“The only one who can tell you ‘you can’t win’ is you, and you don’t have to listen.” – Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill

Hey there, lovely humans!

I’m Morgan – a 30-something Brit with a slightly overactive love for staying active. After a few of life’s unexpected plot twists (the kind you don’t see coming but somehow end up exactly where you need to be), I’ve decided to hit pause and do something wild… study! Yep, back to the books in my thirties. Who said student life was just for people who can survive on instant noodles and questionable flatmates?

It’s in these kinds of moments – the “what now?” ones – that we really figure out who we are. The only real option? Stay positive, roll with the punches, and make the most of the hand you’ve been dealt. I’m incredibly lucky to have the time and space to do this, so I’m diving in headfirst (with caffeine in one hand and a highlighter in the other). As my mum wisely put it: “If you’re going to shake things up, now’s the time!” Mums, eh? Always right and annoyingly smug about it.

I’ll share more about my studies soon, but first – let’s talk about something a little sweatier. I’ve got two very exciting (and mildly terrifying) races coming up.

Race #1: The Great Splash – A 2km Open Water Swim in Copenhagen

Coming up at the end of August, this is my biggest swim challenge yet. Now, I’ve always loved being in water – pool, sea, puddle – I’m not picky. But open water swimming is something I’ve only really embraced in the past couple of years. Last year, I did my first race in the Serpentine Half Mile and somehow didn’t get eaten by swans, so naturally, I thought, “Let’s double the distance and add international travel!”

Am I nervous? Absolutely. But am I loving the training? Hell yes. For the moment I am splitting my time between Cornwall (cue dreamy sea swims) and London (hello docks, lakes, and suspiciously enthusiastic triathletes). Add in some pool time and strength training, and I’m basically part fish at this point.

Race #2: The “What Have I Done?” – My First 50KM Ultra

In October, I’m tackling my very first ultra marathon: the Camino Ultra in Epping Forest. 50km of trail, trees, and emotional ups and downs. And yes, before you ask, I have been told it’s “only” 8km more than a marathon…

Running wasn’t always my thing – in fact, I used to think people who enjoyed running were lying. But post-uni, it clicked, and now I can’t imagine life without it. This challenge? It’s big. And honestly, it’s a little scary. But I’m easing into training with 3-4 runs a week, strength sessions, and enough almond butter to fuel a small army. Some runs will be solo, some with mates, and I’m bouncing between Cornwall and London to keep things interesting. Forest trail today, urban canal tomorrow – variety is the spice of shin splints.

The Plan: Move Smart, Fuel Right, and Don’t Break Myself

I know the key is balance. That means listening to my body (not always easy when my brain says “go” and my hamstrings say “please don’t”), mixing in yoga and Pilates, and staying well-fuelled – preferably with snacks that aren’t just oat-based and vaguely boring.

So that’s me – juggling study notes with swim goggles and trail shoes. If you fancy following along this chaotic but joyful ride, I’d love the company.

See you soon!

M x