W9r1

[Ddmm2068]

Done!!! The rolling shuffle continues undefeated. It even got dark and I carried on. Overtook 2 slow walkers (yay) and resisted the urge to punch the air gleefully as I staggered past. Can't quite believe I can run for 30 mins. Proudly kept my running kit on for an extra half hour when I got home. Here is a pic of how dark it was when I finished my run.

However, all said and done I still don't enjoy the actual running. I spend the whole time thinking how much longer to go till I can stop. Does that ever change?

[Ullyrunner Graduate]

I know exactly what you mean - I used to find the running really hard but loved the feeling of achievement.

In truth it took a while to change. Learning to slow the pace was a breakthrough, and I still really enjoy a long run/walk the best.

It will come. You can mix things up a bit after you graduate - only 2 runs to go!

[Ddmm2068 Graduate in reply to Ullyrunner]

Thank you. Not sure I could go any slower however!

[misswobble Graduate]

Yes it does. Well it did for me. I shuffled for ages but shuffling gets you where you want to go. I shuffled in races but no worries. When you do start lifting your legs like a runner you feel absolutely bloody elated. Takes a while though but no matter.

As you get fitter and stronger you will probably find yourself lost in your runs, away with the fairies, lost in your own thoughts, only to re-surface and find you've run unconsciously for quite some distance. That's when you know it's got easier.

I hope you grow to love running as it helps so much with our health and fitness. Find new routes to keep your running refreshed. Running in the dark is fine if a bit slower as you have to take care where you put your feet. A running light would make a perfect gift to yourself. There are loads of threads on here, and pictures I suspect, about those. I have a Led Lenser which was about £18.

Good luck with the last two runs of the programme. Take care!

[lightweightkate Graduate]

Well done - what a great feeling and onto R2 😀 Ullyrunner and misswobble have wise words to your question and it's one that I empathise with as I still find it so hard sometimes but the encouraging words they write help so much. Only 2 runs to go before graduation !!!

[TessHardy Graduate]

Well done ! Like you I am hoping to find the time passing less painfully with the constant wish to stop! Good luck!