BY NOLAN CAMP
During the Lockdown(s), over half of us in the UK have taken up a new form of exercise. Walking has been the most popular followed by Yoga, Weights, Treadmill, Cycling Outdoors and Running. What is great is that the people that have either increased their level of exercise or taken up a new type of exercise, say they will continue once life gets back to a ‘new normal’.
One such exercise that incorporates both physical and mental health, is running. Running is the best workout because it is the most basic human form of exercise. Not only that, but it’s also fun and enjoyable for all ages young and old.
Interesting fact: Fauja Singh from Ilford, Essex didnt take up running until he was aged 89. He ran his first Marathon when he turned 90 and continued until he reached 100.
You just need to dig out some trainers, a pair of shorts and a t-shirt and you are ready to go. You can also run anywhere and at any time and there are so many amazing running routes in and around Runnymede. You may have lived in the area for many years but never knew what you had on your doorstep until you started running. As well as running alone, you can also run with your dog or a friend/partner or if you prefer more of a community feel, you can do a local Parkrun on a Saturday morning (Please check the website for updates of when Parkruns will be re-starting Post-Covid www.parkrun.org.uk). A great starting point for someone who has never run before, is the NHS ‘Couch to 5K’ App, which is available on both IOS & Android. If you follow it exactly from start to finish, you should be running a 5K in 9 Weeks! Fantastic achievement, believe me.
Amongst many other benefits, running also helps you keep off those extra pounds because you are continuously moving your whole-body weight and you don’t even have to run fast to achieve this.
Whatever your reason to start running, it will not only give you short term but also long-term benefits. Aside from the physical aspect, running is great for your mental health and well being as it ultimately gives you a goal and a purpose. Go on, Go for it!
For any tips or advice on anything to do with running, please email Nolan at
nccamp@gmail.com
I am currently training for the Brighton Marathon on September 12th, 2021 to run for Cancer Research for in honour of my father.
https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/nolans-giving-page-1