Runner of the Month: Lindsey Lombard
When we think of Lindsey Lombard, many of us picture those familiar early-morning smiles at Early Birds, her consistency, and her quiet determination. But behind that dedication is a powerful story of resilience, one that perfectly captures what Reigate Ladies Joggers is all about.
Finding RLJ and finding her people
Lindsey first joined Reigate Ladies Joggers when she felt stuck in her fitness journey. Gym workouts had taken her as far as they could, and she was ready for something different.
“I needed to lose weight and had reached a plateau with gym workouts,” she explains. “I loved RLJ straight away. Running with people makes it feel so much easier, and it’s lovely meeting new people.”
What kept her coming back wasn’t just the running, it was the community. From fitness classes and cooking events to raffles, webinars and connections with other local fitness organisations, RLJ became far more than a running club. It became part of her life.
The magic of Early Birds
If you’ve ever wondered how Lindsey manages those early starts, her answer is simple and very Lindsey.
“It’s such a great start to the day, it makes you feel good all day,” she says. “We see the most beautiful sunrises while most people are still in bed… although at the moment it’s still dark when we finish! Put your trainers on before your brain realises what’s happening.”
Those early morning runs have become a cornerstone of her routine, a habit that carried her through both highs and setbacks.
Injury, patience, and the long road back
Lindsey’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. A fractured foot sidelined her from running, and like many runners, her first question to the doctor was an eager one:
“When can I run?”
The answer was six weeks but reality had other plans. Recovery took much longer than expected, requiring patience, persistence, and a lot of behind-the-scenes work.
“I worked with a physiotherapist and a PT several times a week with the goal of getting me back out running,” Lindsey shares. That clear goal, to return to running safely, kept her focused even when progress felt slow.
The power of accountability and support
Throughout her injury and comeback, RLJ remained a constant source of motivation.
“Before RLJ, I couldn’t run to the end of my road,” Lindsey says. “The Beginners Course is amazing. I’ve recommended it to friends who are now running too.”
Booking sessions on the app gave her accountability, a reason to show up! And when she was injured, the support didn’t stop. Coaches checked in regularly, and once she progressed to treadmill running, Lindsey admits she was even tracking sessions on Strava, watching and waiting for the moment she’d be back out there with the group.
That return didn’t happen overnight, but when it did, it was strong, steady, and well-earned.
Fitness as a way of life
Alongside RLJ sessions, Lindsey balances her running with PT work, creating a routine that supports her body and mindset.
“I like to do something every day,” she says. “The endorphins exercise produces make you feel good. I also like to eat and fit into my jeans and exercise helps!”
It’s this honest, down-to-earth approach that makes Lindsey such a relatable inspiration to so many in our community.
Lindsey’s advice: don’t do it alone
For any woman struggling with injury, confidence, or self-doubt, Lindsey’s advice is clear:
“Join a running club. You’ll meet lots of new people at all different stages who will motivate and encourage you.”
When Lindsey joined RLJ, she hadn’t run since school. Just four months later, she completed her first 5km at Run Reigate, proof that with the right support, belief, and consistency, anything is possible.
A true RLJ inspiration
Lindsey’s story reminds us that progress isn’t always linear but showing up, staying connected, and trusting the process truly pays off. Her return from injury is a powerful example of patience, perseverance, and the strength of community.
We’re so proud to celebrate Lindsey Lombard as our Runner of the Month. 💜
Thank you for inspiring us all, especially those finding their way back, one step at a time.