with what I can do. I can’t imagine not running and even though I'm no Paula Radcliffe, I'm giving it my all.

I'm so very fortunate to have run such beautiful races across Scotland and England.

I'm proud that Sam and I have raised over £700 for Perth Autism Support and it was a pleasure to run for them both last year and this year.

Oh and to top it all off I got a ballot place in the London Marathon for 2014! Guess who I'm going to be running for?

In shorts…men’s running 32

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

In Shorts… jogscotland and top running magazines Men’s Running and Women’s Running have teamed up to deliver the latest headlines, tips and gossip straight from their pages to the pages of Stride.

Men’s Shorts In December’s issue of Men’s Running we have got more kit than you can shake a stick at.

That can mean only one thing; it’s awards time. Across more than 20 categories, our testers have been putting the gear of the year through its paces to deliver their verdicts on what’s hot and what’s not.

Check out the results in this issue.

We have also got great advice from coaching editor Nick Anderson on how you can start training now to get a head start on your spring marathon.

“Starting early will give you a fantastic base on which to build your marathon training proper, and give you the best possible chance of a marathon performance you’re happy with. Starting from scratch, you could be running ten miles by Christmas, he says.” There’s a plan that’ll get you running that far by the time January arrives.

We haven’t forgotten the importance of strength for runners either. In his six-move barbell workout, Sean Lerwill gives you the best way to make sure that core is strong in the late miles of your long runs.

Men’s Running Order your FREE copy today

Helping you improve your running.

“Runners often ignore the barbell for fear of bulking up.

On the contrary, strengthening the muscles of the legs, backside, shoulders, and arms will lead to a more powerful, more economical and faster runner. The biggest mistake runners make is just running and ignoring strength and conditioning of the muscles that do the work while running.”

Nutrition is equally key if you’re soon to be embarking on a long block of hard training. There are several foods that might not agree with your training regime, and its best to identify these early if you can. In our feature on food intolerances, Nick says: “Runners can have an intolerance to a certain type of food that may not become clear until they start training regularly. The intolerances cause side effects that can ruin sessions and leave you struggling to make any performance gains.”

Keep up with all the latest by liking us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ mensrunningmagazineuk

The UK’s first running magazine just for men.

Whether it’s racing, losing weight, getting fit, looking for new gear and gadgets or reading the most eye-popping, inspirational stories from the world of running, we take pride in offering you all this and more in the only magazine dedicated to running men everywhere.

Try Men’s Running totally FREE. Text ‘Runner’ to 60300 to claim your FREE issue today Or call 0845 286 3067 & quote ‘Runner’

Check out the new issue of Women’s Running, on sale on 28 November for more fantastic tips and informative, friendly advice on how to start running or begin to improve.

This new issue, cover-dated December, will feature an extensive guide on how to stay motivated during the winter months to keep running, revealing the best supplements to keep you healthy and enable you to avoid winter bugs, plus how to stay safe in darker conditions and how to keep your motivation levels up.

If you struggle with hill running, you’ll be thrilled to hear that it doesn’t always have to be that way. Tackling hard hills is all about technique, practise and being willing to push your body that little bit harder until you get used to it. Hard hills can be easy, if you read our guide on what to do and how to change your technique for hill running.

Motivation comes in many forms. Some people get motivated to run by feeling fitter, healthier or slimmer, while others draw on role models and other people for motivation. One woman who won’t fail to inspire is a lady who ran 366 marathons in 365 days – yes, you read that correctly!

Danish mother Annette Fredskov was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, which most of us would simply find shocking, yet she used it for motivation and decided to fly in the face of this illness by committing to her amazing marathon challenge. Read her incredible story and how she kept going in this issue.

It’s well known that running off-road and surrounding yourself with beautiful scenery while you do so can be a great mood booster, but did you know that trail running can help reduce symptoms of depression too? Read the evidence in this issue.

