Founded in 2010, in the Swiss Alps, On has spent the last ten years revolutionising the act of running, both in its sensation, their cult shoes are designed to mimic the feeling of running on clouds, and its impact, by fostering a sense of creative community around the world. After all, running isn’t just a form of exercise, but a way to spark the imagination, inspire creativity and encourage us to dream bigger, which is why On has created Point2, a special program of events held last weekend before the New York City marathon at MoMA PS1, as part of their ongoing partnership.
A series of next-level workouts, movement classes and shakeout runs hosted by On athletes allowed folks to try out their latest shoes, while performance by Amber Mark and L’Rain, as well as a food market in the courtyard curated by Jaeki Cho of Righteous Eats served as a community gathering. Finally, the night before the big day, as attendees prepared to run and others simply to cheer on their friends, family and fellow athletes, the brand hosted the Mind in Motion Panel with stylist Michelle Li, professional runner Aaliyah Miller, Dr. Michael Mannino of the Flow Research Collective and i-D’s own managing director, Lucy Delacherois-Day. Together, they discussed the relationship between running, movement and the mind.
Here, we meet the seven creatives and athletes that helped make On’s Point2 experience so special, as they share tips for getting into the running-induced, creativity-boosting flow state, and what’s inspiring them right now.

Hannah Steelman
Let’s begin with your relationship with On. When did you begin working with them, and what do you love most about the brand?
I signed my professional contract with On in June 2022, right out of college. There’s so much I love about the brand, notably how I feel valued as a person and not just another athlete to them. I have made so many meaningful relationships within the brand already, and it truly feels like a family. That’s special.
How did you get into running, and what does it mean to you?
I got into running at a young age because my dad would often sign me up to do community 5ks with him for fun. I must have enjoyed them because I chose to try cross country in middle school, and I’ve been running competitively ever since. Running means a lot to me as it continues to bring me some of my absolute favourite memories, as well as so many incredible people and lifelong relationships.
Community-building is such an integral part of both On and Point2. What was it like cheering on all the marathon runners with your team this past weekend?
Watching the marathon — what an experience it was. I have the utmost respect for marathoners, and this past weekend I felt the unique impact of the marathon more than I ever have before. It brings people together. It leaves people feeling inspired. The conditions were brutal for the runners, and they all displayed incredible grit and passion getting to that finish line.
What’s inspiring you right now?
Right now, I’m feeling very inspired by all the marathoners! Especially Hellen Obiri, a fellow On athlete who made her debut in the marathon this past weekend and finished a strong sixth place.

L’Rain
Let’s begin with your relationship with On. When did you begin working with them, and what do you love most about the brand?
On has been supporting MoMA PS1′s programming for the past couple of years, and when I was a curator at the museum, my former colleague Amber Sasse and I helped develop that relationship. I left the museum a little earlier this year to work on personal projects, and I am so happy to continue working with both the brand and my friends at the museum!
First and foremost, On’s products are undeniably incredible. The apparel and shoes are unpretentious, extremely comfortable, and the design is thoughtful (breathable, light, stylish, and lots of pockets – a must for me!)
How did you get into running, and what does it mean to you?
The pandemic slowed me down in ways I’m still reckoning with. I used to bounce around the city at 100 mph, and now I spend most of my time working at home. Just at the point when I was going to recommit myself to being more active, I broke my foot. I was devastated, but had to take time to heal. Now that I’m regaining mobility, I’m trying to find my way back to my old self; I used to run track as a kid, and my mom also used to love to run. I really think running can be a spiritual practice, and I can’t wait to get back to it. Continuing to develop my relationship with On in this moment almost feels like a divine sign.
As a musician, how does running help you to be creative?
Several years ago, someone close to me was in the hospital, and it really took a toll on me. In my darkest moments, I would go to the gym and sit on the bike or go for a run on a treadmill. The repetitive rhythm of my movement would calm me down and recenter me. This is a tool that I’ve carried with me to other parts of my life. If I’m working on something and feel like I’m stuck, I’ll just get up and go for a walk outside. Movement is everything!
What’s inspiring you right now?
The outdoors is rejuvenating for me these days. I grew up in New York City, and as a city kid, I often took nature for granted. But right now, I’m trying to spend as much time as possible among the trees and flowers, and gazing up at the sky.

