Why I started running?
Simon Thornley, one of our runners, had never run before when he joined SE Fitness and yet he has since gone on to run a marathon. I recently asked him how it all happened.
SE: Hello Simon. Just remind me how long you have been running for?
ST: Well Sally I started just over 3 years ago.
SE: And what or who inspired you?
ST: I was a smoker in my late 30’s and the closer I got to 40 the more I thought about my long term health. I decided if I was to run I would have to give up smoking first.
SE: Well that can’t have been easy. And why did you want to run?
ST: With three young boys I didn’t want to be a dad that couldn’t kick a ball around. I also wanted to set them a good example.
SE: Yes, we have seen studies that show if a parent is active then their children are more likely to be active. So, what happened then?
ST: I joined SE Fitness on recommendation of one of my clients and my fitness really improved. So much so that I decided I wanted to run a half marathon.
SE: How was that?
ST: I enjoyed it so much I decided (after a couple of drinks) to enter the London marathon!
SE: Wow! So, one small step led you to running 26.2 miles non stop. Sounds to me as if you have had one big lifestyle change. What health benefits have you gained?
ST: I sleep better, I have more energy, I get fewer colds, I feel good about myself, I am more relaxed and generally life is good.
SE: So, Simon with the years ticking by have you any mad ideas for your 50th?
ST: just watch this space!