Better off in the long run
The fastest man in Manawatu is offering some of his tips to those keen to attempt a half marathon.
Run 21 is a new running programme launched in the lead-up to the Manawatu Striders Half Marathon as a way to get more people on their feet.
The eight-week course, which begins next week, is being led by Love My Sport director and coach Chris Sanson.
Sanson won this year’s Wellington Round the Bays half marathon, finishing in 1 hour, 10 minutes.
He is now offering some of that winning advice to those wanting to take on the challenge themselves.
Sanson said the thought of running a half marathon could be intimidating. ‘‘Running comes across as a little bit scary to people, they think ‘I’m not a runner’.’’
Run 21 programme had five different levels, ranging from those wanting to speed up their times to those just starting out. ‘‘It does not matter what level you are at,’’ Sanson said.
One of those already signed up is Christina Wallis, 24, who said she could not run 1 kilometre without stopping a year ago.
‘‘I really hated running to start with but once you get going it is really cool.’’
With aspirations of completing an Ironman race, she said it was a good chance to work on her running. Wallis was ‘‘not a runner’’ but said having other people around would be good motivation to stick to it.
‘‘I have not had a lot of coaching before, I’ve just done my own thing, but it has definitely been more helpful to have someone there to guide you.’’
She signed up to Sanson’s programme for the social atmosphere and to meet other people in the same boat.
The Manawatu Striders Half Marathon, 10km and 5km, is on May 28. Those interested in Run 21 can sign up at the Love My Sport website.