Getting to know… Jon High
What made you start running ?
I was overweight, seriously unfit and not getting any younger! I was unhappy about it, and concerned that if I didn’t make some changes to my life it could have some serious consequences that would affect me, and my family.
I’d seen the SE Fitness stand at the Sutton games, so found the website and decided to give them a try. I bought some kit from the Nike store and convinced myself I’d give it a go, in the hope that I didn’t hate it, collapse in a heap, or both.
I remember the moment in my first session (walk to run with Becky) when I would have stopped had I been on my own, and how much further I went because of her encouragement. I also remember how session two was somehow a little bit easier. That was just over 2 years ago and I haven’t stopped since!
What does running do for you?
Running has given me so much! For me running is about being the best version of me that I can be. It’s about having fun while working hard to achieve a goal that doesn’t seem possible. It’s about finding a place of peace and rest – time to reflect and refresh. It’s about inspiring my children to work hard and follow their dreams. Being a runner makes me want to be healthy, so it changes my attitude to eating, drinking and exercise.
Best of all being a runner has meant that I’ve meant some amazing people, and make some really good friends.
I prefer evenings (I think I’m a bit looser having been up and about all day). Definitely prefer roads (and the paths in the park): I like the confidence of knowing what’s under my feet. I think winter is my favourite season – I love those chilly mornings when the sky is blue, the trees and shrubs have a bit of frost on them and the park is empty.
What’s your plan for the future?
I’m running this year’s London Marathon (my second) for the amazing Whizz-Kidz, a national charity that support disabled children.
As part of my training I’ll be running the Ashby 20 in March (that’s 20 miles!), and hopefully a half marathon too. In the autumn I’ll run another half marathon or two to try and beat my PB (1hr 57). Next year I’ll look to do another marathon, though I’m not sure where yet. One day I’m hoping for a sub 4 hour marathon, a sub 1:50 half and a sub 50 minute 10k.
Do you have a favourite event / walk to recommend?
The London Marathon is like nothing else I’ve ever seen or experienced, though I know not everyone can get in, or wants to run 26.2 miles!
Leicestershire half and Fradley 10k are great for PBs, Stafford Relays is a great evening out but somehow nothing beats the enjoyment of the Great Midlands Fun Run!
What’s your top tip?
Comparison is the thief of joy. I try not to compare myself to other people, how fast or far they run, and how they train. I’m never going to win a race, all I want to do is see how good I can be. Success for me isn’t measured by being the quickest, I just want to be fitter, stronger, healthier and happier.
If you’ve read this and would like to donate to Jon’s charity WhizzKidz then please find the page below:
https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-display/showROFundraiserPage?userUrl=JonHigh&pageUrl=1