Thread by @SertOlcay

Today it's my #RUNiversary. I have never been the gym type, I love my food and drinks, but I still wanted a regular physical activity. #jogging helped me #academictwitter; it transformed my mind and physical condition. A thread on how it helped me and some humble suggestions. 👇

It helped me feel healthier. I can now move more, and more flexibly. I sleep better, eat and drink with less guilt /1

It gives me space to think, reflect, enjoy, observe. It clears my mind, and if I want, I plan things when I am running. Sometimes I listen to a podcast in Swedish to practice listening. Sometimes I just run without any thoughts (possible? Nope :) ). /2

It helped me develop additional routines for work, wellbeing, social life. If you can achieve developing one routine, why not use the same method to develop other good routines? /3

It helped me develop writing and project goals. You think clearly while running, after a while. Especially if you are running outdoors and if the air is fresh. /4

It also helped me with planning presentations and lectures. I create a mind map, rehearse and daydream when I am running. /5

But just run for the sake of running. Just to clear your mind. Maybe you just need that, and nothing else. And some humble suggestions: 👇 /6

Choose a sustainable activity that works for YOU. It was jogging for me, it may be Yoga for you. Pick one that fits into your life style, workload, and personal preferences. /7

Find your spot. Are you a city runner? Do you like parks and forests? They are all good, what matters is convenience in long term. I avoid gyms, but that may be the right place for you. Try, until you find your spot. /8

2k, 3k, 5 k, 7k? I regularly run 7k now, but I started with 2,5k. Start with what you can afford, in terms of time. It’s a matter of how much time you CAN HAVE, the distance does not matter./9

Avoid running on asphalt every day – not good for your knees. Protect yourself against injuries. I love forests, but I live nearby one - find a convenient place /10

Set your routines. Balance them with your academic and social goals. Don’t overdo it. /11

Once you decide on the time to run, stick to it. Mornings before work? Evenings? You choose. It’s not doable for me to run every day – I do it every other day. Find your own. /12

Don’t give up if you miss 1 or more runs. Start over. Remember, it is a lifelong journey, not one of those weight loss ambitions. /13

One you have a proper routine and good condition, spice things up with a sprint or 2 every 2 kilometres – just for 30 seconds. Or add a planking routine after your run. /14

I am neither a good example nor an expert, so of course see a doctor before you start (I know that you won’t). /15

*once