THOOSA INSPIRED

A new Thoosa Inspired! Tamsin Edenbrow, business woman, mum, wife, lovely person and it turns out a pretty fantastically healthy lady. Superwoman!

1. When did you start running and why?
I started running on 2nd January 2004. My new year’s resolution was to try and join the London Marathon for that year. I’d never run before and I remember is being really cold and I was barely running it looked more like a jogging-walk. I only managed 8 minutes.

2. Why is running more appealing to you than other forms of exercise?
I fell in love with running later in my exercising life, I was 30. I love the flexibility of it, you can do it whenever you like and pretty much wherever you like – as long as you have your trainers with you. After I started running, gym classes suddenly seemed so restrictive. I remember turning up at the gym in London on many occasions and being the 13th in line for a spin class with 12 bikes ... it was so disappointing especially at 7am. So instead I’d go for a run.

3. What tips and advice would you have for people starting running?
It does get much easier the more you do it and you definitely get more out of it. The more you run, the more you enjoy it and the more you look forward to it. I can’t believe that I feel like this now, as the first time I really couldn’t see what all the fuss was about. And also, invest in a really good pair of trainers.

4. What has been your biggest challenge as a runner or perhaps greatest achievement?
My biggest challenge is always putting one foot in front of another when first starting to run, after a break from running or after an injury.

5. What has been your most memorable running experience?
Definitely crossing the London Marathon line in 2004 with my running partner Martin, it was such a memorable experience. The atmosphere and all the supporters were amazing and running for a charity (I ran for Macmillan nurses) made it all the more emotional and worthwhile.

6. Do you find that running helps you in other areas of your life, for instance as a mother, wife, business women?
Running gives me time to think and I quite often sort out work problems or come up with ideas when I’m running. I totally zone out now and actually find it very meditative, as well as a good way of keeping fit.

As a mother, running has had a positive effect on my family. My eldest daughter regularly sees my husband and me going out for a run and she sees running as something enjoyable, and a past-time rather than just exercise. She is already showing an interest in running and has now asked if she can do a kids’ triathlon in Phuket.

7. Thailand is renowned for its beautiful weather, but how do you deal with running in a hot climate?
To be honest I much prefer running in the UK in a cooler climate. Running in the heat is exhausting and I look bright red and dripping whilst running – not the best look. Sometimes I can still be red and sweating for about an hour afterwards which isn’t great when I’m getting ready for work and everything is sticking to me. Running in Thailand is a great way to see the real Thailand and Thai people are so friendly that I get lots of hellos and Sawasdees on my running route. However, I do regularly get chased by the local dogs and running out of water sends me into a panic, so now I always take 20 baht so I can duck into a 711 if I need more water.

8. What’s your favourite way to unwind after a run?
Well I live in Thailand so unwinding for me is trying to cool down and reduce the redness in my face before I have to see people. The best way is to just jump into the pool with all my running gear on and just relax there for a bit.

9. Do you run socially or on your own?
I either run on my own or with my husband, although I think he finds my pace a bit slow.

10. Is running music essential? If yes what sort?
I’ve only just started running with music, which is a revelation. I’ve just bought the iPod nano which is great and I’ve been listening to Florence +the machine on my runs recently.

11. What’s your favourite piece of running kit?
My water bottle with a Velcro hand-holder and a zip pocket which my husband bought me for my birthday. The zip pocket is ideal for my keys, 20 baht and a protective place for my Nano when I get caught in the tropical rains.

12. What other exercise do you love and why?
I completed the Laguna Phuket Triathlon last year which meant I had to train all three disciplines. I thought I could swim until I started swimming lessons – I dreaded them each week. The teacher would put us through drill swimming and we’d end up swimming 2 km in an hour. I now have fallen in love with swimming.

13. What contrast does it provide to running?
Swimming complements running really well as it works all of your muscles, especially your triceps (an area for me which needed some work). It also is low impact so it gives my knees a break too. It’s also much cooler and ideal for when the rainy season sets in and we have daily torrential tropical downpours.

14. Quick fire question: Love running hate what?
Love running hate litter.

THOOSA INSPIRED

This week Lindsay from Bristol is our Thoosa Inspiration...


1. When did you start running and why?
I started running when I drunkenly agreed to do the Bristol half marathon in 2007. When I reluctantly started training I found it hard going but once I starting seeing improvements in my stamina it spurred me on and I realised that it was a fantastic way to keep fit and explore your local area.

2. Why is running more appealing to you than other forms of exercise?
It’s free!

3. What has been your biggest challenge as a runner?
Finding the motivation on cold, wet dark evenings – a running club can really help with this.

4. What has been your most memorable running experience?
Completing a very sweaty 10K in Barbados. When we finished we all stripped down to our underwear and cooled down in the Caribbean Ocean – incredible!

5. Do you find that running helps you in other areas of your life?
I must admit that I’m not a big thinker while I run so whilst some people are solving global debt I’m floating along in thoughtless bliss. So to answer your question – yes, it clears my mind.

6. What makes you pull yourself out of bed in the dark winter mornings and get outside?
I’m sorry to say that nothing does… that’s why I’m an evening runner. But some evenings aren’t very appealing either so I recently joined Southville running club in Bristol. We run twice a week and cater for all abilities. They are such a friendly bunch so it’s always a pleasure to see everyone plus I always find that I push myself that bit harder than when I run alone.

7. What’s your favourite way to unwind after a run?
Honestly? A beer.

8. Do you run socially or on your own?
Both

9. What’s your favourite piece of running kit (it doesn’t have to be Thoosa!)?
I recently bought a hi-vis tabard to wear over my kit on these dark nights. It’s hilarious because it wouldn’t look out of place at a rave in the 90’s!

10. What other exercise do you enjoy?
I walk to and from work but running is really the only exercise I do. Joining a gym has crossed my mind a number of times especially now it’s dark in the evenings and running alone isn’t too clever but now I’ve joined a club that has put that to rest.

THOOSA INSPIRED

This week we're happy to welcome Claire Manches to Thoosa Inspired.


1) Why is running more appealing than other forms of exercise?

It is an instant exercise fix – cheap and quick with no hanging about

2) What has been your biggest challenge as a runner?

Getting used to running for more than 30 minutes. It’s hard to push yourself when you are on your own.

3) What has been your most memorable running experience?

The New York and Paris marathons.

4) Do you find that running helps you in other areas of your life?

Yes – it is a great stress buster and gives you time to think.

5) What makes you pull yourself out of bed in the dark winter mornings and get outside?

The fact that you know you will feel better afterwards.

6) What’s your favourite way to unwind?

A shower.

7) Do you run socially or on your own?

Both – There are now a collection of Mum’s who run together at my daughter’s school after drop off once a week.

8) What’s your favourite piece of running kit (it doesn’t have to be Thoosa!)?

Thoosa Chill Tights.

9) Do you have any favourite running tunes?

Ministry of Sound Running Trax

10) Do you prefer running in the gym or outside?

Definitely outside – No contest

11) What other exercise do you enjoy?

Swimming, tennis and yoga – oh and I do play golf but I am not sure that counts as exercise

THOOSA INSPIRED

This week we’re lucky enough to have Rebecca Jenks share her love of running with Thoosa Inspired.

1. When did you start running and why?

When I was 21, after university I decided to start running to get fit. 4 years of full-on study/sitting on my butt, decided it was time!

2. Why is running more appealing to you than other forms of exercise?

It isn’t necessarily, I also love swimming, and working out in the gym. I got good at running, and I think you thrive on things you get good at!

3. What has been your biggest challenge as a runner?

Injury, and finding the time post having children.

4. What has been your most memorable running experience?

London marathon 2005, when I clocked under 3 hours 40 mins. It was a beautiful sunny day; I had a great run.

5. Do you find that running helps you in other areas of your life?

Only in that it releases stress.

6. What makes you pull yourself out of bed in the dark winter mornings and get outside?

My kids. I run in the gym if the weather is not great

7. What’s your favourite way to unwind after a run?

Get a coffee and sit in the bath

8. Do you run socially or on your own?

On my own, it’s my ‘me time’.

9. What’s your favourite piece of running kit (it doesn’t have to be Thoosa!)?

Nike. I use their bra tops, winter leggings, all bought in the US.

10. What other exercise do you enjoy?

Swimming in an outdoor pool in hot climates! Kick boxing – LOVE IT! Very different to long distance running, a great burst of strength!

THOOSA INSPIRED

This week James Brown from Manchester shares his running experiences with Thoosa Inspired.

1.       When did you start running and why?

I have loved running ever since I was a little boy. Cross country running was a fundamental part of the Games/P.E timetable at junior school and where others loathed it I really looked forward to it (sad really!). I represented the school and then the North West before moving to Senior School and playing other sports until I started work in my early 20s and rediscovered running.

2.       Why is running more appealing to you than other forms of exercise?

A big thing is the ease of it. As a general rule wherever you are you can run - all you need is a pair of trainers. More generally, other forms of exercise never make me feel quite as good.

3.       What has been your biggest challenge as a runner?

My first marathon - London 2003. I had read about "The Wall" and that it would hit at mile 18. I was fine at mile 18 and (stupidly) thought to myself "you must be fitter than you thought". I was very wrong and at mile 21 I crashed mentally and physically. I carried on running and could hear whimpering behind me. It sounded like someone running just a step behind but when I turned round no-one was there and it was me!! Not the manliest sound in the world....

4.       What has been your most memorable running experience?

Finishing my first marathon. It is embarrassing to admit but I was a tiny bit tearful!

5.       Do you find that running helps you in other areas of your life?

It is an enormous stress reliever. If I am feeling down or work is particularly challenging it helps me get my head straight and make me feel good.

6.       What makes you pull yourself out of bed in the dark winter mornings and get outside?

The feeling of satisfaction and the "buzz" you get from running always (well almost always!) outweighs a bit of cold!

7.       What’s your favourite way to unwind after a run?

This is an awful thing to admit but shower, beer and curry. Some say that defeats the object. I say that is one of the key benefits of running.

8.       Do you run socially or on your own?

Mostly on my own now but all of my marathon training was done with a friend and it REALLY helped to keep motivated.

9.       What’s your favourite piece of running kit?

I am now on my 7th pair of Nike Air Pegasus. I buy a pair a year and they have never let me down.

10.   Do you have any favourite running tunes?

Anything by The Killers.

11.   Do you prefer running in the gym or outside?

It depends. I love the fact you can regulate your distance and gradient so for intervals I much prefer gym training. I also love the fact it is not weather dependant. That said running in the Lake District has to be one of the greatest pleasures of life.

12.   What other exercise do you enjoy?

I now do triathlon and quite enjoy the cycling but love the swimming. I also love playing most team sports.

THOOSA INSPIRED

This week Thoosa Inspired chats to Ms Thoosa herself, Caroline. Having run nearly every marathon imaginable, Caroline exemplifies the concept that running can be more than a hobby or part of a fitness regime. In fact it appears, from the observer, that to Caroline it’s a lifestyle, but not one that intimidates, it just makes sense. This idea, I believe, is reflected in the Thoosa brand and design as a whole. The clothes are designed to make you feel sporty they fit the purpose perfectly yet in addition are comfortable and feminine. After a run, if I was caught buying a pint of milk at my local newsagent I wouldn’t mind. I might look sweaty, but I would know that I looked together, purposeful. I would know that my clothes at least would be looking good and I’d feel good.

1. When did you start running and why?

As you can see from the photo (that’s me in the middle!), I got the running bug at a young age. I started running at school and I think I enjoyed it because it was something that I was good at. Sport was my thing. By the time I was about 13 it was pretty uncool to run and most of my class would walk the 5km that we did in PE lessons. Not me; I was a running geek and proud of it!

2. Why is running more appealing to you than other forms of exercise?

The beauty of running is that you can do it whenever and wherever you want; you can do it on your own, in a group or with your dog (as I enjoy these days) and if you have the right kit, you can do it in practically any weather.

3. What has been your biggest challenge as a runner?

Over the years the biggest challenge has been to maintain a level of consistency. I tend to go through phases of running a lot and then not at all which I never understand as I love running! Somehow the work/ life balance gets out of kilter and I forget how important it is to me. I’ve just finished reading a great book called What I Talk About When I Talk About Running. The author, Haruki Murakami went through periods of his life when he ran every single day. I’d love to be that disciplined.

4. Do you find that running helps you in other areas of your life, for instance work?

Running is perfect for clearing the mind and for creative thinking. I have some of my best ideas when I’m running and I’m able to prioritise in a way that never comes easily staring at a computer. I also love day dreaming and I find that running is great for letting my mind wander which I find relaxing.

5. What makes you pull yourself out of bed in the dark winter mornings and get outside?

Having a dog is a great motivator. I have to take her for a walk anyway so it’s quicker and warmer to run (and we both have a good time).

6. What’s your favourite way to unwind after a run?

I know the theory about the benefits of ice baths but I love a really hot bath with essential oils – followed by a hot chocolate!

7. What has been your most memorable running moment?

There have been so many moments I can’t narrow it down to just one. I’ve done a few big city marathons and they have all been incredibly memorable – for both good and bad reasons. Other memorable experiences have been running in breathtakingly beautiful locations. Recently I was in Vancouver and on an early morning run Mr Thoosa and I came across the most stunning, deserted and wild beach (see photos below). Experiences like that are unforgettable.

8. Finally, what inspired the fabulous Thoosa brand?

As with many small businesses it started because I couldn’t find anything that I wanted to wear to run in. There seemed to be a gulf between the clothes that I wore in every day life and my running kit (which was unflattering, unfeminine and frankly uninspiring). I realised that there were many women like me who wanted to look good while exercising, particularly if that involved running in a city. So I took the bull by the horns and started the brand which, although challenging, I am pleased to say is going from strength to strength.

THOOSA INSPIRED

Thoosa inspired hopes to celebrate runners from all walks of life, hopefully from different parts of the country, even the world. We thought we’d start with a few runners who we know and who have truly helped and inspired, not just in the running stakes but in life in general. Starting us off is Serena Martin. Only just in her mid-twenties, she’s run heaps of half-marathons and last year completed the London Marathon. She’s raised masses of money for charity in the process. In addition, rather annoyingly, she turns out to be one of the best and funniest people we have had the pleasure to meet.

1. When did you start running and why?
I started when I was 16, I remember one Christmas deciding to run every other day, not because I enjoyed it at the time but I wanted to set myself a challenge to get fit and I think I might have fancied some pre-pubescent boy or something so thought this was my way of becoming some honed toned goddess in time for a party where said boy would be (!) (needless to say this objective bombed miserably but I think I then realised I enjoyed running so it was then something I continued doing).

2. Why is running more appealing to you than other forms of exercise?
It’s a lot more accessible than other forms of exercise in that you can just put on your trainers and go and so if you’re busy it’s a great way to stay fit and slot it into a busy day. On top of that if you are busy and have a hectic week it’s a great time to just unwind a bit and think about totally different things. I always run with an iPod mainly because I'm a real daydreamer and like to listen to (mainly crap!) music and just ponder away in my own little world for a bit!

3. What has been your biggest challenge as a runner?
I know it sounds cliché and deeply unoriginal but it was training for the London marathon. I mainly run as a stress relief; to think about things and clear my head and don’t usually push myself too much (as in when I get tired I 'look for a different song on my iPod' mainly, I admit, to rest a bit!) So suddenly being forced to run long distances consistently, every weekend, throughout the winter was a real challenge because it was no longer a voluntary escape but a necessity, and a big fun hoover in the weekend! Not only was the run up to the marathon tricky but also motivating myself after the run was really hard, my running mojo was seriously dented and it took about a year until I wanted to run again!

4. Whilst running what has been your most memorable moment?
That’s hard because there have been many good ones, I used to run from Kew Gardens to Richmond in the morning and it’s beautiful if it’s a misty morning and you’re running along the river before people are up. I also like to go on runs when I am travelling because it’s a great way to see a new place quickly. I have a spatial awareness problem (medical I reckon but as yet undiagnosed) and so I often go for runs and get hopelessly lost. These are memorable but for the wrong reasons...

5. Where is your favourite place to run?
Don’t have one, I love running new places but am SO bad at finding my way (see above) that it’s a mixed blessing because I never know if and when I might get back. Countryside though, definitely, and preferably next to water.

6. Do you find that running helps you in other areas of your life, for instance work?
I am a grumpy git if I haven’t been for a run for a while so yes it probably does help me socially!

7. What makes you pull yourself out of bed in the dark winter mornings and get outside?
Not wanting to be a grumpy git (see 6)

8. What’s your favourite way to unwind after a run?
Never really thought about it...I suppose toast and tea is nice. Or going to the pub (waaaey lad!) it’s actually a great way of being a cheap date, I’m sure each drink has double the effect after a run....

9. No counting calories, what’s your favourite guilty treat?
Am clinically addicted to sweet things this is too hard. Chocolate banoffee pie takes a hell of a lot of beating.

10. Running is often thought of as quite an isolated sport, but you can meet heaps of people as a regular runner. Who’s the most interesting person you’ve met whilst running and why?
Graham Norton - because i physically ran into him. as in crashed into him mid run. He looked highly un-amused and like he had been slapped in the face with a wet fish (to be fair I probably didn’t smell much better) but it was a genuine mistake, he shot out from behind a van as I was running past and scrutinising iPod at the same time so wasn’t looking where I was going. I don’t think we are lifelong buddies following the experience so I am not sure this really counts....

11. Finally, what your favourite piece of thoosa kit and why?
I shall definitely be investing in a Chill Hoody for winter. The hood seems so snug and I love the mitten cuffs to keep my hands cosy. It will definitely make a cold winter morning run a lot more appealing and stylish!