At this time of year, many of us will know whether or not we’ve been fortunate (or crazy enough) to sign up for a spring marathon. If you’re planning on completing the 26.2 mile distance next spring, then don’t let your fitness go to pot this Christmas. How much should you do before Christmas if you’re doing LET THERE BE a spring marathon? WR Coaching Editor Phoebe Thomas says being able to bank a ten-mile run by Christmas is a good starting point and will stand you in good stead for the new year. Read our fantastic training plan for helping you complete the ten-miles.

In shorts…women’s running 33

Women’s Shorts

Trail Zone

c

LIGHT Depression is a debilitating and increasingly common condition, but running can help, so try hitting the trails this winter, says Hazel Sillver

ore than five million people in the UK have been diagnosed with depression, with cases up by 19 per cent in some parts of the country over the last three years; but experts estimate this figure to be “the tip of the iceberg”. In its gravest form, depression is a physical and mental numbness that makes everyday activities and interaction difficult.

Phases of depression can accompany huge life changes and shocks, for instance in the aftermath of giving birth or during a bereavement. Even if depression has never been an issue, such big stresses can trigger a full-blown episode.

WINTER BLUES

Around seven per cent of the UK population suffers from low mood seasonally, feeling joyless and unmotivated during winter. This condition, known as SAD (seasonal affective disorder), is thought to relate to a lack of exposure to sunlight.

‘In winter, we travel to and from work in the dark and this lack of exposure to sunlight

88 December 2013 www.womensrunninguk.co.uk

Are you a new runner? If you’re fairly new to pounding the pavements and you’re confused by the different types of terms used to GINNER’S describe running sessions BGEEG UIDE D TO then don’t be. If you don’t TRAINING TECH CHNIQUES know your fartlek from your threshold sessions then fear not – we explain what the different type of sessions are, how they can help you and how often you need to do them in this issue. b beginn ers

Don’t know your ffa ar tlek ffrrom your tempo sessions?

Never ffe ear… Jeff f f Archer sets out to clear up your training confusion

hen you start r unning, all you need to do is r un. It’s ver y simple and the reason n why many people take up the sport in the first place. You You just get your trainers on and offff you go.

As you become more interested in r unning though, you’ll hear all kinds of training talk that may give you cause for for concern and makke you wonder whether you’re making the most of your training sessions. But don’t panic, there’s no cause for for alar m. Whether it’s threshold training or inter val sessions that are wor r ying you, here’s the low down on what it all means and what impact these techniques could haave on your training.

W

3

INTERVAL TRAINING

This is when you alternate bursts of high-intensity training with what ’s known as “active recovery”. This means that between periods of high-intensity effort (or fast-paced running) you’re still running, but at a reduced workload. So, if you were to crank up the effort level to an eight out of ten for a minute, you’d then spend a minute or two on active recovery, running at an effort level of four or five, rather than walking, for this period.

One of the main benefits of interval training is its efficiency for improving fitness levels. If your regular running speed on a treadmill is 8km/h, you can have a productive workout running for 15 to 30 minutes, but if you were to set the treadmill for 20 minutes and spend every third minute running at 10km/h, your workout will be far more effective. You know you’re capable of running at 8km/h, but every minute of 10km/h improves your ability to run faster and makes the 8 k m / h m i n u te s m o re c h a l l e n g i n g .

28 December 2013 www.womensrunninguk.co.uk

Enjoy - and don’t forget to visit our website at www.womensrunninguk.co.uk

The UK’s first running magazine just for women.

Women's Running provides practical information and inspiring stories to help you achieve your running goals - whether you're a beginner or an experienced runner. Every issue of Women's Running has all the expert advice and information you need on how to improve your running plus detailed features on how to lose weight, tone up, improve your health and take care of your body.

Try Women’s Running totally FREE. Text ‘Runner’ to 60300 to claim your FREE issue today Or call 0845 286 3067 & quote ‘Runner’

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s a o

Cross Training 34

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Cross Training On your bike RPM, Spin and Group Cycle are all fitness sessions that use static bikes. They provide an ideal workout whether you are looking to supplement your running or as an alternative to running and jogging if you are injured or when you just can’t face going out in the cold, dark wet evenings!

