Runner's wishlist

The Let's Do This team's Christmas wishlist

From swanky running socks to backpacks and running assessments, there’s no need to check this list twice – we’ve rounded up the best gifts for runners and cyclists, with a wishlist made by our team of running experts.

From swanky running socks to backpacks and running assessments, there’s no need to check this list twice – we’ve rounded up the best gifts for runners and cyclists, with a wishlist made by our team of running experts. Look no further for the ultimate present inspo from the Let's Do This team.

The ultimate running backpack - Venturelite 18

"I'm looking for a new running backpack for work and to hit the trails at the weekend and this Venturelite 18 pack looks like it covers all bases".

Oscar, LDT Team member

A triathlon-ready racebelt - Zone3 racebelt

"This is my favourite little upgrade to my running / triathlon race kit. It's great for holding my bib number so I don't have to poke holes in my favourite tops or risk poking myself with those dreaded safety pins! Plus it's great to keep my gels handy, and easy to take on/off (especially during the many kit changes during a triathlon!).

Steph, LDT Team member

Some swanky running socks - Satisfy running socks

"When it comes to Christmas presents, I love using them as an excuse to add a little luxury to 'standard' items that I use every day. And who doesn't love swanky running socks?! At £50 a pair, they are definitely on the expensive side, but they are so soft and cushioned - I'm hooked!"

Sam, LDT Team member

Marathon-training trainers - Brooks Ghost Max

I've signed up for my first ultra next year (!), so I'm really looking to up my cushioning game given all the miles I'll be doing! And the new Brooks Ghost Max look perfect for this.

Lisa, LDT Team member

Running-worthy bobble hat - Ronhill bobble hat

"I've always found winter hats to be very functional and plain – not only does this look fantastic it looks like it'll keep my head warm for days. And who wouldn't want a reflective bobble to keep you seen on dark winter days."

Sim, LDT Team member

A lux waterproof running jacket - Soar All Weather jacket

"It's dark, it's cold and there's a chance that it's raining sideways. Running in winter sucks, so if there's anything that makes it easier or more comfortable I'm in. SOAR's All weather jacket looks incredible. Breathable, warm and insulated. Sure, it's pricey but I've always found SOAR to deliver in terms of performance and durability."

Luke, LDT Team member

Personalised race-day tags

"The perect motivation when you lace up your shoes to go for a run"

Harry, LDT Team member

Cosy Running Gloves - Trailheads power gloves

"There is nothing worse than chilly fingers on a run"

James, LDT Team member

Cross Country Running Spikes - Nike Zoom Dragonfly

"It’s been very wet already for XC season and my current spikes have a huge hole in the top of them - time to be treated to a new pair!

Simon, LDT Team member

Massage gun - Recovapro SE 1.0 Massage Gun

Steph D, LDT Team member

Community-spotlight-Esme

Community spotlight No. 4 - Esme

This month we're talking to Esme - a runner from London, who rekindled her love of running in lockdown and has never looked back.

Shining a light on you – our incredible community members. We’re sharing your amazing stories, training tips, hacks and more. These inspire us all to keep showing up on the track, road, bike, or in the water.

This month we're talking to Esme - a runner from London, who rekindled her love of running in lockdown and has never looked back.

A bit about you:

What’s your story? How did you get into running?

I have a similar story to a lot of people - I started running during lockdown. I was a keen runner as a kid, competing in athletics and cross country at a regional level, but I only fell in love with the sport when I was older.

What’s your favourite thing about running?

For me, running is a huge part of my life and allows me to be a happy, functional person. I love many sports, but the runner's high is incomparable to anything else.

What’s your favourite running route? (We’re always looking for new recommendations!)

Running around the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford

What’s your best piece of advice for anyone starting out with running?

Variety! It’s really easy to fall into the trap of running the same distance, at the same pace every time you lace up.

Run to how you’re feeling and don’t limit yourself to the same 5k route!

Best running training hack?

Have your running kit laid out (or easy to find) for the days when you don’t feel like it. Don’t overthink it. Just get dressed and soon you’ll be out the door.

What’s in your training belt / backpack?

