This boss ‘runs the demons out’ with a 10kg weight vest

Featured in Australia Financial Review

Why running?
I love running for fitness but a big part of it is “running the demons out”. It’s my chance to be alone with my thoughts and reflect on the past couple of days and weeks. It’s where I get to clear my head for a good few hours, and in a weird way, I kind of enjoy the punishment that comes from physically pushing yourself.

Leigh Rust, left, likes to run with a 10-kilogram weighted vest 

Road or track?

Definitely a track runner, especially bush tracks. It’s just so much more peaceful out there. And I feel stoic and empowered being away from civilisation. It’s like, if I don’t run myself out of here, there’s no taxis or Ubers to pick me up, even if I literally run out of puff.

Do you race?

I’ve done a few races, including the Breca Swimrun in Wanaka, New Zealand, the Melbourne Marathon, the City2Surf in Sydney and the GeoQuest Adventure Race on the NSW Mid North Coast.

But I don’t consider myself to be a diehard competitor; running for me is about challenging myself and no one else. Work is all about the numbers, but running is just me against me.

Favourite distance?

10 kilometres is my perfect distance: gets the heart rate going but doesn’t require a big-time commitment.

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Has COVID-19 affected your running schedule or plans?

If anything, it’s increased the amount I run, basically because that’s all we were allowed to do. That’s definitely not a bad thing. I’ve just found myself running a bit extra to counteract the extra stress and uncertainty of these times.

How often do you train?

Usually once or twice per week. I also do strength and conditioning training four times per week, so I like to think I’m maintaining a decent level of fitness.

Are you a morning or night runner?

Morning runner, for sure. As they say, win the morning, win the day, so I like to get some kilometres in first up, and then get the kids ready for school etc. I also prefer to spend time with my family after work.

Social or solo runner?

I was mainly a solo runner for the reasons mentioned before, but lately, I’ve been running with a group called Rising Kings, which is a men’s support network. I’m enjoying the company. It’s always good to have a laugh with the guys as we’re running.

Post-run fuel?

Easy question: avocado on toast and a coffee from my favourite local café, The Whole Leaf in Narrabeen. Even though you can eat what you want after smashing 10 kilometres, I like to think I am making a somewhat healthy choice.

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Ever been lost?

Yes. I was running in the Conjola National Park, south of Sydney, and took a wrong turn at a fork. I was running for probably 45 minutes, heading deeper and deeper into a gorge, when I realised the circuit wasn’t circling around. I have to admit, I did start to panic, especially when it started raining as well, so all I could do was retrace my steps. All up, I ran 21 kilometres.

What motivates you to run?

Always my children, Izaiah, 9, Tahj, 6 and Zahlia, 3. Other motivations are mental health and clarity, and it’s great for fitness at my age. The thought of stacking on some kilos or just being unable to match it with my kids when they’re playing around is enough to get me back out there. As mentioned, it’s my “me time”, as well.

How do you mitigate the risk of injury as you get older?

I’m glad you asked – it’s got me thinking. Right now, nothing, but I should probably start thinking about that. I guess the pace has slowed a bit in recent years, but I’m hardly a disciple of pre-run stretching or anything like that.

Done any marathons? Time?

Yep. Melbourne Marathon in 3:59. I’m happy with that.

Do you travel to run and if so, where?

Yes, New Zealand to compete in the Breca Swimrun and then Crescent Head for the GeoQuest Adventure Race. Technically, they’re not holidays, but it was great to get away from home and accomplish something incredible.

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How do you feel about travelling overseas for running events?

New Zealand was phenomenal. It’s such a beautiful country, it almost felt like I was running in a movie. Very keen to do that one again.

Favourite piece of kit?

My 10-kilogram weighted vest! It’s not for everyone but I love it. It just adds another challenge to the run. I wear it every time I set off for a run.

Dream running buddy?

David Goggins, the American ultramarathon runner. That guy is a machine. I probably wouldn’t be able to keep up with him, but I would die trying.