Park Run Done!

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Last Saturday I took part in my first Park Run. I’d first registered with Park Run a couple of years ago when I heard about it but I was too nervous to go. I was worried I’d come last and look like the most unfit person in the world. The results would be there online for all to see. I’d have felt awful looking at them. How wrong could I have been!

So last week I headed out a little before 8:30am to go and find my local Park Run venue. I wanted to make sure I was early so I had plenty of time to find the start. I’m always an early person so I didn’t want to be late on my first run. I parked up and saw a few people in running gear. I’d already looked up online the route that my local park run took so I knew roughly which way to head.

All the park runs start at 9am I think and its easy to find your local one on the website.

I kept following everyone until I got to the large group of people huddled by the start. As I knew no one I just smiled at a few people and set up my iPhones music ready for the run. I had read on the website that music was ok but to only wear one headphone so that you can hear the marshalls. As a rule follower I only put one earphone in.

Just before the start a nice chap dressed in a yellow jacket gave a quick briefing about some safety rules and reminders. He also welcomed first timers which was nice. He explained that at this particular park run you have to go around the route 3 times to make the 5km. I needed to remember to count!

In just a couple of minutes we were on our way. I hung back to the end of most of the people as I know I’m not great at running so knew I’d be slow. I went past the start and tried to get into a nice rhythm that suited me. I managed to keep going like that for around 18 minutes before I had to slow down for a walk. I kept going though running when I could and walking when it became to hard. The marshals on the course were great and clapped every time I passed. It made me feel proud for taking part and pushing myself to keep going.

I finished though, I did it, I finished! Just after the finishing line you scan your barcode that you get when you register which later translates to your time. I knew roughly what time I’d completed it in but wanted to wait for the park run results. I was surprised later o in the day with a text message to tell me that I’d completed the run in 38:01 and I’d come in position 191. I wasn’t sure how many runners there had been but I knew I hadn’t finished last as I saw another man scan his barcode not long after me. Later that day I was able to check online and there were 208 competitors that particular week. So I was far from last.

Walking back to the car I felt so proud that I’d done it. I’d taken part in my first park run and I was no longer a newbie, and although I did feel like it was the hardest thing at the time I actually do think I enjoyed it. I enjoyed the challenge and the push it gave me to keep going.

I’m looking forward to taking part again in the future and I can’t believe it took me so long to get myself to my first one!

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First Run Done!

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I’ve done it, I’ve actually done it. I’ve pulled my shoes on and made it past the threshold for my first run. I promised myself I would and I did! I feel good and proud of myself for keeping my promise.

It was only a really small one of 3.18km but it’s a start. They always say the first run is the hardest so I’m glad its over and done with now. Onwards and upwards!

Distance – 3.18km

Time – 25:12

Average pace – 7:54 per KM

What I had running on the iPhone – I used the 10k runner app, I’ve used this before and I’ve had god results from it. I really wasn’t sure where I was fitness wise so I started from run 3 of the first week on the app. This was 5 minute warm up, then 20 minutes of 1minute running and 1.5 minute walk 8 times, followed by a 5 minute cool down. I felt this was pretty easy for me so I added in some extra running. I also had the Nike+ app running as it’s something I have used for many many years and like to keep adding the km to it.

Music – Now I wasn’t really prepared today and I need to sort out the music on my iPhone so I started off with the ‘Now thats what I call Running’ album on but switched to some random other tunes half way through the run. I need to sort it out properly but it seems like a big job – maybe hubby to the rescue on that one……hint hint!

So the plan is that tomorrow all being well I’m going to take part in my first ‘Park Run‘ which I’m pretty nervous about! Park run organise free weekly 5k timed races all over the country. I’ve been registered for ages but not actually made it to a run yet for lots of reasons. I really want to make tomorrow my first one. Even if I come last I need to start somewhere!

#ThisGirlCan

Run or Dye! Time to get back into it!

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Before having my gorgeous boys I used to enjoy running, I ran a couple of 10k’s but then life got in the way. I would never describe myself as a runner pre-children but I certainly tried! Ever since Flixster was born I’ve wanted to try running again. I just can never seem to find the motivation to get up late in the evening once the children are in bed and all the housework is done and put my running shoes on. It’s all about taking the first step.

They always say the first run is the hardest.

For the longest time I’ve contemplated blogging about my running journey, starting from the very beginning. I’m not a fit person anymore, I’m still carrying extra baby weight and I’m permanently tired from the interrupted sleep. So I’ve put it off and off and off. But this week a chance presented itself to work towards a goal. The opportunity to join in the fun of the ‘Run or Dye’ event. With races taking place up and down the country reaching out to every corner, over the course of the year I couldn’t pass it up. As a lover of living life in colour the concept appeals to me so much. It’s only a short course of 5k which is achievable even if you have no level of fitness like me. The most important part is having fun and taking part. It’s not about the time you run or walk on the day Run or Dye’s mission is to encourage better health, fitness and nutrition decisions among its participants and supporters.The sheer amount of colour you get covered in is a bonus and enjoying yourself is mandatory!

 I’m going to take part in the event on June 6th in Liverpool, which I know isn’t very long away but I’m a person who works well under pressure! I’ve got 2 and a half weeks to get out and do some practising! I’m hoping the Run or Dye race is the kick I need to get back out there and find the time to run again. I can’t wait to participate in world’s most colourful 5K cross the finish line and celebrate in the world-famous Dye Festival as the full force of the brilliant colours are blasted all around.

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I did have some concerns about the dye that I will be covered in but after reading about it on the website I’ve found out it is a safe, eco-friendly, plant-based dye powder. Run or Dye draws its inspiration from the ancient Hindu festival of Holi, also known as the “Festival of Colours.”

In addition to the fun everyone will be having, Run or Dye will be bringing colour to those who deserve a lift to brighten their lives. Whether it’s repainting the local playground, creating a bright and exciting mural for a community space or simply arranging for a bunch of blooms to be delivered to someone in need, Run or Dye wants to know who you would like to thank with colour . Gifts will be given to worthwhile causes, large and small around the UK, covering the 15 Run or Dye event locations. Bringing the true spirit of Run or Dye which celebrates life, friendship, fitness and fun outside the events the gifts will help even more to live life in full colour. Schools, organisations and individuals in need can be nominated via the Run or Dye website, http://runordye.co.uk/colour-nomination so if you can think of a worthwhile cause get in touch with them. I can certainly think of a few good causes I’ll be nominating.

I’m going to start blogging about my running journey, even if it helps motivate just one person to get out and go for a walk then I’d be happy. I don’t know when I’m going to find the time, but I will do it. It’s time to make a positive change to my health. #thisgirlcan

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As a motivation for people who fancy having fun and joining in with the colour party like me Run or Dye are offering £3 off the entry fee by using the code KISDISCOUNT on the Run or Dye website.

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