If I only could, I’d be running up that hill…

When can you call yourself a runner? After 6 months, running 4 times a week? A year? Oh. Not after the first 3 runs then? Ahem. Well, I might have told a few people in passing that I’ve started running. I blurted out to the GP this week when she asked if I exercised “Yes. Yes, I do!” I said, with a sense of smug satisfaction. I didn’t get a lollypop.

So yes, I have started running. Why? Well, I was quite good at cross-country when I was a teen. I entered a few competitions in school and did OK. But my after-school activities changed and I preferred prancing around the stage rather than the running track. I was also quite partial to chocolate, Space Raiders and watching movies indoors (nothing changes).

Over the years I did a couple of 5 and 10k runs for charity but to be honest never enjoyed the actual running part. I hated when my chest got tight and my legs went to jelly and I didn’t particularly like the competing part. But strangely, I always did quite well. For some reason my legs just keep going even when I’m in pain. Call me Mrs Gump.

Whilst chatting with friends last month, they mentioned they’d started running and suggested I give it a go because I used to be OK at it. This planted a seed. That was it. No pressure, no resolutions, I just fancied doing something active for free. I’ve never liked the thought of joining classes or the gym so running, I decided, was the sport for me. We’re surrounded by beautiful countryside and what with Autumn popping by to say hello, what better place to run amidst all the colourful trees? However, the memories of the tight chest and wobbly legs were still there and I was a little scared – which meant I would keep putting it off.

So I got myself a running buddy! It’s great running with someone as you motivate each other, firstly to get out the front door and secondly throughout the run “One more corner! One. More. Corner.”

As for the tight chest and wobbly legs? I’ve been reading up on breathing techniques and stretching exercises for before and after the run which has helped no end. For now, I’m a happy runner. I’m not competing or training or giving myself goals, I’m just running…and I still eat chocolate, Space Raiders and watch movies indoors. Happy days.

♥

P.S I had to get a Kate Bush lyric in there somewhere…