New View, New You and new challenges

Winter is a great time to get out on the fells, and for me I always feel better both physically and mentally after running in the amazing Lake District fells I’m lucky enough to have on my doorstep. As 2020 starts and the nights become lighter it’s time to start thinking about our goals and challenges for the year ahead.

These will be different for everyone and need to be one that suits you, but here are some ideas:

• Try a new race or challenge, there are so many out there now from trail races, fell races to ultras. Some of my favourites are the classic long distance fell races such as the Wasdale or Ennerdale Races.
• Make some changes in your training to get a better time on a race you’ve done before. I always try to do as much training as I can on hills or in terrain and once a week I push myself hard on some hill intervals which helps my speed.
• Try to freshen things up with a bit of variation in your running. Why not try orienteering, it was the sport that got me into running from the age of 7 and it a fantastic way to improve your speed over terrain and learn how to navigate.
• Or why not pledge to put something back by helping at an event, running a race for charity, volunteering to mend the paths you run on with Fix the Fells, picking litter from the fells when you are out or reduce your carbon footprint by sharing lifts to events?

And what is my challenge for 2020? Well after a string of injuries and illnesses my goal is to get myself back to health, enjoy running in the fells I love and, over the next couple of years, to help my family complete the Wainwrights – at their own pace! Wishing you all a happy and healthy 2020 and hope to see you in the fells!

Use the Lake District

This blog is part of our New View New You theme. Head over to Fell Foodie, Harrison Ward, to find out how the Lake District inspired and helped Harrison live a better and healthier lifestyle.

How the Mountains saved my life

Win a jacket and a pair of walking boots!

For a chance to be well equipped with a few essentials, we are giving away a pair of Columbia Sportswear walking boots and a winter jacket! All you need to do is take a picture of yourself doing any of the challenges above and share on your Instagram story using #NewViewNewYou and tagging us @lakedistrictnpa. Terms and conditions apply.

Be in it to win it