I love running with a vest for any longer runs and you can guarantee it will always be filled with snacks, and an emergency packet of sweets.

Any pre or post-training rituals?

I’m still working on my post-run routine and I am by no means perfect at it but I do have a couple rules. E.g. don’t sit down when you get back from a big run or you won’t be moving for a while.

You and events:

What event(s) are you most looking forward to doing next?

My next big event is UTS (a UTMB race in Snowdonia). I’ve covered the distance before, but the biggest challenge will be the elevation — over 3000m 😳

If money and distance were no object, what event would you love to take part in?

If money were no object, I would gather my friends and set off to run around the coast of Europe, just for the adventure. I'd love to see how far we'd make it and raise money for charity along the way.

Best event you’ve done?

My favourite ever event was Cambridge Half! It was the perfect race for me and I achieved a big personal best as a bonus.

Quick-fire round:

Best running song?

Dancing in the Dark by Bruce Springsteen

Favourite pre or post-run snack?

Pre-run: Bagel, peanut butter and a banana.

Post-run: Protein shake and anything / everything in the fridge.

Morning or evening run?

Evening

Trainer of choice?

Vaporfly 3 Nike

Best running product or accessory?

The COROS watch

Music, podcasts, or nothing at all?

Nothing at all!

Favourite supporting exercise for running?

Calf raises

Favourite running app?

Strava

Describe your ideal rest day in emojis… 3,2,1, go!

☕🚶🥐🐶🧑🍳🛏️

In one word, what motivates you?

Achievements

Community Spotlight No. 3 - Alex

Shining a light on you – our incredible community members. We’re sharing your amazing stories, training tips, hacks and more. These inspire us all to keep showing up on the track, road, bike, or in the water.

This month we're talking to Alex - a marathon runner from London, who's love of the sport has seen him travel all over the world from New York, to Berlin, Copenhagen and beyond!

A bit about you:

What’s your story? How did you get into running?

I was a strong runner in school and so decided in 2009, after uni, I'd run the London marathon. Having run 1:30 at the Silverstone half, I assumed I'd simply double that at London. However... it was MUCH harder than I anticipated. In hindsight, I didn't know how to train. It took me 4hrs and 27mins - the most painful of my life. From there, I became obsessed with wanting to better my time. I've always been driven by this pursuit of improvement. When I moved to NYC, I found my running home with the Henwood's Hounds Racing Team and my coach (still to this day) John Henwood, who changed everything. I was encouraged to push myself and learn from faster runners. I eventually managed to break 3hrs in 2017, a full eight years after my first stab at the marathon. It taught me the value of patience and showed me how long you sometimes have to wait to reach your goals.

What’s your favourite thing about running?

I love the mental and physical freedom I get from running. It allows me to disconnect from the world and process what's going on in my life. I enjoy the comfort of running through familiar places, mixed with the excitement of exploring local areas I’ve never seen before. Plus, physical movement always makes me feel great afterwards.

What’s your favourite running route? (We’re always looking for new recommendations!)

Hampstead Heath - iconic! It offers amazing views of London and makes me feel great about living here. It's rugged, beautiful, hilly and challenging.

What’s your best piece of advice for anyone starting out with running?

1. Go slowly. There's often pressure to meet certain goals or feel like you should reach a milestone, but I think it's important to go at your own pace.

2. Love the process. There's more to running than smashing your personal best on race day. No one is making you run – it's your choice – so make it enjoyable.

3. Don't compare yourself with others. You're where you're meant to be. It could take years to get where you want to be.

Best running training hack?

Shorts with a discreet pocket – good storage is key. I like the Tracksmith Half Tights.

What’s in your training belt / backpack?

GU Energy Gels, phone, keys

Any pre or post-training rituals?

A pre-training coffee, always. Then post-training, another coffee, and a lemon drizzle cake (provided I've earned it!) I look forward to my Saturday morning run because it often turns into a coffee meet-up with a mate. No demands or requirements – just time to catch up after doing something that's good for us, and that we both love.

You and events:

What event(s) are you most looking forward to doing next?

