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Want to know what to look for in a pair of running shoes, or how to prepare for your first 10k – or even what underwear offers the best support? Running experts Kieran Alger and Sarah Marsh are online to answer your questions. Post yours below the line now
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Rad_Mobile asks: I find I’m completely bored after about five mins of running, although I do force myself to push it to 10 minutes which usually gets me to about 1.5k. How can I overcome this to run further?
Kieran: The first 15 minutes of every run is always the worst. So I never judge a run based on how I feel. I just tell myself that if I still hate it after 15 minutes, it’s ok to go home, happy that you tried. I also think it’s ok to be bored. In fact, in a world of hyper connected, always on, boredom is a muscle we need to flex more often. I also love turning those early moments into a little challenge, adventure or giving yourself a reward. Run until you’ve seen 15 red cars, arrange to meet a friend 15 minutes away, on a brand new route or to a lovely cafe.
Sarah: I’d suggest trying to run with a friend. I used to run with a neighbour and we spent the whole time chatting/ gossipping/ laughing – it was a great way to catch up. Either that or find a juicy true crime podcast (if that’s your jam). Another option is to make the run functional, so if you need to get to another part of London then run instead of getting on the tube. It’s going to be just as boring (if not more) sitting down underground – and then you know your run has a specific purpose.
Kieran: There are a lot of signals being sent when you see a politician running: strength, motivation, energy, verve and vitality. It says: “I care about my health and fitness”. Running is arguably perceived as a more accessible activity that’s normal, simple, affordable. I also think they love being seen moving on foot, through their local neighbourhood, suggesting they’re connected, one of the people, doing what the people do.
Running has also become hugely popular so plenty of celebrities of all stripes love a running photo op, too. But when you see Boris running in big baggy tees and shorts, and Andy Burnham in his Everton shirt, it does make runners question the authenticity. I’ve seen lots of people on social suggest a ‘real runner’ probably wouldn’t wear that. As for female politicians, Liz Truss loved a running photo op – say no more.