Running has been a transformative force in my life, reigniting the spark of fitness I once had during my Navy days. After years of inactivity, I embarked on the Couch to 5K program in February, and since then the changes have been nothing short of wonderful.
The Starting Point: From Navy Fit to Doing Nothing
During my time in the Navy, I was in, compared to some, top physical condition. Regular training and discipline were part of my daily and weekly routine. However, after leaving the service, life took over. Work, family, and other commitments slowly eroded my fitness regime. For years, I did almost nothing, apart from walking, weights and occasional swimming, in terms of physical exercise. I believed I was still in relatively good shape, but looking back, I realise I was merely coasting on the residual fitness from my past.
The Catalyst: Couch to 5K
This all changed in February when I decided to take control of my health again. I started the Couch to 5K program, a beginner-friendly plan designed to take you from a sedentary lifestyle to running 5 kilometres, or about 3.1 miles, in just a few months. The initial sessions were challenging, but the gradual progression was manageable and motivating.
Building Momentum: Running 3 Times a Week
As the weeks passed, I found myself eagerly anticipating my runs. By sticking to the program and running three times a week, I noticed significant improvements in my stamina and overall well-being. The structured nature of the Couch to 5K plan provided a clear path, making it easier to stay committed.
Beyond the Program: Running 8-10 Kilometres Regularly
Once I completed the Couch to 5K program, I didn't want to stop there. The sense of accomplishment from running 5 kilometres spurred me on to set new goals. Now, I regularly run 8 to 10 kilometres, and run various distances and speeds three times a week. Each run is a new adventure, a chance to push myself and explore my surroundings.
Holistic Health: Improved Sleep and Nutrition
Running has not only improved my physical fitness but also my overall health. I quickly realised that to sustain my new running routine, I needed to pay attention to other aspects of my life.
Sleep, for instance, has become a priority. Ensuring I get a good night's rest is crucial for recovery and performance. I aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep every night, and the difference is noticeable. I wake up feeling more refreshed and ready to tackle the day.
Nutrition has also seen a significant overhaul. I've started paying more attention to what I eat, focusing on balanced meals that fuel my runs and support recovery. Lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables are now staples in my diet. Although I wasn't regularly drinking alcohol, I've also cut down, enjoying an occasional glass of red wine, with food, which has positively impacted my overall health.
The Transformation: A Better Physical and Mental Place
The most profound change, however, has been in my mental well-being. Running provides a mental clarity and stress relief that I hadn't experienced in years. It's a time for me to disconnect, reflect, and find peace although 'peace' means disconnecting and finding a flow, meditative like state. The endorphins released during a run have a lasting effect, lifting my mood and giving me a more positive outlook on life.
While I once thought I was in decent shape, I now realise how much better I feel physically and mentally. The journey from Navy fitness to inactivity and back to regular running has been eye-opening. I'm healthier, happier, and more balanced than I've been in years. Running has truly changed my life, and I look forward to every step of this ongoing journey. If you would like to be healthier, lose weight, increase fitness and work on mindset, please do contact me at 07970977146 or info@thoughtlounge.co.uk
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