Running, But Make It a Lifestyle.
Let me start by saying: I was never a “runner.” You know the type—bouncing out of bed at 6am, lacing up their trainers with a smug smile, and breezing out the door like a Nike ad, smugly thinking they are better than everyone. Nope. That was not me.
But somewhere between juggling work, life, and the sheer chaos of keeping it together, and a global pandemic, I found running. Or maybe running found me—panting, red-faced, and questioning every life choice—but hey, we stuck together.
Now, don’t get me wrong. There are days I still wake up not totally jumping for joy excited for each run, but those days are now few. My first thought is usually “ugh.” But something happens once I’m out there. Music or podcast on, feet moving, brain slowly unclenching—it’s like therapy, but cheaper and sweatier. Over the last few year I went from running 5Ks to completing the London Marathon, in 2026 the plan is do run three, Sydney, Cork & Dublin !
Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:
You don’t need fancy gear to get started. My first runs were not in made for running gear, my top kept riding up and my leggings kept rolling down at the waist, distracting, but Spoiler: I didn’t drop dead, but I now know what works, more on that later.
Start slow. And I mean glorified walk with occasional jogging slow. No one’s handing out medals for speed on your first go. Although I do love a medal.
Good playlists or podcasts are everything. Find songs that make you want to dance-run. You know the ones, or listen to a great podcast where you can get lost in the conversation.
Run for the feeling, not the numbers. Yes, stats are fun, but how you feel afterwards? That’s the magic. This is so important when you are starting out. And the more you train the more you will understand the run to feel, properly tuning into your body, your breathing and heart rate
I’ve also had the weirdest, most wonderful thoughts while running—from planning dinner to solving world problems (in theory). It’s like my feet unlock my brain.
So if you're thinking about giving running a go, do it. Not to hit a certain pace, or to shrink yourself, but because it might just be the unexpected joy you didn’t know you needed.
Here is the Gear I love right now
What I Wear When I’m Pretending to Be a Pro Runner (But Still Want to Look Cute)
Let’s be real—if I’m going to be panting my way up and down the hills, I might as well look like I know what I’m doing, right? Here’s what I’ve been loving lately when it comes to running gear—stuff that’s comfy, cute, and actually does the job.
Socks: Sporcks
I never knew socks could be a game-changer until I tried Sporcks. No blisters, no slipping, and they come in the best colours and with fun slogans. Like a hug for your feet, minus the boringness.
Shorts: Sweaty Betty, New Balance & Lululemon
I’m equal-opportunity when it comes to running shorts because I love a good rotation:
Sweaty Betty for when I want that luxe, sculpted feel—great for summer runs.
New Balance for breathable, no-fuss styles that never ride up.
Lululemon for pockets. SO many pockets. And the fit? Chef’s kiss.
Trainers: HOKA
Once you go HOKA, you don’t go back. Seriously—clouds underfoot. I’m obsessed with the cushioning, especially on longer runs when my legs start questioning all my life decisions. These are my current rotations. I know who am I, but these days I do have choices depending the type of run.
Running Belt & Vest: Salomon
Whether I’m stashing snacks, keys, or pretending I’m about to scale a mountain, Salomon’s belt and vest keep everything snug and bounce-free. Plus, they actually look cool—bonus points. I only really need the vest for the Ionger runs when I need to carry fluids. Otherwise the short I recommended do have side pocket short to keep you phones and gels in place.
Running, for me, has never been about pace or PBs, certainly at the beginning. It’s about headspace, fresh air, and the quiet confidence that comes from showing up even on the days you don’t feel like it. It’s the reset button at the end of a long day, the joy of moving my body, and the reminder that I’m stronger than I think — physically and mentally. Whether you’re lacing up for your first mile or your fiftieth, I hope this has nudged you to step outside, take a breath, and just run for the love of it. No pressure. No rules. Just you, the road, and that feeling that keeps pulling us back time and time again.
S x