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Raise Your Game: You're a great role model for young women. Why should more young people get involved in sport?

Jenny Meadows: I've been involved in the sport since I was seven-years-old and I have learned so many things in life from it, such as making friends and discipline. I remember doing exams in school and everyone was always so nervous and I thought "I've run on the track in front of all these people, this is nothing!" Sport teaches you about commitment and to dedicate yourself. Whether you make it to the top or not, sport gives you great skills that you can use in life.

RYG: What advice would you give on dealing with pressure?

JM: Be realistic. You know you've got to pass exams so you can move onto the next level. It's the same with racing. I'm not always the favourite to win, but I still enjoy it. The main thing is that I've planned for it and even if the result isn't great, I know I've done the best I can do. It's being true to, and believing in, yourself.

RYG: How important are things like nutrition and getting the right amount of rest?

JM: Try and make sure you eat healthy food. You can have the occasional treat, but you also need to balance your diet with foods such as meat and vegetables. It will prevent you from getting colds and enable you to train and to do whatever you want in every day life.

What advice would you give to young people looking to follow your success?

JM: Concentrate on yourself. I've always been fortunate in that I'm quite good at what I do, but there have been many people who have made it to GB level and they weren't necessarily the fastest runner in their class at school. It's down to planning, preparation and being dedicated.

RYG: Have you had to make many sacrifices along the way?

JM: Absolutely. Success doesn't come overnight and there's certain things you can't do. I've missed so many weddings, christenings and birthdays, but I know all my family are there behind me, wanting me to do really well and it was worth the sacrifice.

RYG: How important is it for you to set yourself goals to achieve success?

JM: We call it PB (personal best) and there's no better feeling, even if I've won a race, than recording a personal best. It's setting yourself personal goals, but also realistic goals. Don't aim too high, but set yourself a goal which is a little bit out of your reach. You might achieve it and then you can set a new goal.

RYG: Is it important for everybody to get out there and take part?

JM: Athletics is a great sport with many different events and athletes come in all shapes and sizes. I'm one of the smallest athletes on the track. They call me the 'pocket rocket'. So never say never, there'll be an event out there for you.