Running season is creeping up, and with some of Sydney’s best events including the Real Insurance Sydney Harbour  10k/5k and the Sydney Running Festival just around the corner, there is something for everyone, no matter how good at running you are.

We asked some of Sydney’s favourite running coaches why they love running and what keeps them coming back for more. Here is what they said:

Veronika Larisova, PT, nutritionist, trail runner and founder of Chief Nutrition. 

What’s not to love about running? Let’s start with the runner's high! The best feeling ever. The combination of dopamine and endorphins is better than any other high, including the coffee buzz.

Additionally you don’t need any equipment or memberships to do it and it is a great way to explore new places while travelling. Especially if you are not someone who likes getting stuck in traffic. Running is my kind of meditation. It clears my mind and helps my mental health.

Camilla Bazley, running coach and master trainer.

I just love that I can do it anywhere, anytime. It is a great outdoor activity, a good way to see new places, and you can just go for it whenever you want to. It is also a great activity for improving both your aerobic fitness and endurance. You can also challenge yourself with little bench marks to hit each month, based on distance or time.

Running also can be great for fostering a community of like minded people that live healthy lifestyles.

Ben Lucas, Director of Flow Athletic, PT, run coach and member of Athletes of Life

Running is amazing for my mental health. During the lockdowns, when myself and my business were doing it tough, I made myself get out and run 5 k everyday and it did wonders for me. I could not recommend it more.

I also travel around the world to do the major fun runs and will be heading back to New York later this year with the Sydney crew who run with me.

Rachel Stanley- founder of Run180

I love running because it is natures valium, without the cost or associated side effects. It is also a free, quick, accessible and effective way of getting super fit and strong!