makepositive is proudly sponsoring Salesforce’s London Marathon team in support of the child protection charity NSPCC. In this blog, we talk to Salesforce runner Julian Palk.
- Why did you decide to run a Marathon? Do you have any experience with the NSPCC? What are you hoping to get out of this Marathon?
Having suffered an unexpected loss in Jan ’21 (my Father passing away) I needed something to focus on. I am a pretty active person but also pretty useless at running. I saw a couple of the Salesforce team running the marathon last year and had one of those thoughts to myself of ‘oh I could definitely do that’… now we will find out 😉 I am simply looking to improve my fitness and well-being while doing some good for others at the same time. what could be better than that! - What motivates you to run and what is your running experience so far (previous Marathons etc)?
I live in a really hilly area so motivation feels like it is even more important… hopefully, it’ll pay off. I seem to do better when thinking positively so try to focus on all of the benefits, and good things the NSPCC does as well. - How is training going? When did you start or when do you plan to start? How are you finding fitting training into your work/life schedule?
I think I’ve fallen into the trap a few first marathoners do..false starts. Its tough, I have a few hobbies out of work too so balancing the training is difficult but we make it work! luckily I haven’t had to bring my trainers on holiday with me but they have made a couple of work trips. - What does your training schedule look like? Do you just run or do you do other activities?
I am trying to run 3x a week and keep it fairly simple. I know I can get caught up in the details and Strava stats, so I’ve convinced myself I’m just going for completion. I am lucky enough to ride horses 4/6 times a week as well, often go for walks, and infrequently cycle. - Have you sustained any injuries? If so, what is your recovery process?
Injuries are par for the course aren’t they? Yes, a couple… just rested and then got back to it as there is plenty of time to go yet. Although, I was unfortunately in a car accident where a drunk driver hit me, so took a little more time for that one… all okay now though! - During the Marathon, how do you settle into your pace? Do you listen to music and if so, what’s on the playlist?
Weirdly I have to try and forget I’m running! so yeah either music or just thoughts for the day. My playlists are all over the place so I won’t bore you with the specifics. - What have been your biggest challenges since starting training?
Time! Its just hard to find the right balance, especially when training over such a long period for the first time. - What advice would you give to anyone thinking of running a marathon?
Give it a go! don’t overcomplicate it – I think I read about 10/15 different plans then realised they’re all kind of the same.. at least the beginner ones are. start slow, and progressively build up. - Would you do another Marathon after this one?
We shall see! Got to do this one yet 😉
If you are interested in making a donation, please visit the justgiving page below.
https://www.justgiving.com/team/SalesforceNSPCC2022
Read about the other runners of the Salesforce team:
Amy Sutton
Steven Eustace
Andy Naylor
James Georgiou
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