You're so Addictive: A Running Commentary.
- 1life2dream
- Oct 23, 2017
- 5 min read
What started as a foolish idea, never thought through has become an addiction that's hard to beat.
Turning 30 was the pinnacle of my personal foolishness. On a whim I signed up for my first half marathon without thinking. I hated running at school, I was not even vaguely good at it, but in a moment of madness I signed up to run 13.1 miles 14 years after ever 'jogging' a short distance. Convincing myself I could still do it, whatever 'it' was, I still young? (strangely coming closer to 40, I was younger than I realised at the time). Could it have been a midlife crisis early?
I then just put it to the back of my mind, it was obviously going to disappear. As time drew closer I did a 2 mile jog in preparation and yes, those of you who know about running will realise this is just madness stupidity at the highest level.
Before I knew it the Bristol Half marathon arrived and I ran (limped) it slowly (2 hours 33 minutes to be precise). I scrambled over the finish line in what can only be described as mild agony whilst my legs seized up and my body gave in temporarily. My recovery time was slow and two weeks on I struggled bending my legs, but walking was less painful and to be honest the whole experience was something I'd rather forget. I'd done it and that was that. Proved something to myself perhaps? Who to, I'll never know.
As time went on the memories of that day faded. Fast forward almost 6 years and perhaps it was a time to sign up for another run? I mean it wasn't as bad as I remember I'd done a few shorter distances in a bid to become a little more active and I had forgotten about the pain of running with no training. I had been ill for a while with limited mobility and for some reason this inspired me to make the most of every day and led me to crave more from life, to feel alive, appreciate what I had. I ultimately had a new lease of life, a second chance and wanted to get out and give it another go. Partially in a bit to rehabilitate recover and partially for my own well being. I mean I had pushed myself through bootcamp again and loved every minute, building up my strength and giving me a positive mental attitude.
Again another local the run came along, this time in Weston Super Mare. I signed up once more on a whim, but this time training a little more (not much), building myself up a little each day. I wasn't expecting miracles but I knew ' I got this'
The day arrived, it was a clear and sunny day and once again I was ill prepared (yes I had even forgotten my water bottle and had no sleep the night before). Again as last time the last minute nerves built up, but I did it, I pushed myself and was surprised to find that actually although a little painful, I had enjoyed the scenery, the cheer of the crowd and the fact that I had achieved a personal best and done better than 6 years previously. I found it gave me time to reflect, my thoughts were with me and I was spurred on by the memory of a loved one who I wanted to make proud and had inspired me immensely in my life. It was a peaceful run.
2016 I found a new inspiration for running. Not only had I joined a running club, but I decided to fundraise at the same time. Now I really had something to aspire to. My running club were very supportive and knowing that I was doing it for charity meant that I put more effort into each and every step I was taking. Each race my time improved, but for me there was a definite buzz, meeting some amazing people on the way, lots with inspiring stories, others who just like me decided one day that today was the day.
The problem with running is you must train, train, train this not only reduces recovery time but also prepares you well for the event. Eating and hydrating well is important. I also learnt that everyone who is new to running feels like I felt on that first ever run.......inexperienced and perhaps sticking out like a sore thumb. As it happens you begin to realise that everyone is in their own zone and no one is judging you, give yourself credit. With each run, there will be a part of it where you will think never again (this is where mind over matter kicks in), there will be a large part where the crowd spurs you on and the local support is heart warming.............from the lady who sets up a water station outside her home to a family with a makeshift placard offering their support to you. I mean, how can you possibly let them down? The nerves at the start of the race are always the same, but I think it is the adrenaline kicking in and preparing you for the next couple of hours.
So at the end of every run you promise you will never do it again, proud of your own achievement for the day. The problem is the first thing you do when you get home (except for having a shower) is signing up for the next run. 13.1 miles is my limit. At the end of 2016 having run 5 half marathons I said I would not do another one, so here I am in 2017 having completed 6 half marathons more than I ever thought I could.
I have run 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, tried tough mudder, gone to colour runs, run in halloween themed costumes and although I say 'never again' each time. I have to admit I am addicted. Running is in your blood and once it gets there it is impossible to imagine life without it. It's not about the medals, some days you do better than others, it's about the discipline, setting goals, achieving them and motivating yourself. Meeting new people, making new friends, inspiring yourself and being inspired by others. I can genuinely say that I never in a million years thought I could do it, but I have learnt that anything is possible if you believe in yourself.
Useful links:
Bristol Half Marathon
Weston Pier Half
Forest of Dean Spring Half Marathon
Bath Two Tunnels Half
Chippenham Half
Tough Mudder
Nightingale Nightmare 10k
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