FIVE weeks in to my personal training sessions at the Y Club with only a few days to go until The Big Race, The Bupa Great Manchester 10k Run (see week 1 diary here). Running last year, I wasn’t very prepared but still managed to get a time I was quite pleased with. This year I’m armed, in the shape of Rich, a personal trainer at the Y Club and a determination to beat that time. So, how am I getting on?
Pretty well, I think.
And it’s safe to say I have really enjoyed the challenge. I’ve been having two personal training sessions a week with Rich and running once or twice a week in my spare time. Sessions are varied and include a warm up on the bike, rower or cross trainer followed by time on the treadmill. Rich has worked to build up my stamina and speed. What I originally found a challenging pace on the treadmill now seems something I could run at for hours. Rich will throw hills or bursts of speed at me, or a bit of both if he’s feeling mean, and this has definitely worked to improve my pace.
The training sessions have given me confidence in using the equipment but Rich has also equipped me with knowledge that I can continue to use when my training sessions are over.
Next would be either a kettle bell session or time on the gym equipment to build up my strength. Goblet squats, burpees, military presses, two hand swings; I’ve done them all. Lots of times. I’ve actually grown quite fond of kettle bells. Who’d have thought it?
I’ve tried to fit in as many runs as possible in between sessions but also making sure I leave enough time to recover. The aim was to build up to running the full 10k and, if possible, run even further so that when it comes to the big day, it’ll feel like a walk in the park. Aside from a few misdemeanours (i.e tripping over the cobbles in Castlefield on a morning run whilst still half asleep) I’ve enjoyed my runs around Manchester. I even managed to get up at 6.30am on the day of a friends’ wedding to run 11k in the middle of Somerset. That’s dedication.
Now, in the last week before the run, my training is slowing down. I’m going for shorter runs and less energetic workout sessions to maintain fitness but also to make sure I am at full strength on Sunday.
I was very intrigued to see how my new found dedication to fitness has impacted on my body. Taking measurements before we started and comparing them to the end of week five, the difference is definitely noticeable. I’ve lost a couple of pounds, my body fat has reduced, my blood pressure has lowered and my lung capacity has improved. All good signs after only five weeks hitting the gym. Personally, I’ve noticed more definition in my arms and legs and a flatter stomach which is fantastic.
I am definitely going to keep up my trips to the gym after the run is over. The training sessions have given me confidence in using the equipment but Rich has also equipped me with knowledge that I can continue to use when my training sessions are over. To anyone thinking about getting a personal trainer to help them prepare for a particular event or just to improve their fitness generally, I would say: go for it. It’s been great having professional help and that extra encouragement.
All that’s left now is the run itself, and a bit of carb loading. I know I can run 10k, I’ve already done it a couple of times this year. But can I beat the 55.07 I set last year? Check back to see how I get on.
If you would like any more information about personal training sessions at the Y Club please contact Rich Brodie either by email richbrodie@yclub.org.uk or on 0161 837 3535.
