Year end thoughts

[Murielbez]

Hello everyone,

Although I haven't posted in a while, I have kept up with everyone's adventures and I have been reflecting on my own running journey, started in May, as I was switching jobs and had a glorious 5 weeks off.

My few thoughts:

I wished I could say I love running but unfortunately for me it's still an effort to go but I feel really amazing and proud after a run so this is worth it.

I never thought I would be able to run, thinking back how out of breath and half dead I was after the first 30' of the week 1 run 1 of C25k. Yet yesterday I ran 7,5k and barely stopped.

I have learnt to know my physical body in a very different way to what I am to, as a devoted yogi. This week, I have learnt that if I run to a pace that allows me to breathe through my nose and not through my mouth, I may run a little slower but I run for longer and with a mind at peace.

I have learnt to deal with demotivation and with motivation and to be less judgmental when I dont complete a run. My motto is now: 'you went out' for a really short run or 'a quick run is better than no run' for a short run

I dont know if I have lost weight as I dont get on the scale, but I shop two sizes down. But I pay more attention to what I eat as I can see my levels of energy vary according to what I eat. A lot of people have commented that I look great and have lost weight. Always cool to hear.

I deal with boredom when running differently. At first I was obsessed with getting the right playlist, the one that would get me through and get me this extra boost of energy, a bit like the song that got you on the dance floor (ha, those days!). Now I find that my drive and stamina comes from within and I learnt to deal and negotiate with myself, always very funny. My best move is to tell myself 'well if you really want to stop, then shut up and stop!'. and off I go and keep running. Changes in scenery also always help to motivate me.

what are your thoughts as new runners?

wishing everyone a wonderful year end

Muriel

[Grannyhugs Graduate10]

Great post Muriel. I love your talking to yourself 🤣 I think dress size and kind comments are far better indicators than a number on scales. Hope you continue to go out and enjoy your runs in 2020

[Buddy34 Graduate10]

It's just about 15 months since I started c25k.

Like you I have lost weight about 3 and a half stone, I'd put on 4 after stopping smoking.

I just love that I can run and still do 3/4 times per week.

I'm more positive and happy and glad that I have the determination to keep going.

One of my favourites is a new running route .

Wishing you more happy running😊😊

[Jazzyrunner Graduate10]

Sounds like you have a really balanced view of running - all that yoga has paid off! I’m still just amazed that I am actually a runner - it’s now part of my identity, even though this time last year I would never have believed it. It is bringing me great joy! Happy running!

[Murielbez]

Me too! Feeling very proud. Are you training for a particular event? Or simply having fun with it

[Jazzyrunner Graduate10 in reply to Murielbez]

Isn’t it lovely to have something that makes you feel so proud? I’m planning a few local 5k races, hopefully working up to a 10k at some point this year, but mainly just in it for fun!

[marmalademonster Graduate10]

Hi Muriel, I've only just caught this post and I love it! Like you, I only love the running afterwards and also like you, I love the yoga. But I need the cardio and the buzz as I'm not getting any younger! Love your little chats with yourself. I'm definitely going to try the, "Well if you want to stop just stop and shut up about it!". Hehe! I'll let you know how it goes!

[Murielbez]

please do! it's motivating to hear about how fellow runners are doing. Enjoy the chats with yourself

[marmalademonster Graduate10 in reply to Murielbez]

Will do!