Start Where You Are is a great book for anyone near the start of their running journey.
Before I introduce the book, let me tell you were I am with running. I'm Charlie Hobbs, I'm in my mid 50's, I'm a little overweight and Long Covid is still slowing me down. I've always done a little running, but was mainly a mountain biker. However, when Bum Butter was being picked up and trusted by the running world I was suddenly in a world of super motivated people, and Sabrina is certainly one of them.
My running is is bursts. I've previously set out very keen, increased the distance, and within a week I am injured. So, I feel I was stuck in a beginner loop, a running Groundhog Day. This book has broken that cycle… I am now making real running progress.
Female Focused - Not Female Specific
So, yes it is a book that is a “running guide for women”, and I am a man… so how does that work out? I can tell you it is working out just fine. The information in the book is very valuable to men and women. There are some areas covered that men may want to skip over, which is fine.
Really Motivating.
This is the books super power. Sabrina writes with encouragement and practical wisdom, this guide helps beginners build confidence, strength, and consistency without pressure.
What sets this book apart is its supportive, realistic voice — it meets you exactly where you are, whether you’re brand new to running or returning after a long break. You’ll find easy-to-follow training plans, thoughtful motivation, and tips that make running feel achievable and joyful.
Technical Advice
In short the book is rammed full brilliant advice. It covers the actual act of running with excellent easily understood information. And also details the kit side of running life. It really is packed full of the information you need.
What Does Sabrina Recommend For Chafing?
I am super excited to tell you the Bum Butter is recommended by Sabrina in her book. Bum Butter is trusted by thousands of runners - but this is special. This makes for a very proud moment for the cottage industry brand that is Bum Butter. When Bum Butter gets an endorsement from such a respected runner, It proves that Bum Butter really works. In a world of big brands with massive advertising budgets it is very encouraging to break through in such a great book.
In Conclusion.
If you’re a woman (or man) ready to lace up your running shoes and take on your first 5K — Start Where You Are: The Beginner’s 5K Running Guide for Women is the perfect companion.
For anyone looking to turn “maybe someday” into “today’s the day,” Start Where You Are is a positive, empowering read that will inspire you to cross your first 5K finish line with pride.
Charlies Rating.. 5 Stars
Written by Charlie Hobbs: Founder of Bum Butter
Charlie Hobbs (formally known as Charlie the Bikemonger) is a veteran of the British endurance sports industry and the founder of Bum Butter, the UK’s premier 100% natural, vegan anti-chafing cream. With a career spanning over four decades in off-road riding, Hobbs is a recognized pioneer in the UK gravel cycling scene, having founded the Dorset Gravel Dash—the UK's first ever gravel event—and invented the Clunker Classic. He was also a long-standing columnist and Merchandising Manager for Singletrack World Magazine, one of the world's leading cycling magazines and media outlets.
While his roots are in cycling, Charlie is also an active hiker, mountaineer, and runner, regularly testing the limits of Bum Butter on the trails of the Dorset Coast and Hebden Bridge. This "on-the-ground" experience as both a cyclist and a runner ensures that every batch of Bum Butter is formulated to withstand the specific friction demands of ultra-running and high-mileage training.
After 16 years as the owner of the renowned retail shop Bikemonger, Hobbs transitioned to focus on high-performance athlete care. He currently serves as the Lead Director of Bum Butter Ltd, where he oversees the business of handmade, petrochemical-free chamois balms used by Olympic gold medalists and everyday athletes alike.