Carol Kangwa
Wednesday, April 04, 2018
Q. Who are you and what you do for a living?
My name is Carol Kangwa. I am Zambian living and working in South Africa. I am currently a fund accountant with the global bank in Johannesburg
Q. How do you balance your exercise regime and your professional life?
I believe the power to achieve anything begins with setting goals, being passionate and creating a blue print for action. I took time to carefully plan out a routine that helps me balance my work and fitness program with which I ensure I follow with great discipline. I work out either early from 5am in the morning or from 6pm after work.
Q. When and why did you start running?
Although I had been running intermittently for some time, I gave my full commitment to running in the first quarter of 2017, pushing myself more and participating in community and group events. Apart from the awesome health benefits I get from running and exercising, I realised over time I had a passion for the sport, and the idea of reaching the finish line in record time always gives me the best feeling ever.
Q. What motivates you to go out there, when you do not feel like it?
It’s all about having a vision and making a full commitment to achieving it no matter what. Regardless of our fields of work, there are days when we wake up and lack motivation, that’s just human nature. However, successful people always push beyond their comfort zones and get themselves to do what is required regardless of how they feel. These are some of the principals I have imbibed into my daily routine that keeps me going come rain or sunshine
Q. What is the longest distance you have ran?
For me it was unvarying build-up to fitness – walking, jogging, and then running. Whilst gaining experience and stamina through groups and locally organised events, I then participated in the Soweto half Marathon and finished successfully within the time line had set for myself. I consider the Soweto 21km half marathon a great step for the next level. It was a confidence booster.
Q. What gives you the confidence to run in the streets?
I am fortunate to be in a neighbourhood where you find couples, running groups and individuals running from the early hours of the morning and evenings. That not only inspires me, it gives me the confidence as well. I also keep myself apprised with the happenings around my area to ensure my personal safety is not comprised.
Q. What do you think about the lack of exercise?
I believe we all should develop the habit of exercising. The benefits are enormous not only do we feel physically energised and fit, we also develop strong mental fitness which is essential for mind and body. Just by taking a few minutes every day to work out, we can greatly enhance our physical emotional and mental well being.
Q. What was your best running experience?
Was running the Soweto Marathon
Q. What was your worst running experience?
None so far
Q. How do you push through the pain?
I ensure I maintain a balanced healthy routine. By doing this, I am able to minimise physical or mental strain and still keep my momentum going. In addition to that, I take time out to recuperate my body after events or long periods of work out. There great website and blogs to visit to get great tips on how to rejuvenate your body and stay health.
Q. What advice can you give somebody who wants to start running?
First step is to create motivation, and this can be done by making a list of why this activity is important and all the benefits that are to be gained. Motivation is the key factor, it gives us the drive to push and keep going when others through in a towel. Discipline becomes natural when motivation is high. Once the motivation is there, the next step is to create a routine and gradually build stamina. I would advise those just starting to join a small running group or participate in local events. (It’s important to start with short distance and distance and build momentum over time.)
Q. Which Social media sites are you on and how can one follow you?
Instagram @ckangwa
Facebook Carol Kangwa
#RunRevolution
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