Week 6 Run 2

And feeling good. Today was so much better than Saturday's run, more energy and the sun was shining. Second 10 minutes were amazing and I was really surprised when Jo told me I could slow down to my final walk; I felt like I could keep going. Hope this energy remains into run 3 planned later this week. Anyway thought I would share my running buddy with you, it's a private road, it has sustained me through the programme so far. I have run up and down this road so many times, even the sheep are getting bored. I hope soon to pluck up the courage to go public and be seen puffing and panting my way through the final weeks. Still can't describe myself as a runner but guess that will happen in time.

[Forest_Run_Beginner]

Well done on the great run, it sounds like you have found your stride and perhaps having the sun grace us with its presence helped too?!

And don't be worried about running somewhere more public, you will honestly find that no-one really pays much attention. I would head out either as early or as late in the day as possible when I first started as I had a similar fear but now, I feel like if someone wants to judge me for getting some exercise, it says more about them! 😛😁

Keep going and long may the great runs continue for you 👌💪👍🏃

[Crittermad Graduate]

People don’t actually bother about you! I was embarrassed at first (especially meeting my young fit neighbours walking their dog) but most other runners usually just smile and are friendly 😃

[mom24uk Graduate]

Wow Hidden you're doing so well. I'm so pleased to see it coming together for you! It may take some time before you describe yourself as a runner, but we would describe you as one now because that's what you are! You're out there hitting that tarmac every week.

That is a lovely spot to run. I'm sure you break the day up for the bored sheep but don't be worried about running in public. I was too but you'll find a, no one really cares what you're doing, and b, it's not as scary as you think.

[mayberunner Graduate]

Now is the time to start running in public if you’re nervous - everyone is being told to stay in, so you’re less likely to be seen!

In reality, I had the same fear. I mostly run on trails and have found that I don’t really notice other runners and once they’re out of sight could not even tell you what they looked like, much less if they were going fast or slow - so I’m assuming they feel the same about me!! Usually there’s just a polite smile or nod of acknowledgement. Not as scary as you think! You can do it!