Last May, I got a chest infection and had to stop running. Then, I contracted RSV from one of the rowers on the European tour. This severely exacerbated My Asthma. In October, I did my first run (since May) while on the Gold Coast with a friend. In November, I got COVID for the second time. More than a run was being held on the 25th of November, 2 weeks after COVID. Being passionate about mental health support and awareness, I wanted to participate, but I wasn’t sure if I could run 5km, let alone 10km. I asked my friend Andrew to join me, and we decided to run 5km and walk 5km. Moving 10km for Men’s Health.
I have been running 5km most weeks since, mainly at park run.
My pace has been a little faster since the 25th of November; I’m getting the park run done in around 29-31 minutes. But the biggest improvement is in how my body has adapted to regular running.
So today this post is to appreciate that progress is more than achieving Personal Bests. I spend less time in zone 5 on a run at a slightly faster pace. One of my park run friends said last week that she thought I looked comfortable when she ran past me.
As someone who competed in weightlifting for 10 years, I enjoy moving my body in ways that make me feel good. While hitting a PB lift is pretty satisfying, I also got excited about performing better technically. I enjoy that aspect more now that I am not cycling to competitions or lifting heavy.
I still don’t love running, and run day seems to come around quickly each week. I enjoy getting out in the community, engaging with friends and the post-run bacon and egg roll.
Great Clare. Progressing is more important than PB's. Keep running.
I have one question very long time & I decided to ask you as you (hope you won't take it wrong). It's about the processed meats in bacon and egg roll, like bacon packs a tonne of sodium, can be high in saturated fat and has even been categorized as one of the carcinogens even though I see many Australians love to have that combo. I know it's a last line of your article which I have asked question, if you think its unnecessary then don't answer it.