I have always been into fitness however, around five years ago, I decided to take up a new challenge… running! How hard could it be?
I decided the best place to start would be with small runs around local parks. From there, I gradually increased my distance running for longer each time. It was hard work but the reward knowing that I was improving was a great feeling.
I quickly reached a point where I was running similar routes but did not feel myself improving any further. Therefore, in 2015, I decided to enter my first running event. My first 10K run was part of the Edinburgh Marathon Festival. This was a great motivation to me as I knew I had a certain distance to cover within a certain time. I loved running this distance and I have entered the same 10k event every year since.
Last May, I ran my first ever half marathon. It was hard work but I thoroughly enjoyed pushing myself and my fitness levels. I also completed my first trail run in October 2019, the Tweed Valley Tunnel Run. Trail running was a whole new level for me and respect goes to all the trail runners out there.
I had planned to run a half marathon this month but, as with many other outdoor events, it has been postponed until September 2020 due to the current situation that we all find ourselves in.
Thankfully, this has not deterred me. In fact, quite the opposite, I have found running a real saviour in these uncertain times. After finishing work for the day, I run 5km around a nearby farm approximately three times a week. This has helped keep a routine in my life and kept my fitness up. We have had fabulous weather and this has certainly inspired me to keep active and exercise outside. I have even spotted a few of the same faces when out running…and, of course, everyone is keeping to the social distancing rules.
I would encourage anyone to give running a try. The feeling of achievement you get afterwards is definitely the reason why I enjoy it so much. I have noticed so many people exercising outdoors since lockdown and it is a real joy to see.
Keep running and you will also catch the running bug…of course, it helps to have a furry friend as your running buddy.
Zara Jones, Solicitor, Pedestrian Law Scotland