WARRIOR
“Running has changed my outlook on what gives me joy. It gives you all the dopamine hits that you get from a romantic par tner and there’s such value in that.”
Comedian Helen Thorn had an on-and-off relationship with running for many years until she needed it more than ever and it really came through for her. With glorious honesty, she tells us about her journey from heartbreak, booze and fags to having the fitness age of a 20-year-old – and how running is now her one true love
Words: Rachel Ifans
Helen Thorn – author, comedian, podcaster, runner and all-round infectious inspirer-type – is 43. She tours the country alongside comedy partner Ellie Gibson with their double act, Scummy Mummies, and last year she wrote the book Get Divorced, Be Happy. Although we could chat for hours about both of those, that’s not what she’s here to talk about; if you’ve ever see Helen's instagram, it’s not a spoiler to say that Helen is a massive running fan…
A few false starts Having grown up in Australia in a culture that was focused on sport and sporting ability, Helen took to it all like a duck to water. Until, that is, puberty came knocking.
She remembers: “I wasn’t aware of my body as a child but when I became a teenager, my body changed: I got a massive pair of tits, a good set of hips and I got spotty. All these things shouldn’t matter but I felt like my body wasn’t a sporty body anymore and there wasn’t anything to dispel that myth in the media at that time.”
Despite having a father who would get up every day to go for a run, Helen’s sporting life faltered. She says: “All the good netball players were thin, blonde and leggy and I just didn’t feel like I fitted in, so I think my sporting career was hindered by this, as well as my own self-worth and confidence.”
HELEN’S ESSENTIAL KIT
Must-haves when Helen is out on a run
#1 Wine gums
Top tip: put them in the fridge overnight and then they won’t get sticky in your pocket!
#2 Physio tape
Do a big X on your back with physio tape where your bra strap hooks and it will avoid any chafing. I have learnt this the hard way.
#3 Knee-high socks
Yes, they look silly, but are absolutely brilliant on long runs!
#4 Sweaty Betty Power leggings
I have loads of these! They have pockets, they feel great and I love the patterns.
#5 90s pop tunes
I love a bit of cheesy pop, especially Kylie! I find singing along to Better The Devil You Know makes me smile and keeps me distracted from all those miles.
#6 Adidas Ultra Boost
I am on my third pair of these trainers; they’re so spongy and bouncy and they last for EVER.
#7 Garmin Forerunner 245
I am all about the nerdy stats and my Garmin app said I had the fitness age of a 20-year-old so I will never take this watch off again!