In this enlightening interview, Lynne AKA “Jogonhijabi”, talks about the importance of running and joy of #Parkrun.
How did you get into running and why?
I have always enjoyed regular cardio exercise at the gym however never ran outside until I signed up for a 5k Race4Life in March 2015. I was motivated to join the Pink Army as I liked the idea of all ladies together running for such a great cause. I had recently lost my Nan to cancer and whenever I saw a advert for cancer fundraising I would start to cry so I decided to raise money and and run in her memory. I was going through a stressful period in my life then and despite starting my training in December 2014 I loved being outside running through my thoughts.
What has running given you?
I soon found that running was a great stress relief and helped me work through some difficult emotions. I had also been diagnosed with stress-related high blood pressure and found running helped alleviate the psychological distress which in turn improved my over all physical health and have not suffered with the physical symptoms of prolonged anxiety since. In Feb 2017 I joined a running club, Dagenham88 Runners, and discovered a whole new world. Having been consistently a lone runner, I was amazed to find such a varied community of people. The social aspect of running has further helped me to beat periods of low self-esteem and fluctuating moods. I have never met such a huge expanse of people so encouraging and positive that it lifts self-belief ten-fold. Runners have also helped me to have hope again in human nature whereby I have witnessed such great acts of kindness, selflessness and support.
What have you given to running?
Having experienced this support from other runners I like to give back what has been given to me. I have volunteered at Parkrun, cheered on the sidelines to other runners during races and turned up to track night when I am injured. I have run with runners when they are struggling at the back and kept them company so they could finish. A lot of running is about the psychological strength we need to get through to the finish line. Friendly, kind words of support work wonders in getting us there. Words and smiles cost nothing. I organised a 5km walk/run in my local park to raise money for charity and the majority of participants were non-runners. It was wonderful to support them and encourage them and praise them for their great achievement.
What do you love about Parkrun?
Parkrun really sets me up for the weekend. It is worth sacrificing a lie-in. Far more happy endorphins are produced staying active and meeting positive people than lying in bed. I love the fact people of all abilities and backgrounds get together globally each week for the mutual love of running and being healthy. The first day I went to Parkrun I did not know anyone but was quickly taken under the wing of the marshalls of Barking Parkrun and became newly adopted as one of the family.
The common stereotype about Muslim women who wear hijab (scarf or other coverings) is that we are weak, oppressed and have no voice. I want to show the world that on the contrary, we can be strong, self-assured and community spirited. While many might perceive that hijab holds us back, I want to demonstrate that it can be the powerful force that helps us reach our potential and beyond. Finding our true self is the ultimate goal for individuals. If a Muslim woman loves to wear hijab as part of her identity and she can go out and make a difference in this world then that is beautiful and she symbolises a purposeful life. Criticisms have been that hijab prevents integration in the UK and other populations. I hope to show that hijab does not get in the way of building and maintaining relationships in our society.
How else can we #empowermuslimwomen?
Have you ever experienced negative stereotypes while running?
How do you handle it?
Fundraising for Gambia how can people help?
VLM whats your hope?
Lynne, thank you so much for reflecting on your running story with us. The very best of luck with Virgin London Marathon 2018 and your fundraising.
]]>And I was loving it!!! This is the ‘Dirty Double’ weekend of Helvellyn and Ullswater Lakeland Trail runs. First time I’d done it for 5 years (2012 results here). Gruelling, scenic, joyous. And this was the 2x 10k version rather than the 2x 14k I’d completed previously.
Another major difference this time was the fact that the kids were able to participate in the 10k (Louis) and 5k (Izzy).
