‘Why I run’ 4 runners share the reasons they keep moving – Women’s Health UK

Why do you run? Is it to carve out some much-needed me time, keep on top of your fitness levels or something entirely different and unique to you?

Everyone has their own reasons for lacing up, including Nikes expert run coaches.

So we asked the knowledgable athletes for the motivations that keep them running, plus the myths they want to bust about breaking a sweat and smashing goals.

For many fitness obsessives, running can be viewed simply as a necessary chore to improve their overall health which is how East London-based athlete Dora Atim came to discover her passion. The Nike coach crossed paths with running through her love for boxing, after her coach advised her to take up the sport to improve her fitness. At first, the idea of running was a bit boring. I was very judgy, but it was more because of my own confidence, Dora shares. But, with time, the coach pushed through her hard journey and began breaking through small milestones.

As for keeping motivated, the coach recommends being consistent and accepting that youll have good days and bad days. Your motivation is going to dip in and out [but] just try to stay consistent, Dora advises.

Running doesnt always boil down to experience, either. Dora stresses the importance of taking things slow and getting the right equipment to get started: You dont need to go on a long run just run around the block or run to your local bakery. Alongside her beginners tip, she advises newbies to invest and prioritise their sportswear, particularly shoes and sports bras for women. Ive been wearing Nike Pegasus throughout my running journey. Ive always stuck with Pegasus or the Nike invincible runs those are my staples. The Nike Alpha bras are super-amazing if you need that proper support. Those are the best because you can pretty much do all variety of runs in them.

Growing up, Lloyd would be inspired watching his older sister compete in athletic competitions. Motivated from a young age, it shaped his life and career as a trainer. As a Nike coach, Lloyd encourages first-time sportspeople to take their time with progress. Your journey as a runner is special to you, he emphasises. You may meet a runner that succumbs to loads of injuries, but that story is not yours.

Running, for Lloyd, has long served as a helpful outlet that supports a healthier mindset. Running keeps me in shape, it keeps me trim and feeling healthy, which is really important as we grow older, Lloyd explains. When I get to that [older] age, I still want to be mobile. I dont just want to retire and do nothing. The sport has also helped the Nike coach through some difficult moments too. I've had tough times running [has] really dragged me out of those and kept me in a routine.

The reliability and confidence of a run helps kickstart Lloyds day, which is why hes keen to share the positive message of the sport. What you get out of it is what you put into it, he reveals. But if youre not too sold on, well, the fitness part, Lloyd reaffirms that running can hold greater rewards than feeling good. Theres everything that comes with it. Its the friends you can make and the communities you can be a part of. Running has really transformed my life and I dont know where Id be without it.

Based in Berlin, Andi first got into running at a young age after taking up Modern Pentathlon, which includes swimming, shooting, horse riding, fencing and running. Since then, the athlete has been switching between sports but has remained committed to her love of running. The motivation to stick with running stemmed from the euphoric feeling brought on by the exercise: I often get a runners high and I love that feeling, so yeah, thats why I got back into running.

So, as you gear up for tackling your next (or first) run, Andi wants you to keep one golden rule in mind wearing good kit. The Nike coach reminds us that while getting the right gadgets falls down to what kind of runner you are, there is always a need for appropriate trainers, a classic hoodie and a running vest. A really good running vest, in which you can store essentials, like a phone, keys or snack really helped me, Andi shares. On the topic of trainers, the German coach reveals her favourite go-to shoe is the Nike Invincible, which has dropped a new series Nike ZoomX Flyknit Invincible 2 which is perfectly suited to both new and experienced runners.

From taking part in daily runs to helping train others, qualified physiotherapist and Nike coach Manni believes the sport is appealing because its effects are unique to each runner. Running can seem quite daunting and a bit of a challenge, but it can enhance your day. What I find is that it helps you get into a different state. It can elevate your whole life experience, Manni says.

Now, its time to debunk some myths the belief that you need to know absolutely everything before you kick off a run, for Manni, simply isnt true. Instead, the coach likens running progress to a video game: Youre trying to go through the different phases and different levels to reach a new goal. And as you seek to hit these new milestones, Manni encourages sportspeople to invest in good kit, including a waterproof jacket and the all-round shoe: Nike Pegasus 39, which is adaptable to many different environments and terrains.

The positive relationship between running and improved mental health has been scientifically shown. A study from JAMA Psychology revealed that small bursts of exercise can improve mood and health, and Manni agrees. One of the benefits of running is the big positive effect on my mental state and wellbeing. It helps you grind and focus into a flow state that keeps you motivated.

Get to grips with running in Nikes newly launched Nike Zoom Pegasus 39 and Nike ZoomX Flyknit Invincible 2 series running shoes

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'Why I run' 4 runners share the reasons they keep moving - Women's Health UK