Paying off in the long run

Twelve City2Surfs in and AIRCDRE Jules Adams still doesn’t call herself a runner.

That hasn’t stopped her lining up for the iconic 14km Sydney event year after year – and it’s exactly why she wants more aviators to give the world’s largest fun run a go.

At 57, and with almost 40 years of service split between the Royal Air Force and RAAF, AIRCDRE Adams is candid that none of this comes naturally to her, but consistent exercise is key.

“I personally find running really difficult,” she said.

“It’s much easier to stay fit than it is to get fit. But once you gain a bit of fitness, it changes so much of your life.

“It gives you the stamina and capacity to push through fatigue and respond to challenging situations.”

She’s also adamant City2Surf doesn’t belong only to the high-performing fast athlete.

“There is no shame in walking in it,” AIRCDRE Adams said.

“14km is nothing to be able to walk – and if you can run part of it as well, that’s just a bonus.

“It’s a complete leveller. Everyone’s got a war story at the end.”

For AIRCDRE Adams, City2Surf is about the people she shares it with as much as the run itself. She ran this year with her husband and a group of current and former colleagues who’ve joined them for years, turning the trip to Sydney into a standing tradition built on training and friendship.

She also used the event to raise crucial funds for her charity of choice, the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service.

“The charity doesn’t provide based on gender, culture or age,” AIRCDRE Adams said.

“It responds based on the medical emergency. It’s a service everyone would want in their corner if they really needed it.”

Five days after finishing City2Surf, AIRCDRE Adams laced up again for a 30km walk along the NSW South Coast, raising money for another important cause: Beyond Blue.

She believes a long-standing commitment to exercise throughout her career has played a part in maintaining positive mental health.

That discipline starts early. She’s usually up at 5am for a high-intensity interval training session, combining strength and aerobics in a fast-paced format, before a very full office day as Chief of Staff AFHQ.

“I made a deliberate decision that I would time my exercise around my work because it doesn’t work for me otherwise,” she said.

“I know a lot of people who find exercise is their outlet, and I think it’s great to help build a strong body and mind.”

Her advice to any aviator still on the fence is simple.

“Pick an activity you enjoy and be consistent,” AIRCDRE Adams said.

“There are plenty of apps to help you plan and track your fitness, but AI [is] not going to do it for you.

“You can’t cheat your own body. At some point, you have to put the hard yards in.”

For aviators interested in trying a new sport, the Air Force Sports Council, headed by AIRCDRE Adams, has a SharePoint page on the DPN with information on clubs and how to get involved.

If you’re keen to try running, the Australian Defence Force Running and Athletic Association offers free membership to all Service members and can help you take the first step.