Last summer saw my return, after a hiatus of what I now know as “too long”, to my running club, Northampton Road Runners. Based at a new venue in the local University, now on the other side of town from me, all the routes would be unfamiliar to me, and that was certainly the case when I set off on my first outing from campus.
But perhaps more importantly was what I learned on the route, and which was highlighted by the wet weather we had been having that summer. Midway through the run we made our way along a narrow woodland rack, meaning nettles, brambles and yes, mud. It was the mud that mattered, and watching so many of my fellow runners slipping and sliding (even falling at one point) made me realise the vital importance of choosing the right footwear for running. I had my hybrids on and these gave me great grip. Those in road shoes were all over the place.
It wasn’t just about the shoes though. I’d looked at the route map before leaving home and saw what was coming. Thus, as well as being a lesson in footwear, that run had provided a lesson in preparation. Having the right kit for what you are doing is crucial, and that run, as well as my checking it out in advance, had illustrated that perfectly.
As each day passed and I was getting ready for my challenge, keeping my eyes open and being aware of what was around me, whether running or not, was helping me mentally, physically, and administratively for what lay ahead.
It’s not just the wrong shoes that can lead to a messy ending, but they sure play a big part in it.
(photo by Kristian Egelund on Unsplash)