Living adventurously means different things for different people, and The Green Runners is made up of a community finding adventure across the globe in different ways.
For some people just getting outside for a run could be adventure enough; whereas some people look to run FKTs, complete marathons on the other side of the world, or explore the area where they live. Here’s a guest blog from one member Martin Elcoate, who found adventure and purpose through exploring an OS map centred on his home. He said: “I’m naturally risk averse so for me adventure is more about the unusual and exciting and less about the danger! I try to find adventure in the day to day.”
Martin’s adventure took him to new places via new routes within 400 km of space.
“By creating a series of challenges (visiting all 1km squares, taking images, finding trig points and more recently going along all the footpaths and bridleways) I give my adventures purpose. My local adventures fit my working and family life,” he said.
“Occasionally I’ll push myself to take on a bigger challenge, running further or in more challenging terrain using a running event as the target. Last year’s highlight away from my map was traversing Crib Goch in spite of my fear of heights. This formed part of my training for The Dragons Back, a race that ultimately I would not start. But boy did I have some great Welsh adventures in training. It reminded me just how much I love being in the mountains.”
Martin was driven by his concern about the climate and environment. He was inspired to join a group which would motivate and inspire him to make a difference.
This is a thread that runs through the group’s philosophy. The Green Runners asks its members to make a pledge when they join, and it’s through these pledges that runners can do something positive for the planet, while still enjoying a sport they love.
The pledges fall under four pillars, How You Travel, How You Kit Up, How You Fuel, How You Speak Up.
Making small changes through big adventures is what many of our members identify with. Some feel overwhelmed by the enormity of the climate crisis, and are keen to do something to feel they are having a positive impact.
You can find more of these inspirational stories over on The Green Runners blog page.
Plogging, ditching flights, considering reusing old kit, changing diet, it can all seem like a big ask as a whole, but individually these changes are simple and easy to do one at a time.
Is it really a hassle?
“If you mean swapping my car for the train or bus in some circumstances then no. Using public transport adds to a sense of adventure. And adds a source of inspiration (just pick a train station and go from there). I love taking the train and going for a run.”
He adds: “Making a difference in terms of the climate is not about shutting oneself off from the world. I don’t live in a perfect world and I don’t live a perfect life. I try to make decisions with the environment in mind. But there will always be compromises. I do my best to find a balance.
“Is it all nice and worthy, but actually makes your daily life a bit more boring and less fulfilling and less adventurous?
“Not at all.”
