Pick up the pace

GWEN MOSTYN, CHIEF SUB-EDITOR

When I lace up my trainers to go for a run, I know that whatever else is going on that day, it will make me feel good. I love being a part of a wider running community, through my local running club and Parkrun – there’s something so life-affirming about sharing a passion with other people. Using the exercise-tracking app Strava has helped me stay connected during lockdown, and passing fellow runners has been a reassuring constant during unpredictable times. My favourite runs are on Sunday mornings, with my husband (always) and my brilliant friends (as often as possible). Before we set off, we decide whether we want to do a long run, an off-road run or perhaps (my favourite) a hilly run. I can’t say I enjoy running up hills, but running downhill feels like flying. It’s like being a child again, feeling joy in the movement and finding freedom in the moment.