All Together Now - The Farm

I thought I’d share some thoughts about weight-loss in a group setting. As a Lifestyle and Performance Coach, diet is very much part of people’s journey with me and over the years, there have been some amazing transformations. My current ‘group’ are some 130.3kgs (20st 7lbs) lighter than when they started working with me. And I say this as a ‘group’ as the real success has been the WhatsApp group which they are part of. Sure they have the one-to-one relationship with me as their coach, but whatever their goal is, being part of that group has been really useful.

We all know that losing weight is a challenging journey, requiring not just physical effort but also mental resilience and a considered lifestyle change. Whilst individual motivation and discipline are crucial, research and real-life experiences suggest that losing weight in a group setting can be significantly more effective. This effectiveness stems from various psychological, social, and practical factors that come into play when people work together towards a common goal. Being part of a group leads to better outcomes, sustained success, and a more enjoyable experience overall.

 

Social Support and Accountability

 

One of the most powerful benefits of a group is the social support that people provide to each other. The process of losing weight can be lonely and frustrating, particularly when progress is slow, or the dreaded weight-gain occurs. In a group, people share their experiences, struggles, and triumphs with others who are going through similar challenges. This shared experience creates a sense of camaraderie and understanding, making it easier to stay in motivation city.

 

Moreover, being part of a group introduces a level of accountability that is often missing with solo efforts. When individuals know they have to report their progress to a group, it can increase their commitment to their goals. The desire not to disappoint others or appear as if they are not trying hard enough can push individuals to adhere more closely to their weight loss plans. This accountability is a strong motivator, as it helps people stay on track, even during tough times when they might otherwise be tempted to give up.

 

Peer Power

 

Peer influence is another significant factor that makes group weight loss more effective. We’re social creatures, and are influenced by the behaviours, attitudes, and habits of those around us. In a group, positive behaviours, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and consistent progress, can be contagious. When people see others succeeding, they are likely to feel inspired and motivated to achieve similar results.

 

Conversely, when someone in the group is struggling, the collective encouragement and advice from others can help them overcome  their problems. The group can offer practical tips, emotional support, and even a friendly nudge in the right direction, which can make a significant difference in that person’s ability to persevere.

 

Emotional and Psychological Benefits

 

The emotional and psychological benefits of a group are infinite. The journey to losing weight often involves overcoming deep-seated habits, emotional eating, and psychological barriers. Being part of a group that understands these challenges can be incredibly comforting and empowering.

 

People offer empathy, share coping strategies, and celebrate even the smallest of victories that might otherwise go unnoticed. For instance, someone might be struggling to see progress on the scales but has noticed improved energy levels, better sleep, or a drop in clothing size. In a group setting, these successes are recognised and celebrated, which boosts morale and reinforces positive behavioural changes.

 

Furthermore, the sense of belonging to a community can alleviate feelings of isolation or inadequacy that often accompany weight struggles. Knowing that others are facing similar challenges helps normalise the experience and reduces the stigma or shame that some individuals may feel about their size.

 

Competitive Spirit and Shared Goals

 

Another reason why losing weight in a group is effective is the element of healthy competition that often arises. Whilst the primary goal is to support each other, a little friendly competition can spur people to push themselves harder than they might do on their own.

 

This competitive spirit, when balanced with support, can lead to much better outcomes. People are often more motivated to perform well when they know others are watching and when there is a tangible goal to strive for. Additionally, setting shared goals as a group can create a unified sense of purpose and drive collective progress.

 

Improved Adherence and Sustainability

 

One of the biggest challenges in weight loss is maintaining long-term adherence to healthy habits. Many people who lose weight quickly regain it because they struggle to sustain the behaviours that led to their initial success.

 

People in a group are more likely to stick with their weight loss efforts because they feel a sense of responsibility not just to themselves, but also to their peers. The ongoing support and check-ins provided by the group can help individuals stay focused on their long-term goals, even after they have achieved their initial weight loss targets.

 

Moreover, the relationships formed in a group setting can lead to lasting social bonds that continue to provide support and encouragement long after they’ve reached their goal. These connections can be crucial in helping individuals navigate the challenges of maintaining their future weight.

 

Is it for ME?

 

Losing weight in a group setting works best because of the powerful combination of social support, accountability, peer influence, structured guidance, and emotional benefits that it provides. The sense of community, shared goals, and mutual encouragement found in a group makes the journey not only more successful but also more enjoyable. By capitalising on the collective strength of a group, people are more likely to overcome problems, stay motivated, and achieve lasting weight-loss results.

