Runniversary Warning long Post!

Hi everyone,

Who would have imagined I would still be running a year after my graduation ?

In my first ever post I described myself as the world's worst runner and that is exactly how I felt. I thought that I would not be any good. I even thought it was probably a waste of money buying a good pair of shoes but luckily was well advised my husband and a nice shop assistant.

Although I am still not very fast and nowhere near able to consider running more than 5K I have noticed improvements. I must be faster because my original routes are not long enough and have to find new places to run. I don't time myself because I'm sure that this is not why I'm doing this. So what are my motivations ?

1. The mood lift I get when I run.

2. the very fact of being outdoors more often.

3. the beneficial effect the running has had on my overall health : I used to get unexplained aches and pains in muscles and joints. these have totally disappeared.

4. Although I have lost no weight I have become leaner and trimmer.

5. My resting heart rate is at 55 (admittedly it was not very fast before, about 65)

Now some advice for new runners

1. go out as often as you can, but don't beat yourself up about it if you can't. I respected the three runs a week thing during the programme but I only go out twice a week now.

2. GET GOOD SHOES. You will do less harm to your joints if you do. I also recommend strap socks for people like me who have dodgy ankles.

3. Post on this forum (the people are so lovely and supportive)

4. Don't worry too much about the aches and pains at the beginning. This is normal. You are waking up muscles which have been dormant for such a long time.

5. Don't expect quick fix miracles. It doesn't work like that. You won't lose weight unless you adjust your diet.

6. Don't forget to drink lots. It helps a lot with preventing injury like muscle tearing.

Well that's about it. happy running to you all

Catherine

[Bluebirdrunner Graduate]

Happy Runniversary Hidden 😊

I agree with all your advice. 😄

[poppypug Graduate]

Great post Cath !

A very Happy 1st Runniversary to you

Cheers ! * Clinks bucket of tea * xxx

[Hidden in reply to poppypug]

Thanks Poppy. Tea is the best

[Flossie22 Graduate]

Happy Runniversary Catherine, I'm so impressed and great advice for us newbies too, thank you!

[Razouski]

Being a relative beginner, it's good to know that you're still running 1 year on. Happy 1st Runniversary. I hope I can keep motivated, like all you graduates.

[Von99 Graduate]

Happy runniversary!

[Curlygurly2 Graduate]

Happy runniversary Kath, and here's to many new routes xx

[Ullyrunner Graduate]

Happy runniversary!

And that it what this running lark is all about.

[Hidden in reply to Ullyrunner]

Sure is