Running...Again

Another return to running tonight. I feel I write that a lot, which probably doesn't speak highly of my dedication to running, but I hope might actually be a bit of a mis-representation, after all, I quite like running.

.I like to think that this most recent break from running was for a good reason. I haven't run for two weeks now (I don't think the stress test last week counts), but I have an excuse. As I have written about a whole lot, last week was a recovery week (I think I might have mentioned that), so I deliberately wasn't doing a lot and the week before that was a taper week, so I was also deliberately not doing a lot. Running tends to be one of those 'extra' activities I do, so it is also one of the first to go when I am on taper or resting. Hopefully those sound like good excuses. Sounds legit.

Now that racing is done with though it is time to get back out there and start running again. I am always cautious of not jumping straight into running hard or far after a break as overdoing it too quickly is one of the main reasons for people getting injured. As a result tonight's run was a comfy little 5km, very nice. Was really very enjoyable too, so that is a bonus.

Why do I insist of including running in my schedule now that I am not racing triathlon? Well simple really, it is just so darn effective. Per minute I think running must be one of the most effective forms of exercise out there. Great for improving fitness, controlling weight etc and all you need is a pair of shoes and a front door. I love including running in my program because it is just such a good form of cross training, wonderful for driving those extra little fitness gains. Just awesome.

I have to admit I have another reason for including running in my program, which is a little bit more me specific. It took me years to build up strength and resilience to the point that I could run okay and I really don't want to lose that. I know how quickly you can lose running form and I am rather keen to not do so, which is one extra reason why I like to keep getting out there and pounding the pavement, even if it is just 5km at a time.