It’s only taken me ten and half years…#067

Change your story

It’s only taken me ten and a half years to do my first ParkRun. Founded in October 2004 ParkRun is a global running/jogging/walking phenomenon.

Perhaps the ultimate wellbeing hack it provides - Purpose, Social, Community, Health, and Money – none needed!

So what caused me to sign-up, don my well cushioned trainers (well, actually my friend Kay’s castoffs) and join 301 other runners at the Maidstone River Park Run two Saturdays ago?

The Retirement Code

I spent Friday night with Chris and Kay, two lovely friends, who, in my opinion have honed the ‘Retirement Code’.

Each in their 50s, Chris retired from a career in tax, as well as an 8 year ‘interlude’ in the police force, a few years ago. Kay followed shortly afterwards at age 50 having served 30 years in the police. They did their sums and decided they had ‘enough’. And that life for them is about freedom and flexibility whilst they are young and fit enough to enjoy it, physically represented by their VW Camper Van (Doris). Doris takes them on adventures across the UK and Europe where they enjoy or compete in various cycling, paddling, swimming and running events.

When not adventuring Chris volunteers at a local farm park and for a tax charity. Kay is learning French.

The five pillars of wellbeing nailed right there!

But back to ParkRun.

ParkRun #1

I’d sneaked my running kit into my bag and, having not run for about 10 years, casually said to the girls over dinner “Why don’t I join you for ParkRun tomorrow? I can jog, walk it…”.

Within a nano second I was signed up.

The morning was drizzly and muggy. Perfect running (oops jog, walk) conditions.

Off we set to walk to the start.

I felt instantly at ease with the welcoming ParkRun community gathering for the 0900 start. All ages, shapes and sizes. Some with dogs, one ageing basset hound in a running buggy! Most locals with a few visitors like me.

0900 came and off we set. A slowish jog. My muscle memory started to kick in. I found myself smiling. Immediately I knew, no way in a month of Sunday’s was I going to walk!

Run your own race

I saw Chris and Kay in the distance, each of us running our own race. As were all the people taking part that morning. Each with their own story. Whether the ‘real’ runners setting the pace, hoping for a PB. Or the woman walking with the tail walker staving off the insidious effects of MS. Or the wonderful volunteers who make the event possible. All seeking community, friendship, fitness and health.

As I gratefully approached the end of the 5km course, I felt an urge to dash past the woman in front of me, to finish before her, when I caught myself, and smiled. ParkRun’s not about beating someone else, a short lived feeling after all. This was about taking part. My own internal reward fuelled by swirling endorphins? Elation I’d done it! No stopping. What a feeling.

I wouldn’t say I’m hooked just yet but I rocked up to my local ParkRun in Finsbury Park on Saturday. A wonderfully diverse starting pack of 821 people many of whom were first timers or visitors to London from places such as Finland, Columbia and Spain. And my lovely friend Patrick who was volunteering.

0900 off we set. Two circuits of the hot, hilly park. I did it. ParkRun #2 completed. No stopping.

You

The story I’d been telling myself was my running days are over. I know two ParkRuns hardly make me Paula Radcliffe, but it was a hugely uplifting thing for me, perhaps resetting the story I’ve been telling myself.

Our stories can show up in may areas of our lives, not just physical. They may be around purpose, relationships, health, travel and learning to name but a few. I’m sure I have a more to retell…let’s see.

As ever, I’m interested in you. Tell me,

• Where are you and what are you doing when you feel you’re in your happy, wellbeing place?

Do drop me a line. I’d love to hear from you.

And remember, you’re never going to be any younger than you are today. What stories are you telling yourself that are holding you back from you?

Until next week my friends,

Ruth x

ps as you asked, 33.20 and 33.04 respectively ;-)

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