Turia Pitt shares what inspires her to run

1. What inspires you to run?

I’ve always used running as a way to process my thoughts and feelings. I started running when I was a teenager and going through a pretty hard time. My parents had separated and running helped me manage all the feelings that were rocketing around my body. After the fire I was told that I’d probably never run again - that’s what inspired me to do an ironman. I wanted to prove everyone wrong. And now, I run because I love (and need) the space it gives me. It gives me a way to clear my head and confront my fears. It teaches me that I can do hard things. It makes me feel confident. I feel more like myself. And it's why I love teaching other women to run too. For me and for the women inside RUN with Turia (my running program for mums), running has become a major part of how we care for ourselves. We don’t have to drive anywhere to do it, or wait for a gym class to start. All we need is a good pair of shoes, and a small window of time, and we can get on our way.

2. What is your advice for someone who is new to running?

You need to kiss your ego goodbye. When you first start out (and even when you’ve been running for a while), you’re gonna be slow. That is perfectly OK! You’re doing something new. You have to give yourself permission to be a beginner, to have a go at not being “good” at something just yet. You are learning and growing and changing. This is a good thing! So, leave your ego at home. You’re not running to put on a show for other people. You’re doing this for yourself. Take it at the pace you can go at.

3. Best tip for keep going when you feel unmotivated?

I think motivation is a myth. The reality is you’re not gonna feel motivated all the time! If you’re waiting to wake up full of energy at 5am, ponytail swinging, leaping out of bed to go for a run, well… you might be waiting a long time. I like the 5 minute rule. On mornings when I really don’t want to run, I just tell myself I only have to go for five minutes. I pull on my joggers, step outside and just start jogging. At the 5 minute mark, if I’m still not feeling it, I can go home! But 9 times out of 10, by the time I’m 5 minutes in, and I’m out in the fresh air, I usually decide to just keep going. Give it a whirl.

4. Favourite pre and post workout snack?

I’m pretty basic and just stick to a banana and a coffee before I run. Afterwards, I like to make a smoothie with protein powder, almond milk and frozen berries. I usually chuck in some yoghurt and whatever else I have on hand too.