Running Big: Extreme Challenges, Smart Training & Fundraising Wins: With Adam Dixon

In the world of running, every mile can tell a story, and for Adam Dixon, every step is not just about personal achievement but also about making a difference. In this episode of the Sapphire Running Zone podcast, Adam shared his journey as a runner and fundraising manager at Alder Hey Children’s Charity, revealing valuable lessons learned along the way.

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• Adam's Running Journey

Adam's running career took a serious turn during the lockdown, when he embarked on the Calendar Club Challenge. This challenge requires participants to run a kilometre for each day of the month, culminating in 500 kilometers over 31 days. Adam embraced this challenge, raising over £5,000 for Alder Hey, one of Europe's busiest children's hospitals, emphasising how the experience offered not just physical endurance but also a sense of purpose.

• The Structure of a Training Week

Training for a sub-three-hour marathon demands a well-structured weekly plan. Adam shares that his training week includes a mix of easy runs, interval training, long runs, and strength workouts. For instance, a typical week might involve a 35-mile regimen, with specific emphasis on hill training in Liverpool, which he considers essential for marathon prep. He reminds beginners that while speed work is crucial for experienced runners, novices should focus on simply completing their runs.

• Strength Training and Injury Prevention

Adam's training includes regular strength sessions, which he finds vital for injury prevention and overall performance. He chooses to attend strength classes rather than hitting the gym alone, favoring lower body workouts that enhance his running power. Adam emphasizes that strength training is not just for elite runners; it’s a fundamental component for all runners aiming to stay injury-free.

• The Challenge of Running Across England

One of Adam's most remarkable feats was running across England—a gruelling 208 miles over seven days. With limited preparation time, he managed to carry all his supplies and complete the challenge, raising over £6000 for three children's charities. His story of encountering supportive strangers along the way highlights the power of community and the impact of running for a cause.

• Key Takeaways

Adam Dixon's journey illustrates that running is not just a personal endeavour but a powerful means of creating change. Through his challenges, he has shown that with the right mindset, structured training, and community support, runners can achieve both personal goals and contribute to meaningful causes. His experiences serve as an inspiration for runners at all levels to embrace their passion for running while considering how they can give back to their communities, through a series of fundraising wins.

f you'd like to support Alder Hey Children's Charity you can more about their running events here 

HAVE A LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE

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