Not embarrassed even by Paula Radcliffe..

[Idolitorus]

Just completed W2 R2. I still stand by my impression that the second run of the second set of runs for the week (if you get me) is the hardest. Anyway, about half way through the set I saw a lady running toward me. I was in my walking phase of the set, which I am not sure was good or bad as the lady who came past was what I hope to be in a futher 7 weeks - a proper runner (not a lady).

She had all the lovely running gear, arm band, rainbow mirrored glasses the works - and for the life of me she looked like a petite Paula Radcliffe. When I first started 2 weeks ago, I would have felt mortified and embarrassed at meeting someone like this as I puffed round, red faced. Today, I thought 'that may be me soon'.

When I first started out and saw anyone else not even runners, I felt like a bit of a fraud. What am I doing making out I am runner. I can't run.

I'm still not a runner, but neither am I that person who wouldn't go out in fear of failure - I actually look forward to the next run. Crazy!

Then immediately after, an odd piece of karma/serendipity call it what you will; I started my next 90 second run and who should turn in to my road but two trainees motorcyclists and their instructor. That was me last November, setting out to do my motorcycle test, full of trepidation after wanting to do it after a 30 odd year hiatus - I passed and now have my own red, shiny (old, but wonderful) 750 Honda.

We all start somewhere. I am not fast. I am not pretty. But I am doing it and I am not embarrassed any more. Even when Paula Radcliffe comes past!

Roll on week 3 and eventually roll on the week where Laura announces 'You are a runner'.

Thank you to everyone who posts, for being brave and voicing their fears as well as their accomplishments, they make a lot of difference to people like me who read them and get inspiration and wouldn't ordinarily dream of posting anything.

[Ullyrunner Graduate]

Hey! Sounds like you are doing great and have really got the bug!

Have fun!

[Rainbowsmurf Graduate]

A brilliant post. Thank you.

[Noaky12 Graduate]

What a great post. Great job in the running & the attitude ☺

[poppypug Graduate]

Welcome to the Madness !

Brilliant post , really enjoyed reading that , thank you xxx

So, youre well on your way now and I agree Run 2 of any week, I found the hardest. They were always a bit " Meh " for me , Runs 1 and 3 were far more exciting !

We all started the same, I hadnt run since I was at school. I had a few attempts to give it another go, but never stuck at it , but I always felt a bit envious when I used to see people running and I was determined to give it a go. Ive never looked back, apart from a couple of stints on the Injury Couch , it has been completely life changing for me .

I am glad youve posted, keep posting as it really helps to keep you focused and determined. This place is packed to the rafters of lovely, lovely people and the support and encouragement is immense .

Its great to get out there, and not give a wotsit what other people may or not be thinking. I was really embarassed to be seen when I first started but as you say that feeling goes and it just doesnt matter.

I wish you all the very best and look forward to reading of your progress ! I love your positive attitude !

Keep going , youre doing great ! xxx

[Hidden]

Interesting that you should say you find run 2 the hardest. That has seemed to be the case for me so far, but I am only on Week 2! W2 R3 tonight for me!

[Idolitorus Graduate in reply to Hidden]

I did my W2 R3 last night too. Made the error of wearing too much. As it was a little drizzly here, I put on a jacket I use for cycling - 2 runs in and it was tied round my waist,flopping about and slipping down. A right damn nuisance.

The run last night was a slog, too. I managed it, but it seemed hard, harder than the other two, I don't know why.

I am still very worried about W3. That 3 min run seems to be a difficult ask at the moment. That said, my recovery time is improving though - I find I am not so achey (is that a real word?) afterwards and not washed out for the rest of the evening.

I will follow the plan and give it a go.

How did your run go?

[Hidden]

Erm...interesting! I used the app last night and for some reason the sound wouldn't work. I ended doing a 7 minute warm up and then ran for over 2 minutes. The fuss at the beginning psychologically affected my pace and I went much faster than I intended, meaning I had to really focus on slowing down for the last interval. What it taught me was that we are capable of more than we realise. I start week 3 on Friday, looking forward to seeing how we both get on - we can do this, go get week 3!