A City's Pulse

Preserving a running routine in the city can pose unique challenges. Yet, with some flexibility and an adventurous spirit, it is feasible to integrate running into a busy metropolitan lifestyle. After all, isn't that one of the universal appeals of the sport? We can take it with us anywhere. A pair of shoes and we are ready to exert and explore.

It's no secret that cities can pose many obstacles for runners with their traffic and unpredictable terrain. Training properly in a busy metropolis often involves utilizing public transportation, ride-sharing services, bicycles, and more. A willingness to keep a flexible training schedule can be vital.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY MAYE

Joe is 5' 8" and wearing a Small in the Crew and Jogger.

Despite its challenges, commuting through the city for a workout can be an invigorating and energizing experience in its own right. The early morning hustle and bustle provide an endorphin boost as you navigate busy streets toward the destination of the day's effort. Greenways, community tracks, and park loops become hidden sanctuaries inside the buzzing hive of a city, places where you can push yourself, insulated from the swirling energy of frantic drivers and distracted phone scrollers. Commuting through the city by train, bike, car, or foot to mix in a more strenuous effort is not just a physical journey but a mental and emotional experience – one that connects you with yourself, your surroundings, and the pulse of the city.

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The Square Mile

One of the world's prime metropolises, London exemplifies a city where one must be malleable yet persistent, flexible yet rigid. With its charming cobbled streets, remarkable architecture, and dense and diverse population, it is a city that has captured the hearts of many. It is an ever-evolving canvas with a deep history that features an endless array of sights and sounds. Living in London challenges and inspires in equal measure, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate to call it home.

This spring, we met up with London residents and dedicated athletes Georgie Grgec and Joe Dale to follow them through a day as they pursued their personal, professional, and training goals.

Joe is 5' 8" and wearing a Small in the Brighton Tee and a Medium in the Short.

Georgie Grgec

When we met, Georgie was coming off a busy few weeks of racing over cross country and on the road. To date, a highlight of the 2023 season was clocking a big PR in the Trafford 10km road race (32:15) in early March. "My next goal is to improve on this but on the track on the Night of the 10,000m PB’s in London, then focus on the rest of the British track season."

Born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand, Georgie came to Europe in 2017, fell in love with London, and has called it home ever since. "Back in New Zealand, running was always a big part of my life. I started competing at regional and national competitions at high school for both my school and club."

After a few months in London, she joined Herne Hill Harriers, which she notes as one of the highlights of living here. “My training group and the depth and quality of races have been a massive part of my progress in my running in recent years, chipping away at my personal bests over 1500m to 10km.”

Victoria Park

Nestled in the heart of East London, Victoria Park is one of London's most popular public parks. Spanning over 200 acres, it boasts tree-lined paths, ornamental gardens, tranquil lakes, and open lawns. Victoria Park is a favorite destination for locals and tourists, with a wide range of facilities, play areas, and cafes. It offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life in London. While unceremonious, the cinder track tucked in the park's center provides a measured training ground for many local runners and clubs.

Joe Dale

For Joe, longevity and helping others keep him showing up and has embedded him in the local running community. Belonging to the community-focused and competitive Victoria Park Harriers, Joe finds joy in training with teammates half his age.

"Running has always been a part of my life but in different ways at different times. Cross country was my passion at school, and I ran at the county level. I joined the Royal Marines at 18, and after leaving the Marines, I used running as a coping mechanism for readjusting to civilian life.

“I studied Osteopathy in my early thirties and joined the local running club, where overall health became both my job and hobby. Over the last few years, I've combined my passion for running with a medical and scientific approach. I've been improving every year, and last year dropped under 2:30 for the marathon and 70 mins for the half. These days I spend my hours treating other runners, but I have become more relaxed when it comes to my own competing. I aim to be still doing parkruns pain-free in my 80's."

Rapid Transit

Runners are often moving quickly, even when off the track. Inspired by runners on the go, we designed a collection of movement-ready staples crafted for comfort and sophistication in transit.

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