Crystal
32 years old, works in the sports industry
Running experience: 2 years
Long-distance running can make you fitter, but there’s no magic shortcut or luck – the only way to improve is to keep training and working towards your goals.
Her strength running ambassador ‧ crystal | running gives me self-confidence
This May we are organising a virtual women’s race to coincide with Mother’s Day. As part of our cooperation with Runner's World HK, DECATHLON has been honoured to speak to four running enthusiasts who were recently selected as our Her Strength Running Ambassadors, to find out more about their running experiences.
They include Kate, a new mum; Crystal, a newcomer to the world of running; Catherine, who didn’t start running until she was in her fifties; and Yannes, who is regaining her strength following a previous injury. As their stories demonstrate, their self-confidence has been an inspiration to other runners.
Despite being a newcomer to the world of running, Crystal has been in the sports industry for some time, and works with athletes as part of her job. She is also a big fan of hiking and surfing. It was only after completing the entire 50 km Hong Kong Trail that Crystal realised what she was capable of: “I really wanted to visit Cambodia, so two years ago I registered for a half marathon there.” Although she was just one minute short of finishing in two hours, the event inspired her to prepare for the next challenge.
Achieving your goals requires patience and confidence
“Although running can be frustrating, it forces you to achieve your goals, and that requires patience and confidence.” Given the lack of competitions in 2020, Crystal resolved to complete the Hong Kong Trail – more than double the distance of her previous challenge, the half-marathon. She completed a tough 3-month training plan, and in order to fit in her long-distance runs, even missed out on the opportunity to meet friends at the weekend “Running has helped me to combat physical and mental fatigue and improve my strength and stability. In addition to giving me a healthy lifestyle, running has also become part of who I am.”
For Crystal, crossing the finish line gives her a huge sense of satisfaction. “Running has improved my self-confidence – I never knew what I was capable of, but now I know that I can keep achieving new goals and run further and faster.”
Favourite gear:
KIPRUN ULTRALIGHT
It's very lightweight. The fit was decent, the toe box was a little wide for those who have skinny feet. Enough cushion for under a 10K run and due to its weight, it's good for speedwork day. The lower heel-to-toe drop is quite comfortable; and helps promote better running gait. Recommend to those who are just starting out and are looking for an affordable and functional pair of shoes. Good for intervals or fartlek days; run that are under 10K or 1 hour. A good addition to the line up if you already have very cushioned long run shoes.
Skincare breathable running t-shirt
This fitted running T-shirt is like a second skin. The seamless finish on the sides prevents rubbing while you run.
Photochromatic running glasses
With photochromic lenses, the RUNPERF PHOTOC glasses adapt to changing luminosity. This ultra flexible and lightweight (26 g) frame with an adjustable bridge fits every face.
Running socks with fine straps
We have included some highly stretch areas in our running socks. This provides just the right compression to improve the stability of your ankle.
More her strength running ambassador stories
Kate | as a new mum, i also need some me time
Yannes | coming back stronger after an injury
Catherine | perseverance makes me proud
Credits: Runner's World HK
