Celebrating International Women's Day at Up & Running!

This International Women's Day, let's give a big shoutout to the awesome women at Up & Running. They're at the heart and soul of our team, from the stores to the office. Let's take a moment to celebrate their achievements and running journeys. Lace up your shoes and join us as we highlight their stories!

Beth, Up & Running Edinburgh

Favourite running shoes and kit of the moment.

For the road my favourite running shoes at the moment have to be my Asics Novablast 4 as I tend to get shin splints when road running and these have been the best shoes so far for helping reduce the occurrence of them. Take a look at our ASICS collection here.

For the trails I have too many to count haha, but I would say my Salomon Speedcross are always brilliant to run in and really help trail running through wet, Scottish winters.

Kit of the moment would be my Salomon running vest as I’m currently training for a trail ultra so need to carry lots of essential kit and nutrition. Shop our Salomon Range here.  

Why I love running and my running journey.

Growing up, both my parents were avid trail runners, so I started running with them and soon fell in love with spending hours out on remote trails just exploring. I would travel to races across Scotland to watch my parents and thought the atmosphere at the races was so welcoming so as I got older, I started entering them myself. Running, especially hill running, for me is a way to escape into nature and when you’ve spent hours climbing to the top of some remote mountain all your problems just seem that wee bit smaller.

Current Challenge

After marshalling at the event a couple of times, I’ve signed up for the Montane Lakeland 50 in July which is a trail ultra down in the Lake District. This will be my longest and hardest trail race to date but I try to view these kinds of races as just days out on the hills so hopefully that makes the training a bit more enjoyable! 

Sarah, Up & Running Brand & Business Development Manager

Why I love running and my running journey.

Running gives so much and you definitely get back what you put in.

It's boosted my confidence, from tackling my first 5k to crossing the finish line of my debut marathon. Now, as I prep for marathon number four, I've got my eyes set on Boston in 2025.

When I commit to something, I'm all in, whether it's a race, a workout, or my job. But the best part? The amazing people I've met along the way. The running community's support has been incredible, and I'm hugely grateful for the friendships I've made along the way.

Favourite running shoes and kit of the moment.

Picking my favourite gear is tough. I'm spoiled for choice with the great gear at Up & Running. From comfy shoes like ASICS Gel Nimbus to Brooks Adrenaline for support, I'm covered. And for speed, it's all about Saucony Endorphin and PUMA Deviate.

Off-road, I trust Brooks Cascadia and Altra Lone Peak. For a lighter feel, New Balance More 4 trail does the trick.

As for gear, Hilly socks and Pressio shorts are staples, along with compression tights and tops for cooler days. Ronhill shorts and vests are perfect for gym sessions too.

Reka, Up & Running Chiswick

Favourite running shoes and kit of the moment.

Right now, my go-to running gear is from Pressio. Whether I'm training or racing, their kit never lets me down. And when it comes to shoes, Saucony is my all-time favourite. The Ride 17 and the Endorphin range are my ultimate choices for both training sessions and races. Shop our full Saucony range here.

Why I love running and my running journey.

Running has been a part of my life for years, marked by the thrill of completing numerous marathons and ultramarathons. Since my debut marathon in 2016, I've conquered a total of 10 marathons, each one adding to my passion for the sport.

Current Challenge

This year, my focus is on the London Marathon. With a personal best time of 3:01:10, earning me a Championship qualification, I'm determined to break the sub 3 hour barrier come April. It's a goal that drives my training and keeps me inspired as I lace up my shoes for another marathon journey

Let's Celebrate Together

Let's celebrate the amazing women in this industry this International Women's Day! From crushing personal goals to rocking their favourite gear, they're an inspiration to us all. Keep shining, ladies - here's to your continued success on the your running journeys and beyond! Happy International Women's Day!