David Taylor started running with us exactly 12 months ago. He has offered to share his story with our readers.
‘Last year I suffered an overwhelming bout of depression. The black dog really had got out of control and I had to leave work. My GP was fantastic and supportive; I was referred to the local Community Mental health Clinic, who, with a combination of talking therapy and medication started me on the road to recovery. I realised, however that a piece of self- help therapy would further assist my getting better: exercise.
A friend suggested that I look at running with a group and so I turned up at the Wyndley Leisure Centre one morning and was welcomed with open arms. I have never been a natural for running and found the prospect of joining a group a little daunting but I was put at ease. In the first week I could not manage to run for more than a minute, I was very unfit.
After a couple of months of 2 or 3 sessions a week I completed a 5km in a time I was pleased with. Dr Roger Bannister’s record is safe with me but I felt great all the same.
Some mornings the black dog would keep me in bed – it happens – but it was far easier to get back at the running. It pushed me enough but not too much and I gained confidence. Running in a group is a sociable event, and Sutton Park is just fantastic for the soul. Sun in the trees, steam coming off the tracks after a summer rain shower, snow weighing down the boughs, there is always something to enjoy and marvel at.
Now, I have recovered well in both mind and body and the black dog is back in his box. Running has done me the world of good’
If David’s story inspires you, why not try our free taster sessions on Saturday May 4th at 9am?