I know the 10K is still a fortnight away. Yes. Just a fortnight! However, it seemed like a good point to do this post.
I did my first 10K in 2001 and then again a year later. I'm not a runner, it was more about seeing if I could actually do it. Super Sister and I did it together - she hadn't got any kids and I'd only got one tiny little one.
Rather foolishly we agreed to do the Great North Run. It must have been 2005 because she particularly wanted to do it on its 25th anniversary. It doesn't seem like that much of a reason now. However we did it and - a few weeks later - the Glasgow Half Marathon. Or maybe it was the other way round. Suffice to say, I didn't run a single step after that.
Not until this year, when I thought it might be time for another go. Only with rules - no going further than 10K and no running up steep hills.
Here's what I've learned from this time round:
- Run while listening to a talking book and it'll be almost painless.
- This part of the world can be lovely first thing in the morning. (Just like this photo)
- Running makes you hungry.
- Running burns calories.
- Having to take pictures for your blog gives a good excuse for stopping for a wee rest.
- There are lots of squashed frogs on some of the lanes.
- Not everyone picks up their dog poo.
- In the absence of a sports bra, two ordinary bras do just as well.
- Firm pants are essential - those who had babies by Cesarean will understand this one.
- Running's OK, but it's much better when you stop. In fact, it's almost worth it for how nice it is then.
