A long, slow haul

[Rising60]

I graduated in the week before Christmas 2020, finally managing the three 30 minute runs. I didn't take a long break over Christmas, but immediately lost my capacity to keep going for the full half hour. I have been pretty good about sticking to three runs a week all year, bar a couple of weeks when we have been fortunate enough to go away and have done lots of long walks instead. But it was only a couple of weeks ago that I once again managed to run for the full 30 minutes, and today I'm pleased to say that I completed the third 30 minute run in a row. Overall, they haven't been any quicker than the run with a couple of walks that I've done for most of the year, but I'm pleased that I have managed to keep going. Whether I will truly 'consolidate' this time I'll have to wait and see. The key thing for me will be whether or not my blood pressure/sugar levels are better when they're next tested in the autumn as any improvement will make the whole thing worthwhile.

[nowster Graduate]

The last time but one I went for my regular bloods (for thyroid function), I suggested they add cholesterol etc. tests to it. Because of that a few weeks later I got called in for a risk assessment with the practice nurse.

They probed and questioned, but couldn't find anything new for me to do that would reduce my risk, which on their "computer says no" was now as low as it goes for someone my age. BMI was in the right range, I was doing more than the minimum exercise they were expecting, my alcohol consumption was low-to-moderate (about 6-8 units per week), etc. etc.

[Cmoi Graduate]

As you already know Rising60 , I think you're doing really well 😀 Sticking at it is key, and to be admired, whether or not you're going further, or faster, or whatever.

[Rising60 Graduate in reply to Cmoi]

Thanks! At least it's not too hot here - how's your weather?

[Cmoi Graduate in reply to Rising60]

I'm really bad at getting up early, so I've mostly been running when it's around 18° -24°.

As I type this at 18.50hrs, it's 30° on the terrace in the shade, and 34° in the garden. I'm due a rest day tomorrow, then my first 20-miler on Sunday. That will be postponed if temperatures stay the same, or rise, as per the forecast!

[Rising60 Graduate in reply to Cmoi]

We would like it to be a little warmer here, but I certainly wouldn't run in those temperatures.