 

Does it really work?

 

Well, all I can tell you is that it does! And if you are trying to lose weight, control your drinking or run a PB - you’ll find it’s easier if you are part of a group. I’m consistently overwhelmed at the success of my simple Coleman Coaching ‘WhatsApp’ Group. It’s pinging a constant reminder of it’s part of my clients’ journeys to success.

 

Come and be part of it and see for yourself if you are still unsure and ask anyone that’s in there what they think…

1,192 Marathons - 279 Ultras - 17 Marathon des Sables - 9 GWR - One Life

King of Pain - The Police

How many times have you heard, ‘I’ve got a bad (insert the relative strain or injury here) but it’s okay to run on if I take some pain killers'. I've heard it said a thousand times and luckily, over my thirty plus years of running, I’ve been lucky enough to have survived injury free - well apart from a couple of life-threatening illnesses of course.

 

Now what to do when you are injured is one thing. How to stop being injured in the first place is another matter and far more important imho.

 

I’ve always worked hard on doing just this by concentrating my energy on the bio-mechanical aspect of my running. Coming late into the sport at 31, my bones were probably completely fossilised and following years of relative inactivity, I started my running career injury-free.

 

And very soon, I worked out that the type of running shoes that you wear make things a whole lot easier on the body. A boring mid-priced shoe that stopped my over pronation did the trick. I found that the flashier the trainer was, the less it helped, and I tried every brand back then, I can assure you. Saucony won back then btw.

 

Having the correct shoes has helped me and my clients until the past ten years or so when the lighter, less supportive foam soled trainers appeared on the market. IT Bands suddenly became hurty and knees ached.  Recently I’ve blogged on the New Balance and Brooks trainers I've been using and their potential injury issues.

 

With the right shoes, I believe in having some private health insurance if things do go wrong. Let's face it your GP and the local A&E dept aren’t really interested in running injuries. However, for £100/month private health insurance companies are all ears in providing MRI scans, specialist consultants and even knee clinics, with no expense spared.

 

So from now on, please take my advice and stop if anything hurts and pay for some private medical insurance - you are going to need it one day. And if you are stuck in a rut and don’t know what to do, then contact me as I'm sure I can help.

Enjoy your running, remember that? I mean, isn’t that why we started in the first place...

1,192 Marathons - 279 Ultras - 17 Marathon des Sables - 9 GWR - One Life 

New Life - Depeche Mode

Coleman Life Laundry: Decluttering for a Better Life 

In our ever-busy world’s, it’s easy to accumulate physical and mental clutter. This build-up can lead to stress, confusion, and a sense of feeling overwhelmed. To combat this problem, I have the ‘Coleman Life Laundry’ - a process of decluttering and reorganising to achieve a simpler, more fulfilling life. The practice, popularised by various lifestyle gurus and organisational experts, is about more than just cleaning up your space; it’s about creating an environment that supports mental clarity and emotional well-being with an added twist of Coleman knowledge and experience thrown in.

 

The Concept of a ‘Life Laundry’

A ‘Life Laundry’ involves systematically evaluating and removing unnecessary items from your life, both physical and mental. The term itself combines the routine nature of laundry with the transformative effect of decluttering. Just as doing laundry cleans and refreshes your clothes, life laundry cleanses and revitalises your emotions.

 

The Benefits of Decluttering

 

Physical Space

One of the most immediate benefits of a ‘Life Laundry’ is the transformation of physical spaces. Cluttered environments can contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety. According to research, unorganised spaces can negatively affect our ability to focus and process information. By decluttering, we create a more organised, efficient, and visually appealing living or working environment. I always ask people what the interior of their car looks like - if it’s a farmyard, it speaks volumes.

 

Mental Clarity

A ‘Life Laundry’ also extends to mental decluttering. Our minds can become cluttered with unnecessary thoughts, worries, and mental to-do lists. By organising our thoughts and prioritising tasks, we can achieve far more. Techniques such as mindfulness, walking and meditation are often incorporated into ‘Life Laundry’ practices to help clear the mind.

 

Emotional Well-being

Letting go of things that no longer serve us can have a profound emotional impact. Sentimental clutter, in particular, can weigh heavily on our emotions. By addressing and releasing these items, we can process and move on emotional baggage free.