Michelle Li
How did you get into running and what does it mean to you?
I got into running when I first moved to NYC ten years ago! I grew up playing tennis but struggled to find somewhere to play and build tennis into my routine. So I started running to explore the city and continue exercising. To me, running means reconnecting with reality and getting off of my phone and computer. It also means creating space for myself to take care of my mind and energy.
As a stylist, how does running help you to be creative?
Running helps me play around with ideas in my mind and dive deep into initial thoughts without filtering or being influenced by other thoughts. It’s easier for me to just try things before shutting them down.
What are some useful tools for getting into the flow?
Giving yourself space, being patient and also being okay with not getting into the flow. I like to make sure nothing is rushed, I love my outfit and the music I’m listening to, and that I’ve responded to all emails, texts, etc., so that nothing is weighing on me.
What’s inspiring you right now?
A lot of movies! I’m about to dive into a Pedro Almodóvar hole. It’s either that or going outside and just sitting and knitting in the park.

Chloe Abbott
Let’s begin with your relationship with On. When did you begin working with them, and what do you love most about the brand?
I started working with On in the winter of 2020. During one of the most chaotic times in the world, On did something that no other brand was doing. While other major shoe corporations took a pause on signing any athletes, On found me. They took a chance on me and bought into who I am fully: a singer, an actress, a model and an athlete.
I love their constant desire to show the world how running and art of all kinds are connected. Through On, I don’t have to choose between what I love and what I do. On gives me the support and the resources to do both. And for that, I love them!
How did you get into running, and what does it mean to you?
I got into running when I was in the eighth grade. Right at the end of middle school, I found myself at practice with some of my friends. I was wearing my favourite pink Converse, high tops, to be specific. My dad was the high jump coach for the middle and high school teams at the time. So naturally, I gravitated to being outdoors with the team.
To me, running means freedom over self. When I’m on a long run, I’m in control of the pace I’m going, how hard I wanna work that day and I’m in complete control of the outcome. Running is such a beautiful art form. Naturally, everyone has a different running form. So that indicates creation, being creative with what they have been given. Art is creation at work.
How does running help you be creative? And what are some useful tools for getting into the flow?
Through running, I’ve experienced both hardships and victories. I use what I experience on the track to fuel the songs that I write about. The feelings I have after losing a race are intense. It’s hard not accomplishing a goal I set for myself. I had to decide if these shortcomings are lessons or losses. I learned over time to treat these experiences as lessons. Through that change of perspective, I use that frustration that still exists after a lesson learned and write about it. Changing my perspective allows me to access my flow state.
What’s inspiring you right now?
People who are doing what they love to do unapologetically inspire me. I get inspired watching people give back to the world through what they have been called to do. I desire to be a light for others through what I’m doing on the track, as an artist and with On.

Jaeki Cho
How did you get into running and what does it mean to you?
It started in 2019 when a local run crew, World’s Fair Run Crew, asked to host their weekly runs at Alumni, a sneaker and clothing boutique I own in Flushing, Queens. As soon as I did my first 5K with the squad, I started to call myself Marathon Cho, with the goal of completing a New York City Marathon in the near future. You know, ’cause words manifest. It took a bit longer than I hoped, but I’m glad I was able to do it.
This weekend marked your first marathon. How are you feeling post-run?
I did not know that after finishing 26.2 miles, in order to exit from the finish line, I’d have to walk an additional ten blocks up Central Park, and then walk ten blocks down to meet my loved ones. Sounds irritating, right? The first 36 hours after the run was painful. I’ve had difficulty walking and going up and down the stairs. But as I’m writing this, I feel fine! Think I can go for a 5K, actually.
What are some useful tools for getting into the flow?
I try to run as light as possible. I made sure my Jabra wireless headset was fully charged. Bought a $15 cellphone armband from Amazon. Packed three gels from GU. Everything else, I left it to the embarrassingly minor training I’ve done, determination, and positive mindset. “ONLY 22 miles to go!”
What’s inspiring you right now?
Life. And all the countries I have yet to touch.