The London Marathon and Berlin Marathon. I'm also looking forward to the Battersea or Regent's Park run series with Run Through – these are good for speed, as they're nice and flat. Plus, Parkrun – a reminder of the running community's beauty and welcoming nature.

If money and distance were no object, what event would you love to take part in?

The Tokyo Marathon – it's part of "the big six", that I'm still yet to do.

Best event you’ve done?

The Copenhagen Marathon. As a runner at this event, you feel like a celebrity in the city. The whole city is overtaken by race-day participants and you wear your medals with pride afterwards, no matter where you go. I visited a fancy restaurant after the race with a mate who had also done the marathon. We went in our kits with our medals on – something I don't think you could do in London, but in Copenhagen, you can on marathon day!

Quick-fire round:

Best running song?

"You & Me", by Disclosure

Favourite pre or post-run snack?

Lemon drizzle cake

Morning or evening run?

Morning, every time.

Trainer of choice?

Nike Vaporfly

Best running product or accessory?

Garmin watch

Music, podcasts, or nothing at all?

Nothing at all!

Favourite supporting exercise for running?

Weights

Favourite running app?

Strava

Describe your ideal rest day in emojis… 3,2,1, go!

📺 🛌 ☕️

In one word, what motivates you?

Progress.

Autumn Training Tips

Autumn Training Tips

The days are getting shorter, mornings are cold and evenings are rainy, so we can lack motivation to get out the door for our daily dose of exercise. Here are our top 5 tips to keep your training going in the right direction!

The days are getting shorter, mornings are cold and evenings are rainy, so we can lack motivation to get out the door for our daily dose of exercise. Here is Olympic marathon runner and Runna coach Steph Davis' top 5 tips to keep your training going in the right direction!

1. Invest in Winter kit

Running in the rain and cold is hard at the best of times, but even less fun if you don’t have the right kit to protect you from the elements. Running kit to keep you dry and warm is imperative. A pair of gloves, some warmer socks and a few lightweight waterproof layers is really useful - you never know when you will be caught in a downpour!

2. Tell a friend / find a training buddy

You’ve just finished work, it is dark and raining. It is so tempting to head home, have a nice dinner and cosy up in front of the TV. If we arrange to meet a friend for a run or commit to going to a club session, it holds you accountable. We don’t want to let others down so by committing to a day and time, we won’t procrastinate or convince ourselves not to go. Even if your friends won't run with you, you can still tell a friend about the run you are planning to do. You’ll feel better for doing it when they ask you later how that run went… 

3. Cross Train

There will be days where you just can’t face going outside for your run but you can still get in a good workout. Over the winter, you can add variety to your training by swapping some of your runs for cross training in the gym. Activities such as swimming, cycling and elliptical trainer will keep your fitness levels up and shelter you from the rain and cold.

4. Sign up for an event

An event in the diary gives you a reason to resist the temptation to snooze the alarm clock and brave the cold and dark mornings. Finding the determination to push through a tempo or interval session can be hard at the best of times, but with a race fast approaching, we have something to aim for and a purpose for pushing through the session. Here are some of our top events for 2024.

5. Find a training plan

Deciding what training to do today can be the hardest part. If we can’t think of anything, we might end up doing nothing. By signing up to a training plan which sets out each run for you, you don't have to think about how far and what sort of run to do - the work is done for you. This will keep you on track with your training so that when summer rolls around again, you are ready to set all new PBs.

p.s. grab 2 weeks free with Runna, the No. 1 rated training app, with the code LETSDOTHIS.

Join now.

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Rainproof your run

Rainproof your run Explore the six key pieces that’ll turn wet weather runs into a breeze. From water-resistant headphones to a wet-wicking cap, nothing can dampen your stride with these in your kit.

As we prepare to transition between seasons, the weather never fails to throw a curveball. With rainy days on the horizon, we’ve rounded up the top six training pieces that’ll waterproof your routine.

Brooks Ghost 15 GTX trainers. Upgraded with waterproof materials, this even lighter-weight GTX version of the ever-comfortable Ghost 15 trainer blazes through drizzle and downpours alike.

Sealskinz Waterproof running socks. Keeping wet feet, blisters, and frostbite at bay, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without ‘the sock that started it all’ during downpours. Each one is hand-tested to confirm it stands up to tricky weather conditions.

