Running happy

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At the start of this year I felt I was falling out of love with running. I didn't want to do it and when I did it was a struggle. I began to wonder if my five year love affair was coming to an end. Maybe that is all it had been, a fling.

I'm pleased to say that isn't the case. Since having a quieter month in January I've regained my enthusiasm and re-committed myself to running. I've found a new lease of life, motivated by beautiful scenery, new running friends (John) and endorphins.

Maybe the increased mileage during November and December led me to be fatigued mentally and physically. I did push 150 miles a month to break the 1000 mile mark for the year. Whatever the cause I have come through the other side and that gives me confidence that running is here to stay.

So what now? Mainly I'm enjoying running for fun. I'll parkrun every Saturday as always although not necessarily chasing a PB. I'll use it as part of a longer run, getting miles in before and after and making time for coffee and cake. This is a great time to socialise and just take in the freedom of being outside with friends exploring the surrounding countryside.

In the week I'll run to or from work which is a good 10 miles over the cliffs along the North Downs Way between Folkestone and Dover. Beautiful views, challenging climbs, wildlife and no asphalt in sight. Add in a lunchtime run along the sea front with a sea swim to cool off and I'm managing to easily do 100+ miles a month.

I've only entered one organised race since March 2016 and that was the Folkestone Half Marathon last September. I miss the anticipation and excitement of a mass run and have decided to enter a few more. On May 27th I'll be running the Folkestone 10K and then June 26th is an off road marathon from Lympne Castle to Deal. September will be the Folkestone Half Marathon again and then I'd like to do another road marathon in the autumn.
I had planned to enter a triathlon but unfortunately damaged my wrist boxing and still can't comfortably ride a bike. However, swimming is still an option as I'm always near the sea and can end a run with a soothing dip.

This week I ran 8 miles on Tuesday and 10 yesterday. Yet today I'm still fighting the urge to go out again. It seems the more I run, the more I want to run and more often that not I have to actively stop myself to prevent burn out or injury. One day I even had to put my trainers in the wash so I couldn't be tempted out. I never thought that would be the case 6 years ago!

This says it all....




 

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