Run, mama, run

I’m just getting back into running after a bit of a break. Ok, so when I say a bit, I mean probably about six years if I’m being honest. We’re going right back to before my first pregnancy, when I was younger, less tired, probably a little bit rounder, but had much more time on my hands than I do now.

I’ve never been a natural runner. I mean, I managed to do the Manchester 10k twice, but the second time I really did not enjoy it! I remember stopping for a drink of water about half way round, and just never really being able to get myself going again. I think that kind of put me off running altogether, and a couple of months later I found I out I was expecting and that was that. Running was off the menu, but running about after one lively boy – and more recently, one lovely boy, one baby girl and one poorly hubby – was most certainly not.

A couple of weeks ago, I decided to get back out there and see how I got on. I was inspired by a couple of good friends who are running amazing distances and looking fantastic for it, and my sister, who despite having two jobs and three kids, still manages to get out for a good six miles before the school run (I’m told this was a rare occurrence, but still).

It seems like everyone who runs these days uses an app to measure their distance, speed and calories burned, so I thought I’d join in and added Map My Run to my phone. I always used to just say I’d run for half an hour then stop, but this way, my mind is more focused on the distance rather than the time, and I’ve found it’s really helped me run further and enjoy it more. Each time I hear that little voice say ‘you have run one kilometre’ I can do a little smile (why do so many runners look so damn serious? I don’t get it). So now I’m up to a couple of 5 or 6k runs a week, and I’m feeling better for it.

I thought I’d do a list of the things I I like about running, feel free to add your own, or let me know if you agree or disagree. Here goes!

1. It’s relatively quick – no getting to and from a gym to factor in.
2. It can be done anytime (or if you have kids, anytime there is another adult in the house to look after them, of course).
3. It’s free.
4. Running is a great stress buster. Maybe it’s no coincidence the one of my friends who runs the most is also the one with the most children!
5. Being fitter means you can run faster for the morning train, meaning a slightly longer time spent sat at the kitchen table drinking coffee.
6. It’s an excuse to buy new running gear (see below).

Have you got any more to add?

X Julia

Clockwise from top left:

Helly Hansen long sleeve top, Wiggle

Nike Free 5.0+ women’s running shoe, John Lewis

Rebel runner crop, Lulu Lemon

Runners wristband, Sweaty Betty