I’ve mapped out a couple of running routes around my neighbourhood, some are 5km routes for quick runs after work, others are for the longer Sunday LSD’s. I ran one of my favourite routes this morning; I call it the Elgin route.

To get there means I have to meander through parts of Bryanston first and conquer one of the longest uphills – Cumberland & Homestead Roads. It’s not so much steep as it is long. I’m usually already walking by the time it starts its big pull. I don’t mind the walk. Walking during my runs usually gives me time to think and re-energise for the week ahead. But the road is relentless and takes me a good few minutes to get to the top.

The best part is as I turn into Elgin. It’s more of a mental turn on my run because my head tells me the hard work has been done and it’s pretty much downhill home from there. But there’s more to it…

Elgin Road is filled with the most beautiful massive trees, buzzing with bird life. You can hear the occasional Grey Lourie if you’re patient and there are always doves coo’ing in the lush gardens. You’re bound to run into other runners, even ones with dogs on leads.

It’s the part of my run where I let go and allow myself to be surrounded by nature and the fact that it feels like I’ve blocked out everything else. All I hear are my feet pounding the tar as the sun hits my face.

There are three takeouts from running this route:

1. It’s okay to walk the uphills. I still reach the top.

2. The reward is around the corner, be patient.

3. Take time to appreciate and enjoy my surroundings. There’s so much beauty around us!

One of the best running routes there is!