Brooks Canopy jacket: A jacket that’s windproof, rainproof, lightweight, and easy to pack away can be a tricky balance to strike – this one ticks all those boxes and more, as it stows away into a built-in backpack. It promises not to add weight or restrict movement.

On Weather Vest. When you can’t rely on the climate, you can always count on this weightless vest, which promises to weather-proof every run. Its lightweight design makes this a dependable alternative to a rain jacket throughout those Indian summer runs.

Ciele GOCap Elite waterproof cap. Performance and protection unite with this any-weather cap, which is packed with waterproof properties. The COOLmatic fabric helps to regulate your temperature, wicks away moisture, and enables rapid drying – all in one seriously cool design.

Shokz OpenRun headphones. Offering IP67 water resistance, eight hours of non-stop listening time, and crystal-clear sound quality, getting caught in the rain is a pleasure with these headphones in your kit. 

Ask us Anything

Ask Us Anything Edition 02

From duathlon recommendations, to race day shoes, breathing techniques, bike repair courses and more, here is what you've been asked us this month.

From duathlon recommendations, to race day shoes, breathing techniques, bike repair courses and more, here is what you've been asked us this month.

p.s. please click here if you want to submit your own question.

Question | 1

Do you know where I can find a list of in-person (not online) basic bike maintenance classes? I'd just like to learn how to look after my bike properly, and check it is safe every time I go out. (Chloe, The Midlands)

Answer | 1

Great question. Admittedly none of the team actually live up in the Midlands currently, however we have done some research and found some options below that are local bike shops offering a variety of bike maintenance courses for different skills.

  • Birmingham Bike Foundry - a great small class option for covering the basics (which seems to answer your brief!)
  • Future Cycles Training in Leicester: - these look like they offer a great range based on different levels so you can always do more with them as you advance
  • Women in Tandem - While this isn't a course but a network of women who are into cycling, they offer a variety of  free 'Dr Bike' sessions where I'm sure you could learn how to fix any issues your bike has.  


From Lisa, Let's Do This team member, seasoned runner and aspiring cycling enthusiast

Question | 2


I am keen to avoid swimming! Can you recommend suitable duathlon events for me - First timer - so sprint event preferred initially, ideally with closed roads or v minimal traffic for the bike element near London [Mark]

Answer | 2

I think a great option will be Dorney triathlon/Duathlon - it's a great location with the iconic Dorney lake (famed for rowing in the 2012 Olympics) which sees both the run and cycle happen within the grounds (so no traffic)! There are plenty of options to compete with both the standard and sprint distances and even a relay if you wish to team up and tackle the disciplines. They also have swim/bike options and the full triathlon to really complete the menu for all things multi-sport!

From James, Let's Do This team member and seasoned triathlete

Question | 3

Hi - I have a question about breathing and running. What’s the best breathing techniques for long distance running? I.E. half marathons. What exercises can you do to practice this? Thank you

Answer | 3

For breathing keep it rhythmic and regular -breathe in for two steps and breath out for two. So it’s a constant in in, out out. If you start panting or irregular breathing then you won’t get the oxygen in.

From Frankie, Let's Do This team member and runner / triathlete-extraordinaire

Question | 4

When training for a half marathon do I need to incorporate additional protein into my routine? If so, when is best / any brands you recommend? [Emily, Surrey]

Answer | 4

When doing any training, the 'gains'/'improvements' come from your recovery. When you exercise whether that's running, lifting weights, cycling etc your muscles get broken down and the key component in their repair is protein. This doesn't mean you need to be smashing protein shakes every time you work out or even every day but a good rule of thumb is to eat around 1-2g of protein per kg of bodyweight. Personally, I'm 62kg and all I do is ensure I have 20-30g protein in each meal (through meat/fish, beans, lentils, scoop of protein powder in my morning oats etc) and that works for me. On an extra hard day I might have a recovery shake that has 20g protein but it's not the be all and end all. Best tip: fuel your body properly with good, whole foods, lots of carbs, plenty of fruit and veg etc - now is not the time to be trying any sort of fad diet!

