PAUL’S HERO: GUNILLA

“Ultramarathons offer a chance to discover new places and your inner strength.”

Ultra-athlete and mother of three, Gunilla Kidmark

Your energy and positive outlook inspire many. Who or what inspires you?

Thank you! That’s so nice to hear. I’m inspired by people who challenge themselves and work toward goals that may seem difficult or even impossible, but who, through their dedication, achieve incredible things step by step.

I’m also inspired by friends who work full-time, have families, and still manage to complete ultramarathons, prepare for Ironman competitions, or train just to lead long and healthy lives. Isn’t that the purpose of training? To stay active as we age?

Has running, especially ultramarathons, been a long-term part of your life, or did you come to it later?

I started running after the birth of my third child when I wanted to get back in shape and needed time for myself. I began with just a few kilometers near my home, which soon turned into longer distances. I really enjoyed it, and running became a part of my lifestyle.

A few years later, I completed a marathon, and after that, everything felt possible. With a slow and steady pace, I can run for hours, and ultramarathons give me the chance to explore new places while also discovering my inner strength and resilience.

It’s also a great way to spend time with friends—we pack coffee and snacks in our backpacks and spend the whole day running together. I love those days!

Your social media suggests you train outdoors both for work and fun. Do you also have a day job that might surprise your followers?

I’m actually a teacher, but for the past couple of years, I’ve been working for a small IT company. I do most of my work from home, which suits me perfectly because it allows me to plan my schedule—taking training breaks during lunch or going for a run or swim when the weather is nice.

In addition, I’m a running coach for Trailrunning Sweden, where I introduce running enthusiasts to the beautiful trails in our city. There, work and fun blend seamlessly.

Based on your social media, you’re involved in trail running, winter swimming, swimming, cycling, gym workouts, and skiing, in addition to ultramarathons. Is there anything else? Are there any activities you’d like to try but haven’t yet?

Yes, I truly love outdoor sports and training in nature. My most recent additions are triathlon and swimrun. Last year, I learned to freestyle swim and absolutely love open-water swimming! I feel so free and happy in the water.

I want to participate in more triathlon and swimrun events and gain experience swimming in more challenging conditions.

What’s your connection to Paul Berg jackets?

I love them! I have the warm winter jacket, the Nordic Changing Robe, which I use during cold winter swims and before and after my runs. I also have the Light Outdoor Robe, which I wear in the summer and autumn.

I use them almost daily, whether for swimming or just walking my dog, to stay warm and comfortable.

If you want to learn more about Gunilla’s activities, visit her Instagram page by clicking here: @gunillakidmark

You can also explore the products Gunilla uses: