First Week Running!

As I said in my last post, this week I entered a ballot to run a Half Marathon... While raising money for charity is something I am a big fan of, and always had the intention of doing something big to raise money, this is the first time I've actually put it into action (mainly because a few people said I wouldn't do it - so I thought I'd prove a point... Slightly poor reason but I'm a stubborn gal!). I found a training plan which I've been following this week and have gone from staggering around the block to running just under 5k today! I've got a hell of a long way to go but I would say if you're daunted by the prospect of a long distance run, don't be! Here's some things that have helped me :-)

1. You don't have to wear lycra! I have a ridiculous amount of patterned leggings which I've been wearing with old t-shirts and converse. Not exactly rocking the 'Running-Pro' look yet, but it's early days! Also, lycra... really?

2. Keep your ears warm! It is REALLY chilly at the moment! I've been wearing earmuffs and hats to keep me toasty. I'd definitely say gloves too, you'll be so thankful!

3. Get a good playlist.. I think the reason I've failed at running before is because I assumed you need really songs with really fast beats to motivate you. Such a bad call, I just got out of breathe from going way too fast... So I've started using Ben Howard to get going, then once I've got into it a bit more, moved onto the quicker stuff. Black Keys El Camino is my current fave..

4.It helps a hangover! Two of my four runs have been on horrific hangovers, and while it sounds ridiculous and is probably the last thing you feel like doing when you head hurts and your liver is kicking you, it makes you feel so much better just for getting out and moving. 

5. Tell people you're starting. That way it is so much harder to back out! My friends are great at motivating and supporting me, so I know when I get to the point where I just want to give up, they'll be there to keep me going.