Blog

10 years ago, just after giving birth to my daughter, they found a big lump on my neck. Even before the biopsy, I knew it wasn’t good. Soon after, I had my first neck surgery, then came radioactive iodine treatment, and four weeks of isolation from my family. To cope, I started running—too much, in fact—and ended up tearing the ligament in my left ankle, which led to double ankle surgery, months on crutches, and another round of isolation. During this time, I found out I was immune to the treatment, and my cancer was labeled “incurable.”<figure id="figure-f0l69g5c2m157hp6f"><img id="f0l69g5c2m157hp6f" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12rTxrLUcfSDHR6T98rYDQbgnOE0mcqEtxkAg6YUSpb7mjIKhf8jP5X1DYMEDOBo.jpg" alt="woman jumping near white wall paint" title="woman jumping near white wall paint" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12rTxrLUcfSDHR6T98rYDQbgnOE0mcqEtxkAg6YUSpb7mjIKhf8jP5X1DYMEDOBo.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>What followed were four more surgeries, 28 rounds of radiation, muscle spasms that left me unable to use my left arm for 8 months, and losing my voice for half a year. Mentally, I was broken. I cried most days, sometimes wishing I wouldn’t wake up. I was told I’d probably never run long distances again, and my company tried to quietly replace me. I felt useless, lost, and fell into a deep depression.My husband tried to remind me of my worth, but I couldn’t see it. I felt old and redundant, not even 40 yet. But I started moving—slowly. I walked 20 floors instead of taking the lift and exercised, despite the pain. During the pandemic, I began running outside our tiny flat in London—6x6 meters of space, but it was a start. Eventually, I completed five half marathons.Then came a chance to do an Executive MBA at Exeter. I always thought I wasn’t academic enough for something like that. I failed one module but pushed through and finished with Merit. That gave me the confidence I needed to reclaim my career, build, create, and surround myself with people who are good for me—and hopefully, I’m good for them too.<figure id="figure-c7eh23lretm157i7rj"><img id="c7eh23lretm157i7rj" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/0cjypCtO8DPP687vKvaxw44U1GVOg8YmlU6PU7vrQWEYWVGohRJKkseBOuOhiq9I.jpg" alt="woman jumping near white wall paint" title="woman jumping near white wall paint" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/0cjypCtO8DPP687vKvaxw44U1GVOg8YmlU6PU7vrQWEYWVGohRJKkseBOuOhiq9I.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure>Physically, I started pushing myself even more to heal mentally. HIIT training became my passion. This year, I discovered HYROX, and even though most people thought I was crazy, I completed my first race in May and signed up for 7 more. I’m 47 now, and I’ve never felt better. My energy, self-esteem, and love for life are back. I’m working on projects I love, with people who get that I’m complicated, determined, and honest.It’s been a 10-year journey, and I know so many of you are going through tough times too. When you’re in the thick of it, it feels impossible to see a way out. But you have to remember, the only person who can truly judge you is yourself. Others’ opinions don’t define your growth. Your own resilience and grit will carry you through. What seems impossible now could be the start of something better.<a data-mce-href="https://hyroxnewbie.com/" href="https://hyroxnewbie.com/" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Back to frontpage</a>