Please note I am not a registered nutritionist or dietician, this is just my advice from years of training for triathlons, running, hockey etc. Please speak with your GP or registered dietician if you are going to be making any drastic changes to your diet

From Frankie, Let's Do This team member and runner | triathlete-extraordinaire

Question | 5

Do I need to buy a separate pair of trainers for race day? How much of a difference will they make? [Sara, Dorset]

Answer | 5

Rule number one in racing - nothing new on race day and this includes clothing, footwear, food and drink! However, it is recommended to have a separate pair of race trainers for race day only and even a 'shoe rotation' during your training. Each time you wear a pair of trainers, it compresses the foam and insole making it less absorbent to the impact when you are out running which could in turn lead to greater risk of injury. You need to give your shoes time to relax after each run.

Personally - I have a few pairs of shoes I use in my rotation;

Saucony Triumph 20 - slow, long runs

Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 - tempo efforts

Saucony Pro 2 - track or interval/max effort work

Nike AlphaFLY (carbon plated) - race day only (I always wear for an effort 5k before I race in them so they're not brand new on race day).

Each brand of shoe has their own version of the Saucony ones listed below - Brooks, ASICS, Adidas, Nike etc. It's about finding the right shoe that works for you. Now I admit this might be a bit on the extreme end of shoes and you can easily do your training in one pair, you just need to find the best 'everyday trainer' from your preferred brand.

To go back and answer the question properly, no you do not need to buy a new pair of trainers for race day but, it will make a hell of a difference on tired legs if you have fresh shoes! Barely used foam and padding and a lighter shoe will give you a spring in your step and it'll help stop your legs feeling as tired at the end of the race. If you opt for a carbon plated shoe, you could be looking at anywhere between 2-5% faster - there's a reason all the top athletes and professionals choose these types of shoes for race day!

From Frankie, Let's Do This team member and runner | triathlete-extraordinaire

Community Spotlight - James

Community Spotlight No. 2 - James

It's the community around triathlons that I love. I find there's more inclusivity with this sport, compared to other events. I really like that.

Shining a light on you – our incredible community members. We’re sharing your amazing stories, training tips, hacks and more. These inspire us all to keep showing up on the track, road, bike, or in the water.

This month we're talking to James Leeks - a triathlon enthusiast from Norfolk, who discovered the sport during the pandemic, and has never looked back thanks to the welcoming community and variation triathlons offer.

A bit about you:

What’s your story? How did you get into triathlons?

Growing up, I was a national-level swimmer. This was great in terms of fitness, but I broke my leg when I was 16, which forced me to find other activities to take part in. After uni, I enjoyed running marathons, but nothing serious – it was very casual and ad-hoc. Then after the pandemic, I started running more with my brother and from there, found a love for triathlons. This was definitely helped by my background in swimming. Since getting older, I've found I really like crosstraining, too!

What’s your favourite thing about triathlons?

It's the community around triathlons that I love. I find there's more inclusivity with this sport, compared to other events. I really like that. I think it has something to do with the fact that with triathlons, there are three sports to be good at, which makes it more humbling. It helps to level the playing fields! Though, I'm still waiting for my bum to be hardened by the cycling seat.

What’s your favourite running route? (We’re always looking for new recommendations!)

Swimming: I used to love swimming in the Serpentine when I lived in London.

Cycling: London to Brighton is manageable but challenging and you can get the train back home.

Running: I used to love running along the Thames Path from Kew Bridge to Hammersmith Bridge.

What’s your best piece of advice for anyone starting out with triathlons?

One of my favourite question-and-answer quotes is: "What does it take to be called a runner?" "Start running". Also, it's important not to get too caught up on gadgets. You don't have to have the best bike in the world to compete. You also don't need to race the swim – you just need to finish it. Do more events to practice and don't get too hung up on one event. Instead, plan lots of different ones because if something goes wrong at one event (a puncture, for example), then you've trained for nothing. If you have multiple events lined up then it takes the pressure off. If you hate swimming, start off with a sprint or duathlon and then work your way up.

Best triathlon training hack?

