Sasha Cowley is one of the co-founders of RunFitMum, a growing community created to encourage and support mums to get out there and get running. 

When did you start running?

I came to running late in life.  I ran a bit in my late twenties and early thirties but when I got married and started a family running fell by the wayside.  It was only when my two daughters went to nursery and I started to have the odd hour to myself that running really became a part of my life.  Now, five years on, running is a key element of my identity. In fact, I love it so much that I have co-founded a running club for women to help them regain their fitness after having a family and I am currently training to be a running coach

What does running mean to you /  why do you run?

One of the best things about running is the “head space” it provides.  There is nothing like a quick 5k around the forest to clear my head and set me up for the day.  Then there are the physical benefits, I feel so much stronger, fitter, and more energetic when I am running regularly.  It has also become a big part of my social life. I have met so many friends and we have shared so many traumas, celebrations, so much gossip and chat over the many miles we have run together.

What is on your running bucket list? 

I have always wanted to run The London Marathon, I remember running up and down my road when I was a kid after watching it on the TV and swearing I would do it one day.  I found it so inspiring then and I still do today. Last year I finally did it and it was as amazing, challenging and life affirming as I hoped it would be. So now, I need to work out what’s next.  The Six World Majors seem to be calling my name, and I think there is definitely at least one ultra in my legs.

Do you prefer to run alone or in a group? 

I always used to run on my own I was much too intimidated to run in a club.  I worried about pace and whether I would keep up. In fact I didn’t realise what I was missing out on.  Running with our club RunFitMum showed me that pace really doesn’t matter. Companionship, support, laughter and encouragement are much more important.

How has running changed you? 

It has definitely made me a better mum to my kids, I know that I can keep up with them physically and that I have a clearer head when I have been for a run. It has also done a huge amount for my self confidence and self esteem, toeing the start line of a race isn’t easy, you are constantly pushing yourself to your physical and emotional limit and that takes bravery and strength of character but it also pays huge physical and emotional dividends.

How do you convince yourself to get out of the door on days you just don’t feel like it? 

I know that I don’t have a choice.  There is a group of women waiting for me and they will no doubt be knocking on the door if I don’t show up!  That is one of the many benefits of running in a group.

I have also found that making sure it is a regular part of your routine means you never question it, you just do it.