 

Steps to Life Laundry

 

Step 1: Assess and Plan

The first step in life laundry is assessment. Take a thorough look at your possessions and identify areas of clutter. This includes physical spaces like your home and office, as well as digital spaces like your computer and smartphone. Planning is crucial; set realistic goals and create a schedule to tackle different areas one-by-one.

 

Step 2: Sort and Categorise

Once you’ve assessed your spaces, begin sorting items into categories: keep, donate, recycle, and discard. This step can be challenging, especially when dealing with sentimental items. A helpful strategy is to ask whether an item is useful or brings joy. If it doesn’t, discard - simple.

 

Step 3: Organise and Store

After sorting, organise the items you’ve decided to keep. Invest in storage solutions that work for your space and lifestyle. Clear containers, labels, and shelving can help maintain order. The goal is to create a system where everything has a designated place, making it easier to find and return items when they’ve been used.

 

Step 4: Digital Declutter

Digital spaces are often overlooked in the decluttering process. Start by organising your computer files, emails, and smartphone apps. Unsubscribe from unnecessary email lists, delete unused apps, and back up important files. A streamlined digital space can significantly reduce stress and increase productivity.

 

Step 5: Maintain

The final step in life laundry is maintenance. Regularly review and declutter your spaces to prevent the accumulation of new clutter. Establish routines that incorporate tidying and organising into your daily or weekly schedule. This ongoing process ensures that your environment remains supportive and conducive your new positive lifestyle.

 

‘Life Laundry’ Beyond Physical Spaces

 

Time Management

A ‘Life Laundry’ also involves decluttering how we manage time. Evaluate your commitments and activities to identify what’s truly important. Learn to say no to obligations that don’t align with your goals and values. Prioritise tasks that contribute to your well-being and personal growth.

 

Relationships

Our relationships can benefit from a ‘Life Laundry’ approach. Reflect on the people in your life. Do you really love/like them? Do they love/like you? Or is your relationship and love-life boring or even worse non-existent? Do you wish you were with someone else?

 

Hold on to relationships that are supportive and fulfilling and distance yourself from ‘Energy Vampires’ and ‘Mood Hoovers’.

 

Financial Decluttering

Financial ‘Life Laundry’ involves organising and simplifying your finances. Review your expenses, create a budget, and eliminate unnecessary spending. Simplify your financial accounts and cash up daily knowing exactly what you are worth to the penny. I have done so for years now, and it’s amazing how year-on-year you can see growth and financial stability. A clear picture of what you have in the bank and invested can reduce stress and help you feel more positive about the future. Debt isn’t a bad thing if it’s reducing you’ll find. Cash up daily and it will disappear far quicker.

 

The Psychological Impact

The psychological impact of a ‘Life Laundry’ can be profound. By creating order in our physical and mental spaces, we can reduce anxiety, improve focus, and enhance overall well-being. The process of letting go can also be empowering, helping us to build resilience and adaptability.

 

Stress Reduction

Clutter is often associated with increased stress levels. A study by the University of California found that women with cluttered homes had higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Decluttering can create a sense of control and calm, leading to reduced stress.

 

Improved Focus and Productivity

An organised environment can enhance focus and productivity. When our spaces are clutter-free, we can concentrate better on tasks and projects. This can lead to improved performance and a greater sense of accomplishment.

 

Enhanced Creativity

A clean, organised space can also boost creativity. Without the distraction of clutter, our minds are free to explore new ideas and solutions. Many artists and writers advocate for a tidier workspace to assist with creative thinking.

 

A Cleaner Future

‘Life Laundry’ is more than just a trend; it’s a holistic approach to living a simpler, more intentional life. By decluttering our physical, digital, and emotional spaces, we can create an environment that supports our well-being and personal growth. The process of a ‘Life Laundry’ encourages us to evaluate what’s truly important, let go of what no longer serves us, and make room for the things that bring us joy and fulfilment.

 

Incorporating a ‘Life Laundry’ into our routine can lead to significant improvements in our quality of life. Whether it’s reducing stress, increasing productivity, or enhancing our emotional well-being, the benefits are plain to see. Try embracing the principles of a ‘Coleman Life Laundry’, and together we can cultivate a lifestyle that is not only organised and efficient but also rich and meaningful. Just send me an email rory@colemancoaching.co.uk and we can wash away your past together and make the rest of your life DAZzle.