Idyllic Surroundings
We’d decided to make a proper family weekend of it – any excuse to stay in the Lakes. And Ullswater is my favourite area. We were lucky too. I hadn’t been prepared and booked well in advance so was desperately searching 7 days before the start and was incredibly fortunate to find a cancellation at Beckside Farm cabins – a more idyllic and remote location we couldn’t have picked. You can book via Go Lakes too. Their incredibly friendly team we able to accommodate our late arrival and Gill, the lovely owner, was able to transport us from the farm entrance to our cabins using the farm all-terrain vehicle (ATV). Boy was it needed as the incessant rain of previous days had created a real mudfest and we wouldn’t have had a clue how to find the cabins. I say cabins because one was the sleep and shower cabin – the other the living cabin containing kitchen, dining, couch and wood burning stove. Our tv was the cabin french doors which offered the vista of Ullswater and starry skies in the incredible dark. Beckside Farm is located right next to the Ullswater Way so not as difficult to reach as you might think. But that’s our secret right?! Their cafe was voted a top pick in Country Walking Magazine too. For us, highlights included seeing their native Herdwick Sheep, Swaledale Sheep, wild red deer. Just look at these majestic animals below. The video below shows the ‘senior’ stag chasing off a new younger ‘imposter’ during rutting season.
Idyllic running
Helvellyn trail is a superb run. Often technical terrain with many rocks on all sorts of angles to test your agility and balance. Running through them in wet conditions is superb fun and you should never let this put you off – many first-time trail runners did the 5k and 10k and loved it. This year I entered the 10k as our son Louis, was able to enter with being 16. He left me for dead! Izzy was able to do the new 5k and said it was her favourite trail run to date! So two glowing testimonials for the Lakeland Trails team right there with no prompting 
In terms of running form – for me I knew I wasn’t going to smash either the Saturday or Sunday. I’d been suffering with fatigue for a few weeks so just decided to enjoy the runs and get round the glorious routes. And enjoy I did, taking the odd pic and chatting to fellow trail runners as we headed out towards the Helvellyn range. Laughing our heads off at each other when inevitably slipping on a steep grassy descent to slide for a fair few metres through rain and sheep sh*t! If you look carefully you can see it on my arm and vest in the photo of our backs below
Lakeland Trails events are known for their friendly atmosphere and here we were able to enjoy more of this. From spectators with cowbells, to locals and ramblers clapping and encouraging us all on, to the finish with all involved clapping, encouraging and the Batala Drum Band booming us across the finish line. Great fun.
Louis finished 12th and me 31st – though I was initially shown as 11th because we wore the wrong chips!
Izzy managed 2nd junior for 6th overall in the 5k!!
Day 2: A Smiling ‘sufferfest’!
The wind had picked up early morning so we anticipated the planned route – with the Ullswater Steamers taking all runners across to Howtown – may not be on. Sure enough the organisers had to use the ‘wet route’ back up plan due to the Steamers captain confirming it was too risky to set sail. While it was disappointing not to be taken on the Steamers, we all know that plans are subject to the weather. We also knew the Lakeland Trails team had excellent alternative routes mapped out. And they did not disappoint! The 10k taking us through Patterdale, turning left at Side Farm to run North on the Ullswater Way, several climbs on an undulating first half. Then the very steep climb up between Silver Crag and Birk Fell – as I was approaching that climb, I was able to look up ahead and see Louis moving past a few runners much further up. This was no surprise to either of us – we’d passed Anne Marie and Izzy who’d walked from Beckside Farm along the Ullswater Way to see us. They noted how fresh Louis looked vs. how tired I did!! The pictures below tell that story clearly
Ullswater is much more gnarly terrain than Helvellyn, particularly parts of the original route when running through forested patches. The views on this route as we neared Silver Point were amazing – Ullswater and Pooley Bridge north of us. A visual highlight for me: That view down as you’re about to tear up the descent off Silver Crag and Birk Fell. Memory highlight: Well that has to be the couple who chose to get married at Ullswater Trail Run and celebrated by running the 10k together! Amazing
What a weekend! Shattered, sweaty, muddy – great stuff!
A fresh looking Louis on way to 8th place!
A not-so-fresh me on way to 34th!