Because I hadn’t taken part in an RPM class before I started by introducing myself to Isobel, the class instructor. Isobel let me choose whether I wanted to be at the front or back of the class, then adjusted my chosen bike to suit my height. Once I was

by Ann Davidson on the bike she tightened the pedal straps so my feet were held in position and explained that if my foot came off the pedal it was important to move my foot outwards as the pedal would continue to spin round.

Unlike a regular bike, a spin bike doesn’t have gear levers. Instead, there’s a knob on the frame that you turn to the right to increase resistance or left to make things easier. As Isobel explained, it’s up to you how hard the session is.

As we were about to start I recognised the lady on the next bike as a fellow jogscotland member – small world!

Unfortunately, there was too little time to chat as Isobel switched on some fastpaced, loud music, put on her head mic and started giving us instructions. We warmed up by gradually increasing our cycling pace to what Isobel described as “three quarters effort”, keeping pace with the beat of the music. By this point I wasn’t sure where I was going to find the extra “quarter effort” from.

Cross Training 35

Each track required a bit more effort to keep pace, especially as we were now increasing the resistance to simulate cycling on hills. The session then became a series of short, high intensity bursts during which we turned the resistance as high as we could manage and stood up to cycle with Isobel shouting encouragement with “Faster!” and “Go, go, go, go, GO!” before easing back, reducing the resistance, cycling more slowly and relaxing. It took me a few attempts to be confident enough to take my arms off the handlebars and stretch them above my head. I think I was too aware of what would happen if I tried that on my regular bike.

By this stage we were all having to use towels to wipe our faces and I was really glad I had brought my bottle of water. Even with the air conditioning switched on in the studio, we were all feeling extremely hot and sweaty. If you want to look glamorous while exercising, this really isn’t the class for you.

The final music track was slower paced and marked the start of the cool down phase.

After slowing to a gentle pace and stopping completely we climbed off the bikes and did a series of stretching exercises. Isobel thanked everyone for the effort they had put in and told us a bit about the session she was planning for the following week.

This was a really good workout. It’s also encouraged me to get back on my own bike and go cycling again. I think I’ll be keeping my hands on the handlebars though!

Awards 36

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

jogscotland Awards 2013 The very best of jogscotland Run 4 It Achiever of the Year was celebrated on Saturday Carolyn McAlpine 26th October at the jogscotland Tarbert jogscotland Awards 2013. Jog Carolyn (below left) took up jogging in 2010 Leaders and joggers alike won to fulfil a promise to her father. He had been with Hodgkins Lymphoma and sadly well-deserved praise for their illpassed away, but Carolyn ran the London Marathon to raise funds for Beatson Cancer achievements at the event, Centre, which cared for him. which was held as part of the became a Jog Leader for jogscotland scottishathletics Awards at the She Tarbert, and when her aunt was also treated at the Beatson, Carolyn decided to jog 100 Glasgow Marriott. miles from the Centre to her home in Tarbert After the event, Head of jogscotland Billy Mitchell said: "The jogscotland Awards are always a great celebration of what we stand for - fun, fitness and friendship - and this year was no exception. Every nomination we received made me very proud of jogscotland and its members, but none more so than our very worthy winners.

Every day without fail, our Jog Leaders go out in all weathers to help people of all abilities enjoy becoming more active, and to celebrate both the Leaders and the joggers is a great privilege."

to raise funds. This galvanised the community, with friends and colleagues taking up jogging to support her. The challenge raised more than ÂŁ12,500.

