One foot in front of the other

The London Marathon is a famous April event but it hasn’t been for the last few years.  COVID interrupted it and then it returned in October.  But this year, it’s back so thousands of runners from around the world will see London in the springtime as they run the 26.2 miles that make up this legendary race … or run depending on how you see it.

Scottish long-distance runner Eilish McColgan is taking part competitively for the first time, having been a pace-setter in previous years.  She has marathon running in her genes thanks to her famous athlete mum from the 80s and 90s, Liz McColgan.  But you don’t need athlete genes to start running.

Some people have a burning urge.  They get up one day and go for it, running miles and miles.  But that’s unusual.  Most people need to build up and build up, running more, little by little.  Couch to 5k is a great way to start – it’s running and walking at first and slowly you start to run more until you can keep going for 5 kilometres without stopping.  It’s you against just you.  No races.

You might want to take a run buddy though and that’s a sensible idea.  Don’t go running in the dark and tell someone your route or let them locate you on your phone.  But it could be that long distance isn’t your thing and, in fact, you’re a sprinter, you prefer short distances. 

Whichever you prefer, running is fantastic for your mental health whether you’re covering long distances or having a quick burst of energy to complete 100 metres.  A 10k run is one foot in front of the other; it has a rhythm allowing your brain to forget about what your feet are doing and move onto your thoughts.  Running can help anxiety and depression; personal bests – running that little bit further or faster – can help your self-esteem.  On the flip side, sprints require more thought on form and technique, absorbing your brain and taking you away from worries and woes. 

Have you considered running?  Why not speak to your PE department and find out about an athletics club?  Or see if there’s one in your town.  And maybe one day you’ll be getting ready for the London Marathon. 

Previously featured in bsporty magazine.