Today was the first ever Run2Work Day – resulting in me heading out in the rain to run the 6km or so to the office. Something now going in my diary once a week.
Run2Work is a scheme building on the success that saw cycling to work grow across the country. That’s been so successful that the organisation I work for saw it’s 1000th cyclist register last month.
The idea behind started in London – where people began to look at how quick it was to run instead of get the Tube. Given how when I’ve been for business it’s often been quicker to walk than wait and ride, I can see why it’s such a good idea.
10 minutes in the sunshine versus 20 minutes underground?
Of course, it’s obviously better for the environment, better for people and their health and in turn that’s better for the economy – healthy people = more productive people. Plus it’s cheaper than cycling. Even a good pair of trainers and gear won’t set you back anywhere near as much as a bike and all the accessories.
As I runner, I was sold even before the above. During marathon training I’ve often run to or from work, it’s a quick way for me to get a baby run in easily and without it impacting on my time too much.
And if, like me, you don’t live too far away from your place of work, it’s a great way as a beginner runner to get the miles in.
It does, however, take a little bit of preparation. There are a few things to take into consideration, even after you have your running gear and your route to work planned out.
Facilities is first. Following the Cycle2Work scheme lots of offices and workplaces now have suitable shower and changing facilities for their staff. However, it’s not always the case – my own building doesn’t and I’ve had to arrange for out of hours access to another so I can shower in the morning.
A good alternative if there’s nothing suitable is a local gym – my own is city centre based and around 20 minutes from my office. Not ideal, but I know that with agreement I could arrange to leave items overnight and run there and use the showers etc.
Secondly, clothing. There’s no way I’d want to spend the day in my running gear, even if it was sparkly clean – it’s simply not appropriate for meetings with colleagues. I can’t see my line manager taking kindly to me sitting in a sweaty Run Rabbit t-shirt, not matter how pretty the colour is on me.
So, the day before the run, make sure you’ve your clothes for the next day, shower things, towels, etc etc in the office ready. It sounds like I’m being facetious, but I’m not. And I know it’s a bit odd, leaving your outfit (and your underthings!) in work for the next day, but it’s kind of essential.
Food is another essential. Make sure, if you haven’t access to a full kitchen or a cafe, that you have something like instant porridge for when you’re ready to face the day. You’ll need to replace some of those calories you’ve just burned off.
And finally, gear for the day. Another one where I’m being obvious, but things I wouldn’t be without:
A cap – shelters your head when it’s wet, eyes when it’s sunny.
Rain jacket – doesn’t have to be pricey, but as I saw today, rain can appear whenever it feels like.
A mini rucksack – you’ll need your keys to get in the office, right? And your wallet/purse? And swipe access card? These little backpacks are perfect for throwing those bits and pieces into.
Water – ok, now I really do sound daft. But even on the wettest of days, your whole run can be ruined by a touch of dehydration. Forget to drink before you go out, or head out when it’s warmer than you anticipate and you’ll notice it. Better to have a bottle you won’t drink, than struggle without.
So, whether your a regular runner, returner or just thinking of trying out, this scheme could be a way to get those feet on the pavement and save some pennies while you do.
You can find out more on the Run2Work website, Twitter feed and Facebook page.