And here’s some bonus pics of the Ullswater Way (between Watermillock and Glenridding)
Overall thoughts? It’s fair to say the kids are getting into trail running. We’re not the only family transitioning to one adult with the kids doing the very short fun trail, to now running the longer events. What a legacy Lakeland Trails help create! It really is a credit to Graham Patten and his superb team. This part of the Lakes is pretty special
Thank you to all volunteers! Also Patterdale Mountain Rescue, sponsors inov-8, all the landowners and tenant farmers, Eden District Council, King George V Playing Field Committee, Dalemain Estates, Event Safety Group, Cumbria Police, Ullswater Steamers. You all help to make an amazing weekend
Yours in sport
Jeff
So, how does running improve your health? There are the obvious fitness benefits and also some others that you may not have thought of.
For example, if you want to know how to lower cholesterol with exercise, running can play a big part in that. From strengthening your muscles, improving your endurance and sharpening your focus – to the cathartic nature of pounding the pavement or grass, running really does offer a whole host of positive results. With that said here are five ways in which running can improve your health.
1. Good for your soul
There’s no doubt about it; running can make you happy. Maybe not whilst you’re going through the pain up a steep hill, but when you reach that summit or any other target within a run you may benefit from a rush of endorphins. This is a real release and will most certainly bring a smile to your face. It can also leave you feeling good about yourself and satisfied that you’ve achieved something, which can carry over into your everyday life.
2. De-clutter your mind
You’re probably confused about this one but it really can! When you run it’s your time – time when nothing else is expected of you. All you have to do is start… and finish. The time in between is yours to do with what you want, whether it’s switch off completely or get some clear-headed thinking in. Either way, running is a really good way of de-stressing and getting away from everyday problems.
3. illness
When you go running regularly your overall health and fitness is obviously going to receive a boost, but you’re also going to help yourself fight illness and disease. Exercise has been proven to boost your immune system, lower blood pressure and prevent diabetes. In addition, if you want to know how to lower cholesterol levels, running combined with healthy eating can play a huge role in that.
4. Burn calories doing nothing
Not strictly accurate, but you’ll get it once it’s explained. You see, after you’ve been running your body continues to burn calories. Once you’ve pushed your body to a certain limit in your run, an after burn process kicks in. This means it continues to fire long after you’ve finished. It’s like you’re continuing to work out after your workout, and with that you’ll get an increased fat burn.
5. Improved joint and bone strength
It’s often said that running is bad for the joints, and poor form or over training can certainly create a strain, but did you know that it can be very good for them too? Running is a great way of increasing bone density, which can support your joints, and it can even help prevent certain types of injury in the long term.
As you can see, running brings with it so many health benefits. From the obvious improvements it can make to your overall health, cardio fitness and muscle strength to making you happy and helping to lower cholesterol, it’s something that can definitely improve your life!
Joana Teixeira
If you’re interested in learning more about benefits of running, here are some useful articles.
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/running-health-even-little-bit-good-little-probably-better-201407307310
http://www.onlinepcd.com/article/S0033-0620(17)30048-8/abstract
http://www.onlinejacc.org/content/64/5/472
http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/early/2009/07/28/bjsm.2008.056713
I heard one of the marshals shout something like “over here…stomach!” and was then asked if I was okay and kindly given water by the first aid.
Physically, I knew I’d made the right decision – I still felt exhausted and feverish an hour later. Mentally it was a different story…
…I’ve read so many times that a DNF (Did Not Finish) can happen to anyone at any time. So many running friends have DNF’d. All that doesn’t stop you beating yourself up when it happens to you. When even your arms are feeling fatigued when running relaxed. When you want to push on but can’t. None of this stops those inner voices saying “You’re shit…You’re not fit enough…That old fella’s just passed you easily…”.
At the same time, you’re trying to be kind to yourself. Running is enjoyable. You’re representing your club (Rochdale Harriers in my case) and running with club mates. Your kids are participating too – giving their best racing performances yet
All sound a bit self-absorbed? I suppose reflecting on a DNF is ‘all about me’ to a large extent. Did you do the right thing? Could you have carried on? Did you let down your club mates? What will people think? Worrying about the latter two is pointless. You can’t change any of that anyway. What you can do is use the experience to learn.
What Lessons From a DNF?
- Just let it go -inner voices are just thoughts. They come and go. Never cling on to them.
