“Running Through Life: Stories of Passion and Resilience”

Share your running journey with us, what has been your biggest motivation?

I started running when I was younger but I quit during my teen rebellion! In my early 20s I ran on and off, but I really got back into prioritising my fitness after having my second daughter during covid times and have stuck with it ever since.  Right now, my biggest motivation for running is my little girls. I run to show them how important exercise is, whatever activity you love, and the benefits that come from it. I really do think that running makes you a stronger more resilient person. It’s makes you push harder than you think you ever would, and then achieve things you never thought possible. Then you can bring that skill and that mental strength into other parts of your life. 

What challenges have you faced along the way?

I’m injured at the moment 😭😭 so my immediate challenge is to get back to fitness before the marathon. I ‘m not very good at giving the injury time to heal and just want to run!

Overall my biggest challenge is time, especially with a full time job and three young girls. This is still a work in progress for me, but I’m getting there. You have to be ok putting yourself first, filling your own cup, I really struggle with this sometimes.

How do you incorporate running into your daily routine?

Morning runs work best for me, I try to get up before my kids so I can be home before they are up. My husband just started running too and this actually helps because it pushes me to get my runs done so he can get out for his.

Does running play a role in managing stress and maintaining balance?

Absolutely. If I haven’t had time to run, I get frustrated more easily and feel more stressed. Getting outside for a run in the morning sets me up for the day. The endorphins make me a happier and more positive person.

What do you look for in running apparel?

I look for good stretch in bottoms – I bloat a lot so I want something that is comfortable and will fit me on “good” and “bad” days. My circle edge leggings actually do this. I was wearing another brand today and I had to take them off when the bloat hit.
I go for black shorts / leggings to hide the sweat patches but will go a bit more colourful in my tops as I run on country roads and along with my high vis the brighter colour tops help me stand out.
I have a pair of puma shorts and I have bought 3 of them because they work for me and if I like something I stick to it (creature of habit). I like them because they are strong at the waist band , a nice length , and don’t bunch up when running.
I only run in leggings in the winter when it is cold, I have the circle edge black leggings with a pocket to hold my keys or phone, they have a good stretch but most importantly they stay up I don’t wear cotton, it just does not work because it absorbs & holds the moisture. Comfort is the most important thing. I’m not as concerned about style – I just want it simple and functional

What encouragement would you give to women who are just starting their fitness journeys?

Take the first step! Don’t put any pressure on yourself, it can be really hard at first but document all your wins. Today you might run for 1 minute without stopping and that’s a big deal, one day you’ll look back to where you started and you can look in the mirror and say well done to yourself. Prioritising fitness is not always easy but it is so important to be fit and healthy, and if you are lucky enough to be able to move your body any way you want to, then do it!! Years ago I was in an accident, I had a broken knee, broken collarbone, broken ribs and more. I look back to this time & I can see how far I have come. It is also a stark reminder of how lucky I am to be able to get outside and run. It’s a blessing.

What are your tips for maintaining motivation and balancing an active lifestyle with work and family commitments?

Set goals so have something to work towards, and tell other people so that they can encourage you. Start with a friend so that you can motivate each other.

You need to prioritise it, put it in the diary so you make the time. Remember it’s ok to put yourself first and do something for you, I’m still working on this but you have to think it’s like putting on the oxygen mask on a plane – you have to make sure you’re ok first before you can look after other people.

What are your future running goals?

Right now I’m hoping to recover from this injury in time to run Dublin marathon!! My eldest daughter has developed a love for running now too and any time I get to go out running with her is so special. I love that we can do it together, and want to do more of this.