Mike Tomkins PT

Mike Tomkins PT Qualified PT, Strength and Conditioning coach and Coach in Running Fitness

People who know me will know that even as a personal trainer and coach in running fitness,I don't spend a large amount o...
30/10/2025

People who know me will know that even as a personal trainer and coach in running fitness,I don't spend a large amount of time in the gym (even though I know its good for me).

However, after my first full season of racing on the track and with late winter/early spring races in mind, I decided nothing changes if nothing changes so with a lot of focus on strength training from the lovely people at my training group in Tamworth, I have knuckled down in the gym and even though I will probably always be on the slimmer side, I feel I am starting to notice some differences in my physique. People are always surprised at how important upper body strength is for runners (on top of that very important leg and glute strength).

Running is still the most important thing to me but to be strong with it, run with good form and posture and hopefully avoid injury is just as important.

The main thing here is though the goals are mine, without support and guidance I wouldn't be making these improvements!

Anyway enough of my waffle, enjoy your workouts whatever they may be!



Last week cross-country season started in earnest for Kings Heath Running Club with the cross country relays, solid effo...
26/10/2025

Last week cross-country season started in earnest for Kings Heath Running Club with the cross country relays, solid effort by all... our masters team including yours truly finished 8th overall!

So on to a cold, wet, windy winter season off clomping round muddy fields with bad form feeling like I am running slower than a doom metal track. Plus side is of course the wonderful camaraderie that KHRC bring to the table come rain or shine.



A pleasant day off work and a day off strenuous exercise with Emma in Clevedon
13/10/2025

A pleasant day off work and a day off strenuous exercise with Emma in Clevedon

The early bird catches the summer 10k route in reverse
09/10/2025

The early bird catches the summer 10k route in reverse

Swimming is such a strong word, but I got in. 13 degrees is a lot colder than you think
04/10/2025

Swimming is such a strong word, but I got in. 13 degrees is a lot colder than you think

I like to get outside every day but not every day needs to be full on, sometimes it's a chilled walk with a friend.
24/09/2025

I like to get outside every day but not every day needs to be full on, sometimes it's a chilled walk with a friend.

Last Sunday, my first season focusing on the track and training with Tamworth AC has come to an end.I have really enjoye...
12/09/2025

Last Sunday, my first season focusing on the track and training with Tamworth AC has come to an end.

I have really enjoyed it and would encourage others who run to give track races a try. There are some extra rules, but it's nowhere near as intimidating as one might imagine.

I wouldn't say it's any better than road or trail racing just different, but the feel of going absolutely flat out over such a short space does feel exhilarating whether you are quick or not. I have also found I love the 800m, the two laps of pain in those races, sure are something, but then they are over pretty quickly!

These photos give me lots to work on in the gym in the winter, I definitely need to strengthen my hips and glutes judging by my running form. At least as a personal trainer, that is something I can plan in.

Onwards and upwards to a winters running and rebuilding again!

Btw, I finished the season with an 800m PB of 2:19.75. Not lightning fast, but I hit my goal for the year!


Running is brilliant. It really is.But after driving from Birmingham to Gloucester and back last night for the crapest m...
05/09/2025

Running is brilliant. It really is.

But after driving from Birmingham to Gloucester and back last night for the crapest mile race ever (on my part), I do sometimes wonder.

I have to remember that progression isn't always linear, and there is no perfect line of improvement.

Still, one more track race this season, and then I can reset and go again.

It's been tough, but it's been fun to learn on the track, and I am looking forward to seeing what next year brings (hopefully improved movement and power).

Onwards and upwards!

Track Running - you give, it takes... first year of focusing solely on the track has been fun and sadly is almost over, ...
27/08/2025

Track Running - you give, it takes... first year of focusing solely on the track has been fun and sadly is almost over, some new PBs and some very decent times, mixed with some bang average performances.

I am by far the slowest middle distance runner in my training group, but I am really enjoying training with the Tamworth group and the experience of training completely differently to any way I have ever trained before.

It has been truly refreshing to join this group and has helped me enjoy my running again.... it's also amazing to have the but in of a coach who gives as much input as the runner does themselves. It makes all the difference.

Three more short races this season, then back to the longer stuff and winter training.

Keep on trying new things and enjoy the experience!

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