1,192 Marathons - 279 Ultras - 17 MDS - 9 GWR - 1 Life

Echoes - The Pink Floyd

Music that defined the 70's

There are certain bands, albums and tracks that have accompanied my life’s ups and downs. No doubt you have your own back catalogue but here I’m going to tell you mine. And if you are a regular reader of my blog, you’ll know that the music of messers Gilmour, Mason, Waters & Wright aka ‘The Pink Floyd’, has topped my charts more times than any other band and I featured the tracks ‘Time’ or ‘Sheep’ on many occasions.

However, trying to pick one’s ‘Desert Island Discs’ from the bands peak period - that’s Meddle ’71, Dark Side of the Moon ’73, Wish you were here ’75, Animals ’77 and The Wall ’79 is a challenge too far I’m afraid and if you are a Pink Floyd fan of a similar age to me you’ll understand the impossible equation. You see, their music has played a huge role in developing my ‘Coleman-world’ and it’s the simple complexity of the music combined with acidic lyrics that I’ve always loved. Yes, the Gilmour Waters duo and their love hate relationship that’s given their music the edge. 

 

I first heard Dark Side at my friend’s house in 1973 (he had an older sister with a record deck) and I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve bought ‘Wish you were here’ on tape, CD, Album, MP3, Apple & Spotify formats. Sadly, I missed the Animals tour in 1977, but I did buy The Wall on its release in November 1979 and saw their much-acclaimed world tour at Earls Court in August 1980 - where they only played thirty nights worldwide.

 

No wonder the band’s music is embedded in my DNA.

 

It’s permeated its way into my life in countless ways. It’s served as a backdrop to fifty years of life experiences. It’s shaped my moods, enhance my memories, and provided comfort during difficult times – (and boy I’ve had my fair share of those).

 

Jen calls it ‘depressing’ and says it’s ‘wrist slashing music’ but I think that’s what I like about it. I love the darkness, the anger, the pure vitriol but I also admire the unbelievable musicianship that shines out from every song. The two, yes two, guitar solos in Comfortably Numb will never be surpassed.

 

During the Marathon des Sables, I have a ‘Pink Floyd Day’ where I play the above albums in order in their entirety and listen deeply to the music as I wonder at the scenery around me in a complete-surround-sound-world. I’ve shed many tears in this heightened-state and I’d recommend this to anyone that wants to experience a special out-of-body audio-experience.

 

Could you get this listening to Genesis or Coldplay? - perhaps. There’s certainly not enough depth of field with these or other bands as it’s the whole Pink Floyd  emotional atmosphere that provides the ‘Ingredient X’, the catalyst to a higher state that makes the ordinary, feel extraordinary.

I recommend a good pair of headphones and listening in ‘Lossless’ studio sound quality for the full effect. 

 

Try, ‘Welcome to the Machine’ for an amazing sonic experience where you’ll be able to hear the full range of sound effects that a Pioneer CTF4040 Cassette Deck couldn’t deliver back in 1980. It still feels strange to hear this minus the added tornado of hiss that Dolby couldn’t suppress.

 

And for the record (no pun intended), I’ll be listening to Echoes when I’m at the gym - where twenty-two minutes of their amazing music, might just redefine my future once again. 

1,192 Marathons - 279 Ultras - 17 MDS - 9 GWR & Comfortably Numb

Red Shoes - Kate Bush

Saucony Grid Courageous

I’m always being asked the question, ‘what’s the running shoe’ and until recent years’ this has always been a relatively simple choice. However, running shoes are changing.

Companies that have previously made bombproof high-mileage shoes, are now following the trend of now making high-stacking unstable shoes with low heel drops. Painful knees, strained Achilles, aching IT Bands and even stress-fractures abound.

 

And with thirty years of trouble-free running with over half of that being a running coach; I believe these problems have become more prevalent over the last ten years or so, possibly since having lightweight training shoes became the fashionable option.

 

My own running shoe history…

 Thirty years’ ago, I was advised to buy the rather underwhelming Saucony Grid Courageous III at a running store by a well-seasoned runner. It was possibly the ‘uncoolest’ running shoe ever produced but I was advised it was the right one for me. And it did ‘what it said on the box’ and proved to be a great running shoe that could cope with my 100 miles of weekly running, and it was indestructible - they literally didn’t wear out. And neither did I, as they were so stable none of the above injury problems occurred.