- Know your body. Instinctively, you’ll know what’s right for you.
- They do happen and probably will do so again.
- There is no shame in not finishing when you’ve been trying.
Does it really matter?
Yes, in that I learned some things from it.
Not at all – from the wider perspective of still enjoying a race night with club and family. I was able to cheer on fellow runners on each of their laps. Seeing some making a comeback was amazing. Louis and his mate Charlie (both 16) were part of the winning men’s team and ran a PB. Izzy (13) ran her 2nd best 5k – after winning her sports day race earlier in the day. Our women were the winning team too. There we a several PB’s, Kay, Matt, Louis & Jill Butterworth – with yet another in 2017!!! The 5k was a cracking little course. We all had an enjoyable time
Rochdale Harriers chain gang – pic by Mia Butterworth
Proud winning teams (missing Jan N)
Under-age drinkers?
And wierdly, the 3k I did run, took me over 600 miles in the 2017 #Run1000Miles challenge – YAY!!
So I’ll be out in the hills this weekend, enjoying some lovely trails. Looking forward to track drills next Monday and #TrackTuesday. And we’ll be back at another 5k race in the Cannonball Events summer series.
Keep moving forward
And what a day it was! All four of us taking part in a Lakeland Trails event for the first time. The kids have really got into running as a previous #parkrun post detailed.
Having just turned 16, Louis was eligible for the 10k event. When we entered last year, he’d only just started running regularly. We both booked on, assuming I’d take him round the course. How wrong we were!
Lakeland Trails quest to encourage more people to try out trail running, by introducing a new 5k Sport Trail for 2017, meant Anne Marie and Izzy (13) entered – the former with some cajoling from Izzy!
Sunny Spring Day
The forecast didn’t disappoint, serving up a day of ideal running conditions – slightly cool, dry, some breeze…
As is so often the case, the atmosphere at the event village was buzzing as entrants and their friends & family went about their business of settling down to enjoy the day ahead. There was a real feelgood vibe to Staveley village – no doubt helped by this being a ‘home’ event for new event sponsors Inov-8 who are based literally across from the recreation ground. The kids both took the chance to ‘test drive’ some Inov-8 for their runs – instead of using their normal trail/fell shoes.
Catching up with running friends old and new was a theme of the morning as we wished each other luck for the events ahead. A ‘good luck’ handshake from Graham Patten was a very nice touch before the off.
Batala Beats
The brilliant “Batala Lancaster” got everyone buzzing with their enthusiasm as they drummed up the energy for the start of the 10k. Louis asked “So are we running this together then?” as we were about to head off. The look in his eye said different so I smiled wryly and said we should each run our own race. He smiled and we both knew we were determined to be first back to the finish! Louis stated his intent with a gentle elbow to move me aside as we set off. That first 10 metres was the only time I spent ahead of him! Running so strongly the entire course he built and maintained a 1-2 minute gap. As a parent I had a real mix of sheer pride and joy at how well he was going (I was mentally willing him on) yet at the same time, running hard to catch him in the event he may tire lol! He didn’t as you can see from the times below!
After a gruelling road climb roughly half way through, Louis still managed to take on the climb up and over Reston Scar while still having the energy to belt down the descent back to Staveley village – that last ascent and descent was where I thought I might catch him but he had other ideas.
I gave it everything at the end, to the point of wretching as I rounded the final bend and literally staggered pitifully across the finish. Pleased with 1:00:34 over 11.8k and even more delighted to see Louis had reached 16th with 58:35!
We were greeted with even more lovely news on collecting our t-shirts…
Do we go up there? (Not noticing clear signs)
pic Ian Stainthorpe
Sport Trail Success
The 5k had started after the 10k (11.8k). Their route turned out to be 5.8k with 2 huge climbs – the second being Reston Scar. Almost all four of us finished together. Izzy said it was the hardest she’d ever run and I think she surprised herself by finishing 11th with 36:01. Only 30 mins later she was asking “When is the next one?” lol. Anne Marie had battled her inner voice to push through both climbs and run the steep descent. Enjoy would be the wrong word but she was glad to have experienced her first Lakeland Trails event. We’d all successfully negotiated the ‘Sting in the Tail’.
