Mid-to-late January is prime time for giving up on your half-arsed resolutions for 2017. It’s the first hurdle of the year when the vast majority will fold in; ditching quinoa for Mars bars and exercise for extra fries. Don’t be that person.
An excellent way to keep the motivation rolling is regular, organised fitness events, which can include yoga or spin classes, five-a-side football leagues or a simple timed run with others. Luckily enough the latter option is easily accessible to those living near Blackheath Lane.
ParkRun host weekly 5km courses across the UK for people of all abilities, so you can run or walk as much of the distance as you’d like as long as you complete the course, the closest of these runs being held at the very picturesque Cannock Chase, about five miles south-east of Stafford.
Running and exercise in general is, for all intents and purposes, the solution to everything. It reduces the risk of most diseases, is proven to boost mental health and, with the release of precious endorphins, makes you happy, plain and simple.
Aside from that, it’s just a good excuse to spend time with your coursemates. That way you’ll have a lot more fun and, if you challenge and motivate each other, see huge improvements in your fitness and ability.
The Cannock Chase ParkRun takes place every Saturday at 9am. To register free or to find out more info, click here.