Miles with Real Meaning

Running for a Cause: Emma's Journey from Passion to Purpose

In this episode of this Don't Forget Your Gels podcast series, Tim Rogers welcomes Emma Russ, from the Fight for Sight charity, to share her inspiring running journey. Emma's story showcases how her passion for running combines with her dedication to her charity fundraising role. This podcast also offers insights into the mental and physical benefits of the sport. Have a listen here

• Early Beginnings in Running

Emma's running journey began at the tender age of nine when her parents enrolled her in an athletics camp during the summer holidays. This experience ignited her love for running, leading her to join a local running club. "From the age of nine, I was running five, six times a week," Emma recalls. Her early involvement in athletics allowed her to compete at various levels, including county and national events, establishing a foundation for her lifelong passion.

• Transitioning from Competitive to Enjoyment

As Emma transitioned into adulthood, her running evolved from a competitive focus to one rooted in enjoyment and personal fulfilment. "I still run for a running club, but it’s probably more enjoyment than competitive," she explains. Emma's experience spans a wide range of distances, from 800 meters on the track to an impressive 100 kilometers in a day for charity.

• Memorable Marathons

Emma has completed five marathons, with each one presenting unique challenges and experiences. Her first marathon in London, completed in 2007, was a last-minute charity entry, and she recalls, "I got a last-minute charity place in January, so I had to cram in marathon training over about three months." Notable marathons include the Midnight Sun Marathon in Norway, where runners experience daylight at midnight, and the Pilgrims Marathon, known for its picturesque, hilly terrain. Emma emphasizes the joy of trail running, noting, "It mixes up a little bit, enjoying the views and the terrain."

• The Mental Health Benefits of Running

Beyond the physical aspects, Emma highlights the significant mental health benefits of running. "Sometimes it’s only when I go for a run that I realize how much is in your head," she shares. Running provides her with clarity and headspace, allowing her to tackle challenges both in her personal life and at work. Emma encourages everyone to explore running, stating, "If everyone could run, however distance, pace, it would definitely be something I’d encourage."

• Embracing Ultra Running

Emma's journey took an exciting turn when she decided to tackle ultra running, specifically the Race to the Stones, which is a 100-kilometer challenge. "I learned to do as many updates as I could on social media," she explains. Breaking the race down into manageable segments helped her mentally prepare for the daunting distance. Emma recalls, "I thought of it as a warm-up for the first part, and then three park runs for the latter part." This mental strategy proved effective, and she successfully completed the race while raising funds for charity.

• Key Takeaways

Emma's journey is a testament to the transformative power of running, both physically and mentally. Her experiences illustrate the importance of finding joy in the sport, the benefits of community support, and the incredible impact running can have on mental well-being. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced runner, Emma's story encourages us all to lace up our shoes and embrace the freedom of running.

Have a listen here

Tags: Running, Mental Health, Charity, Ultra Running, Marathons, Trail Running, Fitness, Community, Fundraising, Sports