Action Medical Research

Run with other mums

Are you a mum who wants to get fit? Have you ever thought about taking up running? Do you want to get fit and raise money to help sick and vulnerable babies?

Mums on the run is an exciting new initiative from Action Medical Research aimed at mothers who want to get fit and reach a goal.

Having a realistic target to train will be a massive motivation. We'd like to invite all mums to join Action Medical Research in the London BUPA 10,000 in May 2011.

Being a mum is a full time job with little time to fit in exercise. Signing up for mums on the run will enable you to get fit, work towards a goal, meet other mums online for mutual support and raise vital funds for a charity that aims to improve treatment for sick babies.

If you have any questions then please phone us on 01403 327442 or email mbuck@action.org.uk.

So stop thinking about it, sign up and take advantage of our support and become a mum on the run!

Why join mums on the run?

Run for us and you will be raising vital funds to enable us to support medical research that will help prevent life-threatening pregnancy complications, reduce the unacceptably high rate of premature birth, and improve care for sick and vulnerable babies.

Having a realistic target to train will be a massive motivation. We'd like to invite all mums to join Action Medical Research in the London BUPA 10,000 in May 2011.

Don't feel daunted if you haven't done any running before. A 50 year old lady who took part in the BUPA Great North Run for Action Medical Research said: "I joined a running club in York with my friend and at first; my training consisted of running from one lamppost to the next, then walking the next two! Gradually with the help and encouragement of the Action Medical Research team I built up my stamina and speed."

Running for Action Medical Research will raise funds for the best possible medical research in to pregnancy complications that threaten babies lives by supporting our special Touching Tiny lives appeal aiming to reduce the high rate of premature birth. Our Touching Tiny Lives appeal works towards funding vital research that will help sick and vulnerable babies.

If you have any questions then please phone us on 01403 327442 or email mbuck@action.org.uk.

Gallery

Top 10 tips

1. Go for it, get yourself out the door! It is better to run for one mile than to think about running five.
2. Set realistic and achievable goals; don't put too much pressure on yourself. Once you've hit a goal then work towards a new one.


3. Be safe. If you run on the roads, wear bright clothes. If you are running when it's dark, get some reflective running clothes so cars can see you. Make sure someone knows when you are going out and how long you expect to be.
4. Get a running watch. Keep track of how far you have run and how much time it took. You'll be amazed at how quickly you improve!
5. Stay hydrated; ensure that you drink lots of water or energy drink before and after your run. If it's a long run then take some drink with you.
6. Stop if you feel an injury. A few days off won't affect your progress, be sensible if you hurt yourself and stop instantly. Consult your doctor if pain persists.
7. Keep track of your runs. Log how far you have run, and how long it took you. You can do this in a running journal, or a running log online.
8. Get a running buddy. You can meet these with our help or through the discussion forum. It is easier to stay motivated if you have a friend to keep you motivated.
9. Get a quality pair of running shoes. Buying cheap trainers won't do you any favours. Running is an inexpensive activity; the only thing you really need to invest in is running shoes. Get a good pair. If you have never been fitted for a running shoe, visit a running specialty store and have them check your feet and running stride to determine the right fit for you.
10. Stay determined. Running is just as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Believe in yourself and stay positive. Imagine yourself crossing that finish line and the amazing feeling it will give you.

One final bit of advice from previous Action Medical Research runner Deborah Steer:

"On the day have the confidence to enjoy the atmosphere however large or small the event is. You have done the training and all you are racing against is yourself so go out and do it!! When the going gets tough and it will, focus on the finish line and what a great sense of achievement you will have, arms held high saying I've done it!! There's no such word as can't!"

Testimonials

"Mums on the run is a brilliant idea! As a mother myself I know how difficult it can be to find the time and motivation to get into shape once you've had a child.

"A 10K run is the perfect challenge for anyone new to running or looking to get fit, and with the support of the Action Medical Research team you'll find it that much easier to achieve your goal."

Nell McAndrew

"I feel very fortunate to have a healthy child. Run for Action Medical Research and ensure all children are given the best possible chance to be born healthy and to grow up healthy."

Sally Gunnell OBE

"I first got inspired to take up running after coming to watch the London Marathon in the early 80's when my brother was running, I instantly decided I wanted to take part. Three children later and I went for it! There's no better time to take up running, it gives you time to yourself and is excellent for getting back into your jeans!!

"I've now done 9 London Marathons and many other runs. It was particularly special for me to run for Action Medical Research. My first son weighed just 3lbs 12oz at birth and had a rare condition - transient neonatal diabetes - so I know the importance of the work the charity does, funded by the money it raises.

"The advice I would give to any new runner is to relax and enjoy the day. Follow your training plan and utilise the support from the Action Medical Research events staff. On the day have the confidence to enjoy the fantastic encouragement that you get round the course. When the going gets tough (and it will do), focus on that last bend and the finish line in front, and that absolute sense of achievement."

Deborah Steer ran for us in the 2009 Flora London Marathon

"I am definitely not built to be a runner and have never attempted to run anywhere in my life, but after the events of 2007, I need to achieve this amazing marathon. I am supporting the Touching Tiny Lives Campaign as it is very close to my heart."

"Last March I had my twin daughters 15 weeks early, just 25 weeks gestation. Alicia was born weighing just less than 1lb 5oz and Lauren weighed 1lb 4oz, sadly Lauren passed away after fighting for 23 hours. Alicia was extremely poorly and had to battle for survival, receiving 9 blood transfusions and overcoming a range of problems including e-coli infections, Chronic Lung disease, ROP disease resulting in laser surgery to both eyes and an open heart duct. I cannot begin to express the amazing level of care that Alicia received from all the staff at Taunton Musgrove Park Hospital. Alicia eventually came home after 17 weeks and although she is still oxygen dependant is progressing really well and is certainly the boss of the house!"

"I have seen for myself how important medical advances are and without the continued efforts of campaigns such as the Tiny Lives, my daughter would not survived."

Michelle Chant ran for us in the 2009 Flora London Marathon