Alternate between running and walking when tackling longer distances. There tends to be too much criticism if you're seen walking in races but actually, it's a successful tactic for being able to run more in training. It can also reduce injuries and even help you to complete the course quicker. There are some incredibly quick triathletes who alternate between running and walking! Also, caffeine gels - you can really feel the buzz from these. Use with caution for longer distances though, as they can be harsh on the stomach. Finally, when you're on long training runs, do an 'out and back' route rather than a loop. This way, you won't be tempted to take a shortcut back.

What’s in your training belt / backpack?

Shokz headphones, phone, a couple of gels (I'm a fan of Maurten's gels), and a drink (usually water or electrolytes).

Any pre or post-training rituals?

A bit of luxury here – I have a Theragun (other massage gun brands are available!) It's great to use when sitting on the sofa, post-run.

You and events:

What event(s) are you most looking forward to doing next?

I'm doing the Chemlsford Half Marathon next month (Oct 15th) and I've just signed up for the Outlaw Holkham Half Marathon next July.

If money and distance were no object, what event would you love to take part in?

I've always wanted to swim the English Channel. I'd also love to cycle from St Ives to John O'Groats one day...

Best event you’ve done?

It has to be the TSC London Marathon – it's just so epic. I have done others but London is on a whole different scale with the support you get from anyone and everyone.

Quick-fire round:

Best running song?

Randomly, I always find 'Sinnerman' by Nina Simone encourages me to pick up the pace.

Favourite pre or post-run snack?

It's got to be beans and cheese on toast after a good training session.

Morning or evening run?

Morning, every time.

Trainer of choice?

The obvious option would be Nike Invincible Run 3, but I do have a soft spot for the minimalism of Atreyu The Artist.

Best running product or accessory?

My Shokz OpenRun headphones.

Music, podcasts, or nothing at all?

It's either podcasts or Audible. Some of my favourites include 'Triathlon Mockery', 'How They Train', 'How I Built This' and 'Off Menu'.

Favourite supporting exercise for running?

Cycling. This is a new revelation for me, but it means you can put more hours in without the impact. This helps a lot with triathlon training, too, as so much of a triathlon is on the bike – the more you can improve that section, the better.

Favourite running app?

Audible!

Describe your ideal rest day in emojis… 3,2,1, go!

🍨🏖️🍻

In one word, what motivates you?

Pride. I think about how proud my friends, family, and I will feel about what I've achieved. Plus, the money I've raised!

Train Like a Pro with GB Running World Champion, Josh Kerr

Who better to help with our event training prep than GB’s 1500m world champion, Josh Kerr? The Let’s Do This team caught up with him to chat about everything from his top tips, to ‘that’ gold medal-winning moment – plus, the science behind why he pees on a pen every morning. Want to know how to train like a pro? Join us to get race day ready with the champion himself.

Who better to help with our event training prep than GB’s 1500m world champion, Josh Kerr? The Let’s Do This team caught up with him to chat about everything from his top tips, to ‘that’ gold medal-winning moment – plus, the science behind why he pees on a pen every morning. Want to know how to train like a pro? Join us to get race day ready with the champion himself.

Josh Kerr on his gold medal-winning mindset

“If you trust that it’s going to be there, it’ll be there”, Josh Kerr wrote in his journal before the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest. This was the memorable race that would see him scoop the gold medal. “That means that I trust that my legs are going to feel good. I trust that my mind’s going to be making the right decisions and I’m going to be sharp on the day”, Kerr explains. His positive mindset has clearly played a role in his route to running success.  

Josh’s competitive nature appears to be another winning factor. We were curious to know what went through his mind in that final 200 metres. “It was all about putting pressure on”, he says, “I needed to make sure that Ingebrigtsen felt my presence. He kept looking over at me every 100 to 200m or so in that last 600, so I was like ‘Okay, I know he’s definitely not having an easy time of it’. My goal was to make sure that he was feeling pressure on that top bend so he was as tired as possible on that home stretch. Clearly, it worked. What else can we learn from Kerr’s success? We asked Josh to share his top training tips.  

