thirtydegree

Besides a 2.5km run we used to have to do on the odd occasion in primary school and a 5km fun run with work, I’d never actually run outdoors for any memorable distance. Sure I have run many kilometers on the gym treadmill, over time, looking at myself in the mirrors or pretending to watch the news whilst eyeing up a gym hottie.

I had never given it much thought how I got into running until recently, whilst running with a friend who is new to the experience of running on the road too.

About a year ago I was stuck in a rut with my gym training and really wanted to enjoy the benefits of being outdoors and exercising at the same time. I love the outdoors and find running on a treadmill as boring as hell, to be honest. The only thing was that I had never gone the distance outdoors and had a mental block to being able to do it.

I decided to bite the bullet one afternoon when a friend invited me to go for a run after work in Hyde Park. I knew my competitive streak wouldn’t allow me to give in, certainly when my ego could stand to be bruised. Obviously I had not told him I had never run outdoors before.

I short the experience was exhilarating. I had experienced a high from fitness which you just don’t get in the gym when you go through the motions. I wanted to do it again. This time only better.

That is how I clocked up no less than 800km in 7 months. The results from one run became the benchmark for the next run. Faster, longer, undiscovered routes and being crowned on top routes on Nike+ all give a boost for the next run.

Why I run? I think it’s my competitive streak that keeps me running. I won’t be beat. Least alone by myself. Then there’s release of endorphins and euphoric moments experienced during the run that leave you on a high. Your back straightens, shoulders pull back and you feel as though you can conquer the world.

I already know what would happen if I suddenly stopped. I would suffer withdrawal symptoms. I do even when on holiday. I take my trainers with me ‘just in case’. When I suffered a running injury earlier in the year I started to feel depressed. I saw light at the end of the tunnel the moment my physiotherapist put me back on a treadmill for 5 minutes and I felt the rush.

I think I will always run now. Nothing can stop me. I run through all weather. Next steps are faster and further. I want to get below 4’30″/km and have a few half marathons under my belt before the year is out.