Meet Megan

One of the backbones of our volunteer team at Panania parkrun the lovely Megan joined Team RR in 2017. Sharp in wit and as elegant as a gazelle when running, she soon became one of the core members of Rachel’s Runners too. Meet Megan…

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m married to James and a mum to 3 boys aged 8, 6, and almost 4. I work as an OT contractor.

Tell us a bit about you and running – How? When? Why?

I started running in 2014. My second child was about 6 months old and I needed to shift excess weight. Running was great because I could just fit it in around feeds and sleeps. I started with the C25K program on the treadmill with the kids in crèche at the gym, then as they got older I started running outdoors. I found some local running friends including my neighbour, then after I returned to running following the birth of my third child, discovered parkrun, and then RR! Now I’m about to head up my own local parkrun!

What’s the best thing about running for you?

It started as a weight loss goal, then it challenged my competitive side to keep getting faster and running longer. Then it became about the people I met and the friends I made. I love that when you run an event, you run the same race as the elites and that running is so inclusive no matter your speed. I love setting a goal and beating my expectations.

What’s your favourite piece of running equipment?

My Garmin. Not sure how I ever ran before I got my Garmin!

What’s your biggest challenge with running?

A couple of years ago I was running well. Then I got the dreaded PF (Plantar Faciitis) and had to back off a lot. My biggest challenge is not feeling bad about my pace and times because I haven’t been able to run as well as I did. It’s been hard to just learn to love running for the sake of running and set goals that are achievable now, even though they are less than what I have done before.

Any tips for fellow runners?

#yesyoucan!
But also – rest days are important and so is strength work/cross training. See a professional if you are injured before it’s too late! And don’t skimp on shoes (plus get them fitted).