I've been running for a few weeks now as part of my Health Happenings homework, so today I decided to bring you along. Remember, just eight weeks ago I hadn't exercised in almost a decade.

The route

I walk out of Alright Robyn's house and up the road. Once I hit the paved section I start a light jog all the way up to the turnaround, then come back. Near the end I kick it up from a light jog into a faster pace and try to hold it to the finish. I'd been calling it two miles, but I clocked it and it's actually about 3.5 kilometres, so we're tacking on around 10% extra.

The music problem

Good running music has been a challenge. YouTube needs the screen to stay on, and the radio throws slow songs at you right when you need a push. I'm trying Spotify so I can build my own playlists.

The result

It was cold, about four degrees, with a little rain coming down, and we came in around 23:43. That might be a new best time. The camera rig got a bit wet, but it held up.

What running has taught me

The first part of the run is the hardest. You're not going fast yet and all you can think about is how much further you have to go. Am I going to make it? Once you kick it up, time goes faster and you're committed. My goal every single time is simple: start and finish. Some days just starting is the hardest part.

When I used to run regularly, 5K was my number. I think I could do it right now. We'll get there.

Your turn

If you're struggling to get motivated, let today be the beginning. If nothing else, get up and go for a walk. Doing something is always better than doing nothing.

Joe is not a doctor or a dietitian. This is his personal journey. Talk to your healthcare provider before making big changes to your diet or exercise.