Ashton Court Sunday morning Run

Over the last couple of months I've found it hard to get out running with my usual running pals. I did so well earlier in the years, getting out two or three times a week either early in the morning or at the weekend. My work pattern has shifted slightly and I'm only getting out at the weekend. I'm hoping this will change after Christmas. I do a regular 10k run around Ashton Court avoiding the concrete paths. I try to run all off road which is great fun squelching through the mud. The ground is so soft this time of year that my joints don't seem to mind this weekly torture.

As I pass dog walkers, mountain bikers and fellow runners, a simple acknowledgement or 'hello' is all that is required to keep the morale on a high. Its a great time to clear the head and think about the forth coming week. With my food and alcohol consumption due to increase over the next couple of weeks, a good weekly run is certainly essential for this time of year.

Happy people in Eastwood Farm

Did a fab relaxed run this morning with my running buddy. We haven't been out together for ages and it was a real pleasure. Struggled, of course on the hills, but generally took it easy. Must mention that everyone we met this morning running through Eastwood Farm were so friendly. Lots of 'Good mornings', 'come on girls!' and other words of encouragement and smiles. It doesn't take much to be cheerful and it certainly helps struggling 'middle-aged women' like us get round their running course. Christ I hate that expression. So lots of thanks to you happy people.

Juneathon Update - Not so good

Oh dear, I signed up to Juneathon with all good intentions to run and exercise everyday in June. Trouble is I have been suffering from mild shin splints and my regular running/fitness routine had gone out of the window. So here's my five excuses for not keeping up with the Juneathon action plan.

1) I was out of routine
2) My regular running buddies have been away or busy
3) I have been busy with work
4) The kids have been ill
5) I've been out socialising  - not good for early morning runs

But...... I have upped my yoga routine - 2-3 times a week, and ran whenever I can when we have been away in the campervan. I did a great circular run on The Gower a couple of weeks ago, some Fartlek training in the local park and today I did a fab 10k run on Black Down (Beacon Batch - the highest point in the Mendips). Despite having a bit of a sore heal, I had a great run. It was all off-road - just how I like it, and with plenty of hilly. But it was worth it. Amazing views across to South Wales and lots of fun running DOWN the hills. A good day. So though June wasn't my best month for running, I have finished the month on a high and hope to continue through July. So thanks Juneathon for keeping me motivated through June.

Winter running motivation

It’s tough to keep motivated about running in the cold, dark winter months, so if you made it through January and February give yourself a pat on the back and keep the enthusiasm going.

To keep this momentum going through March, push aside any excuses not to run. Make sure you keep yourself feeling fit, healthy and motivated and take care to avoid any strains or injuries. Here's a few motivational tips in an article I wrote for The Running Bug.