Motivation

How to get Started in Running with Team GB athlete Steph Twell

We recently caught up with New Balance and Team GB athlete, Steph Twell, fresh from competing at the 17th IAAF World Athletics Championships in Doha.

In what is the first instalment of a two-part interview, Steph shares her advice for anyone looking to get started in running, or take their running up a gear.

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What are your top tips for anyone looking to get started with running?

Start by running somewhere that will inspire you. Either by an adventure run to take you to new places, or in a park you like. For those who need the motivation to get outside and start running, consider finding a great playlist, or arranging to run with someone as this makes you accountable. Agreeing to go for a coffee or tea after can also be a good motivator, and gives you something to look forward to post run!

Finally, work through your gears when you start. It’s okay to walk but set yourself a goal that for only 2 mins out of 10 you will walk, and that the rest will be a jog. This way you have goals to reduce the rest and increase your running duration. The most important thing though is simply to enjoy your run and see how far you can go!

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What is the number one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to run competitively?

Surround yourself with people who also have similar goals to you. You will learn so much quicker that way. Work with each other to reach your goals and you can get there faster!

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What do you look for in running shoes?

I always start by looking at the flex point. I like a stiff but flexible fore foot as that’s important for me to push off from. I then check the weight/width to make sure that it’s not too heavy and won’t alter my biomechanics. Then, I look at the tread and ensure that it’s correct for the surface I will be running on. After that it’s the upper to make sure I don’t have too much cushioning and finally the ’look’ - that they are pretty and I feel good in them!

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What trainers do you currently wear for your training?

I do most of my miles in the New Balance 1080s which are perfect for my runs along canals and roads. For any heavy duty trails where I’m running in my local parks or forests it’s the New Balance 880s.

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How do those trainers help your running?

I find the 1080s really durable, even for marathon training. They are also flexible which I need for my feet. The 880s on the other hand offer mid-sole support which is also important when I am spending repeated training sessions and a longer time on my feet.

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From the start of your career to now, what has been your biggest learning?

I would have learnt to listen closer to my body sooner. I often let my body direct me more than my mind and it’s really interesting when you actually work with your body rather than against it, to see how you can push it further and longer by not asking it to go 100% every time.

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Are you feeling inspired? Then join our SportsShoes Strava Run Club and become part of our inclusive community.
And for more inspirational tips to become stronger, better and happier, then check out our Motivation category. Because it’s no fun standing still.