RTKit- Runner Chat #14
Name: Natalie Hawkins
Where you are based:
Pembrokeshire, Wales
Insta handle:
@notanotherrunner (IG And Facebook, and TikTok)
and Not Another Runner on Podcast Platforms
About You!
What inspired you to start running?
To get fit and feel healthier. It has also been crucial to me in managing my mental health, and remaining medication free.
What is your favourite racing distance?
Half Marathon
What is your favourite race to date and why?
I have to say - it has got to be my first Marathon experience @ London Marathon 2019. The training had gone incredibly, and I was on target for around 3:50 - 4:00 hours, but that is if I put in place what I had done in training. On race day however, I had an unusual stomach ache, which meant I was unable to take on any water, or any fuel during the race. It was a painful start, but I was able to run. I got to mile 14 and started to feel very bad, I had to pull myself off the side, as I knew I was going to be sick. Two lovely ladies helped me, they gave me some of their sugary tea and a jaffa cake, which I struggled to eat a mouthful of, at this point I felt so nauseas - I knew things weren’t good.
After this, I’d go on to endure the rest of the marathon in utter pain. I was sick on copious occasions, and had to walk jog, spew my way around the course. I tried not to cry but the idea of crossing the finish line was almost an impossible thought, I was escorted off course by a Marshal, then later a Police Lady, who's boots I was then sick on; I made three stops with St Johns, including a half an hour medical stop the second time with a foil blanket and rehydration sachets myself. I then made my way back onto the course with the foil blanket, starting with a walk, and then a jog, but had to stop soon after as I was having pins and needles in my left hand and arm, and had already been told to stop if I felt any of these symptoms, I was then monitored on an ECG and as soon as my stats came back ok and I had managed to rehydrate even more, I went back out on the course to finish the last 3.5 miles. And I crossed the finish line - a little while after in 6 hours and 20 minutes!
I was ecstatic to not only finish the race and cross the finish line of London Marathon - my first ever Marathon, but because of what I managed to overcome. It is honestly a Race Experience that showed me just how resilient I can be when I apply a Mind over Matter principle.
What is your favourite post-run meal?
Pizza/Burger and a Fanta Orange.
What is your favourite session on your training plan?
Being injured currently my sessions are few and far between.
I did do a Hill Session the other day - Which I will be implementing into my routine moving forward. It was a Power walk session of 5 x 3 minutes (Hill) and I loved it. I have always loved Hill Sessions. And definitely got to work hard in this one, despite it not being a running session.
Which running-inspired quote is your mantra?
My own quote: 'Get up and get going, because you never regret going but you always regret not going!'
If you had all the time in the world, what would be the one thing you’d work really hard on for your training?
If I was fit and well it would be long runs, I would implement workouts and tempos sandwiched in between - I'd love to be in the routine of training for longer distances, Marathon Training was such a fun process 2018-2019. Right now I'd do anything just to be able to run a mile!
What piece of advice would you give to a newbie runner?
Enjoy yourself, take it easy initially. Sign up to a Race/Virtual Race or Set a Goal, and then look at what is required to achieve the goal. Having a Goal set means we have something to work towards, and helps us remain motivated and accountable. This will assist you when you may lack motivation to get going.
About RT Kit!
Which is your favourite bit of kit to wear and why?
Granted it's summer, but I love the On The Run Long Sleeve - the fabric is so comfortable and it fits great, it has been a Life Saver for me on my Early Morning Walks. I have it in Dusty Pink and I love this colour! Definitely will be getting another ready for Autumn-Winter.
I also LOVE the Black On The Run Tights, they fit great and they are very flattering.
What bit of kit would you recommend to other runners (from the RunThroughKit page)?
Definitely the On The Run Tights! They are amazing I feel I need several more pairs as mine are forever in the wash. The vests are great for training too.
Which bit of kit do you own that you now take everywhere?
The On the Run Tights, so I'm always ready to head out the door.
Which event will you be next wearing our kit at?
Until I am able to run - I shall be cheering everyone else on, a part of the RunThrough Cheer Squad. It's been so hard to plan races, or goals because I never once thought I'd be out this long.