The nomination was made “not in recognition of the distance but rather of the way an individual has brought together communities for a good cause.�

Leaders of the Year Fiona Mackenzie and Brendan Brodie jogscotland Westwoods, Edinburgh Fiona and Brendan (below) received several nominations, which all made it clear that their great talent is their natural ability to create a welcoming, friendly atmosphere

Group of the Year Chirnside Chasers An amazing 10 per cent of the population of Chirnside are members of this relatively new group. It has a very active and successful junior section, which has also helped draw more and more adults to the popular senior groups, which provide support and camaraderie to joggers of all levels. The Chasers form a real hub of village life, not only taking groups to running events, but organising fundraisers for local good causes and holding a family fun day to thank Chirnsiders for their support. This year the group was also affiliated to scottishathletics, providing a pathway for any members who want to move towards more competitive running. One nominator wrote “I don’t think I have ever been part of an organisation that has encouraged, supported and listened as much as the Chasers.”

Inspiration Award Maurice Donohue jogscotland West Dunbartonshire The Inspiration Award is not awarded every year - it is only presented in years that we feel there is somebody particularly deserving of the accolade. This year, we had a very worthy winner.

Maurice Donohue has been a Jog Leader at West Dunbartonshire since 2009. He is the driving force behind its seven jog groups, which range from a 'walk to jog' class for complete beginners up to sessions for confident runners. He also organizes and performs at the annual West Dunbartonshire awards night, where his appearances have included Jedward and Brucie in Strictly Come Jogging. But his contributions to the jogging community have gone far beyond that.

Last year Maurice set up a free, weekly 5K event, Run'n'Park, and every Saturday morning since then has turned out, rain or shine, to Balloch Country Park to encourage runners of all abilities around the course.

This year, with his 50th birthday pending, he decided to raise money and awareness for the Scottish Association for Mental Health by running 50 half marathons during 2013. He passed his £1,000 fundraising target earlier this month, but even more impressively, his challenge has become a rallying call for many other runners. As well as completing many lone half marathons, Maurice has organised training runs where he has encouraged other joggers to join him and achieve their own half marathon goals.

His energy is tireless, his enthusiasm boundless, and the number of people he has inspired countless.

Awards 37

that really supports and encourages people to enjoy getting fitter. Praised as “two of life’s really good people,” this husband and wife team are enthusiastic cheerleaders for runners of all levels.

They have run the group for many years and have a loyal long-term membership who turn out regularly to the three weekly sessions that they run.

Awards 38

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

jogscotland Awards 2013 Choosing our Award winners is always difficult because we have so many fantastic nominations. This year’s other shortlisted nominees were: Run 4 It Achiever of the Year Susan Stewart, JogPeebles A long-time member of JogPeebles, Susan decided to celebrate the approaching 50th birthdays of herself and husband Alan by taking on 50 challenges over 18 months.

They are also raising awareness of the importance of signing the Donor Register.

Alan underwent a kidney transplant three years ago to combat kidney disease, and the couple are hugely grateful for his new lease of life.

Christine Duthie At the start of 2013, Christine and her friends Sarah and Marlyn were encouraging one another through training for their first half marathon at Inverness. However, in January, Christine was diagnosed with breast cancer. She kept her sense of humour and dignity throughout treatment, and was given the go-ahead from doctors to start running again, returning to jogscotland. She now plans to run the Inverness half when she turns 40 in 2015, telling friends “I have unfinished business!” jogscotland Jog Leader of the Year Ian Shield, JogLeven Ian is praised as a, “quiet, canny man who gently encourages us all, and tells us we can achieve whatever we want.”

He gives up his own time to help members train for events outside regular sessions, and supported members of JogLeven to set up a new running group in Falkland.

Accomplished runners still return to his group for the camaraderie and members excel by setting out to repay the faith he has in them.

Christine Garvie, jogscotland Dunfermline Christine has been the driving force of Dunfermline jogscotland for the past 10 years and is praised for her passion, enthusiasm, commitment and motivation.

She and husband Jim will go out in their own time to plot routes for members who are training for longer distances and then accompany them on foot, by bike or car.

She “always seems to have the right words when you feel like giving up”.