 

Asics DS Trainer

Then in the late 90’s ASICS produced the DS Trainer and DS Racer. Both lightweight trainers, that I used during my marathon PB and the 55-mile London to Brighton Road Race. I loved them but the soles didn’t last, and they were soon super-ceded by their Gel Kayano shoe, which has never been very good imho.

 

So, I moved back to Saucony using the Grid Stabil. I brilliant stability trainer I used to run 2004km from London to Lisbon quite comfortably until the materials in the shoes were changed and a less supportive model was introduced. Bah…

 

Brooks Adrenalin GTS6

By 2006 I’d looked around and found the Brooks Adrenalin GTS 6 that fitted the bill. I used them in their various upgrades until recently. Some years, the Adrenalin GTS 13 and the GTS 20 being excellent versions, others such as the Adrenalin GTS 16 and GTS 22 less so. I’ve recommended them to 000s of people for training and used them for the Marathon des Sables in their 4E width form for years.

 

Until 2024.

 

The problem is, they’ve gone and changed the design and made them far less stable. They just feel really clunky and a common trend in the people I coach, (me included) are Plantar Fasciitis issues, when using them for high-mileage training or in Ultra-distance races. There are just too many occurrences now for it not to be an issue and I’ve stopped using them as my go to running shoe.

 

So where now?

Well, I’ve been using the New Balance 880 v13 in it’s 4E width form which fits the bill quite nicely BUT is a ‘Fresh Foam’ shoe which with continual use will only lead to knee issues I believe. But what better high-mileage option is out there? I’m very unsure. And right now, I’m juggling hurty knees and plantar issues until something better comes along, OR one of the above brands go ‘old-school’ and make a what I call, decent running once shoe again.

 

Anyone feel the same? And no HOKA and Altra, aren’t better options.

1,192 Marathons - 279 Ultras - 9 GWR - 17 MDS - 1 Life

So you win again - Hot Chocolate

‘It’s not the taking part, it’s the winning that counts’ – Jen Coleman 

It’s a great quote and one of my wife’s best imho. And if you were watching the Euros last week, I’m sure Mr Southgate and all the England fans (who are still waiting to win a trophy for the first time since 1966), would agree.

 

To see where the saying might have originated, I checked my good friend, Google but couldn’t find any reference to the statement in the ‘Jen’ form at all, only the usual ‘wokey’ ‘it’s the taking part that counts’ version. 

 

I say ‘wokey’ as I think Jen’s right – it’s all about the winning. Maybe not at any cost, but who sets out to come second, third or even last? Who sets out wanting to lose?

 

You see, winning matters for a multitude of reasons. The drive to win is embedded into our human nature and culture. It influences our actions, relationships, and institutions. Understanding why winning matters provides an insight into human motivation and behaviour. What makes us want to win?

 

Personal Fulfilment and Achievement?

On a personal level, winning is often associated with a sense of achievement and fulfilment. When folk set goals and strive to attain them, winning validates their efforts, skills, and perseverance. The sense of accomplishment can enhance self-esteem and confidence and foster a positive self-image.

 

Motivation and Goal Setting?

Winning’s a powerful motivator. It drives folk on to push past their limits and set higher standards and goals. The prospect of winning encourages people to invest time and effort into their pursuits, whether in sports, academia, careers, or personal projects. Winning is crucial for personal growth and development and let’s face it, if you want to win, you are bound to try harder.

 

Social Recognition and Status?

Winning brings social recognition and status. Being recognised as a winner leads to admiration, respect, and increased social standing. Recognition opens doors to new opportunities, including career advancements, partnerships, and social connections. Being seen as a winner looks good on your LinkedIn.

 

Economic Benefits?

In many cases, winning also brings tangible economic benefits. This is particularly evident in competitive fields such sport, entertainment, and in business. Winning a major tournament, award, or contract can result in significant financial rewards, sponsorships, and lucrative deals. These economic incentives provide additional motivation for folk and teams to strive for victory.

 

Psychological Well-being?

The psychological impact of winning is profound. Success can enhance mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. The positive emotions associated with winning, such as joy, pride, and satisfaction, contribute to overall well-being. Additionally, the resilience built through overcoming challenges and achieving success strengthens mental fortitude. 

 

Learning and Growth?

Winning also plays a crucial role in the learning process. The journey to victory involves setting goals, devising strategies, and overcoming obstacles. Even the experience of losing on the path to winning is valuable, as it provides lessons that can lead to future success. The process of striving, failing, learning, and eventually winning is a fundamental aspect of growth and development.

