Meet the Yoppers - Jules

Tell us a little bit about yourself…

In 2017 at the age of 45 and after many years of trying I managed to run a half marathon in under 2 hours. In March 2022 I ran a half marathon in 1hr 51mins for the second time in six months…and now I want to, and believe that I can, go quicker.

Do you have a sporting background?

I ran my first half marathon in 1984 when I was 12 years of age. That was a thing you could do back then! Since being a child I have always enjoyed running and a lot of other sports. I have never run quickly or competed at a high level, I just love to keep fit and to clear my mind.

How has YOP helped you?

After recovering from yet another injury I started running with YOP’s Kate at the end of August 2020. Kate was recovering from back surgery so we started slowly and just kept building. We followed a programme of sessions written by YOP’s coach Karen. Since that date I have trained consistently up to the present day and will continue to do so. I run three times a week and, other than a few niggles, I have had no injuries since August 2020.

What's the best thing you've learned whilst being a Yopper?

In addition to running I do two YOP strength and conditioning sessions a week. This, I believe, is the game changer. I feel stronger, can train harder and I recover from hard sessions/races much more quickly.

And the results??

In the year I turned 50 I ran personal best times over 5k, 10k and Half Marathon. It baffles me but I love it and I am rolling with it.