**Movember600 Final Update π**
And that's a wrap—600km clocked in just under 60 hours of running! Joined by more than 500 amazing people, delivered 11 talks (reaching over 2000 folks), and together we raised close to £5000 for @movember.
Feeling proud of what we achieved, especially in spreading inspiration and hope. Here's a quick rundown of the last 3 days:
**Day 28** - Easy jog with friends; running with a club is a game-changer—motivation and external accountability in one!
**Day 29** - A pleasure getting to know @guthealthking, such an amazing person. Thanks for the early start! Wrapped up the last 8km with @gracemolloy_10, chatting about Top Boy over coffee!
**Day 30** - Woke up a bit sad, but the turnout for the last day was incredible. Ran most of it with @xavib8man, reflecting on each other’s challenges. Kudos for the 465 challenge! π§‘𧑠@tom_blackettpt @ajdunn98 @artygoo @m_blacky @vinnneezzz @stephdeeble @sophievhardy
Time for a break. Stay tuned for a couple of reflective posts, but first, need to decompress a bit!
Massive thanks to everyone who ran, donated, checked in, and supported in your own way! I love and appreciate each and every one of you. Surrounded by the best and beautiful people—another reason to keep living. π§‘𧑠#Movember600 #letsgetitdone
**Movember600 Final Day Emotions πβοΈπ**
Feeling a rush of emotions as tomorrow marks the last day. Reflecting on incredible support, amazing mornings, and the unbelievable scenes all in the name of Movember in London!
Excitement, a touch of sadness, and overwhelming gratitude. Ready to savor every step of the final 30km tomorrow! π§‘π #Movember600 #FinalStretch #movember
**Movember600 Update 9 πβοΈπ¬**
Can't believe this is the second last update. The last few days have been really up and down, but somehow I managed to get through it…with all the best people supporting me!
**Day 25** - Easy 10km with the @deadgoodrunclub and @barbaraella__ . I am so glad we got to run together! @_willthethird has really built such a great community. I have been there every Saturday this month and had an overwhelming amount of support.
**Day 26** - Odd feeling on Sunday for the 20km. I really just wanted to get it done and out of the way. It was nice to sit and have coffee with everyone and unwind a bit!
**Day 27** - Mentally the hardest day for me, but lucky to have @shjames15, @abihosier, and @benlaw see me through this one. One of us always has energy to perk the others up!
A special mention - @shjames15 was the first person I told about this challenge in April, and his response was “Yup, you will smash it, and I’ll help with all the long runs”. Sam shows up. Without question. EVERY FUCKING TIME. So much love and respect, brother, and thanks for getting me this far along the month and everything you have done for me π§‘
Last 60km… sad it’s coming to an end, but going to soak up the last few days and enjoy it the best I can!
**Mental** - 4/10 (I feel like this should be higher, but today was a particularly low day)
**Physical** - 4/10 (legs are in bits, but physio and 10km tomorrow should help)
#Movember600 #FinalStretch #MentalHealthJourney
**Movember600 Update 8 πβοΈπ¬**
Firstly, I had the privilege to host a session with Jonnie Peacock @04jonpea, whose views on happiness and simplicity of perspective really resonated with me! Just a great human being, and thank you for speaking to the team at @visa.
Personally, the past 3 days have been exceptionally tough, and this time of year holds deep personal significance beyond Movember. A lunchtime conversation with @jonny_visuals underscored that I still have a lot to work on.
**Day 22** - Long overdue run with @carmenjmly. A smashing 10km with an amazing sunrise run to work! Deep chats, focusing on proximity friendships and the bird theory, gave me a lot to think about.
**Day 23** - A choppy start turned into the most enjoyable run. @shjames15 and I discussed relationships and being comfortable within ourselves. Another spectacular sunrise—feeling spoiled.
**Day 24** - When vulnerability surfaces, friends show up. Huge thanks to @shjames15, @stephen_murtagh, @freddiemccann, @gracemolloy_10, @benlaw, and @shah257 for seeing me through today! Your support means the world.
Pumped for the weekend. Work's been intense, and I'm feeling quite drained physically and mentally.
**Mental** - 3/10 (anticipating challenging days, but I'm okay and ready for it! πͺπΎ)
**Physical** - 5/10 (If I claimed any higher after 480kms, I'd be lying!)
120km to go! Almost there!! #Movember600 #FinalStretch #MentalHealthJourney
The last few days #movember600
**Movember600 Update 7 πβοΈπ**
Reflecting on the past few days, last year's unexpected high contrasted sharply with December's total low, leaving me uncertain about how to handle it. In-depth discussions with my counselor highlighted the need for balance and strategies to navigate the inevitable lows during December.
**Day 19** - An easy 10km with @gracemolloy_10, a much-needed catch-up and a coffee to wrap it up! Perfect start to a Sunday!
