Never run anywhere!
January 17, 2009 by Simon
Filed under testimonials
Hi, I’m Aimee and that’s me last summer, when I was asked to run the Stroud half marathon for my friends charity MSRC ((Multiple Sclerosis Resource Centre) with a groups of runners called "Higgy’s Heroes".Having never run anywhere since the school playing field (and if I’m honest, I thought all runners were a bit mad!!) this was a daunting task ahead with only 6 weeks to train.
Luckily I fell in with the Cotswold Allrunners and after a few sessions I could run for 20 minutes and not feel too horrendous.
An experienced running friend of mine said that if you can run for 20 minutes, you can run a lot further, including 13 miles! So, I believed him and off I went. After a few early set backs with my rubbish knees from years of standing on my toes in ballet, as well as a cracked knee cap in 2001 were taking their toll, but it got easier and easier. The Stroud half marathon was OK, I did it in 2 hours 17, not bad for a total novice!
After sessions I feel tired but exhilarated. Nothing seems to hit the spot like running
Now, my knees are stronger from the running and I have been able to ditch the knee supports. I NEVER thought that would happen. I now peg it down hills, it’s like being a kid! The other main bonuses are the social side of things (we’re a nice group!) and the overriding fact that I can eat whatever I want and run it off! (Pounds were slowly piling on past the age of 30). Food is one of my favourite hobbies in my life and it seems to complement running very well indeed!! Running is also very good for your head. It will make you feel more positive about everything.
It’s unlikely you’ll regret it if you are thinking of joining…. you can go at a very easy pace to start with and you will be guided by the coach and improvemnt will happen. We all have to start somewhere!
Eat well, Run well, Sleep well and your life will greatly improve
Aimee, from Stroud and member of Cotswold Allrunners
Aimee is a great character to have in the running group.
When I first met her she had two large knee supports, told me about a broken patella and said she wasn’t very fit.
The good news is that by being cautious and realistic about her running she has know actually strengthened her knees to eliviate the issue.
Aimee know runs without knee supports and has no problems at all.
This shows that even if you think you shouldn’t or can’t run because of injuries, aches and pains, you can actually overcome them with the right training and attitude.
Keep on running