Twenty minutes in the moonlight-thank you Couch to 5k!

[MissUnderstanding]

This evening’s run was a slump busting twenty minutes. The plan was to make the most of the sunshine this afternoon but MrU was keen on a post work run. Post work got later and later, and by the time we were ready it was properly dark. Some minor debate about whether the opportunity to go out had been missed but I reminded him we had all the kit for night running so it was on with the high vis and head torch and out of the door.

There were lots of dog walkers making the most of the dry weather. I felt a bit silly when I pointed out that one of the dogs had two little lights on its collar and then I realised it was his eyes. Five minutes brisk walk later, time to start.

It’s much easier to keep to a conversational pace when you’ve got someone to have an actual chat with. I remember pretending to be on the phone and talking out loud to make sure I wasn’t going too fast back in my early run days but I’ve got that nailed now. Lots of puddles to dodge but the air was cold and crisp and a joy to run in. This was just a simple out and back. The running wasn’t even the main focus, but that’s something that couch to 5k (and beyond) has given me. It’s taken me from someone who could only think about gasping for breath and surviving until the next corner to a runner who can switch on autopilot and just appreciate being out in nature. If you’re not there yet, be patient and you will be. I heard an owl in the distance and spotted a few bats. We won’t talk about the flies attracted to my head torch that I almost inhaled…

Twenty minute runs always make me think of week 5 run 3 and the absolute triumph of finishing that run for the first time. I almost wish I could go back and do it again to experience that joy. It’s so easy to lose sight of how far you’ve come and how much running can bring to life. Every run is a win.

Five minute walk home, an online yoga video as a cooldown stretch, bath and a big smile. Getting out for a run at the moment isn’t feeling easy but after a few more runs like this, I know it will.

If you haven’t done week 5 run 3, you’ve got a treat coming up. If you have, why not try another twenty minute run and remember what an achievement that is!

[Annieapple Administrator Graduate]

🍏🤣 the dogs eyes cracked me up 🤣

Beautiful photo and what an interesting run evoking lovely memories of C25K Week 5 run 3. Most encouraging for those still getting there. We are indebted to this program. 🤩

[MissUnderstanding Administrator On a break Graduate in reply to Annieapple]

Thank you! You are so right! ❤️

[Sax64 Graduate]

It sounds like you had a wonderful run. I've not built up the courage to run in the dark yet. Not sure if I ever will. Happy running 🏃‍♀️

[MissUnderstanding Administrator On a break Graduate in reply to Sax64]

We’re lucky around here that the risks of night running are only really traffic or falling over from not seeing the ground-both of those are minimised with kit…and I love kit! It’s totally fine to decide it’s not for you. There are ways to make it feel safer, such as choosing a well lit route with other people around or running with someone. You’re not alone in preferring to run in the daylight. There was a piece on BBC sport the other day about exactly this. I’ll try and find it!

Happy running to you too! ❤️

[SueAppleRun Graduate]

20 minutes of pure joy, perfect,

[MissUnderstanding Administrator On a break Graduate in reply to SueAppleRun]

You are so right about that! Those runs just keep us going ❤️❤️

[CazzieBoo Graduate]

Love this, as it completely reflects my experience of running now. No longer gasping for breath and just wishing the time away - just enjoying being outside, working my body and noticing the wonders around me x

[MissUnderstanding Administrator On a break Graduate in reply to CazzieBoo]

It’s amazing how that suddenly happens. I remember the first run where I realised I wasn’t thinking about running but singing along with the music (in my head) and enjoying the surroundings. Just brilliant. So glad you’ve found that too! ❤️

[grumpyoldgirl Graduate]

What a beautiful photo, not sure I'd feel secure enough on my feet to run at night where I run, but it sounds like a wonderful experience x

[MissUnderstanding Administrator On a break Graduate in reply to grumpyoldgirl]

There are some places I definitely would avoid! A good head torch/lighting helps but there are always other options if it does by appeal. I very much enjoyed some time in the sunshine this afternoon! ❤️

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Just magical... well done you and yes, Week 5 Run 3 is so special ! A beai=utiful run for you both x

[MissUnderstanding Administrator On a break Graduate in reply to Oldfloss]

Thank you! Excited for the next one now! ❤️❤️❤️