**Day 20** - Overnight work stress clouded my mind; I initially resisted running. However, hitting the pavement settled me, created energy, and had me pumped for the day. Thanks to @shjames15 for being a sounding board.
**Day 21** - A 4:30 am start, legs heavy as lead. Physically challenging to begin, but Sam and I, saying very little, found solace in each other's company. Catching up with friends for the last 5km was uplifting. π«ΆπΎπ«ΆπΎ
Received sad news overnight of @lifeofamurph unexpected passing. She was amazing, and I'll miss her stepping on my shoes for attention. π§‘π§‘
Onward to the next 60km. #Movember600 #ReflectAndRun #movember
**#Movember600 Update 6 πβοΈπ¬**
Amidst the kilometers, it's not just about the running. One goal this year was to speak openly about my challenge and mental health. Spoken at 8 events, reaching over 1000 people.
We had a @movember event at @visauk (thanks to @alicequadling & @sophievhardy for pulling it together). By sharing, I aim to shape the environment, fostering a culture where people feel safe to talk without judgment.
**Day 16** - 10km to work with @betseystrader and @vinnneezzz. Conversations about showing up and being there for people! π«ΆπΎ
**Day 17** - Friday's 20km with @emma.hanratty, revisiting last year's route was really special. Perfect weather and lots of work chat - a significant factor impacting us beyond the office!
**Day 18** - Tough day. Tired, sore, legs like lead. Grateful for @jackbingham4, @artygoo, @stephen_murtagh, @katefoster_, @deadgoodrunclub, and @run4rene for pushing me through. Jack's insight on reflecting during struggles made me reflect on the importance of talking when we're struggling, whether in running, working, or life.
Special mention to Steph from R4R - a champion for mental health and a true inspiration. Really lifted my spirits seeing her even briefly. π§‘
Time for rest and focus on the next 60kms. #Movember600 #MentalHealthTalks #KeepPushingLimits
**#Movember600 Update 5 πβοΈπ**
Incredible journey - 300km, halfway there. A rollercoaster of emotions these past days but today's 30km was amazing!
**Day 13** - First full solo run. Needed headspace after feeling a bit over-socialized. Spoke to the team at @kp.films about my @movember challenge and men's mental health.
**Day 14** - Back with friends @shjames15 and @abihosier Overthinking, questioning the challenge, but Sam's simple wisdom hit home - "You feel like this today, tomorrow you'll feel different." Great chats with @seancolfer and @elliot.johnston8 πͺπΎ.
**Day 15** - Felt great despite the 5am start, an easy start with Sam, sometimes not saying much but having company is great! Caught up with @stephdeeble for the last 5km - chatting and enjoying one of the best sunrises of all my runs!
**Mental** - 6/10 (these scores I feel are a bit skewed since I post at the end of a big 30km)
**Physical** - 7/10 (pretty solid overall!)
Halfway point - a proud milestone. Ready to dive into the second half of the month! π #Movember600 #HalfwayThere #KeepPushingLimits
**Movember600 Update 4**
4th cycle completed, that's 240 km in 12 days, and over 140 people have joined so far! πβοΈ The last three days have been challenging for different reasons, but here is the breakdown.
**Day 10** - Woke up, threw up, and couldn't keep any food down. Thank God it was a 10km day. Met @xavib8man for his Movember challenge, running 465 in increments of 1km each day. We spoke about how running is easier while chatting with others and having company!
**Day 11** - Still couldn't eat and had to dig deep to get into the zone to complete 20km. So lucky to run with @deadgoodrunclub and @run4rene on such a sunny day. Thanks to @freddiemccann and @sophiebowles, who ran the full 20km. Sophie and I chatted over a post-run breakfast about everyone being on their journey and the importance of having more good days than bad in life. Do what makes you happy!
**Day 12** - Had the pleasure to meet and run with @fionagammond, and she is a legend for running the full 30! We chatted about putting your mind to something, having the belief you can get it done, and the importance of having an outlet to deal with life! Thanks to @ecvince01, @fin_coates and @betseystrader for running the later kms when I needed the boost!
My chats are definitely longer than being able to summarize into a short(ish) post, but Fin and I spoke about one thing that really encapsulates why I do this work for @movember - talking is important, and even though it might feel hard the first few times, it gets easier the more you open up!
**Mental** - 8/10 (feeling good overall, although I think I am generally stressed with a lot going on!)
**Physical** - 5/10 (this feels like I’m just complaining, but being sick has really killed my diet and running on empty for two days was tough!)
Chill this evening, and I'm really looking forward to a solo 10km tomorrow to reflect on my progress so far and a big week ahead! π #Movember600 #MentalHealth #KeepPushingLimits
180km in 9 days for #Movember600! Over 100 runners joined!
