InspiredToRun.co.uk

I used to run for a team in Rotherham whose motto should be "We train to win". I never managed in those early years to enjoy running, as trainers would concentrate on the well-known few. Enjoyment just was not part of running. But after my father died quite young and very overweight I thought that I should do something about this. Unfortunately, I passed out at work with fever and the dreaded meningitis and septicaemia virus. After this my lungs were very poor and my breathing was erratic. "OK" I thought. I'm not going to stop now - I really need to become fit, and don't want to do it within four walls. It was going to be hard work to cope with my breathing problems but I was determined. After seeing three people at work die before they were 40, I decided to join a running club. I joined my club in Swallownest and with its "We run for fun' attitude I have found that I enjoy running, and have even developed a competitive edge.At first,10K runs at nine-minute miles was all I could do, but within a few months, with training, this was down to eight and a half. Now, after 18 months, I have completed the Sheffield Half-Marathon and four cross-country league meetings. Next week is the Mablethorpe Half and now I look for a PB. But it does not stop there, as my nine-year-old daughter has started running and we keep each other's interest up. Finding the right club is very important and at the Rother Valley Swallows, the mix of fun, competitiveness and camaraderie is second to none. With help from Runner's World, I have found tips that have helped me improve my speed and stamina beyond any of my wildest dreams.