Cheltenham Parkrun
Today I got up and went for a run.
More specifically, the very first Cheltenham Parkrun - a proper timed 5k event, running laps of the lake in Pittville Park. Along with 233 other people, wow.
I have done one parkrun before - the Forest of Dean one, back in 2010. But I struggle to find the enthusiasm to drive 20 miles early on a Saturday just to go and hurt my body by trying to run. It's a very low priority behind kayaking and lie ins!
But Cheltenham is much closer, and after persuasion from a couple of mates I couldn't come up with a proper excuse not to.
looking back at the finish area
I haven't tried running for about six months - and last summer's pathetic 'jog around the housing estate' attempts were hampered by random wheezy asthma type stuff.
So, my aims were low:
- get round the course without dying/needing inhaler
- don't come last
- a time under 40 minutes
- try not to stop and walk too much
yes, yes, yes and mostly yes!
GPS trace from my phone shows a fairly even pace - I got past half way before having to slow down to walking pace, and the few walk breaks I had were only short. My calf muscles felt like they were on fire by the time I finished, but all good other than that!
So I'm happy about that - and even more pleased that my official time was just over 34 minutes!
More worryingly, I'll probably go and do it again at some point. Maybe.
tags:
Cheltenham exercise running
Huzzah!
I had to google '5km in miles' but once I did I was even more impressed.. mostly because I can do a 12 minute mile (which is OK?) but then I collapse into a heap.
I keep meaning to look into running again, but meh [insert excuse here]
Jem | 17th Feb 13 6:28
two small kids seems like enough of an excuse to me!
Katy | 17th Feb 13 12:02