Running reflections...

[RainbowC]

It's that time of the year when we look back over the past twelve months, our accomplishments and achievements, so I thought it might be nice to have somewhere we can share these. Doesn't have to be a big headline 'I won a marathon' achievement - just anything that's worth celebrating for each individual...

I was chatting to Mr Rainbow last night and saying that my main achievement this year is just keeping running! It's not been constant, and I've missed weeks here and there, but I have managed to keep going. He then reminded me I'd also done two 5k runs this year (even though they were run/walks), and have signed up for another with some colleagues - which has inspired one of them to pick up running again! So a better year than I'd thought at first.

Anyone else want to share their achievements?

[Maddee_6333 Graduate]

Sounds like you've achieved a lot, go you!

I have finally graduated, it took a few tries, but I have done it and I joined the canicross group which was quite a leap for me (I'm a bit socialky awkward.)

[RainbowC Graduate in reply to Maddee_6333]

I'd love to try proper canicross at some point - but at the moment my fluffball has decided she'll try and run when I'm walking, and the moment I start running she sits down firmly! Think we need to work on the running together bit...!

[Maddee_6333 Graduate in reply to RainbowC]

You should, it is a lot of fun.

If you can find a canicross group near you - try canicross.org.uk - that has beginner runs (beginner tends to cover both novice dogs and novice runners) they will probably have equipment you can borrow for you and the fluffball. Plus, the dogs actually often cotton on to the idea a lot quicker when there are other dogs around them.

[Butchdingle Graduate]

Well done you RainbowC 😃

I have gone from being a non runner who couldn't do 1 minute of the couch 25k podcast without stopping to a graduate of it and whilst I don't currently do many 5k runs (that is my main target for next year.) I have kept at it even running on Boxing Day!

[RainbowC Graduate in reply to Butchdingle]

Excellent work! Happy running for next year...

[AndyD Graduate]

I think that those people who have completed the program during the year have more to celebrate than most.

Yes, it's tough doing that first 10k or HM but nothing compared to getting out there the first time and running for a few minutes and starting down that path to a healthier lifestyle.

So hats off to all those people who's stockings were full of running kit this year! 😁

[skysue16 Graduate]

I agree with Andy - achieving 5k was amazing, I really never imagined doing that. When I started I asked my hubby ' so how far is 5k, from the house and back?', he later measured the distance using the car and when he told me I said - 'no way, I won't be able to run that far!!'

[NeverSayNoToJeffing Graduate]

I started the programme this year and graduated - with some shock and surprise. I have kept up running by joining the local running club (Winter enthusiasm for running is hard). It isn't easy but it keeps me sane and makes me feel good about looking after myself. I've done an official 5K and intend to go more. I did my first Parkrun (just last week) and it was great.

Running has brought me a lot and I am grateful for all of the support from this warm and supportive community.

[misswobble Graduate]

I agree Andy! Big up to all our Graduates ☺ Have a great year developing your running. I hope everyone of you makes it to next new years day. Taking things steady.

I am delighted to have had a full year of running, except for a month off with a calf injury. The year before was a bit of a right off due to a horrible shin splint. Getting another half marathon completed was a high point