We’re delighted to celebrate Emma Feist as our latest Runner of the Month!
Emma brings brilliant energy, positivity, and humour to every session, whatever the conditions. We caught up with her to hear more about her running journey and what being part of Reigate Ladies Joggers means to her.
What first inspired you to start running, and how did you end up joining RLJ?
I had always been a gym member, but I started to feel a bit stuck in a rut and disengaged with it, so I was looking for something new to try. I found RLJ through a Google search and loved the idea of a women-only jogging club.
That said, it took me a long time to pluck up the courage to actually reach out and book onto the beginners’ course. Like so many people, I was worried about being at the back and holding everyone up!
I remember after the first session we were told that the following week we’d run for two minutes and walk for one, and even then I was panicking about whether I could do it. But we were all in it together, women supporting women, and it was so uplifting.
The sense of achievement each week felt amazing.
That was over six years ago now!
You bring such brilliant energy to the club! What do you enjoy most about being part of the RLJ community?
I love the camaraderie, the fun, the support, the sense of safety, and the motivation.
Having a coach lead the route is amazing too, you don’t have to think about anything. Life is so busy, so it’s nice to let someone else take the lead for once! My husband often asks where we ran, and I never have a clue. I’m usually so absorbed in the experience, whether it’s the scenery, the chatter, or just my own thoughts (normally about what I’m going to eat when I get home!). Ha!
You’re a regular at the Monday morning runs and Saturday sessions. What keeps you motivated?
Once I’ve booked onto a run, I’m committed, I never cancel. That accountability really helps get me out the door.
It’s also just part of my routine now, so I don’t even consider not going. And for anyone who knows me, I do enjoy a glass of wine or two… but I still always show up on a Saturday morning, usually with a few stories from the night before to entertain the group!
Do you have a favourite RLJ running memory?
There are so many! We’ve had plenty of entertaining moments, especially in winter when we’re ankle-deep in mud, trying to navigate stiles and fallen trees.
But one of my favourites was during Covid, when we were encouraged to keep going and buddy up when allowed. I’ll always treasure the memories of Sam and me attempting the hill sprint challenge on Pilgrims Way. We pushed ourselves so hard and laughed so much we nearly needed medical attention!
What would you say to someone who’s nervous about joining a running group?
It’s so daunting to start something new, but just take the leap and try it once.
All the things you worry about are never the reality. No one holds anyone back, everyone is supportive, and there are different groups for different paces…you’ll find the one that suits you.
What does being named Runner of the Month mean to you?
I feel really proud to be Runner of the Month. The words meant a lot!
I feel so lucky to have found this community and to feel like a valued part of it. I’m not the fastest or best runner, but RLJ shows you that you don’t need to be, you just get out there and enjoy the experience.
Inspired by Emma?
If you’ve been thinking about giving running a go, take Emma’s advice, just try it once. You might find exactly what she did: a supportive, welcoming community that makes every step worthwhile. Explore Reigate Ladies Joggers today!
