On 21st February 2023 I decided I wanted to start running; I’ve always loved sports and regularly attended group fitness classes within my local community. Unfortunately due to training to become a teacher I could no longer afford gym class fees and really missed both the physical, mental and social benefits of exercising.

I took off from my doorstep and ran 0.53miles in 5 minutes 31 seconds. The absolute furthest I could run and was completely exhausted! 🥵

Since then I progressed my distance and speed gradually, regularly completing 5k distances and then increasing to 10k’s towards the end of summer 2023. I joined Hoad Hill Harriers in September and am thoroughly enjoying being part of this fabulous community-minded running group.

I signed up to Manchester Marathon in January with the ambition of completing my first marathon before I’m 30 in May this year.

Since then I’ve continued to increase my distances and completed my first half marathon distance in training runs on January 27th.

These longer distances are proving to be both a mental and physical challenge. I am trying to balance pushing myself whilst being cautious not to overdo it and aggrevate a knee injury I’ve been carefully rehabilitating.

My current training programme consists of runs - both long distance, “easy” and intervals alongside strength training with CrossFit and Pilates. I have experienced amazing support and advice from many local fitness enthusiasts such as gym owners, physios and other amateur athletes who have continuously encouraged and motivated me along the way to reaching my goals!

I self funded my marathon entry as this is something I really wanted to achieve for myself, but I’d also really like to use this personal challenge as an opportunity to raise money for some very worthy charities that carry sentimental importance to me:

• Kidney Research UK
• British Heart Foundation

Any monies raised will be split equally between these two charities to make a difference to those living with life-limiting conditions and their families.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Any donations, no matter how big or small, will be greatly appreciated and hopefully help me complete the miles on the big day itself, as well as spurring me on through these training runs in the very miserable, yet typical British weather we’re experiencing this Spring!

Briony xxx