Run no. 13, staying with week 3!

[Lesaspie]

There is definitely a therapeutic benefit to be had from running, from pushing the body to its limits, which in my case are easily reached!

A shorter post this time. I felt very low when I woke up, and despite vowing not to read any news media, I did look at the UK news and I personally think its very sad and stupid. Yesterday my youngest son, who got his first car just over a month ago, messaged me to tell that it had been broken into and the window broken. It's also still very cold, there won't be any appreciable warmth here for another two months at least. So it was a huge effort to put the running clothes on.

But I am so very glad I did. I have decided to stay with week three a few more days, it really is the limit in these temperatures. Somehow my pace is more even, my breathing a bit more under control (the Buff is essential, it would be possible without it.) and this delightful folksy song comes in halfway through, although I can't find out what it is, I really like it!

"Trees and fields and flowers in bloom

Take a little piece and give a little back"

I just about finished the second three minute run. I am not ready for longer bursts just yet but did I imagine that it was not quite so hard? During the cool down brisk walk - it has to be brisk, because Laura says so! - I felt quite recovered and to ease my conscience at not moving up to week 4 I ran for another minute! After three minute runs these 60/90 second ones that were so killing a month ago really don't seem so bad. Then I cycled to a cafe for water, coffee and a spinach and mushroom pasta salad. I had no aches, pains, at all, just a rather tired chest. And my mood had lifted to just gentle sadness. The effect is remarkable for someone who has lost so many days and weeks to anxiety and depression.

Full credit for this achievement - that's what it is! An achievement I am very happy about - must go to the shoes, and the shop that sold them to me. The Running Outlet in Canterbury, Kent, and their assistant certainly knew their job. She put me on a treadmill and filmed my... gait? How my feet landed, something she called pronation. I assume this is usual practice but oh my, this is the major factor.

I used to scoff a little at expensive sports wear, thinking it unnecessary, but I was completely wrong to do so.

Thanks for staying with me. It's all so bloody amazing so far.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Well done.

I am not suggesting that you are frightened of W4, but this post might give you something to think about healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

You can do more than you think............

[Lesaspie Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you! Just doing this so far has shown me I can do more, but I will give week 3 a few more days. I mustn't underestimate this nordic air, it can probably kill! But your positive vibes are really welcome. I am discovering that this community is as friendly as a) Bikers, and b) Iron Maiden fans and that's terrific.

[Wenderwoo Graduate]

Your doing just great, well done 👍😁