Apres Trail was a joy. We were able to cheer on friends who were running the 17k challenge and race. Enjoy some lovely coffee and food from the stall vendors. Oh and Louis bought himself a pair of Inov-8 ROCLITE 290 and has been out in them a few times since 🙂
A massive thank you to all amazing marshals, for your smiles and encouragement to all runners 🙂
Btw, I’m only pointing out actual distances for information. One of the great things about trail running is that distances are not expected to be exact. We’re lucky to be running such beautiful places so why not embrace an extra km or two?!
Staveley 2017 5k profile
Well earned t-shirts from a brilliant day 🙂
Series Intent
So what now? Well myself and Louis are booked on the Autumn Series 10k so we can do battle again. Izzy on the Autumn Series 5k too. We’re looking forward to Keswick, Helvellyn and Ullswater so much I can’t tell you! (AM is happy to watch .) This #Run1000Miles challenge is going well and keeping me fit 
Yours in sport
‘Outfit Joe‘ shares his passion for fitness, off-road running and some great routes
Joe, to say you are passionate about health and fitness and well being is an understatement! How did you get into personal training?
Okay, imagine you’re promoting rural North Wales. Why should we come there to run?North Wales is wonderfully accessible, and the variety of scenery within relatively short distances is truly world class. The stunning mountain, woodland and coastal scenery apart, I do believe that a trail run should be also be an education – Wales’ mixture of landscape and interest with regards to human and natural history is unrivalled. Quick example, a 10 mile trail run from the Conwy valley can see you scale a rugged 2000ft peak, run on a roman road into the heart of the mountains, pass a centuries old druid circle right above the coast, and get a birds eye view of arguably, King Edwards’ most impressive 13th century Castle and town walls, at Conwy. What’s more, theres something for everyone here, for those taking their first tentative steps onto the trails or for hardened trail runners who like rugged, technical routes.
Ah thats tough, there are so many and I’ll tend to avoid repeating runs too much. However, I’ll give you a long day, a 10 miler and a shorty:
Image courtesy www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Image courtesy www.mudandroutes.com
You’ve just helped with a guided trail run for WalkRun Clwydian. What range of people and abilities attended?
Depends on the run itself of course, but I’ll use yesterday’s as an example – 13km of hilly trails from Conwy. We had a road runner who was a first timer on the trails, whilst also having folk there who’d run numerous trail half marathons. There is always a range, even if you’re group consists only of 2 – everybody is different. It’s to me to manage the group effectively so that everybody has a safe, and enjoyable time. The key is knowing the area well, knowing the terrain well and peoples ability to cover it and the also weather conditions must be taken into account.
Excellent to see all-inclusive off-road runs. What do you love about trail running?
Trail Running is a wonderfully simple, natural way to exercise. We are built to be running around outside. It takes me to wonderful places – beautiful places. I have walked, cycled and ran the length and breadth of the country to an extent and I’m still finding new routes and places to explore through Trail Running. I shall continue to do so until my body doesn’t let me! Then I’ll walk – which I also love! Trail terrain is generally much less responsive than the road of course, so the joints appreciate that and are also stronger because of the uneven terrain that the joint stabilisers are dealing with. It’s a real thorough, mental and physical challenge that anyone can take on and benefit from.
What other fitness training do you enjoy?
I teach and therefore practice Pilates – I’m convinced its the reason I don’t get injured generally, despite covering around 450km per month on foot. I also enjoy Walking, Cycling, Nordic Walking and some body weight resistance work.
Could you tell us more about OutFit please?
OutFit Personal Fitness Ltd was established in 2007 – I’d spent 6 years working in the industry to some degree already, and after returning to North Wales after successful periods working overseas and in London – it was a good time to settle and establish something going forwards which reflected my belief that exercising outdoors has great benefits. There is an emphasis on quality with what I do – and its certainly not ‘mass market.’ Despite the growth in outdoor boot camps and assault course type challenges, that’s just not me. The group sessions are kept fairly small as I want people to have a personal experience – I want to have time to engage with my clients on each session and address their specific needs to some extent in every single one. These sessions alongside Personal Training, workshops, events and guided activities result in people getting out and enjoying their local environment, whilst improving their health and well being…all positive stuff!
