Finding the joy of running in lockdown, Lydia Oldham has become a talented runner in just a few years, chasing PBs and endorphins in equal measure. After crushing her first 5K, she started looking further afield.
“I fell in love with going those long distances, and then I found the marathon!” says Lydia, and there was no turning back. This year, she’s completed Barcelona and London, and is already plotting her first 100K from her.
In terms of training, Lydia has been on a learning curve: “I think training is so different when you’re trying to get into that marathon pace.
“My current PB is 3:31. My goal is to be able to get to Boston in my age group, and this year it’s 3:25, so if I do that I’d be really happy.”
“Running for me is sort of meditation.”
Lydia has really hit her stride with the distance, as she explains: “I love being able to train those long distances. I’ve never been a fan of speed –I like to be able to sort of go through my thoughts, not have to constantly think about time.”
As is the case for so many of us, despite hitting those impressive times, the joy Lydia has discovered is the social
aspect of running. “I enjoy chatting on long runs. Being able to meet up with people while marathon training is just so amazing and that’s why I fell in love with the distance.”
Equally, she’s just at home churning out the miles on her own. “Running for me is sort of meditation. I love being able to go through thoughts of the day.”
Training boost with Under Armor
Lydia’s training has been given a boost with the addition of the Under Armor Flow Velociti Elite, and she explains that she’s loved wearing them for sprint sessions and long runs. “I think the key with any shoe is you don’t want to feel that you’re wearing it!”
With the Flow Velociti Elite, Lydia thinks Under Armor have cracked it. “They’re so light and so springy… On
fast runs, I’m really propelled, but then on long runs, I feel so cushioned. I’m excited to wear them for my marathons because I feel protected but also really fast!”
To find a shoe that’s equally at home in training as on race day is a rare thing, and Lydia is already feeling the benefit. We suspect we won’t see her for dust on marathon day.
Lydia Oldham Marathon essentials
Shop the kit that Lydia will be wearing on race day, from marathon to ultra!
Under Armor Flow Velociti Elite | £224.99
The Flow Velociti Elite is a game changer. The durable, grippy all-in-one cushioning and sole underfoot give you a light, close-to-the-ground feeling.
A full-length carbon fiber plate helps turnover your strides faster, and it’s strategically built to be minimalistic, breathable and flexible. They’re made for PBs!
Under Armor Infinity Crossover High Support Bra | RRP £59.99 NOW £47.99
This beautiful molded bra is specifically tailored for high impact sports, and provides the ultimate support, comfort and coverage.
UA’s specialist HeatGear technologies help to cool you down and wick away sweat, too
Under Armor Rush Cicada Singlet | £61.99
As smart as it is stylish, this insanely lightweight running vest is equipped with UA RUSH: an infrared technology that reflects your body’s energy to help you work harder and recover faster.
Under Armor Lighter Than Air Short | £57.99
These shorts are all about speed. The light knit fabric has a unique yarn construction for enhanced durability. Plus they have a built-in brief, a soft waistband, and a side split hem for full range of motion.