Mental: 5/10, Physical: 7/10. Next 60km, let’s roll! πβοΈπ #MentalHealthMatters #movember600
**Movember600 Update 3**
Third cycle of 10, 20, 30 done. That's 180km in 9 days… and here's the breakdown:
**Day 7** - Body settling into a 10k recovery day really well, so running with @puresportclubs and catching up with friends was fantastic! Also saw @benlaw for his last day of his challenge... what a legend!
**Day 8** - @shjames15 and I met Alex, Dan, and Ian for 20km. Work chat turned the last 8km into a meeting about an upcoming project… π€
**Day 9** - The dreaded 30km. Started at 5:15 to meet Sam and set off in the streets of East London. We talked about our attitudes toward running/sport and work, turning negatives into positives. Arty joined us till I hit 20km, then a solo 8km to work. Surprise: both @stephdeeble and @muffinkelly ran that morning to support! π«ΆπΎπ«ΆπΎ
**Fun fact** - I've run with over 100 people in the first 9 days, more than double from last year's @movember!
**Mental** - 5/10 (a bit on my mind, trying to live more in the moment than constantly planning for what’s coming)
**Physical** - 7/10 (generally tired, with a strange sore back, but holding up well)
Now gearing up for the next 60km! Let's go! πβοΈπ¨ #Movember600 #MentalHealthMatters #KeepPushingLimits
@movember Update #2
Another round of 10, 20, 30 km done, and I've got a few thoughts to share.
To be honest, I expected to be more exhausted by now, especially after the real struggle of the first three days.
**Day 4** - The 10km with @_willthethird and the @dead_good_coffee run club was nothing short of awesome. Being surrounded by friends was an incredible boost.
**Day 5** - I woke up feeling surprisingly great (I think those 10km days for recovery might be onto something πͺπΎ). Enjoyed the weather and the sights of running in London!
**Day 6** - Second 30km and a full day in the office, that was tough. Heavy legs, burning quads, and mentally exhausted by the end of the day.
Mentally: 7/10 (thanks to being home and having friends around)
Physically: 6/10 (a bit tired, just need a little more sleep and some stretching/massage)
Now, the focus is on the next 3 days! Let's keep pushing forward. πͺπβοΈ #Movember600 #MentalHealthAwareness #KeepMoving
Starting the #Movember600 challenge - honestly, I’m a mix of nerves and excitement. The road ahead is long, but the journey is what matters most. Let’s run, share, and inspire change together!πβοΈπ #Movember #MentalHealthAwareness
**Movember600 Update: First 60km Done!** πβοΈπ¨
Three days into the #Movember600 challenge, and I'm already learning so much.
I was filled with both anxiety and anticipation leading up to November 1st, which meant I hardly slept more than a few hours. But the journey has begun!
**Day 1** - Kicked off the first 10km run with @shjames15 and @abihosier, an amazing way to start. We run, chat, and debrief on life regularly, and this run was a chilled one before heading to work and then rushing to Windsor for a work conference.
**Day 2** - Started at 5 am, braving a storm for 20km. Running on an unfamiliar route, in pitch darkness, pouring rain, on the road - it was a test. But I had 18 people join me, so I never ran alone. Straight from that run into a full conference day.
**Day 3** - After barely 4 hours of sleep, I embarked on a 4:30 am start for 30km, same route. 15 people joined along the way, which made it special. I'll be honest, mentally, I was exhausted, and Sam gave me a call around halfway for some encouragement. I got so emotional that I couldn't stop crying. But we made it - 30km done!
Thanks for all the messages and support so far! π§‘π§‘
Mental - 4/10 (how the fuck will I get this done?)
Physical - 7/10 (need to get a good routine of sleep, food and recovery!)
These first three days have been challenging, but they've also been a testament to the power of determination. 530km in 27 days to go. Let's keep pushing those limits! πͺπ #Movember #MentalHealthMatters #Movember600
Next week, the #Movember600 challenge begins! πβοΈ 600 kilometers in 30 days, one stride at a time. I’ll admit, I’m feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. But, most importantly, I’m thrilled to spark open conversations about mental health.
For those of you who are joining me, @shjames15 and I will coordinate routes and times via a WhatsApp group! If you are keen to join drop me a DM or sign up via www.anilt.com - you can also donate to my @movember campaign!
Join me in pushing limits and inspiring change! π #Movember #MentalHealthAwareness
Short run around the streets of Istanbul with some friends. Can’t believe I have known Tuan for 10 years and it’s the first time we have run together!
MOVEMBER 600KM!!!
This November, I’m running 600km to fundraise for @movember and raise awareness for men’s mental health
I’ll be breaking this challenge down into three-day cycles of 10kms, 20kms, 30kms, and each cycle will represent every decade I’ve struggled with and overcome the mental health challenges that life has thrown my way.
