Back in the groove

[Oldgal68]

Had been working through Ju-jus 10k plan but really despaired as I began to find the runs so tough. Got to 7k but my breathing sounded like a stranded walrus. My heart and legs were absolutely fine but each time my lungs were on fire. The 8k was looming over me and have to say that I did sort of give up on the idea of reaching the 10k. Still did the Parkrun each Saturday but was struggling to finish. I was so sad when I thought my running journey was over, but today I read about Hidden ‘s return to form and it so inspired me that I immediately got changed into my running gear and headed out for a run with the thought that I would just keep going for as long as I could. Didn’t expect much, but really amazed myself by managing to complete the 8k run for the first time! So maybe I have got what it takes to do this and maybe the three weeks rest were just what I needed!

[JaySeeSkinny Graduate10]

Well done! Brilliant!

[Oldgal68 in reply to JaySeeSkinny]

Thanks, JaySeeSkinny 😁

[Hidden]

Just brilliant and inspirational too. Thanks

[Oldgal68 in reply to Hidden]

Think the forum is really fundamental to my progress, Hidden , I take heart from the experiences of others!

[Hidden]

Hey, well done for the 8k, that's wonderful news. I think it will all get easier with time. i would think nothing of going out and running 4 or 5k now, but it isn't that long ago when it seemed impossible.

[Oldgal68 in reply to Hidden]

Thanks Hidden , you are right that it will get easier as time goes on. I think the key is consistency but listening to your body at the same time and taking the time necessary to consolidate. Thanks for your posts, they have helped me enormously!

[Hidden in reply to Oldgal68]

Aw, bless you I did 8k with ease then got stuck, hardly rn as you know. i think the longer runs take it out of you till you get used to them and your body tunes up a notch x

[O505k Graduate10]

Really well done on 8k. Maybe you were run down or just generally suffering due to all the miserable weather. Good luck for the remaining part of your journey.

[Oldgal68 in reply to O505k]

That’s kind of you, O505k ! The weather has been a misery hasn’t it one way or another, and it certainly had its effect, but I think i was more likely to have been a bit run down and pushing too hard. I have learned my lesson! Hope your own journey is going well!

[AndG Graduate10]

Well done you. I am reading through posts and have been deliberating about my next run as had a few setbacks and struggling a bit. My dad sadly passed away recently and whilst I have been out for a couple of runs since (he only passed away in 2nd April) I have found them hard - I think emotional stress has depleted my energy a bit also all over the place at home I seem to struggle to focus and complete things and simple things take a long time to do! . I always feel pleased that I made effort to go out for a run though when I’ve been.

Your post has inspired me to stop procrastinating and get out there and do what I can. Going to go tomorrow before I take my youngest to gymnastics. Obvs know what has happened is awful event in my life but running does clear my head once I’m out there!

Thanks for giving me some inspiration, good to just go for it and see what you can do and like you maybe I will surprise myself!

[Oldgal68]

Awww AndG . I’m so sorry for your loss. It can take a long time to come to terms with losing a dear one, so take it easy and be kind to yourself. If getting out there running can help restore your equilibrium do it, I can see only positive feelings flowing from getting out into the natural world. Even if the tears flow just let them, you need to work through your emotions. Grief is a process that takes time, so be patient with yourself because losing a Dad is a blow to the heart. Maybe revisit your treasured memories of him if it will help you cope as you run, and just run for as long as it feel good. Thinking of you.