So, what does 2018 have in store for you? Below is a taste of some of my projects and goals for this year.
Stay fit and healthy
First one on the list is to try and stay fit and healthy. It's one of the reasons why I took up running and cycling a couple of years ago. I know I'm not the healthiest of people. I like a drink, sometimes a ciggy, I have a sweet tooth and like most people I'm a little bit lazy. So for me committing to some events and having to push myself on the training is a good way for me to lead that elusive 'balanced lifestyle'. I've been running regularly now for a couple of years and, even though sometimes motivation can be difficult, I really do feel like I'm slowly achieving a lifestyle change.
Create my own adventures
I get really inspired by those who plan and go off and do their own adventures. There seems to be something a bit liberating about it so thats what I plan to do. I've definitely got my eye on a few things, perhaps some wild camping in the Lakes, run the North Downs from Otford to Dover, head out to the Alps this winter for some ice climbing.
Travel with my running
What I really love about trail running, or indeed road running is the ability to get out and see some amazing places. If you are covering 20 odd miles in a day you get to see a lot of different landscapes. So with that in mind, I'm planning on signing up for a few events that get me travelling into other countries and also, combining the previous goal, I'm going to make sure at least a couple of those adventures I talked about are located in other countries.
Going for personal best times
This one will be tough. This goal contains a sub goal of committing to sprint and hill training. Sprints and hills was something I wasn't very dedicated to last year but I have realised that if you want to progress your speed and stamina these 2 training sessions are vital. So, in terms of PBs I would like to hit a 3:30 marathon time, a 1:35 half and a 43min 10k. I would also like come top 5 for the Spine Challenger 2018. Really? Yes.