Blue Sky Running

My Story

Hi, I’m Hannah Kirkman. Based in Somerset, in the South West, I’m a personal trainer, ChiRunning instructor, Restore Your Core (RYC®) teacher, and Restorative Exercise Specialist.

Like many people, I came to ChiRunning as a chronically injured runner, after struggling for years with Achilles tendonosis that almost forced me to give up running for good. I’d just accepted pain and injury as an occupational hazard of running, so it was a revelation to discover that it doesn’t have to be that way!

Through ChiRunning, I rediscovered the joy of running again. I was able to get back into marathon running – something I thought was over for me – and even go beyond 26.2 miles! As I moved into my late 40s and early 50s, I started to experience niggles, and limitations in my movement. It hurt to look over my shoulder while I was driving. Reaching my arms behind me became a challenge. Pelvic floor issues, that began after the birth of my son, continued to get worse.

But this was just part of getting old, right?

Two developments really changed my perspective on my body and what it was capable of. The first was discovering Katy Bowman and Move Your DNA. This was a lightbulb moment for me. I realised that what I was experiencing was less to do with ageing, and more the result of a lack of variety and quality in my movement diet.

The second was finding Lauren Ohayon and Restore Your Core. Through training with the RYC® programme, I feel fitter and stronger in my 50s than I did in my 20s and 30s, and enjoy challenging my boundaries. My experience has sparked a deep interest in mindful movement, and its positive effects on health and well-being.

I work with clients of all ages and fitness levels, and love helping people re-discover enjoyment and ease in running well and moving well.

In addition to being a ChiRunning Senior Instructor, RYC® teacher, and Restorative Exercise Certified Personal Trainer, I also hold the following qualifications:

• Oxygen Advantage® Instructor

• NASM Performance Enhancement Specialist

• NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist

• Active IQ Level 4 Certificate in Physical Activity and Lifestyle Strategies for Managing Low Back Pain

• Active IQ Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training

• Active IQ Level 3 Diploma in Exercise Referral

• Postural Assessment and Corrective Exercise Instructor

• Nutritional Advisor

• First Aider

• Fully insured