Running in the Big Smoke
The pitfalls of running in the most desperately busy city in the UK. There are quite a few.
Feature
Unfortunately, running in London can bring many dangers – as Itchy knows only too well.
Traffic seems a good place to start. Or stop, as the case may be. Jogging on the spot whilst waiting for the lights to change will add many agonising minutes to each run, and there’s nothing you can do about it. Alternatively you could be running down a really quiet road. Quiet, that is, until you decide to cross and a convoy of slow-moving cars appears from nowhere.
Pedestrians aren’t much better. They’ve seen you, but they won’t budge. It’s as if they don’t know you’ve just run 10 miles, and slowing to squeeze through a tiny gap will cause your legs to scream at you with anger and frustration.
We know what you’re thinking - What about a park? London has some beautiful, large, green parks and surely these are ideal for running?
Itchy has one word for you:
Dogs.
Wandering on their own, or on leads with their owners, it doesn’t really matter. Dogs will turn you into an Olympic hurdler. Sometimes they’ll hide in a bush, and jump out at you. This is a speciality of smaller, louder dogs.
It’s not all bad, though.
There really is no experience like running through our great city. It gives us a chance to explore, to think and, hopefully, lose a little weight along the way.
We highly recommend signing up for some official races. You’ll meet likeminded people, have a lovely clear course and get an opportunity to see some fantastic buildings and parks. You may also get a free goody bag – which is always welcome. Dogs are not invited.
There are several races planned over the next few months. Itchy has put together a small list for you below, however there are many races in London each year – so keep your eyes open and be sure to sign up quickly because they can fill up fast!
Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon
Battersea Park Races
London Pirate Run
Run to the Beat Half Marathon
Royal 5k
Tom Roberts
Photo Milena Mihaylova
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