The problem with saying that you will do something is that there comes a time when you actually have to do it. This time becomes especially note worthy when you have bragged that you’ll do that something in the pub, to your mates and on facebook ad nausem. For me, that something is an adventure race. Safe behind a computer screen, this seemed like a brilliant idea – join three mates and run, kayak and mountain bike over some lovely English countryside. Getting fit was not something I thought about too much as I forward the link to two friends with the subject ‘BRILLIANT PROJECT – LETS DO IT’, and sat back thinking that I had really, well done it.

There is a difference, a huge, gaping chasm of difference between clicking send on an email in a toasty warm office, and standing in an ill fitting lycra outfit on the Downs with two tall, muscle-y and alarmingly fit mates. Tall and Muscled talked about glutes, PB’s and Asics while I considered afresh the incredibly large circumference of the Downs. Our inaugural run was terrifying. While Tall and Muscled talked about the Simpsons as we jogged round, I, unable to breathe let alone talk, tried not to pass out / on. Eventually T and M pretended (rather chivalrously I thought) not to notice as I wretched behind a bush, and suggested that we call it a day.

Tall, (who knows me well) suggested that I might like to get some new trainers to keep my enthusiasm going, and also suggested some (shorter) training runs. Bristol, I discovered, is made for running. There are enough green places to keep you interested, and enough hills to keep you fit (even if you walk some.) I’ve discovered the views of Bristol from Ashton Estate, secret alley ways as I weave through town and the pleasure of watching the fog clear into morning. Now it is official – I am a convert. I am the person who says “Another beer? Why not? After all I did go for a run this morning.” Now I just have to combat mountain biking and kayaking…..

Gear Shops
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T 0117 973 7000
www.mymoti.com

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6 Horfield Road, St Michaels Hill BS2 8EA
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