Josh Kerr’s top three training tips

1.   Don’t compare yourself. “I run probably 50 to 60 miles less than some people I’m racing against […] I look at some people’s sessions and think ‘I can’t do that’. I’m still a world champion, but I can’t do those sessions. So don’t worry about what you can’t do – worry about what you can do”.

2.   Embrace your nerves. “When you’re in an individual sport and you look left and right and everyone’s trying to beat you, it’s a very difficult sport. There’s a reason you’re nervous and it’s because you care, but if you care too much and you get too nervous, you’re not going to do well. Just take a deep breath and go out and do what you do every day”.

3.   Prioritise rest.  “When I was in college, I got invited to run in New York in the murals mile and I spent the whole day walking around because I’d never been there. I got to the event and I was absolutely knackered. Staying off your feet and priming your body the day before is smart”.

Kerr’s nutritional recipe for success

Of course, nutrition plays a key role in any athlete’s training plan. Kerr advises against calorie counting and focussing on nutrition, instead. “I haven’t missed a single training day through illness or injury for two years”, he says. “Just make sure your body’s getting what it needs. That’s why I feel I’m hitting the peak right now. Because I fuel myself with the right amount of veg, protein, carbs and fat so my body can hit the tarmac every day and feel fine”. So, what does a gold medallist’s meal plan look like? 

Josh gave us the lowdown on his nutritional routine. “Monday night, Thursday night and Saturday night before sessions, we hit carbs pretty hard. Then we lower them the days after a session. So for example, Tuesday morning we’ll work out and then it’ll be a protein day for the rest of the day – pretty low on carbs. That’s the way we work things”.

Getting to know the real Josh Kerr

Off the track, Josh has one daily ritual that we weren’t expecting. “Err, yeah I can talk about it”, he grins, before divulging: “Every morning, I pee on a pen”. There’s a handy reason for it. “It tells me my hydration status so I can change my water/ sodium intake before training”, he says. “It’s a reasonably disgusting device. You pee in a cup every morning and it doesn’t look great, but it helps in making sure that I’m hydrated enough in the sessions”.

Once that’s been taken care of, Josh enjoys journalling and morning runs, where his training is often underscored by hard electronic dance music. “Every single time I put them on, my headphones tell me to turn down the music”, he says. On rest days, his go-to ritual is to get up early and have an ice bath, before napping for the rest of the day”. Josh also looks forward to spending time with his loved ones. It’s clear from our chat that he’s very much a family man. When asked who his biggest fan is, Josh replied “My family and my Mrs. My family as a whole”.

That rounds-off our chat with Josh Kerr. We left feeling inspired and ready to take on our next challenge. Though, we might leave the pee pen ritual – for now.

Ask Us Anything

Think of us as your active-lifestyle agony aunt. From gear recommendations to running hacks, we’ll answer all your event-related questions. Our favourites will feature across our social pages and in these newsletters.

Think of us as your active-lifestyle agony aunt. From gear recommendations to running hacks, we’ll answer all your event-related questions. Our favourites will feature across our social pages and in these newsletters.

To get your questions answered, either DM us at @letsdothis_ or email in at askusanything@letsdothis.com.

The best ones we’ll share here on our blog, in our newsletters and across social media to help others in our community. 

To view the latest questions and answers from our community, click here.

A few things to bear in mind:

  • While we will endeavour to get back to as many questions as possible, we sadly can’t commit to answering every question submitted.
  • By submitting the question you give us permission to publish your question alongside your first name + city.. If you would prefer for us to anonymise your question please let us know.
  • As none of us are trained physios or medics, we can’t offer any advice relating to injury (preventing or rehab) and/or health
  • The responses and recommendations shared are on behalf of our team members who are passionate participants in the various sports we offer on the platform - they don’t necessarily reflect the views of Let’s Do This.
  • We are not paid for any of the recommendations we provide
  • Let’s Do This are not responsible for any action(s) taken in light of the answers received.
  • We reserve the right to block / remove comment and posts that are not in keeping with the tone of our channel and that we or others may find offensive
  • Please limit your questions to only running / cycling / triathlon events, equipment or training- related questions. As much as we want to be there for you, we’re not qualified to answer questions beyond this scope

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