HEALTH Mel Mitchell is an experienced Personal Trainer, Kettlercise and group exercise instructor and sports massage therapist based in Sturminster Newton.
Getting back to what we love!
With restrictions being lifted this means many of us can get back to doing the things that we love. For me this means the return of races. Last year saw the majority of the races being postponed or cancelled which is disappointing when you’re looking forward to them so much. Mind you last year wasn’t a complete write off as I managed to sneak in a couple of races including my very first Ultra in October.
Running has for many years been my outlet to relieve stress and keep my mental health in check. Even though I was out running regularly during lockdowns, it doesn’t compete with the buzz of getting together with your
running mates and thriving off the atmosphere of races.
The Sociable Joy Of Races Each race is its own little adventure which comes with comradery and support from not only those that you know but also fellow runners that you’ve never met before. It all starts with waiting at the start line with the anticipation in the air and the sound of nervous chatter. One of the reasons I love races so much is the social element and a chance to catch up with people, particularly if you haven’t seen them in a while. The smiles and shouts of encouragement from the marshals and volunteers at the aid stations are always appreciated, as is the variety of delicious food that they provide (you all know how much I love my food!). Not forgetting the photographers
Mel Mitchell
en route which suddenly cause your running posture to improve ten-fold and your very best cheesy grin comes out to play! As the finish line comes into sight not only is there a sense of relief but also an overriding sense of accomplishment giving you a new found energy to switch on the turbo boost and cross the line feeling like an elite athlete. The race is of course never complete without a nice shiny medal around your neck to mark your achievement. Ever runner loves a nice bit of bling! Every aspect of taking part in these events puts a smile on my face and I am very much looking forward to getting back to them. Always happy to answer your questions - send them to me on melmitchellmassage@gmail.com
Mel is open about her use of running to relieve stress and maintain her mental health. Running can control stress and boost the body’s ability to deal with existing mental tension. Exercise also increases concentrations of norepinephrine, a chemical that helps moderate the brain’s response to stress.
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