You’ve helped a tremendous number of people achieve their health and fitness goals. What have you yourself learned through this?
What has been your own greatest challenge to date?Trail running wise – probably The Lyke Wake Race 2014 – 42 mile Ultra marathon where the distance wasn’t really the issue. Very hot day, totally exposed to the sun up on the North York Moors. Tough tough work. Felt very rough at 18 miles, doubts were present but very pleased with the way I pulled through, physically and mentally – to finish (relatively!) strongly in 8:58.
What is your own training regime?
I don’t really have anything too structured – as when I’m not working I’m resting, particularly enjoying a young family! I do like a run or walk to relax though, I like to head off to the hills for a trot or maybe something sharper if time is short, but I certainly don’t have anything structured that I stick to – I just make sure my activity is balanced. I enjoy competing in races but just rely on my general fitness levels. Pilates keeps me strong and supple, and injury free! My job keeps me fit so generally speaking, I’m happy with where I’m at, fitness wise.
What are the mind benefits of exercise in your view?
Massive, its now proven. Especially the benefits of outdoor exercise on mental health. It acts as a distraction, gives confidence, enhances social engagement and I see every week people grow with regards to this. For things like general stress and even GAD and mild depression – exercise can really act as a positive treatment, without the nasty side effects of a lot of medications!
3 favourite fuel foods, go:
1. Pre-run: Poached egg on wholemeal toast.
2. During: TORQ Raspberry Ripple energy gel.
3. Post-run: Chilli with Rice.
North Wales aside, where are your favourite places to run UK or abroad?
Domestically, The Lake District – so compact and beautiful – and New Zealand…..just amazing.
What is your favourite bit of trail running kit and why?
My Tiny Sun Head1000pro head torch. Great piece of kit that opens up so many possibilities!
Do you have a mantra?
Whoever you are, whatever your goal, get out there and enjoy the view.
What a way to end Thanks so much Joe for sharing your experiences. Hope you really enjoy the rest of 2016 and your company continues to do well.
We were among almost 2,500 walkers, joggers and runners, wearing the red and blue of their respective clubs as they joined in the tribute to those lives so sadly lost.
As a Liverpool fan born on 15 April, the The day since 1989 has always meant I reflect on my life and take time to remember those 96 lives so tragically cut short, and their families and friends.
This day was all about building a positive legacy on their behalf. Quiet celebration and commitment to making a difference to those less fortunate than ourselves seemed to be a common cause. So it was a real community event, bringing together generations of families. When asked if they wanted to participate, my kids, Louis and Izzy said “Yes!” without a moments hesitation. Jogging round with them made the day even more special.
After paying our respects with a minute of applause, we began. Heading out of Stanley Park initially to pass Anfield. The route took in Priory Road so everyone was able run towards Goodison Park too. Making our way around Stanley Park, we were clapped and cheered all the way around. Often we found ourselves sharing jokes or quiet smiles with fellow participants. Spirits were very Как high throughout.
Incredibly, the team who had just run and/or supported the Hillsborough to Anfield run on Friday and Saturday were there to join in. You could only but admire the sheer commitment and determination of Dom Williams, creator of both events, as he fulfilled his promise to do the 5k despite being on crutches due to a very bad injury sustained on the latter parts of their 78 mile run.
Here is a superb video all about the day, the cause, the legacy. In speaking to reporters, a very emotional Dom Williams said of the day: “It was amazing – I was blown away by it. It was everything I wanted it to be and more – it was phenomenal.”
You can also view the Liverpool Echo Gallery of the event here.
For me and the kids…. They were both very happy to do this with me – recognising that the events and the date hold a special place in my heart. As the medal says, it really was “a day to remember”. Lest we forget
Cheers
Jeff