C25K, week 4, day 3 – the it’s good to talk run part II.

Sorry for the lack of updates (and commenting on other blogs), I’ve been on deadline for a couple of work stories so haven’t had a spare minute to write for fun.

Workout: 5 min warm-up, 3 min run, 90 sec walk, 5 min run, 2.5 min walk, 3 min run, 90 sec walk, 5 min run, 5 min cool-down.

Weather: Perfect conditions (i.e. not outside).

Distractions: Mirrors EVERYWHERE. I have realised I am clearly not a natural runner. My technique could best be described as galumphing.

Motivation: 9/10 (what a difference being warm and not wearing all your clothes at once makes).

I seem to have the kind of face which makes strangers feel comfortable talking to me – this  is ideal if you happen to be a journalist but not as great if you struggle to run and breathe at the same time let alone talk.

I decided that I would give week 4, day 3 a shot and if I still struggled I would go back and repeat it. I had just started my warm-up walk when a lady climbed on to the treadmill next to me and immediately said hello and started conversing. We continued to chat as I started my first run section and as time wore on I remember thinking: “This is the longest three minutes OF MY LIFE.” Finally, the robot lady told me it was time to walk and I almost collapsed with relief but when I checked the app I had managed to run through three steps (almost 10 minutes). I was stunned but it just proves that all my struggles are mental. This is something I clearly need to work on some how.

Anyway, if you haven’t already guessed I have given in and joined our local community gym for the winter months. I will run outside in the wind or cold or rain but when all three hit at once I’m afraid I turn into a complete wuss. And with childcare limited, I was running less and less so I decided this was the next best option.

Luckily the gym has just undergone a major refit in preparation for my arrival (how did they know?) so everything it is all spangly and new. It is also very well priced (which is the only reason I was able to join), as it’s subsidised by the local council, and there is no minimum sign-up period so I can always start running outside when the weather takes a turn for the better.

Everyone also seems really nice. The lady I was speaking to asked why I had joined and when I said I wanted to lose about four stone she eyed me up and down and said: “Are you sure?” Love her (and being tall and wearing baggy clothes).

I feel really positive about the next run, despite it being lots of 5 minute steps, so joining the gym has already been good for me. I’ll just have to live with my conscience about it not being as good for the environment.

#ThisGirlCan in a gym, it seems.