 

Teamwork and Collaboration?

In many contexts, winning is a collective effort that requires teamwork and collaboration. Working towards a common goal fosters a sense of unity and camaraderie amongst team members. It teaches the importance of co-operation, communication, and mutual support. Winning as a team can strengthen bonds and create lasting relationships.

 

Societal and Cultural Impact?

On a broader scale, winning has significant societal and cultural implications. Victories in international sports, for instance, can instil national pride and unity. Cultural icons and role models who achieve great success can inspire and motivate entire generations, shaping cultural norms and aspirations. 

 

Competitive Advantage and Innovation?

In the business world, winning often translates to gaining a competitive edge. Companies that succeed in their markets can set industry standards, drive innovation, and influence market trends. The pursuit of victory in the marketplace fosters innovation, as businesses continually strive to improve their products, services, and processes. 

 

Ethical Considerations and Balance?

Whilst winning is important, it is equally crucial to consider the ethical implications and maintain a balance. The pursuit of victory should not come at the expense of integrity, fairness, and respect for others. Ethical behaviour and sportsmanship are essential to ensuring that the quest for success remains positive and constructive. The upcoming Olympic games will be peppered with the highs 

 

Conclusion

Winning matters for a myriad of reasons that span personal fulfilment, motivation, social recognition, economic benefits, psychological well-being, learning, teamwork, societal impact, and competitive advantage. However, it is important to balance the pursuit of victory with ethical considerations, ensuring that success is achieved with integrity and respect for others. Understanding why winning matters provides valuable insights into human nature and the dynamics of competition, highlighting its profound impact on individual lives and societal progress.

1,192 Marathons - 279 Ultras - 9 GWR - 17 MDS - Still Winning

Lose yourself - Eminem

If you had one shot or one opportunity to seize everything you’ve ever wanted in a moment would you capture it or just let it slip?

 

If you are risk adverse, don’t like taking chances and would never gamble – you probably would let it slip. Living without ever leaping through sliding doors, following one’s instinct or plainly grabbing the moment can lead to a very ordinary existence imho. But, if ordinary suits you, then that’s great…

 

However, for some folk, every day is a gamble. A permanent game of chance where living life on the edge is normality and where adrenalin is the driver in the need to succeed.

 

It goes without saying that it’s always best to have a balanced approach to living but what happens if you are someone that knowingly needs to change but finds change impossible. I’m often asked, ‘how do you it?’ or rather ‘how did you do it?’ as it was such a long time ago when I ‘changed’. Now if I’m being honest, there was no magic trick – I just knew things had to be different and that there was a better life out there for me.

 

The concept took time to build and about eighteen months to come to the moment when I simply flicked a switch in my brain and said to myself that I’d throw away some of my behavioural processes. Sounds easy, eh? I can tell you it’s not. With a mere 5% success rate, going ‘Cold Turkey’ is a gamble that even the biggest sucker wouldn’t take. It’s a good job I didn’t know at the time as it’s an easy out when things get tough, but it’s one where the folk I work with gamble and win time and time again.

 

You see, there’s definitely something about ‘projected success’ if there is such a thing and being accountable to someone else that’s been there, got the T-shirt and has succeeded.

 

 Okay it’s hard excluding something that, we love, desire or depend on in some cases and it takes time to escape our demons. A time where we can feel loss, loneliness and a lack of direction. I found replacing addiction with a low level of daily exercise (when I started) really helped and as I reduced my element of daily risk of relapse, I felt calmer and in a far more stable state of control.

 

Thirty years on and I’m still living life this way, using my own philosophy to get through the ups and downs of daily life. When I started out on this journey, folk thought I’d lost my marbles – but in reality, I made a life-changing decision that would become life-changing for many other people too.

 

Coming out of lockdown, it’s worth taking a few moments to consider and recalibrate your thoughts and actions as we head towards 2025 and think about the future. I’m someone with first-hand knowledge of ‘Your Health is your Wealth’ both in a self-inflicted way and by cruel chance. My advice it to lower the odds of losing out on the greatest gift you’ll ever have and look after yourself. 

 

It’ll give you the brightest future you could ever imagine.

 

And as Marshall Bruce Mathers III put so well - ‘This opportunity comes once in a lifetime’ to which I must add, ‘so don’t f@ck it up’…

 

Amen

1,190 Marathons - 277 Ultras – 9 GWR – 17 Marathon des Sables – 1 Life