Jamie Sterling, Glasgow Front Runners Jamie became a Jog Leader in January and has quickly become respected and popular in the role. He particularly excels in working with new members of the group and beginners. He is an active member of the committee, and works tirelessly, with patience and understanding, to encourage people to reach their full potential. jogscotland Group of the Year Jed Joggers Jed Joggers was established officially in October 2012 after several members of the group took the Jog Leader course. At their first session they set off with 30 women in tow and now have more than 120 members.

The group sends bus-loads of runners to events such as the Great North Run and has changed the lives of many women in Jedburgh as they make new friends and build confidence. The sea of pink T-shirts has become a familiar sight in the town. jogscotland Chryston The huge range of abilities represented at Chryston is demonstrated by the fact that in the past year, members have run their first 5K, first 10K, first half marathon, and first full marathon - and that they have travelled all over Scotland and Europe together to do so. Members have taken part as a group in walking, abseiling and cycling-related charity activities.

below Jed Joggers

below Carolyn McAlpine and friends from jogscotland Tarbert

Susan Stewart (centre) with husband Alan (left) and fellow JogPeebles Jog Leader Trish Forster

Christine Duthie (left) and friend Marlyn Simpson

Jamie Sterling (second left), Maurice Donohue (centre), Ann Davidson (right)

above jogscotland Chryston

Cool Down 40

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Cool Down There’s one subject that seems to divide runners like no other, and I’ve decided the time has come to broach it. It’s difficult to talk about, and I hope I won’t offend anybody with my choice of topic: Running with music.

Some people feel with a passion that running while wearing headphones disrupts the purity of the experience; that it stops you listening to your body, distracts you from the important messages your muscles might be sending you, and prevents you noticing and enjoying the world.

Others would never set foot outside their door without being plugged in to a playlist of exactly the right tempo to motivate them and keep them moving. And several studies have shown that listening to music generally improves running performance, lessening perceived effort by taking your mind off the stress you’re putting your body under.

good idea on busy roads or down dark, lonely lanes.

Aside from those rules, however, I love to go freeform and do whatever takes my mood.

Sometimes I set off without even picking up my headphones, other times I’m plugged in from the start. Sometimes it’s switching mid-run that keeps me going.

There’s definitely great joy to be had in taking in the sounds of the natural world. I’m a trail runner, and who wouldn’t want to listen to the birds singing and the leaves rustling as they wend their way up a beautiful footpath on a sunny afternoon?

I’ve run while listening to the wind, the waves, the traffic and the sound of my own breathing (some might say gasping…).

On one recent run, a dreich autumn evening turned into a torrential downpour and I was feeling really quite sorry for myself until it occurred to me to stop and take my headphones out. The sound of the rain splashing onto the pavements suddenly made the whole thing seem like a terrific adventure and I carried on with a spring in my step.

Sometimes, however, especially when the going’s tough, I find there’s no substitute for listening to music.

I have to admit, however, that I’m one of those rare runners with a trainer-clad foot in both camps.

And when I say listening, I actually mean listening, singing, and dancing: One advantage of trail running is that there’s often nobody in sight, so the potential for indulging otherwise embarrassing behaviour is huge.

There are some times when the decision is made for you – some events don’t let participants wear headphones, and common sense dictates that they’re not a

When I took part in the Lakeland Trails Marathon around Coniston this summer, I found the first section of the race a real slog.

I started out enjoying the natural world

Cool Down 41

around me, but pretty soon my knees were hurting, the hills were relentless, and the delicate sound of the wind in the tree tops was scant comfort.

Just as I was wondering whether I’d make it to the end, I remembered my carefullychosen running playlist and stuck in the earbuds.

What really got me through that hump and on to the runner’s high was not the months of training I’d put in – it was shimmying along a high path, wiggling my hips, twirling my hands and singing my heart out to Shakira’s “Hips Don’t Lie”.

