It’s become something of a cliche to say ‘if I can do it anyone can’.

But the very best cliches earn that status because they come with a great big chunk of truth.

Just look at me.

It was not so long ago that running as far as the end of the road was a huge challenge.

Although I grew up watching my dad run marathons, and have been glued to the London event year after year, until then I’d never really tried running myself.

But a chance conversation in a restaurant in Seville of all places changed that. My life was in something of a transition and my friend Leo had just asked me what, if I could do anything, I’d really want to do.

Before I knew it, I’d blurted out that I wanted to run a marathon.

And so my love affair with running began.

These days, I have run 19 marathons, and a 100km ultra to boot, but – as the saying goes, if I can do it…

Now, I would really like to help you achieve your running goals and follow whatever your dreams are.

How? Read on…

WHY ME?

Michelle Lewis trainers

I started Step Forward with Lewis as a voluntary group in 2018 and it has grown from there.

I work with clients from ages five to 95, and beyond, covering everything from strength, balance, flexibility and mental health in sessions as varied as Boxercise, Dodgeball, Multi-Skills, and Get Up & Go!

The idea is to create a relaxed, fun and inspiring atmosphere for people of all abilities to train in. 

I am passionate about all forms of exercise and helping people become fitter and more healthy.

But, Step Forward With Lewis was born primarily as a running club and that’s where much of my passion remains.

I am a qualified coach in running fitness and running leader with English Athletics, as well as having completed qualifications in Deaf Communication in Sport, Visually Impaired Guide training and as a Mental Health Champion for English Athletics.

As such, I am perfectly placed to help you make your own running dreams a reality.

WHAT I OFFER?

We are closing in on another marathon season, which means whether you are aiming to take on London, Manchester or any other 26.2-mile challenge, then I can help you.

But it’s not just marathons where I can become your number one backer. From your first 5k to an ultra marathon, I have the knowledge and skills to help you achieve whatever you desire.

From drawing up training plans to personal training, I can supply the tools you need to succeed.

Michelle Lewis runner

My qualifications mean I can provide:

  • What you need to know before you run: how to plan your runs, how to start out – even if you are a complete beginner, and how to stretch before a run.
  • Information on the types of run that will help you improve, from speed sessions – known as Fartlek – and hill repeats, to the benefits of the long, slow run.
  • How strength training, stretching and yoga can supercharge your running journey.
  • What run you should do next, and when.
  • The importance of rest and nutrition.

These are just the basics of what I can provide through my plans and PT.

The really important thing to know is that all of this is provided in a relaxed and completely non-judgemental atmosphere. If you miss a session, just move on to the next one. If you fancy a doughnut, just eat it! The biggest thing is to have fun and keep moving forward.

WHAT NEXT?

If you want to learn more about how I can help you achieve your dreams, then get in touch at stepforwardwithlewis@gmail.com and we can discuss your individual needs and goals.