My 10-Year Journey – from Cancer to Growth

How to Measure and Calculate Your Foot Type for Choosing the Right HYROX Shoes 👣One of the greatest mysteries in HYROX is... what shoes to wear? 🤔 You've finally committed to your first HYROX race, but now you're staring down the rabbit hole of shoe options, and with shaking hands, you dare to ask in the HYROX community: "What shoes should I wear?" Instantly, you know you’ve branded yourself as a newbie—no longer a part of the fit elite, but simply a human who doesn’t know one of the biggest HYROX mysteries! 😅<figure id="figure-7nxt5yzqlmm14wzhkz"><img id="7nxt5yzqlmm14wzhkz" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/21ZlFgWyJIL2I17tFo47nxueo5qNFY9ZV1G8kGdAgxvcZBmKntL3GkCTiWwjjw4D.png" alt="woman doing yoga" title="woman doing yoga" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/21ZlFgWyJIL2I17tFo47nxueo5qNFY9ZV1G8kGdAgxvcZBmKntL3GkCTiWwjjw4D.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>But fear not, I’ve been there! And choosing the perfect pair of shoes for HYROX isn’t just about looking cool—it’s about finding shoes that match your foot type and running style. Here's a simple guide to help you solve the shoe mystery.&nbsp; <img id="rj0f5k0zbom14vrvhi" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1750325329/photo/foot-arch-support.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=y5aNX6dbFxgru3UKsBt3gJPX0DYwZGGCaPmljT5DezE=" alt="Foot arch support" title="Foot arch support" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1750325329/photo/foot-arch-support.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=y5aNX6dbFxgru3UKsBt3gJPX0DYwZGGCaPmljT5DezE=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;">1. Determine Your Arch Type: Your arch plays a big role in how your foot absorbs shock and handles impact during runs and stations. Here’s a quick test:Wet Foot Test: Step 1: Wet the bottom of your foot. Step 2: Step onto a piece of paper and check your footprint. Step 3: Analyze the shape of your print:Flat Foot (Low Arch): Your entire foot is visible, no curve. You’ll need shoes with extra support to prevent overpronation.Neutral Arch: A nice curve along the inside of your foot—go for shoes with balanced support and flexibility. High Arch (Pes Cavus): Only your heel and the ball of your foot show up in the print. You’ll want extra cushioning to absorb impact. Want to understand more about Arch types: <a data-mce-href="https://runrepeat.com/uk/guides/arch-support-for-runners-in-depth-guide" href="https://runrepeat.com/uk/guides/arch-support-for-runners-in-depth-guide" title="Foor arch types" target="_blank" rel="noopener">This article from RunRepeat are very helpful.</a><figure id="figure-ybzpq8gmdim14vvmdm"><img id="ybzpq8gmdim14vvmdm" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1293659575/photo/3d-gait-or-walking-biometric-test.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=nnaTeUzRHcA1eVa2JY6FasQHuGeUMV71W-g5MmAdUN8=" alt="3D Gait or Walking Biometric Test" title="3D Gait or Walking Biometric Test" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1293659575/photo/3d-gait-or-walking-biometric-test.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=nnaTeUzRHcA1eVa2JY6FasQHuGeUMV71W-g5MmAdUN8=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>2. Identify Your Running Style (Gait): Your gait impacts how your foot strikes the ground. Knowing this helps you pick shoes that support your natural motion:Gait Analysis: Step 1: Look at the wear patterns on your current shoes. Heel Wear: If the outer heel is worn down, you’re a heel striker—look for extra heel cushioning. Midfoot Wear: If the middle of the foot is worn, you’re a midfoot striker—go for balanced cushioning. Forefoot Wear: If the front is worn down, you’re a forefoot striker—consider shoes with less heel-to-toe drop. Step 2: For a pro analysis, visit a running store that offers gait assessments. They’ll give you the lowdown on your stride.Wanna know more about Gait and where to get the analysis in UK? RunnersNeed <a title="Gait analysis centers int he UK" href="https://www.runnersneed.com/expert-advice/gear-guides/gait-analysis.html" data-mce-href="https://www.runnersneed.com/expert-advice/gear-guides/gait-analysis.html">explains and mapped out the places here</a>. 3. Test for Flexibility &amp; Stability: Flexibility: Stand on your toes. If your feet feel stiff, you might need shoes with more flexibility. Stability: Try balancing on one foot. If you wobble, you’ll want shoes with enhanced stability.<figure id="figure-pmcl7adblhm14voiia"><img id="pmcl7adblhm14voiia" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1485727749690-d091e8284ef3?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0Mnx8Rml0bmVzc3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3MDY4OTc4MzB8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="woman stretching" title="woman stretching" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1485727749690-d091e8284ef3?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0Mnx8Rml0bmVzc3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3MDY4OTc4MzB8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure> 4. Measure Your Foot Length and Width: Step 1: Trace your foot on a piece of paper. Step 2: Measure from your longest toe to your heel and across the widest part of your foot. Step 3: Match your measurements to shoe size charts (which vary slightly between brands). By understanding your arch type, running style, and foot measurements, you'll crack the code and pick the best shoes for your HYROX race. With the right shoes, you’ll have the perfect balance of support, grip, and performance for both running and those tricky stations.The top recomended Hyrox shoes:&nbsp; Shoe Model (click to see eaxactly what they are good for and for what type of foot and running) <a data-mce-href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Saucony Endorphin Pro</a> <a data-mce-href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Puma Deviate Nitro 2</a> <a data-mce-href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Asics Gel Nimbus</a> <a data-mce-href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nike Pegasus 37 Turbo</a> <a data-mce-href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Adidas Ultra Boost</a> <a data-mce-href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hoka Clifton 8</a> <a data-mce-href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">On Cloudboom Echo</a> <a data-mce-href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">New Balance Fresh Foam</a> <a data-mce-href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brooks Hyperion</a> <a data-mce-href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R_JI_yl-sjve56XCLPgX611CeEiQlZb_pB6FAkIOClo/edit?gid=0#gid=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Altra Rivera</a>I will update the overview ongoing everytime new shoes are introduced.Please also ensure that you remember to use the "runners knot" to tighten your shoes, this will tigthten, so you don't "fall out" of the shoes on sledge push.You can see in this video how to do the knot.<figure id="figure-r0fr1wbhhm1aeag8s" class=""><iframe id="r0fr1wbhhm1aeag8s" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p8EqWE7uueM" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8EqWE7uueM" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p8EqWE7uueM" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>My own favourites:Saucony Edophine Pro for running and Adidas Ultraboost for Hyrox, although I testing Hoka Marc at the moment! My strongest station is Push sledge, so I don't need to focus so much on much grip strenght on my shoes.<figure id="figure-26il80nlfqm19dubnh"><img id="26il80nlfqm19dubnh" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/18Dq6pVVSDcoXmWiwYWL7jRX01G0iLV1yHl02cBTCiBT2Zdu3D0jCCmJv8E9mDiy.jpg" alt="grayscale photo of man exercising" title="grayscale photo of man exercising" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/18Dq6pVVSDcoXmWiwYWL7jRX01G0iLV1yHl02cBTCiBT2Zdu3D0jCCmJv8E9mDiy.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure>Remember to <a data-mce-href="https://hyroxnewbie.com/blog/hyrox-rule-and-guidelines" href="https://hyroxnewbie.com/blog/hyrox-rule-and-guidelines" target="_blank" rel="noopener">check the rules and guidelines</a> for Hyrox (these was recently updated September 2024) <a data-mce-href="https://hyroxnewbie.com/" href="https://hyroxnewbie.com/">Back to front page</a>

Blog

My 10-Year Journey – from Cancer to Growth

What Hyrox shoes should I wear?