Running again

For me, 2017 was definitely not a year of running. I did a half marathon in January and then... nothing. A small flurry in May, when I thought I might be doing a local trail race, but that tailed off when things got serious on the house moving front. 

Recently though I've started again. I've watched a friend (EssexHebridean) do the couch to 5k and after eight short weeks of regular, consistent running (something I've never managed to do since I started in 2003), she is now running faster than I ever have, even at my fittest. 

I'm extremely impressed with her, and extremely unimpressed with myself. I know I get quicker if I run regularly - yet in thirteen years I think I've only ever done three runs in a single week a handful of times. Even when I was training for the marathon, I was more likely to do one run every fortnight than anything more regular (which explains my shoddy marathon times...). 

I like running, but I've never really pushed myself very hard. I go out for a run, and barely get above walking pace. There's nothing wrong with this of course, but I know I'm capable of more. 

Anyway, inspired by Robyn and other friends who have taken up running regularly, and by looking back at old race photographs and the fun I've had running with my sister, I decided to get back out there. And of course, I motivate myself best with a race... so we've entered a series of short trail races over near the new house (which we still aren't living in... yawn). The first one is the first weekend of February - just over two weeks away - and needless to say I am not remotely prepared. 

But I have been out. Before work, in the semi darkness, running round the park, trying not to slip on the ice. And early morning, in the gym, before anyone else is there, trying not to feel self conscious when the next person comes in. 

Not much, not fast, but regular. 

For now. We'll see how long it lasts...