W9R1-smashed!

[BarbieW]

Hi everyone

I am so pleased to have completed Week 9 Run 1, as I really had serious doubts if I could ever get this far again, after my medical issues over the last year. But I smashed it, and am really looking forward to runs 2 &3 so I can finally graduate again. (Do I get a double graduate badge???? My old one is looking a bit old and rusty!)

I have discovered that for me I need to have something else going on in my mind. Yesterday I was really worried the parent swans and 8 cygnets sitting on the path I use around the lake would become aggressive (especially after I saw a dog walker turning back rather than try to get past) but first time round daddy swan simply hissed at me, then ignored me totally the next two times I passed. Mummy swan had her head tucked under her wing throughout!

But because I was concerned about that possible confrontation (I’m a born worrier) I didn’t really think about the running and got through with no problem. So I’m going to explore podcasts to see if they will help distract me, as I really can’t run to music.

Roll on next week for my final 2 runs, and my consultant appointment at the hospital in 10 days time when she will really see the difference in me - fitter, healthier, and much, much happier!

Happy running folks

[backintime Graduate]

Excellent! Distraction is a good thing when running

[MissUnderstanding Administrator]

What a brilliant post. Your positivity absolutely shines through and that’s just lovely to read. It’s great looking back and realising how far you’ve come. So much to be proud of. I really wish we had a bigger graduate badge we could give you! When you’re finished, we’ll just have to give you some massive cheers instead.

Enjoy your last two programme runs and start planning your well deserved celebrations. Hope it’s a good appointment too. I don’t think anyone will fail to notice how good you’re feeling! ❤️❤️❤️

EDIT: I forgot to comment on podcasts. I often use them when I’m running. I find talk based podcasts great for chilled out runs. They keep me more focused on the content of the chat and I’m less likely to accidentally speed up. Nike Run Club is great for guided runs. Lots of us moved on to that after finishing with c25k. It’s a bit marmite but free so nothing lost if it isn’t for you.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Well done you! As MissUnderstanding says..no second badge..only a virtual shiny golden one..🥇🤣

[Gthants]

I have alternated between music and podcasts depending on mood. I really like In Our Time with Melvyn Bragg, though some of the subjects are a bit dense, but it's fascinating to listen to an in depth discussion - and they last about 40-45 minutes, so with the walks and 30 minute run, perfect for Week 9!

[BarbieW Graduate in reply to Gthants]

Thanks - yes I’ve downloaded all the series of In our time, but will have to be careful which one to pick to start with…..soooo much choice!