My Running Journey From 27 Stone to Confident Runner

My running journey proves that anyone can become a runner, no matter where they start. If you are reading this and wondering if running is for you, I hope my story helps you take that first step.

How My Running Journey Began

In 2019 I weighed over 27 stone, around 171 kg, and exercise had never entered my mind. All through childhood and my teenage years I did anything I could to get out of movement. I wrote notes to my teachers, skipped sports days and somehow always seemed to come down with the flu when exercise was involved.

I made every excuse I could to avoid exercise. Now I actively choose to run. If that sounds like a big shift, it is, and it is why I describe this as my running journey rather than just a training plan.

Hitting Rock Bottom and Choosing Change

My wake up call came in 2019 when I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes just before my 30th birthday. I knew that the excuses had to stop. I did not want to be, in my own words, fat at 30.

I changed my routine, focused on my health and started following a popular plan called The 1:1 Diet. By 2020 I had lost more than 70 kg. The confidence rush was unreal. People noticed the change, they asked questions and for the first time in years I felt light on my feet.

Behind closed doors I was still struggling though. I slipped into a cycle of overeating a bit, regaining, then losing again. Classic yo yo dieting. I knew I did not want to go backwards or risk becoming diabetic again. It felt like a very slippery road.

Discovering Parkrun and Taking the First Step

To break that pattern I needed something new. I wanted a way to increase my calories slightly but still maintain my weight and my health. That is when I found running and the next chapter of my running journey started.

A local person I knew posted about something called parkrun on social media. I was intrigued. I had never seen myself as a runner and honestly I thought it just was not for me. Desperation pushed me to reach out and I arranged to go the following week.

parkrun, written with a lower case p, is a community led running event that is open to everyone. Runners and walkers of all levels take part every Saturday morning in a simple 5k. From pros to first timers, it really is for anyone.

Building Confidence Through Running

When the big day came I warmed up, took my place on the start line and ran my first 5k beside a runner with more than 20 years of experience. We aimed for a 45 minute finish.

The run felt awful. I was out of breath and out of shape. My pacer, who was around 15 years older than me, made it look easy. I finished in just over 46 minutes.

Something inside me changed that day. Even with the struggle I felt a rush of adrenaline that made me want more. I later learned that this feeling is often called runner's high and it can be very addictive in the best possible way.

From Weight Loss to a New Way of Living

Week after week I went back to parkrun and became a regular in my local area. Every Saturday turned into a fight to beat my last PB. That weekly challenge became the fire that kept me going.

My legs grew stronger, my breathing improved and eventually I was running 5k in around 21 minutes. The hard work was paying off and I felt better than I had since my teenage years.

Why Running Became Part of My Career

Running soon became more than exercise or a way to manage my weight. It became something I genuinely loved. It gave me structure, confidence and a clear purpose. I honestly believe that running has helped my mental health and I feel much more grounded as a person.

Like most runners I became obsessed with trying different running gear. I wanted to know how it fit, how it performed and how it felt on longer runs. That curiosity eventually led me to create STRYQ, my own small running brand.

STRYQ started as a side project and a genuine interest in performance gear. It quickly grew into my main focus. We launched two core products to support your running journey, a lightweight running belt and a comfortable running vest. Both are designed to help you carry your essentials without ruining your rhythm.

What My Running Journey Looks Like Now

Today I have completed more than five half marathons, one full marathon and covered over 1,620 km in just six months of training blocks. I used to believe that running was only for people who looked like runners. The truth is very different. Running is for anyone brave enough to take that first stride.

If I can go from 27 stone, avoiding sports days, to crossing finish lines, then you can move forward on your own running journey too. Lace up, take that first step and keep showing up. If you want change, you usually need to work bloody hard for it, but it is worth it.

If you are looking for more tips and support, you can explore our running tips blog category for practical advice to support your own running journey.

This story was originally published in the Runners Life publication on Medium. You can read the original version here: Running from Couch to Confidence.

Running Journey FAQ

How do I start my own running journey?

Start slow and focus on consistency rather than speed. Short run and walk intervals work well. Parkrun and couch to 5k plans are brilliant, beginner friendly ways to build fitness step by step.

What gear is best for starting a running journey?

Comfort and practicality are the most important factors. A good pair of running shoes and lightweight gear that lets you carry your phone, keys and fuel without bouncing will make every run easier. The STRYQ running belt and STRYQ running vest are designed to support both beginners and regular runners.

How long does it take to see progress in running?

Most people notice progress in fitness, breathing and pace within six to eight weeks if they run two to three times per week. Small, steady improvements are normal. Try to track your running journey with distance, time and how you feel, not just speed.

Can running help with weight loss?

Running burns calories and helps increase your daily energy output. Combined with a balanced diet it can be an effective tool for weight loss and long term weight management. It can also improve mood, sleep and confidence, which all support a healthier lifestyle.