Welcome to the Irish Examiner's new fitness initiative: Run with Rob

Beat the winter blues with Olympian Rob Heffernan, who is joining forces with the Irish Examiner for a unique 12-week running programme. We catch up with the star athlete to talk about pacing, motivation, and the power of putting one foot in front of the other

Rob Heffernan on the Marina Promenade to launch the Irish Examiner’s Run with Rob campaign. Pictures: Chani Anderson

Rob Heffernan and I meet at Cortado along the Marina promenade in Cork City — the coffee shop he frequents after his morning run.

Not only is Heffernan known on the world stage as a five-time Olympic race walker and a stalwart in Irish athletics — having served as the Irish athletics team captain at the Rio Olympic Games — but in his home city, his presence is equally as impactful.