When I was a kid at school I couldn’t run. I didn’t want to and I literally couldn’t. I have exercise induced asthma so I used that to feed my hatred of PE.
Skip ahead a decade (or two! seriously not feeling like I’m in my 40s!) and I have joined the crazy jogger brigade (but only before 7am)!
Back in 2010, during the first Covid lockdown, I started running (well, jogging). I never thought I could or would run. But I can.
Initially I relied on my inhaler to get me through the Couch to 5k but I now haven’t used it in over a year. I feel in tune with my body and use music to set my pace.
I run early in the morning when there are not lots of witnesses to my huffing and puffing. I don’t have a breathing technique but adapt to what suits my speed and distance (sorry, I’m a mouth breather when I run!)
Focus on the positives. Every run is a win. Set a target for a distance, speed or time but be realistic and adapt to circumstances. If you feel a bit poorly, lower your expectations but still get out there if you can. Last week I set out with a plan but my music app failed for some reason and I accepted that I wasn’t in the ‘zone’ to complete my 3 mile target so forced myself not to be disappointed with 2.3 miles.
If you have asthma then please consult your doctor befote running. Know your limits, push them but don’t exceed them. I don’t run during the colder months but if you want to and have asthma then wear a mask over your nose and mouth to warm the air as this will help you breathe. Make sure you do a proper warm up to raise your heart and breathing rates.
Asthma is a serious disease but it doesn’t need to be life limiting. Respect for your body’s limitations is key to accepting who you are. Challenge yourself in all aspects of your life but always remain realistic and kind to your own needs.
