There is Buck fizz or Orange Juice laid out today & yummy snacksβ¦ Do help yourselves & do come in & help me blow up some balloons! π
This weekend past my hubby and I celebrated our Golden Wedding Anniversary in the Lake District . Nature put on her best golden show for us.
These milestone celebrations are awesome and lots of fun. However every anniversary is special and worth celebrating & we have enjoyed them all β¦ homemade candle light dinners , surprise parties , camping, & trips away in many different countries.
Itβs the same with running! The week you make that commitment to start couch to 5k is a real commitment! Little rewards a long the way can be a great incentive to keep going until the grand finale of 9:9!
For me as an early morning runner, my treat on run days is extra special coffee when I get home. I remember too when I first started Couch carrying a few wine gums for β¦. when I get to that tree, or once I turn the corner.. Do share your fun ideas! Week 4 for me was a biggie! I promised myself running kit & proper trainers on completion. This was to replace walking sandals T-shirt & shorts. π It was only then that I began to feel like a real runner.
I wonder what creative ways you have in mind for the big 9:9 Celebration ? π Perhaps a special restaurant or a spa day, takes your fancy? An audio book or a new playlist may inspire you to finish. Do tell!
We know what it takes and how hard it can be, and here on Couch we recognize your commitment with a well earned graduate badge next to your name.
The greatest rewards however are the gifts that running itself brings us! According to both the University College of London, Saga and Harvard you can expect the following gifts.
π Cardiovascular Health: Running strengthens the heart and improves circulation, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Research has shown it can lower blood pressure and improve arterial flexibility, contributing to better overall heart health
π Bone and Joint Health: Regular running increases bone density and strengthens joints, which can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis as you age
π Mental Well-being: Running is known for boosting mood and reducing anxiety and depression. This is partly due to the release of endorphins and other natural chemicals like endocannabinoids, which enhance feelings of well-being
πLongevity: Studies indicate that regular runners live longer on average, with a reduced risk of premature mortality. Even short runs can yield these benefits
πWeight Management and Metabolic Health: Running is highly effective for burning calories and improving metabolism, making it a great choice for maintaining a healthy weight
πππThese insights make running a comprehensive lifestyle choice for both our physical and mental health. Every time we pop on our trainers & head out the door we hit the jackpot. Itβs good to remember and console ourselves when the runs donβt go according to plan that it was still better to have run than to have stayed at home.
Letβs get the run done β and go home & celebrate!