Aaliyah Miller
Let’s begin with your relationship with On. When did you begin working with them, and what do you love most about the brand?
I signed with On back in August, and it was special to announce the news just a day after my birthday. I love how attentive and caring the On family is. They are eager to learn about my life outside of running and encourage us to give our thoughts and ideas for future products and apparel.
How did you get into running, and what does it mean to you?
I got into running at a young age, around eight, and slowly built up from summer track to middle school, high school and collegiate racing. Running is a way for me to express myself; it’s fun to push my limits and see how far I can go on this journey.
Community-building is such an integral part of both On and Point2. What was it like cheering on all the marathon runners with your team this past weekend?
It was so special to witness the marathon over the weekend; it was my first one! The marathon is a grind; there is so much work being done behind the scenes that we don’t always see, so to be present for THE day was awesome. It was great to see everyone’s hard work come out and shine in NYC.
What’s inspiring you right now?
Growth is inspiring me right now. I’ve made lots of changes recently – leaving Baylor, signing with On and joining Team Boss out in Boulder, CO. I’m so eager to start this new journey and put in the next level training to make myself one of the best 800 runners in the country.

Amber Mark
Let’s begin with your relationship with On. When did you begin working with them and what do you love most about the brand?
Our relationship began earlier this summer. When they reached out I was so excited because I had heard such amazing things about the brand. I love the comfort and look. It’s wearable anywhere.
How did you get into running and what does it mean to you?
I was never really a runner. I’ve always done more pilates and yoga. I got into running through the On challenge and have since implemented it into my weekly regimen. I love how freeing it is for my mind.
As a musician, how does staying active help you to be creative?
It’s a great way to clear my mind before getting creative or when I need a break from writing. Doing something physical always helps me get out of my head and into a meditative state.
What’s inspiring you right now?
Being outside and spending time with my family and friends, experiencing the highs and lows of life. And working on new music.

David Kilgore
Let’s begin with your relationship with On. When did you begin working with them, and what do you love most about the brand?
I began in September of 2018 and am currently our Head Trail and Ultra manager, as well as an Ultra runner [for On]. My favourite things about On is its commitment to innovation, the incredible staff of entrepreneurial people that it has fostered, and its drive for performance while still keeping people and the planet at the forefront.
This weekend marked your fourth NYC Marathon. How are you feeling post-run?
The energy of the city never fails to prevail. Though Sunday was the toughest NYC marathon for me to record, I am on cloud nine from the incredible crowds each step of the way.
How does running help you be creative? And what are some useful tools for getting into the flow?
Running definitely aids in creativity for myself. With so much constant stimulation, running gives a moment of freedom and escape to allow your mind to wonder and think each day. Some days you may be putting more of that creative energy into pushing hard during a workout or in intimate conversation with a friend, but I think you are always allowing that muscle to awaken and that door to open by going for a run. Some useful tools to get into the flow is to keep putting yourself out there. Don’t be pressured to have to run a certain amount of time, or it can’t happen, but get out the door for what you can each day to put yourself in a more consistent flow.
What’s inspiring you right now?
How people from different walks of life around the globe are using running as a vehicle to better their health, communities and elevate creativity in their own professions. Running is the thread that keeps the world going in so many different ways, and what’s more exciting than that?
Credits
Photography Karl-hens Pompilus
Executive Producers Michael May and Randy Stulberg
Marketing Lacey Hughes
Talent Liaison Emily Mannix
Special thanks to Lucy Delacherois-Day