In the week I turned 49 I felt I needed a suitable challenge so I thought I know I could run 49 miles throughout the week, seemed a bit too simple though so I converted it into Kilometres, 78.85, yes that seemed a bit more difficult, but it was still the same distance and needed something. 78.85 divided by 5 equals 15.7, yes I thought that sounds better 15 5k runs, 15 parkruns for those that use parkrun as a measure of distance (you know who you are)! And then I got to thinking that’s going to be pretty monotonous I need company to keep me going, so that was it 15 and a bit parkruns with someone different each run. And well I mostly achieved it with a couple of solo runs and a couple with the same person but all in all it made for a good weeks running and a good challenge to start my 49th year.
Of course as all runners will know if it’s not on STRAVA it didn’t happen so each run is recorded and attached for proof those that may interested........sorry was losing you there for a minute and heard someone say what’s this got to do with Sloths or Bears, so as it happens there’s no Sloths involved unfortunately cause I do love a Sloth, but I’ve recently discovered that when you get a group of bears together they are called a Sloth of Bears, amazing right. I can’t however find out why they are called this but I do know that its usually only Mums and Cubs that form Soths and it’s usually for protection and company.
Which brings me back to the 49 Miles and why bears are happier in a Sloth of Bears or more why I’m happier when running with other people either individually or in a group, If running is your thing, I am sure you’ll know by know how hard it can be to motivate yourself. Even if you’re an experienced runner there’s so many negative thoughts that can come running through your mind and give you an excuse not to put on your running shoes – “It’s too chilly, I might catch a cold” – “It’s dark out, I’ll leave it until tomorrow”, or “My ankle has been playing up today, I’ll let it rest for a while”.
The truth is, there are a million reasons why you might struggle to motivate yourself, but having a running partner can change all of that. When you’re finding it hard to gather up the inner strength to venture out, all you need is someone else to inspire you and make you accountable. Making plans with someone else means you’ll be much less likely to bail out and be more committed to achieving your goals. If you lack motivation, let them know! A good pep talk is often all you’ll need. There’s been plenty of studies that prove having a running buddy can significantly improve running performance and can give you a boost from a bit of healthy competition, motivating you that little bit further and enabling you to push yourself more to reach your full potential.
Venturing out into public spaces to run can sometimes, unfortunately, be rather dangerous – especially for women and during dark hours. If you have a buddy, you’ll be much less likely to run into any trouble. It’s always a wise idea to not go it alone in unknown or remote areas. It’s also great to have a pal for extra safety measures – running is strenuous work, so having someone there in case of a health emergency can be what stands between life and death.
Everyone loves a good gossip too so what better way to use your running time for this catch-up? Talk about killing two birds with one stone! Having a buddy can make running as pleasurable as possible, diminishing symptoms of boredom and fatigue by distracting you with conversation. The social aspect of running can have a huge impact on the way you view the activity and is a great way to improve your own mental health. So now that’s said its a good time to stop dreading your runs, find yourself someone to run with as the benefits of having a running partner are clear and simple. Give a buddy a try It’ll help you both!
And if it’s your birthday week it also gives you someone to share your cake with so you don’t have to eat it all yourself!