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!
Roseabi’s Bridge to 5K plan!
Running Truths We've Discovered
