Miles For Mind - Fiona Rowley

By Buddha Mega Nav March 2, 2019

We'd like to introduce our team of Miles For Mind ambassadors for 2019 who all have a reason to be a part of our virtual event and who want to highlight that #MentalHealthMatters.

Name: Fiona Rowley

Location: Bristol

When did you start running and why:

I started running in February 2015 using the couch to 5k plan. I was 5 stone overweight and had decided enough was enough, this time I was doing it. We all know that to lose weight you need to move more and so I picked running. Something about it was just intriguing, I desperately wanted to know if I could. So one day, one decision I tried and after a few weeks fell in love with the fact that I was able to prove to myself that I could. It became addictive. I just kept on going and its the best thing I've ever done.

What's your favourite ever running experience?

I've two favourite moments. My first ever sub 30 minute 5k and my first marathon. Both were things that just seemed so unreachable. I ran for 1 year and 6 months as a slower runner, that 30 minute mark always seemed so far away. After waiting and working to get to the point that celebrates the average runners 5k time, that first sub 30 5k was a very special day. The marathon was my other favourite moments, that day i universally proved that anyone can run a marathon. From 5 stone overweight, never having exercised before ever to marathon runner. That was was a truly special day.

Who most inspires you in the world of running and why?

Anyone who runs! I find the passion and the dedication of other runners completely inspiring! From new runners to experienced pros, anyone who goes out with commitment and drive to prove to themselves and the world around them that they can do something they believe they cant. The sharing in that journey, watching the highs and the lows, passion and relentless drive and the excited achievements is really a very special thing.

What one bit of advice would you give to a new runner?

Go slow! Go as slow as you need to to the distance. It will be tough, there will be high and lows, but you are stronger than you think. You can do this.

What does the link between running and mental health mean to you?

Everything. I started running to lose weight but you very quickly realise that running is not about losing, its about everything you gain. It's been the one thing that has made this journey for me. Running gives me stress relief, me time, time away from the world. Head space, time to think and reflect and set goals. Its helped me to beat the negative voices in my head, the nagging voice of self doubt. Its proved to me time and time again that I can and that I am capable. It's made me feel like a superwoman! I believe I can do anything I set my mind to now.

What do you hope to get out of being involved with Miles For Mind?

To raise the profile of how running can help your mind!!! It's done so many things for me and I'd like others to have confidence in what running can do to help them.

For anyone who is considering signing up for Miles For Mind this May, entry is now open here and we'd love you to join in and raise money and awareness for the charity Mind!

Team runr.

Click on the logo below to visit the Miles For Mind 2019 page!