And you know what? I don’t even care if anyone’s watching me when “What’s That Coming Over The Hill? Is It A Monster?” comes on. If I happen to be coming over a hill at that very moment, I will lift my hands up like scary dinosaur claws and unleash a little roar. It doesn’t matter who’s looking, how tired I am or how much I’m aching, - I will come over that hill grinning from ear to ear as I unleash the animal inside.

I think what it all boils down to is that, like so many matters in this world of running, the most important thing is to find out what suits you and go with it.

There are lots of debates to be had: Barefoot running vs maximum support shoes; GPS addiction vs following your nose; music vs silence. But one of the things that running offers us all is a great big opportunity to suit ourselves, so let’s all make the most of it and do exactly as we please.

But watch out if you see me coming over a hill any time soon, because I guarantee, it will be a monster. Rrrraaaaahhhhh!

By Sue Gyford

Jogging Along 42

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013

Jogging Along

by David Syme We Remember Them

A Short Mile

Members of our Balerno-based group, Harmeny Pentland Runners, are very lucky.

When we meet up for a run on Wednesday evenings or Sunday mornings we have a range of route possibilities and usually decide on the spot where we will run.

Some weather conditions suggest a sheltered, tree-lined run, others let us enjoy a glorious canter over the bare slopes of the Pentland Hills.

Snow in early December adds to the festive excitement, and I remember one day in December with plenty of beautiful snow. It started mid-morning and fell steadily until mid-afternoon. It was cold and wind-free, so the snow danced then lay where it landed in even depth. I had to go for a run!

Once a year our run is not determined by the weather. On the Sunday nearest to Remembrance Day our club runners will meet up on the western slope of Hare Hill.

Some runners will have started in Balerno, some will have driven up to Threipmuir Car Park but we will all tackle the steep beech avenue to Bavelaw Castle then turn up to the open moorland beyond. We take the track which leads toward West Kip, but bear left onto Hare Hill. On a heathery mound a simple post with a metal plate marks the spot where a Junkers 88 of the German Air Force crashed on the 25th of March, 1943. The plate lists the occupants of the plane as Fritz Forster, Horst Blum, Willi Euler and Heinz Kristall. They all lost their lives, aged 31, 23, 22 and 22. It is no matter that these casualties of WW2 are German and not Allied airmen, they are victims of war.

Most of us who come on this memorial run are older than these German lads. As I said, we are very lucky.

The Pentland Hills were close by and the first stars already visible as I crossed over the slow traffic on the bypass at Bonaly Bridge. I took the track south to the reservoir, each footfall marked by a squeak from the sparkling snow. I turned east up the steep side of Capelaw Hill – hard going in the eerie light but I wanted the thrill of standing on top. I had the hill to myself and white Edinburgh was laid out beneath me, but a chill wind swept the summit. The next mile was one I will never forget. I loped east down to the saddle on a perfect cushion of powder snow, then north on the path beside Howden Burn, now out of the wind.

The line of the path was just visible in the orange glow from Edinburgh’s street lights.

The snow layer gave easy running which allowed me to look around at the silent, white world. My stride lengthened as I became confident that the gentle downslope held no dangers. I floated down in next to no time – all too soon I could hear the growling of the bypass traffic. Once past the trees I jogged to the black outline of Bonaly Tower, a lone moving figure on a pristine sheet of white. Footprints showed that others were out enjoying a run.

If I had had the time I would have done the run again; the wintry conditions were exceptional, making the descent from Capelaw Hill back to Bonaly that December day the shortest mile I have ever run.

Do you have a memorable mile you’d like to share with Stride readers?

Send your story to sue.gyford@scottishathletics.org.uk and we will publish the best.

jogscotland group finder

www.jogscotland.org.uk/local-groups With hundreds of groups across Scotland, here’s how to find your nearest one‌

1. go to www.jogscotland.org.uk/local-groups 2. enter postcode 3. find your nearest group 4. join in!

Local Contacts 43

jogscotland magazine Winter 2013