Jamie Smith

How did you first get into running?
I first got into running because someone at work set up a “runch club”, which was basically us squeezing a run into our lunch break instead of sitting around eating a  sandwich at our desks.

They happened to be a running coach too, so I did Couch to 5K with their help, very much starting from the “why are my lungs on fire?” end of the spectrum. Not long after, I signed up for my first proper race, the Barnsley 10K back in 2017 when it was at Royston I think.

That was it, bug well and truly caught. It gave me something that was mine outside of work, and honestly it became a bit of a pressure valve. If I was stressed or feeling anxious, getting out for a run gave me headspace and a focus. I wasn’t suddenly a “serious runner” overnight, but I knew pretty quickly I wanted more of that feeling.

Has your motivation for running changed over time?
When I first started running, it was very much about the simple wins: could I get round, could I finish the distance, could I tick it off without feeling like I’d need to lie down in a hedge afterwards.

Now it’s shifted a bit. I still love the “just get out the door” headspace side of it, but I’m definitely more motivated by running better, not just running further. Chipping away at times, feeling smoother, and seeing that steady progress is what keeps me coming back.

And I’ve also got an itch to scratch: running abroad. I’m hoping to do Berlin S25 in April, which is honestly a big part of why I got in touch with Malcolm and Green Peaks. I wanted a bit of structure and reassurance so I can get to the start line feeling ready, rather than doing my usual “it’ll be fine” routine and hoping for the best.

What do you enjoy most about being part of this coaching group?
What I enjoy most is the feeling that I’m not doing it all on my own.

Having a proper plan and a coach to follow just gives me loads more confidence in my running, like I’m doing the right things and not just guessing. And the group side of it is genuinely reassuring. If I’m having a wobble, not sure about a session, or just need a bit of a nudge, there’s always someone to ask. It’s supportive in a really normal way, encouragement, accountability, and a bit of shared suffering when it’s grim outside.

How has being a Green Peaks Athlete benefited your training?
Being a Green Peaks Athlete has basically got me out of that post-injury rut and back into feeling like a runner again.

After my injury in 2025 I was still running, but it was a bit aimless. I’d do what I fancied, second-guess it, and then wonder why nothing was really moving forward. Having a proper structure again has been the biggest benefit. I don’t have to overthink it. I just open the plan, do the session, and trust it’s all adding up towards Berlin.

The other big thing is that I can actually feel progress coming back. Not just in race times, but in day-to-day stuff too, like runs feeling smoother, paces that used to feel hard starting to feel more normal, and that general “I’m getting fitter” feeling returning. It’s simple, but it’s massive for me.

Favourite race or running event you’ve done so far?
My favourite event so far has to be the Manchester Marathon (2024), mainly because of what it meant to me rather than the course itself.

When I first started running, a marathon felt like my personal Everest. Properly “how do people do that?” territory. So getting to the finish line was a huge achievement for me, and it’s still the one I’m most proud of.

A big part of that is because Malcolm helped me train for it back in 2024. He gave me the structure I needed and made it feel manageable, step by step, when it definitely didn’t feel that way in my head. That’s why I was really happy when I saw he’d set up Green Peaks. I already knew his coaching worked, because it did in 2024.

Recent achievement you’re proud of
I’ve had a bit of a saga with tendonitis in my right ankle, so honestly the thing I’m most proud of recently is just getting back to proper, consistent training again. There were a few weeks where every run felt like a little negotiation with my body, so being able to get out the door without overthinking it has been a massive win.

It’s not as shiny as a big PB, but it’s the one that’s made the biggest difference. When I’m running regularly I feel better in myself, simple as that. And now I’m back in that groove again, hopefully the PBs can take care of themselves with some Green Peaks structure.

What’s your go-to running playlist or podcast?
Most of the time I’m a “sound of nature” runner. It’s not that I’m anti music or podcasts, I just really like the headspace that comes from being properly away from tech when I’m out.

The only bit of kit I’m bringing is my watch, and even then I try not to stare at it like it’s going to tell me some life-changing secret.

What’s your dream race or bucket-list running goal?
My big bucket list one is the Midnight Sun Half or Full Marathon in Tromsø. It starts at 9pm, but because of how far north it is, it stays properly light all night. The idea of racing late in the evening with that weird daylight feels like it would be a once in a lifetime kind of experience. Definitely one I want to tick off.

Favourite post-run treat or recovery ritual?
My favourite post run ritual is basically refuelling like I have just completed an expedition, even if it was only an “easy” hour.

After the longer runs especially, I love that proper earned hunger, so it’s usually a big breakfast, something sweet, and zero guilt. If I can get a decent coffee involved too, even better.

And look, I’ll be honest, sometimes the recovery plan is a good pint of Guinness. Probably not in any official sports science handbook, but it works for me.

One piece of advice you’d give to someone just starting out
Honestly, I’d tell anyone starting out: just get out the door, even if it’s slow, even if it’s only 20 minutes.

Because I’ve never finished a run and felt worse for it. Even the ropey ones still do the job. You get the headspace, the endorphins, and that little “I’ve done something good today” feeling that carries you through the rest of the day.