PMC Runner Focus: Stephanie Sim

Running - one sport that is usually last on my mind. I would choose swimming or even gym classes over running as i dislike the heat.

Last Jun, I embarked on a fitness regime as I was getting really unhealthy. I attended gym classes and made it a point to run for about 50 minutes (in the gym as its air-conditioned). In the beginning, even before the first 10 minutes I would be out of breath and walking the rest of the distance. I pushed myself and kept at 2 runs per week lasting 50 minutes each. After 4 weeks, I was able to keep pace and run for a longer duration without stopping to walk. I continued with my bi-weekly runs and added another day, making my runs a tri-weekly affair. I started to look forward to the runs as it helped me de-stress from work. I would concentrated on making the distance and keeping pace.

I decided to push myself further and signed up for my first 10km run in Dec'08. Weeks before the run, I was running daily for about an hour as I was really worried I wouldn't be able to complete the 10km race. This resulted in a knee injury. I had to see a doctor and trainer and they taught me how to stretch to prevent some muscle tightness that was causing the pain to my knee. I had to stop some of my gym classes to prevent further damage to my knee. The stretches they taught helped. I was able to compete in the 10km run. I ran and walk throughout the whole 10km. It was a wonderful experience and i did feel a sense of accomplishment after i cross the finishing line. I am looking forward to the coming runs lined up - Passion Run and also Street Wise Run where we'll be running for a cause and supporting the PCOSIIP Education Fund. Do join us as we run as a community.

I'm looking forward to running with you all. God Bless!