A while back I wrote a blog post called ‘Why hello there, Mr. Elephant‘; about my weight issues and overall health and the assumptions people make about me based on my appearance (i.e my weight). I like the elephant analogy so I’m going to keep with that whenever I specifically blog about my weight (which won’t be often, this is a running blog after all!).
Author: thisfatgirlruns
On being a ‘real’ runner – Part 1
Ever since I first saw a ‘real’ runner post on twitter, I’ve been confused. It feels like these ‘real’ runner quotes are supposed to be motivational, and while I hope we’re not meant to take them too seriously, I find I still want to ask the question…isn’t anyone who runs a ‘real’ runner? And why is being a ‘real’ runner such a big deal anyway, as if just being a runner wasn’t good enough?
100km to inspiration
If you follow me on twitter you’ll know I’m a fan of @100kmtoBrighton. They are two guys who are training for a 100km run, more specifically from London to Brighton. Yeah, you read that right: 100km. Wow. If you haven’t listened to their podcasts I highly recommend them. ASD & Si are really fun, friendly, down-to-earth guys, and what they are trying to accomplish is really inspiring.
Is there such a thing as runner’s paranoia?!
Have you ever stood on a train platform, waiting for a train (obviously!) and had a fleeting thought or fear that someone might push you onto the track when the train arrives? Well, I get thoughts like that sometimes; little thoughts that come from nowhere about random people at random times. It’s happening when I run now, so I thought I would ask the question and see what other runners think. It would be reassuring to know it happens to others too!
This is my montage
A long time ago I noticed that certain kinds of films usually had one thing in common. Instantly recognizable, it plays a major part in nearly every movie involving a quest, contest or competition. I think you know what I’m talking about already.
The montage.
Running after not running
Last night I went for a run for the first time in 3 weeks. It was awful and awesome at the same time. I did find it hard going, particularly because it was very windy and I was running against the wind for most of my run. But I have missed running so much that it still felt awesome to be moving at my (admittedly slow pace) over my usual running route. I never set out to go three weeks without running, it was just a series of random things happening all in a row that stopped me.
Decisions, decisions…
A couple of weeks ago, just after my second 5k race, I was toying with the idea of signing up for a 5 mile race in January. That’s 8k…a distance I have never run nor tried to run. I asked around on twitter and I was told it’s doable, I would just have to work on my distance for the 6 weeks leading up to the race. Essentially, I would have to add 500m to my run each week.
Believe me, I was seriously, truly, really, honestly considering it. My only concern was, am I trying to do too much, too soon? I’ve only just been able to run 5k, are my expectations just a wee bit high maybe? As I was considering it I was wavering more towards actually doing it, than not.
Advent: 24th December
24th December: Today I am grateful for my parents. For many, many reasons I could never fully name or explain. I love them both very much.
Advent: 23rd December
23rd December: Today I am grateful for the running community on twitter. Everyone is so friendly and willing to offer encouragement, support and advice. You’ve all made a difference in my life, thank you!
Advent: 22nd December
22nd December: Today I am grateful for how many kind, compassionate and caring people I know.
This Fat Girl Runs 