When I started this blog, the plan was to post once a week. Then, of course, the whole world changed and that idea went out of the window along with my running routine.

I love a good routine, it keeps me focused and gives me things to look forward to.

Prior to all this madness, my routine involved social running Monday and Wednesday, a 1.3mile run to the gym on a Tuesday, a work-run commute on a Thursday, Parkrun on a Saturday and a long slow run on a Sunday. Busy! I averaged around 25-30 miles a week and I absolutely loved it.

When lockdown first kicked in I really struggled, social running was a big part of my weekly routine which helped me push my pace and form (especially uphills!).

During this period I have learnt (and accepted!) that I thrive most when running with others. So yes, it is frustrating that right now I’m about a minute and a half slower than what I was but I am building on this – I’ve knocked about a minute and a half off my average 5k time at the start of lockdown. I’ve met it in the middle! Haha 🙂

One of the best things I have done is to rebuild a new routine and trying out new things. Two of my new favourite additions are Tuesday Intervals and Tempo Thursday! I look forward to the challenge each week.

As restrictions begin to lift things are changing once more, and whilst I love being able to run with friends again, I was pretty hesitant about it. I’ve just got into an enjoyable routine that I’m seeing progress with…! Gotta embrace that change, as running with friends again is going to be so powerful for me and I’m already seeing improvements.

Some of you probably think I’m really boring, but a routine is like a comfort blanket for me. So if today sucks, at least I can say ‘well tomorrow I have this and can always try again next week’.

And whilst I do like doing things on certain days, having the routine helps me be flexible – so I can swap and change my routine around if needs be.

This month I finish off my 5k programme and represent Team North in the Run Around the World challenge! I’m also back running with my SRG group on a Wednesday which is amazing! Keeping very busy 😀

How has your lockdown routine kept you going?