[ BLOG POST ] My Return To Running

It’s an all-too-familiar site isn’t it? The temperature increases, the sun comes out and before you know it so do all those runners!

In all honesty, I’m one too! I decided to restart my running just before this change in weather, and in this blog post I’ll go through how I got back into it, as well as the clothing and equipment that’s supporting me with every single step.

Why Did I Return?

So firstly the ‘why’ – why did I return to running after almost a full year away from it?

Well I always felt I had a lot of potential with my fitness. When I first started out I took to it quite well and it didn’t take too long to start seeing improvements to my results. I hit the heights of it back in 2017 when I achieved a ’22:22 – 5km’ PB time on my first (and only) Park Run and then completed various 10km and half-marathon races with decent times. 

I’d also say that due to COVID-19 and the whole lockdown situation with the gym being closed since January, my body was adapting to a more lean runner’s type of body, rather than a gym-fanatics, so it suited me well.

I also love being outside, and like many others, when the sun does start to come out it does feel good to get into that healthy routine of exercise, knowing each time you complete a session you’ve burnt calories, improved your cardiovascular system, as well as your heart health. Plus I love to see my pace time improving because it shows that every session is having an impact and making a difference. 

I figured I’d start again now so that by the time all of my local races open up again later in the year, I’ll be well-equipped to hopefully compete against my previous personal best records! 

How Did I Gain Momentum?

As well as giving you my reasons as to why I returned, I thought I’d use this post to also share how I started well, kept on track and didn’t lose my motivation in the hope that it helps you on your own respective journeys. 

Firstly I started tracking my results in a spreadsheet from my very first run. I’d get into the routine of finishing my run, stretching properly, go take a shower, followed by sitting on the bed with my laptop and entering the data into my spreadsheet. The data included the date of my run, the pace time, my running time and any comments I felt I should leave about the run itself. 

This documenting was all part of my routine and it was great because although not every run was an exact improvement on the previous one, I could gradually see improvements in my pace time which was my main metric. Why? Because not every run was the same and it’s important to mix it up to avoid it becoming boring and a chore. 

I also incentivised myself which I love doing because it’s directly rewarding for hitting a set goal. In my case I’d run 5 times and after the 5th run, provide myself with a reward such as ‘buying myself a new pair of running shoes’.

In fact I received a beautiful pair of running shoes for my 35th birthday but challenged myself to only wear them after I’d completed 12 runs (I was up to 7 when I got them so this wasn’t easy!). 

I do think it’s important to look and feel the part when it comes to running. It gives you confidence within yourself and anything you can use to your advantage when you’re tired and feeling out of breath is a good thing! 

In fact I even teamed up with Adidas UK when they asked me to check out their range of Men’s Clothing. I thought this would be a great opportunity to expand my selection of running gear and their website did not disappoint! 

There was just so much to choose from which provided it’s own exciting challenge of what to purchase. I received a sleeveless running top that was vibrant orange which will be perfect for those very hot days when you basically want to run in next to no clothing! It felt light and didn’t rub in certain parts! 

I also went the other way and purchased this slick Beanie hat which I’ve already used and fits perfectly. I love the fact that it doesn’t move around whilst I’m in the middle of a run, where I need to keep adjusting it because I’m worried it’s all bunched up. 

I particularly loved their ‘Terrex’ range which is all about Trail running. These items are designed specifically with that in mind when the terrain changes and the conditions aren’t as easy. I received this beautiful fleece in ‘acid mint’ a colour that sounds odd but looks strangely beautiful. The fleece was very comfortable and I can use it on long walks as well as running on those colder mornings! 

What I also loved about using the website and teaming up with Adidas UK is that the Size Guide worked perfectly for me. Not all items fit individuals the same and there were useful recommendations to confirm whether you should choose the size up/down from the size that you’d usually order. 

I also received a pair of their Terrex socks. Now socks have always been a challenge for me personally when it’s come to running. I felt that the socks I’d been using didn’t give my ankles enough protection and often on longer runs I’d notice this more. Finally I can say I’ve found the socks I want to keep using, not only were they incredibly comfortable but they also stayed in place despite me running over 12,000 steps whilst testing them!

I know I’ll definitely be ordering more items from their website very soon. Every time I’d go on they’d be adding new items which is always useful because it’s that ongoing list of new incentives that I place on my own running and these new products are the perfect incentive! 

Conclusions

I think having that plan in place to get you started when it comes to running is an important factor because it helps you keep going and stops you from giving up and quitting. It keeps that momentum going and that’s what you need, especially on those cold, wet days when you’d rather go back to bed! If you have a goal in my mind and you head towards it with the right direction, you’re on the right track but you need to break it down into mini goals and reward yourself along the way. 

I also feel that the right clothing and accessories are a big part of running. Feeling comfortable with the right clothing is so important. You want your body to feel good, you want everything to fit correctly and this transmits to your sense of confidence and control, which can only benefit your future runs! 

I hope my advice has helped and just remember, it’s never too late to start this exciting and challenging sport, no matter what level of fitness you’re at. 

Adam Warren

 

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DISCLAIMER – I received a gift card from Adidas UK to purchase various items of my choice from their website, however all opinions expressed are my own based on my own experiences.