As we approach the end of December, it feels like the perfect time to reflect on the progress, challenges, and lessons of the past year. A week from today, it’ll be Christmas, and soon after, we’ll step into 2025—a year filled with exciting milestones and opportunities. But before we get there, here’s a glimpse into what December and the year overall have brought.
Adapting to the Weather
December began with a setback when Parkrun was canceled due to a storm (the name escapes me now!). But I got back to it the following week, and I was pleasantly surprised to see some progress. Speed runs and tempo sessions continue to be hard work, and I’ll admit I’m still finding it challenging to keep up with my Running plan, but I’m doing my best. Some days, the hardest part is simply getting out the door, especially with the cold and the holiday busyness.
Still, every step counts, and I’m grateful for the resilience this journey continues to teach me.
Lifestyle Leap: Small Wins, Big Impact
Our Lifestyle Leap online sessions have been a highlight this month. While it’s always a challenge to coax people out of their shells, it’s been so rewarding to see participants engage with strength training, breathing exercises, and meditation. The feedback has been heart warming, and it reminds me how meaningful it is to help others take small steps toward better health.
But Lifestyle Leap is just one piece of the puzzle. This year, Midlife Runners CIC has been part of some incredible projects that I’m so proud of:
- Unheard Steps: Our partnership with the Bolton Deaf Society to encourage fitness and wellness within the deaf community.
- Active Steps: A gentle running and strength training program for the health and financially deprived community of Heaton Norris.
- Empower Her: Supporting women who’ve experienced domestic abuse with holistic health and wellbeing.
- Living Life to the Full: A CBT-based mental wellbeing program that’s helped participants build resilience and improve their mental health.
To all the participants, partners, and supporters who made these programs possible—thank you! These initiatives are the heart of what we do, and I’m endlessly grateful for everyone who’s been part of them.
Looking Ahead: Mindfulness and Milestones
As we prepare for 2025, I’m looking forward to launching the Mindfulness Running Strides Project in collaboration with Growth Hub and Bolton University. This initiative will combine running and mindfulness practices to promote mental and physical well-being, and I’m excited to see the impact it will have.
On a personal note, January will bring new challenges as I continue to train for the London Marathon and grow the Lifestyle Leap community. I haven’t started my fundraising for Diabetes UK in earnest yet, but that’s a major focus for the new year.
While there’s always a bit of apprehension about what’s to come, I’m ready to tackle 2025 with optimism and determination.
Ending the Year with Gratitude
As I look back, I’m filled with gratitude for everyone who has been part of this journey—coaches, running buddies, participants, partners, and family. This year has been transformative in so many ways. I feel stronger, fitter, and more confident than when it began, and I’m excited to carry this energy into the new year.
Thank you all for your support, encouragement, and belief in our work. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season—here’s to an even brighter and more rewarding 2025!
