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Booze ban will test resolve

Helen Johnson
6/ 5/2008

I’VE finally got myself into a proper training routine and I’m pleased to report it’s going well!

I’m now managing to run about two miles (about 3.2k) every other day, which, considering I have tiny feet and much shorter legs than most people, I think is actually quite a lot of ground to cover.

I’ve not done any ‘big’ training runs yet, but I’m hoping by the end of next week I’ll be able to increase the distance to about three miles.

I’ve noticed I’ve found it a lot easier to maintain the same pace all the way thorough my run, and I haven’t been getting out of breath quickly like in past years.

And, for the first time ever I’ve been able to carry on proper conversations while running.

Apparently, you’re supposed to be able to this, but until now, apart from managing the occasion bleat of ‘water!’ or ‘plasters!’ or ‘defibrillator!’ I’ve needed to save all my breath just for breathing, rather than a chinwag.

I had a sneaking suspicion that my improved stamina might be down to taking up swimming last August.

It has improved my breathing and muscle strength.

Off the track, I’ve decided to introduce an alcohol ban until the run.

A bit extreme maybe but, after an unfortunate performance at last year’s Race For Life in Heaton Park, thanks entirely to the event falling the day after my birthday party, I decided it’s a must.

Plus, I felt the need to tweak my diet in some way and, seeing as my old favourites of fish and chips, gravy and chips and cheese on chips are non negotiables, something else had to give.

With two friend’s birthdays between now and the run I wonder if I can keep my resolve...

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