I am talking running streak, not actual streaking (not a pretty sight; I shudder to think!!)
As you will know, I have managed to get back into running thanks to starting a SMART Goal and also signing up to run 30 minutes every day in December (the £5 fine for missing a session is a great incentive!).
I have found it quite challenging running every day, most days so far I have ended up in the shed on the treadmill, just to get my 30 minutes of running done, as currently, the weather conditions are so hazardous.
I did venture out today though, somewhat resembling the Michelin Man -
Two pairs of thermal leggings
Thermal socks
Thermal vest
Technical Tee Shirt
Two long-sleeve technical Tee shirts
Gilet
Gloves
Buff
There are a couple of associations in the US, devoted to running streaks - Streak Runners International, Inc and United States Running Streak Association, Inc.
They both define a running streak as having run at least one mile each calendar day. Now you can run on a treadmill, on the roads, on a running track or offroad but it must be at least one mile.
To apply for membership and have your running streak recorded for all to see, you have to have completed at least one year of a running streak, you will then go on the list.
What are the benefits of a Running Streak?
There are many possible benefits:
Helps you run more frequently by forming a habit
Can get rid of old injuries and thus help prevent further injuries*
When you've had a tough race/training session it may help you recover faster
Improve your mental health
Up your self-confidence
Help you sleep better
Be a better runner
Help with running discipline
Easy for beginner runners
*because the more gentle approach of just running a mile a day can help prevent stiffness and soreness and help the body maintain good circulation thus helping to heal old injuries.
But I thought it was bad for you to run every day?
It is not necessarily good for you to run long distances or hard sessions every day - that could potentially put too much stress on your muscles leading to tears, and it could increase the risk of shin splints and other overuse injuries. The idea of a running streak is to do your normal training with just one mile on the other days.
What is the longest Running Streak?
It was held by England's Ron Hill, who ran at least one mile every day for 52 years and 39 days, but unfortunately, he gave up at 78 due to ill health. It is currently held by Jon Sutherland from the US, who has been running every day for 53.36 years (19562 days).
I don't believe I have that many days left to compete with that, so perhaps I won't attempt that challenge at the moment, but never say never!!
Bare Running
Just in case you were a little disappointed that the post title was on a totally different subject, let Runner's World cover that for you - Running through a public space fully or partially nude has a long history with motivations to match the era. During the 15th century, the Adamites protested the Holy Roman Empire’s buttoned-up morality by running naked through their Bohemian village, as Adam and Eve would have intended, if Adam and Eve, like the Adamites, had regarded monogamy as a sin. Historians say Quakers—Quakers!—revived the practice in the 17th century, protesting the Church of England and often urging onlookers to repent.
There used to be a few nudist running races held, one in Wales through sand dunes (careful where the sand goes!) but I could only find one event still in existence, which you may fancy......if that is your fancy (no judgement here).
Are a Not-For-Profit Company formed in 2020. The Team is made up of volunteers giving up their time and expertise freely to promote naturism in the South West. They hold a camp in September which includes a naked 5k/10k run on the Saturday, a silent disco, and even a Bavarian-themed Oompah night with Baron Von Schmidt! (what's not to love?)
Naked Running
This is a little different and one which all of us can partake in and get great benefit from.
Most of us, well ME, are slightly addicted to our Garmins and running apps "if it's not on Strava then it doesn't count" - sound familiar?
Every once in a while, go for a run without your running app switched on/Garmin recording ie NAKED.
I know, I can just see you with your eyes on stalks and your slack jaws
"what is she going on about???"
Stay with me here.....by going for a long run without recording it, you will be surprised at just how free you feel - no checking your pace, your distance, whether you have beaten your closest rival on the Strava leaderboard (yes Becky, I mean you!!!) You will be running just for the joy of running - like we did when we were kids (in my case a very long time ago and to be honest I didn't do much running as I hated all forms of exercise) but you get where I'm coming from.
I'm not suggesting throwing your watch away, because it can be a great motivator to see how you are gradually improving and a bit of healthy competition is fun, but just once in a while don't press the start button and just run for the pure delight of it.
On that note, it's time to check the Leaderboard because I've foolishly been out already today and posted my run, which means Becky has time to pop a sneaky 3 miler in just to nudge me out the way!!!
Keep warm, keep safe....until next time xxx
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