Do you like running? Of course not. Who likes running?! Who would want to smash their knees into tarmac, get blisters on the souls of their feet, sweat profusely and be so physically out breath, swallowing a fly becomes a welcomed protein hit? Nobody. Especially not me. Or is it me?
I used to play football weekly for years, always 6-a-side level, never Sunday league. I was OK at best but I had my moments of pure magic and when on that pitch I loved it. That little nervous feeling before leaving home, which was quickly followed by a rush of passion and adrenaline at kick off, and often relief at the final whistle (depending on the result). This involved plenty of running back and forth and side to side for approximately 40 minutes a week. But it didn’t feel like running. It was fun. It was challenging. It was a team effort. It was incredibly satisfying to score or win. But it wasn’t running.
Then one day a couple years ago I got a bit too cocky jumping a couple of tackles and my knee went sideways and buckled underneath me. The pain was excruciating. I hobbled off into goal for the last 10 minutes and could hardly move. That moment may well have been the end to my glorious football career at the age of 34 (insert crying face emoji).
So football stopped. I was sad. I could hardly walk for weeks and moving around was a real struggle. After a lengthy rest period I began physiotherapy to try and repair the damage. I signed up to the gym for the first time in my life (#notagymbunny) and started doing some leg work twice a week to rebuild the muscles in my knee. I then however, entered into a relationship that took away alot of my focus from myself and my wellbeing and I not only began to put on a bit of weight and neglected my knee repair regime but my mental health also took a turn for the worse. This was something I had not experienced before and quite frankly it scared me. Anxiety became a daily occurrence. And my self esteem and confidence took a big hit. Work suffered and I almost lost myself.
This is when I did what most people do. I googled how I was feeling and what I could do to help myself, and exercising and being outdoors was high on the list unsurprisingly. So I went for a run…
And not just any run. A 10k. More than double what I had ever attempted. I roughly planned a route, started and just kept going, pushing through any pain or lack of breath, until I got home. And just like that I was hooked.
I began running every few days and it quickly became a regular occurrence. The gym work had meant my leg muscles were stronger than ever. I had also ended the relationship I was in so had alot of free time and also began to lose weight which meant less strain on my legs to carry me.
I haven’t looked back since. 18 months later I still run most days. Come rain or shine. 7am or 7pm. Anyday of the week. I’ve entered multiple races up to half marathon distance and want to do more and more.
But what I took away from this new found love was how it benefited my mental state. I am an over thinker. Period. When an anxiety of mine is triggered the thoughts just roll around in my head most of the day and I struggle to focus. This affects my work, my relationships and my own peace of mind. But when I get my running trainers on and step out the front door I know I am going to be able to clear my mind of the noise, for at least a short time. My focus is forced to shift to my breathing, my pace, my route, my time, hills, any niggly pains I may have, the wind in my face, the rain running down my neck, the sun in my eyes, the people I’m running past, the dogs and children I’m almost tripping over, the beautiful beach where I live, the sound of the sea. The last thing on my mind is whatever I had been worrying about before I set out.
When you exercise, your body releases endorphins. These interact with the receptors in your brain that reduce your perception of pain. They also trigger a positive feeling in the body. All of which boosts mood and can help to reduce anxiety and depression. When you get home (or arrive at the beach side bar for a cider) and see you have achieved a good time or a long distance, the sense of achievement is wonderful. If you look for validation from others which I am must admit I do sometimes (a topic for another day) then sharing your achievement with friends is a nice feeling.
And the more you run, the stronger your body gets and the easier it becomes to just pop out for a quick 10k whenever you fancy it and before you know it you are a full blown pavement pounding machine.
Being outside in the fresh air, the sunshine, in nature and getting your heart rate up and your lungs full of oxygen is so healthy for your body and your mind. You will live longer. You will look better, feel better. Simple tasks like walking up stairs or long distances become easier. The benefits are huge.
It is also a great way to socialise and meet new people. Running clubs and events like Parkrun are brilliant ways to increase your friendship circle, which is also a benefit to one’s mental wellbeing.
So if you struggle with your mental health or physical health give running a try. Consider getting some running trainers (spend a bit on these it will be worth it) and download an app like Strava or Endomondo on your phone to track and share your progress. And just get out there, clear your mind and embrace the freedom and multiple benefits running can provide you.
Me, Myself and Mind 