Catching up with Hannah Tomsett, a true inspiration
14 May 2026
Hey! I am Charlotte Purdue - a professional marathon runner for Puma and a running coach at URUNN. I have spent years training, racing, and learning what truly helps runners perform at their best, from the 5K through to the marathon.
This blog is where I share practical training insights, honest lessons from elite sport, and tools you can actually apply to your own running routine. Whether you are chasing a personal best or lining up for your very first race, smart preparation makes all the difference.
If you are a seasoned runner eyeing a spring or summer race, you probably know the basics: consistency matters, long runs are non-negotiable, and recovery is not optional. The next step involves refining your approach so your training actually matches your race - and supports your body and mind along the way.
By integrating structured running with comprehensive support systems like those found at Nirvana Spa, you can elevate your performance and stay healthy.
Match your training to the distance
Each race distance asks something entirely different of your body. As a more experienced runner, you do not necessarily need more workouts - you need the exact right ones at the precise right time. This is where combining outdoor miles with specialised gym work makes a massive impact.
The value of guidance
The biggest advantage of working with a Fitness Coach is removing decision fatigue. You do not have to constantly ask yourself if you are doing enough, or worry that you are doing too much.
When you join Pulse 8, you receive four complimentary 1-1 coaching sessions. Working with you, they develop effective strategies, create a balanced plan, and ensure your gym work perfectly complements your race goals. In turn, you then free up mental energy to focus on what really matters: showing up consistently and racing with absolute confidence.
Fueling for performance and recovery
Practicing your race day fueling strategy during training sessions is important for both recovery and performance. I personally practice my pre-race breakfast routine before my biggest long run or most important training session every single week.
I also use energy gels throughout these sessions to get extra carbohydrates in and train my gut for race day. I would recommend practicing early and keeping nutrition a consistent part of your weekly routine.
After a tough training block or an intense gym session, your muscles need immediate protein and carbohydrates to repair and rebuild. Grabbing a nutritious snack or a recovery smoothie in the café provides your body with exactly what it needs to adapt to the hard work you just put in.
Stay ahead of injuries
Injury prevention lacks glamour, but it works. You must build your running mileage gradually, rotate your running shoes, and include strength training two to three times per week. Focus on your hips, calves, hamstrings, and core with top tier weight training equipment.
Easy days should feel genuinely easy - this is the specific time when your tissues adapt and grow stronger. If something feels slightly off, address it early instead of trying to push through the pain.
Active recovery plays a huge role in keeping you on the road. provides incredible facilities to help your body bounce back. Cross training can help with injury prevention and spending 15 minutes in the sauna or steam room provides a deeply relaxing way to unwind, increase blood flow to recovering tissues, and enhance your overall wellness.
Motivation
Motivation ebbs and flows, especially during long training blocks. To stay on track, break your big goals into small wins: today’s run, this week’s consistency, or this phase of training.
Expect hard days. A bad workout does not mean you are failing. When doubt shows up, remind yourself that discomfort is a part of progress, not a sign to stop.
Race day is the fun part! A celebration of all your hard work, your gym sessions, your early mornings, and your dedication. Trust your prep, stay present and let yourself compete while truly enjoying the experience.
