The things you do for a run streak

Katie has been running everyday for nearly three years!

I don’t tend to run far or fast but I do run everyday. It’s been nearly 3 years now since I started this run streak. It wasn’t ever meant to be a thing… it’s just kept on going and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon!

Surprisingly there are actually quite a few ‘run streakers’ out there. Each with their own goals, but for me it’s really not about the number of days, it’s simply that it makes me feel good. I really do get a lot of joy and peace from running. It’s great for mental health and it’s my favourite way to start the day. The only caveat is that I like to run 5k a day minimum, just so it’s worth putting the trainers on! 

Sure the streak has had its highs and lows. My favourite days are the magical sunrise snowy hill runs. And there’s been plenty of lows too. However I’ve never actively thought about stopping, it just takes a bit more motivation to get out on those cold dark wet windy mornings in Scotland, when no one else is out! I’ve also been very lucky to avoid any serious injuries and probably yoga has been the key.

I think it’s good to be spontaneous so I don’t plan my routes or mileages, just see what I feel like on the day and that’s what keeps it fun. I’ve run all sorts of different routes, places and distances during the streak. From Malta to Italy, Val d’Isère, Ireland, New Zealand and more! I’ll do the odd race, whether it’s a 5k or an ultra marathon. And we’re big parkrun fans - the running community is a wonderful thing. The people you meet at running events are so encouraging. I’m very grateful for my running pals.

We recently moved to the Sunshine Coast in Australia and our travels involved having to plan a 5k run in Dubai airport. It was my first indoor run for years and a very odd experience… the things you do for a run streak!!! Currently I am a sweaty mess on my runs but enjoying meeting new runners and trying out lots of new routes. 

Happy running Team Våga!

Katie Ireland