I can't believe I'm typing this. It's a complete New Year cliche but, I've started running!
So far it's a mixture of walks and runs with a helpful chap coaching me through via The Guardian's free beginner's running podcast.
http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/audio/2013/aug/05/guardian-guide-to-running-podcast-beginner-week-1
I have proper trainers for the very first time in my life, which is a bit of a shock, so I'm actually out of my wellies for once (and the onesie!). I've realised that however carefully I eat, the hours and hours I'm desk bound will never help me to shift the mummy tummy and more that I've got.
Cycling has really helped me to get stronger and have a lot more stamina without my lungs collapsing. But it's not so great for burning fat when you go my speed, so I'm hoping combined with running, I might get to enjoy being on the beach this summer, as well as being fitter and healthier all round.
I love being outside and cycling & running are getting me out more often these days. My friend Jo, who I know from the British Cycling network for women Breeze, has given me some brilliant tips and support as she runs too. One great thing she recommends is to take a photo everytime you're out which really appeals to me.
So this is from today's jog down the towpath, past the lovely old flint mill. The next couple are from where I'm aiming for, a run round the 4mile lake near home where we walked with our friends last weekend. Hoping to do this in the next couple of weeks. Eek.
I've signed up for Pilates too. I did it years ago and hoping to tone up and maybe get a flatter tum? Can miracles happen? Mainly though I'm having fun. It's taken me forever to get the confidence not to be scared of exercise. I'm surprising myself and maybe even enjoying it?
I've got until July to turn things around. Wish me luck!
19 comments:
Love the tip of taking a photo every time you run. Running is great isn't it? I've got into doing my local parkrun - a free organised 5k every Saturday morning. All very relaxed and a huge range of abilities - I highly recommend! x
Oh well done! I've got until march to get into a mother of the bride outfit but at the moment am hampered by my hand in plaster! I did start aerobics and Pilates before Christmas which was good fun and I felt better for doing something. Keep up the good work and I shall think of you for support and inspiration. It would feel great to be a more relaxed on the beach wouldn't it?! Trouble is I've had my mummy tummy for 21 years and it's taking some disappearing!! Love Jane x
very impressive Steph. I used to go to pilates and loved it and it definitely did me good. should start again. the photo per run is a brilliant idea.
Such a lovely idea to take a photo every time you go out, I may even try this myself as I am hopeless with taking photos, could be my "New Year Thing". It has been so hot here in Sydney and all over Australia actually that things really do look like a burnt chip here, so not sure I would take much of a photo at the moment lol! Good luck with losing the weight it sounds like you are off to a great start Steph - Enjoy the running. Simone x
Go, Steff!!! You've totally got this!! And Pilates... you stick with it and, then, one day, you realize how wonderful and light it feels to have your core stronger! =) (not that I'm a model citizen, right at the moment. ;) ) Best wishes with it all!
And what beautiful scenery!! How blessed/deeply fortunate! =)
xxo
Well done you! I'm also aiming to start running again as I've let it lapse for far too long. However colds and general busy-ness has prevented me thus far. I've downloaded a couch to 5k podcast which I'm hoping will give me lots of inspiration. Keep at it! x
I do wish you luck! I'm also planning to start very soon, and to restart swimming. I'm also interested in Breeze, and will investigate, so thanks for that! Like the photo idea, but I'll have to find a more interesting route - be good if I Can. Enjoy! Jen
Hey, thank you for the tip about taking photos. I've just started back after a hiatus of over a decade. It's funny what an approaching big birthday can do for motivation! Thanks for the link as well.
Good luck and keep going! It'll be graet to hear of your progress.
Yeah for you! I am so encouraged too! I love the tip about taking photos and have a 'personal trainer' to boot!
By the way, your blog is packed full of great and wonderful photos of your lovely cottage and garden.
Carrie
So impressed! Everyone I know who goes running really enjoys it, and says it's a great way to get to know new places as well as your local area. I think an added bonus is the 'feel good' endorphins, and it's really good for your skin too. Well done, soon you'll regularly be running round the lake :-)
The trouble with running is that it kills your knees. Literally. Everyone I know who used to do it regularly now can't run at all and had periods where they couldn't even walk because their knees had locked or the cartilage moved. They all had operations with varying success and all still have issues even though they no longer run. They were good at it ranging from middle to long distance. It put me right off. I walk everywhere rather than run. Keeping on grass is better than tarmac which is where many runners run. It's a shame but even though I would want to, the experience of people I know, means I never will run as I am better off than they are in my middle age.
Well yes there are downsides. My husband has run for several years though with no ill effects so not too alarmed. I do intend to combine it with cycling and the Pilates so shan't over do it. I only run on tow paths and grass and won't be going even middle distance so sure I won't come to too much harm. Thanks.
was für ein wunderschönes blog!
allerliebste grüße aus der zeitschleife. elvi
Love your photos. Congratulations on the running. Pilates is more my cup of tea - very relaxing.
Hi Steph
That old Flint Mill & Lake look cool for a walk can you tell me where about's it is ? so I can check it out for a nice walk when i'm next up in Stoke on Trent staying with my Brother & his family. I must say Ive picked up some great walk ideas etc from your blog & my bother laughs at my notes as he says 'you' are saving him the job of thinking where to take me LOL ;0)
Cheers
Lin (Somerset )
Hi Lin, it's Cheddleton Flint mill. Park at Cheddleton Steam railway and walk along the canal either left towards Consall and the Red Lion pub and Consall Nature Park, or right towards Denford and nice canal side Holly Bush Inn. This right route takes you past the flint mill,about half a mile from the car park. All online if you want to check out on Google maps! Hope you have a lovely walk. Xx
Thanks everso Steph ! Happy Running :o)
Lin
Somerset
I stumbled upon your blog and have really enjoyed reading all about your life and cute town. I hope the running is going well!
So you cycle too? I cycle still and used to cycle a lot when I lived in your area. Hilly country but you soon get used to it. Good luck with the running. I have been on a couple of Breeze rides but done the Cycletta at Tatton Park twice.
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