4 minute read
A Final Thought
lifestyle A Final Thought…
Doctors are always telling us we need to be more active. So we buy gym memberships in the hope one day we’ll go. We buy Fitbits and we convince ourselves that we’ll start when we have more time, but it usually never comes. If that sounds like you, I am here to encourage you to (re)consider running. No, no – hear me out. I didn’t think I was going to like it either. I certainly didn’t think I was going to fall in love with it. But I gave it a go, and since I collapsed back home after that first outing, beetroot faced and lungs burning, I’ve been hooked. It costs nothing. You can start out in your most comfortable joggers and trainers. It fits into whatever timeslot you have (even if you think you have none). It reduces risk of heart disease, diabetes, depression and some cancers, not to mention making you sleep better, feel stronger and make you feel more energetic in your day to day life. Here are my top five tips for getting started – and, importantly, keeping going – whatever your age, whatever your size and whatever your exercise history. 1) Do it with a friend. Start together and run together. Message each other when you waver and encourage each other to keep going. You are much more likely to stick to your goals if you have someone else to hold you to account – and someone else relying on you to hit their goals. Instead of going for coffee, go for a run! If you can’t find a friend willing to take the leap with you, join a group; there are lots of running clubs and groups out there (see the ‘What’s on’ pages). Just knowing that there is a fixed start time you need to make and that others will be waiting for you might just be enough to get you out of the door. 2) There are many apps and programmes out there to get you running. The NHS “Couch to 5k” programme is one of the best known, but there are many others, including apps for specific circumstances such as those aimed at mums returning to exercise. They start with a gentle run/walk and build up until you’re running for 30 minutes non-stop. Imagine how good that would feel! Take a look and pick one that feels right for you. 3) Don’t fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others, instead focus on how running makes YOU feel. Everyone has their own pace and everyone has their own goals. Run at your own pace, your happy pace - the pace you feel comfortable with. Walkers might overtake you – it doesn’t matter. You’re running and you’re a runner! 4) Keep it interesting – explore! Take roads you wouldn’t normally go down. Choose your routes with purpose, learn all the backroads and shortcuts – useful next time you’re stuck in traffic! Get close to nature: we are blessed with some beautiful green spaces in this area, take the opportunity to enjoy them. 5) Literally run your errands. This will help you squeeze running into a busy life. Need a loaf of bread? Run to the shop. Visiting a friend? Bus there, run home. School run, anyone?! If it’s something you want to do, there is always a way to fit it in. I couldn’t imagine my life now without running. It’s my headspace, my happy place, a place where I can connect with nature, clear my mind and most importantly listen to my own music rather than the annoying baby shark for the billionth time. It’s not all GPS watches, short shorts and club vests. Running is for everyone – including you. by Katie Spreadbury Why running could be just what you’re looking for…
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