It's nearly two weeks since I boldly announced to the world that I was taking up running. Although I enthusiastically pledged to pound the streets three times a week, I've actually only managed to get out twice!
Last night for example, I'd planned to go for a run - and then accidentally drank wine and then it was too late.
It's a bit poor - so as of today, I' starting the programme again - with renewed determination.
Week Workout 1 Workout 2 Workout 3
1 Brisk five-minute warmup walk. Then alternate 60 seconds of jogging and 90 seconds of walking for a total of 20 minutes. Brisk five-minute warmup walk. Then alternate 60 seconds of jogging and 90 seconds of walking for a total of 20 minutes. Brisk five-minute warmup walk. Then alternate 60 seconds of jogging and 90 seconds of walking for a total of 20 minutes.
However, although my running consistency has been a bit rubbish, I have already learned some valuable lessons.
- It's a lot easier to run in the dark. Obviously aware of personal safety issues, but running in the dark is so much easier because you can just switch off and daydream your way through 20 minutes. The bonus is that no one can see you.
- I was amazed that I could actually run for 60 seconds in one go. In the dark it wasn't very hard at all.
- I need to buy a better bra.
- Don't eat smoked, peppered mackerel immediately before a run, it leads to some very unpleasant sensations.
- Drink lots of water when you get home and stretch. Don't do what I did - drink vodka, and collapse on the sofa for the rest of the evening. I woke up in the night with the most excruciating cramp in my left calf and a rigid right big toe. At the time amputation would have been a blessed relief!
- Buy a digital watch. I went out 'running' with my friend's dog one day this week along the canal tow path. To time myself properly I took my watch off to hold in my hand. In the process of running and juggling a dog lead, poo bags, mobile phone, camera and keys, somewhere along the line I dropped my watch in the mud and then couldn't find it again. Bugger!
- Demand lots of encouragement from your loved ones. After my first run, I stood in our bedroom in my bra top and asked Tris whether I was looking like golden girl heptathlete Jessica Ennis yet. He thought for a while and then said "Yes ....... well more like her than Fatima Whitbread!"
I am determined to do this running lark. It's just taking me a little while to get into it. The road that I live on used to be called Perseverance Street - so that's what I will do - persevere.
I'll keep you posted. In the mean time, here are some of my views, taken during the walking parts of the programme.
