Our Bear Char has been on quite the running journey recently, here’s how it’s going in her words.
‘I was extremely lucky to gain a ballot place in the 2021 London Marathon. The only problem was, It has been 10 years since my last and only marathon! But after a lot of deliberation with my family and work colleagues at Running Bear, I decided to take on the 26.2-mile challenge. (Eeek! ) I started a marathon training plan in June, JM coaching provided me with a training plan to fit in with my lifestyle and family commitments. (I’ve got 3 wonderful children and a puppy that keep me busy!)
First up.. set a goal! 
I want to try to beat my previous time of 3hours 37minutes. In late June a lockdown squat challenge knee injury began to niggle at me again – this was my first hurdle to overcome. I knew I needed to get it sorted ASAP, so after a couple of sessions with my physio at Physiofit Ltd I was back on track again and strong enough to carry on with my training plan.
A few more wobbles and tears came when I felt I had taken on too much, a puppy and 3 kids who all have activities in various locations. I questioned why I was doing it? And feeling the parent guilt that I’m sure a lot of you can resonate with! After even more reassurance from colleagues and family, I finally got my head around it all.
My family said they would help me out on their bikes on long training runs, which is what we have done. We’ve planned nice routes at home and on holiday, the family have supported me on their bikes with drinks and gels. On shorter interval sessions my eldest son and husband have helped me with timing and also pacing me. (My eldest is becoming quite the runner! 18 minutes for a 5k at 13!).
Inspired By Aston @back_between_the_sticks
I am running this year’s Marathon for the Bone Cancer Research Trust, inspired by a local boy called Aston. Please read his story, it’s so so inspiring – @back_between_the_sticks on Instagram.
Marathon training is a challenge, but it’s making my body and mind stronger, it’s nothing compared to the challenges Ashton has been facing. I may moan about the loss of the odd toenail and chafing in all sorts of places. But at the end of the day, I’ve not got anything to complain about, I feel very lucky to be in the position to train for a marathon.
I’m looking forward to the Wilmslow Running Festival Half Marathon in September as a training race, My first race in 2 years and I can’t wait!
I’ll keep you updated with my journey as I’m on countdown now… London, here I come!’
Char we are so so proud of you, you’ve got this and we can’t wait to celebrate with you! You can support Charmaine’s Journey Here
Read her story on our facebook page:
