I'roads in summer, winter in the gym'

MY RUNNING LIFE:After swearing she would never run, PETRA MEDGYESfound her feet. Now she can't keep her runners off

When did you start running and why?

I started running about four years ago. My boyfriend was an ultra-triathlete and he convinced me to go for a run, even though I said I would never, ever run. He helped me gradually build it up until I could jog consistently without having to walk. We’re now married, so I guess it wasn’t too bad.

What’s been your biggest achievement?

I ran the Vienna Half-Marathon last year with my husband. We ran the whole way together and never stopped to walk. I was very proud of myself. It was something that my friends and family never would have thought I could do.

What are you training for now?

Nothing specific. I’m just running to keep fit. I tend not to be very competitive and prefer to do events for fun rather than in a specific time. That’s why events like the Santa Dash appeal to me. It’s a fun atmosphere and pretty much everyone is there to have a good time rather than focusing on their race times.

Best thing about running?

I love the freedom it brings. I don’t have to think about anything, and it’s just me out on the road.

I zone out completely and don’t notice anything around me.

What’s the one thing you’d change about running?

There are many things I’m sure, such as fewer injuries and pain, etc, but they are all part of the experience and I think once you get into it, you either love it or hate it.

Where’s your regular run route?

During the summer I run around the roads of Carrickmines and during the winter months I tend to do quite a bit on the treadmill in the gym.

Do you have any big ambitions?

Not in running. I just run for fun. My husband keeps joking about me doing a marathon or a triathlon, but I highly doubt it.

Are you a morning or evening runner?

Definitely a morning runner.

Do you stretch?

Yes, I always do.

Have you a good or bad diet?

Mostly good. I love cooking and that can be good and bad.

Do you have a personal trainer?

I did have one earlier this year for a short while to help me get back into shape coming into the summer, but it was really based around gym work and total body exercise, rather than just running specifically.

What’s your average training week?

I do more gym work during the winter but I run two or three times a week for 30-45 minutes.

What do you wear on your feet?

I either wear Asics Kayano or The North Face Single Track shoe. They are both really comfortable.

What’s on your iPod when running?

I don’t usually run with music but when I do I like listening to Faithless, Dreadzone, Manu Chao. Something with a good rhythm.

Have you any niggly injuries?

I sometimes get some knee pain, but injuries and running tend to go hand-in-hand. Especially if you don’t listen to your body and do too much.

Have you ever been chased by an animal?

My closest animal encounter was one evening when I came across a fox. He kept running up ahead of me and then stopping to wait for me. He kept looking back and then trotting on ahead.

What’s your favourite running book?

There are books on running and triathlons all over my house, thanks to my other half. I only touch them when I’m putting them away.

What’s your favourite running tip?

I’m not really an expert, but if I had to give anyone advice I would say: make sure that you have proper running shoes and for women, a good running bra is essential.