UNLEASHING THE LEAN, MEAN RUNNER INSIDE
- Greg
- Apr 3
- 2 min read
Written by Julie
As a wannabe runner of a certain age and well past my sell-by-date, I was plodding around Parkrun each Saturday, getting increasingly slower and thoroughly disheartened. Then I had a brainwave:
Why Not Get A Running Coach?
But weren’t running coaches just for fast and fit, youthful and slender athletes? With a bit of help from Mr Google I came across Improve Your Run and it appeared to be just what I was looking for.
There Was a 1-2-1 introductory session for just £10
This seemed like an offer I couldn’t refuse so after a chat with Greg about my aspirations and expectations along with exploring the different sessions he offered I decided to take the plunge and give it a go.
Getting Going
We agreed to meet in Platt Fields Park, home of South Manchester Parkrun for our try-before-you-buy session. I was incredibly nervous but Greg soon put me at ease with his professional down to-earth manner.
My First Session
My coach had put a great deal of thought into planning a session that pushed me a bit beyond my comfort zone but without killing me. I thoroughly enjoyed the session (after it was over 😊) and decided to commit to a month of coaching which was very affordable.
The Proof Of The Pudding
Just two days after my trial session with Greg I set off on my usual Saturday Parkrun. I felt as if I was running slightly faster than usual and was putting some of Greg’s tips into practice. When I crossed the finish line and looked at my watch, I could barely believe my eyes.
An Astonishing Result
My official finishing time was 46.55 a massive improvement on the previous week’s 51.42 and my fastest time this year. I was almost delirious with excitement. My goal of a sub 45 minute Parkrun no longer felt impossible and this was after just one session. I felt as if something in my brain had shifted through coaching.
Session Two
After the run I felt elated (and a bit tired) but my legs and lungs had recovered well and two days later it was time for my second session with Greg. Due to us both having other commitments we agreed to a 6.30 am session for which Greg had devised a slightly tougher session.
No Pain No Gain
I thought the session Greg had planned for today might have been a bit beyond me to say the least. As I had turned up at an ungodly hour I would give it my best shot and ran 3 x 1KM with 3 min rest in between. It pushed me somewhat but was doable and I did it. As with most runs I enjoyed it. (Even more so when it was over).
Plenty Of Options
Improve your Run offers a range of options so there’s bound to be a plan which fits into your busy life. With affordable pricing and a genuine down to earth coach who is committed to helping you Improve Your Run, it’s a win-win.
To book your no obligation taster session right now CLICK HERE
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