Rachel Murphy
Founder, Trail and Ultra Coach
England Athletics FMR & LiRF, Certified UESCA Ultra Running Coach
About
She Runs Outdoors was established and is owned by Salomon Ambassador, Trail Runner and Coach Rachel Murphy.
Rachel is a certified UESCA Ultra Running Coach. She holds a Leadership in Running and Fitness and Fell and Mountain Running Coach qualification with England Athletics and is qualified in Outdoors First Aid.
She lives with her husband and three children in West Sussex.
Rachel set up She Runs Outdoors in order to share her love of trail running and create opportunities for women to get outside and enjoy the trails in a relaxed and secure environment.
She wanted to create an opportunity for women, in particular, to support and empower one another through their physical endeavours.
By creating a women-only experience, I aim to provide a relaxed and nurturing environment, where you can tap into your adventurous spirit, without any pressure, whilst having lots of fun.
Some people lack the confidence to run off-road, perhaps because they are worried about getting lost or feeling isolated and insecure. Many also worry that it will be harder, more physically challenging, serious and competitive. But I am keen to dispel those myths and introduce people to the sport that has added so much to my life.
At She Runs Outdoors, I can guide people through the transition from road to trail, guiding you at your own pace and giving you the support you need along the way.
Whether you’ve never trail run before or are already experienced and want to explore the trails together, She Runs Outdoors can take you on that journey.
“Trail running is all about taking risks, getting dirty, making mistakes, learning, growing, building confidence in your physical ability but most importantly having fun!
She Runs Outdoors is not about competing with one another – it’s about sharing the experience.
I believe when women support each other, they can lift and empower one another. Having fun together allows us to push a little harder and be more adventurous while exploring the natural playground.”
Rachel's Story
I ran both track and cross-country for my school but like many teenagers I gave it all up when I left. It wasn’t until I was in my late 30s that I started to run again. Spurred on by wanting to get fit before I turned 40, and to help with my mental health, I quickly went from running around my village to heading across the fields and woods near my home.
From there I further explored the beautiful South and North Downs near where I live and fell head over heels in love with trail running. I soon started competing in races starting at a modest 8km before building up to becoming the ultra-runner that I am now.
As a competitive runner, I have noticed that trail and ultra-races are predominantly entered by men and although this seems to be changing, I began to question why?
I hope that by helping women find their trail confidence, we can help turn this tide together and I can help women to find the joy that I have from running in beautiful places.
Since getting into trail running I have introduced many runners to the trails, both men and women alike. My supportive style has inspired many to do things that they never dreamed of and to push their own boundaries further than they probably knew they could.
You can follow me on Instagram as @rachrunsoutdoors but this isn't just about me it's about all the women who run with She Runs Outdoors. I hope you are one of them!
Follow all of our adventures here
Heidi L
I went on my first ever trail run with Rachel, and I was terrified! But Rachel showed me just how achievable and fun trail running can be. She’s led several runs I’ve been on and always takes it at the pace you want to run at, is relaxed and supportive and lots of fun. It’s opened up a whole new world for me, and I haven’t looked back! Everything feels accessible now, and that is such a great feeling. And I’ve never felt stronger.
Lisa F
Rachel is really knowledgeable about the area and offers a variety of runs in different places with varied terrains. Relaxed and easy going atmosphere. Friendly participants.
Alice B
Having lost a bit of confidence in my running I was unsure as to whether I should join the 10k run feeling worried I’d be holding everyone up. I’m so glad that I went. Rachel made everyone feel totally at ease from the start and at no point did I feel out of my depth. I’m looking forward to many more runs with She runs outdoors. If you are unsure or nervous about joining a run, I can highly recommend it. You’ll be made to feel welcome and will meet lovely like minded people. You’ll also pick up a few running tips along the way so all in all, great value for money! Can’t recommend this enough.