I cannot wait to take to the streets of London for this huge task and I’d absolutely love for you to join me on some runs and make this challenge a month of awareness, resilience, and growth. Together, we’ll create positive conversation around men’s mental health π§
#humansareamazing #challenge #distancerunning
MOVEMBER 600KM!!!
This November, I’m running 600km to fundraise for @movember and raise awareness for men’s mental health
I’ll be breaking this challenge down into three-day cycles of 10kms, 20kms, 30kms, and each cycle will represent every decade I’ve struggled with and overcome the mental health challenges that life has thrown my way.
I cannot wait to take to the streets of London for this huge task and I’d absolutely love for you to join me on some runs and make this challenge a month of awareness, resilience, and growth. Together, we’ll create positive conversation around men’s mental health π§
#humansareamazing #challenge #distancerunning
600KM CHALLENGE - WHOSE WITH ME? π
This November, I’m taking on an incredible challenge, running 600km to fundraise for @movember and shine a spotlight on men’s mental health πβοΈ
Breaking it down into three-day cycles of 10kms, 20kms, 30kms, each part of this journey represents a decade of overcoming the mental health challenges life has thrown my way π§
Join me in making this November a month of awareness, resilience, and growth. Together, we’ll create positive change for men’s mental health. π
I’ll be taking on this challenge in London, and I’ll release more information on how you can join me on my daily November runs soon π―
#mentalhealth #runningchallenge #humansareamazing
This years #movember challenge is only 6 weeks away! Taking some time to reflect on the amazing journey I was on last year with some great friends! #mentalhealth #menshealth #runninglife
100 days to @movember.
I wanted to share how I have been in the last 6 weeks and the fact I needed a break from being on socials.
Things have been hard...being home and facing some difficult conversations with close friends, losing some close people in my life, questioning if I handled the last 6 months the best I could have.
I had one split second moment where I questioned my life, I am strong enough to realise that is not who I am or wanted to be and thought about my best moment in June which was when Remy told me I was his best friend. I couldn't let him down... Ever.
Some days you live for yourself, some days you live for others but the goal is to continue living.
This Movember will be massive, running 10km, 20km, 30km every three days totalling 600kms for the month. I want to talk this year about mental health as a journey and something I deal with daily rather than an event at a point in time in someone's life.
#movember600 #movember #mentalhealthawareness #mensmentalhealth #mentalhealth #selfcare #mentalhealthawareness #selflove #anxiety #depression #mentalhealthmatters #wellness #therapy #mindfulness
π£ Join me this November as I embark on a bigger challenge for mental health awareness! Last year, I ran 465 kilometers in November, symbolizing the importance of addressing our mental well-being. This year, I'm taking it to the next level by challenging myself to run 600 kilometers, reflecting on the mental health journey I've traveled through my teens, 20s, and 30s. πβοΈπͺ
Through a series of 3-day cycles, I'll be covering 10 kilometers, 20 kilometers, and 30 kilometers, pushing my physical limits to start important conversations about mental health. It's not just about the distance; it's about the endurance, resilience, and growth we experience along the way.
By openly discussing my own mental health journey, I hope to inspire others to do the same. Let's break the silence and create a supportive community where we can share our challenges, triumphs, and stories of resilience. Together, we can break down the stigma surrounding mental health and pave the way for understanding, compassion, and healing. π€π
I invite you all to join me on this impactful mission. Whether you're a runner, a mental health advocate, or someone who wants to make a difference, your support is invaluable. Spread the word, join me for a run, or simply share your own experiences. Let's make November a month of awareness, growth, and positive change. π±π
Use the hashtag #Movember600 to follow my journey, join the conversation, and show your support. Together, we can make a difference and create a world where mental health is openly discussed, understood, and nurtured. Thank you for being a part of this incredible movement. Let's lace up our shoes and run for mental health! πππβοΈ #mentalhealthawareness #endthestigma #movember
Some days just are yours...
Haven't been feeling great for a while and struggled through the run. A lot has been on my mind and impacting me, family, work, friends, relationships.
Happy to get it done and will be back next year!
London Landmarks βοΈ
Thanks for the last min spot @shjames15
No training, a day full of beers and KFC yesterday.
The goal was to get it done in time to support @stephdeeble who was running her first half and couldn't be more proud of what she achieved!
Considering how competitive I am to not look at the time or distance even once and enjoy what London had to offer was amazing.
#LLHM #strava #llhm2023 #movember
An unbelievable privilege to be nominated and to then win the "going the distance" award. Sad I couldn't be there in person (thanks to @laurenjk95 @issaberj @brunogalatti @carmenjmly @benwells359 @rachlaskoo for cheering and repping!) Thanks to everyone that supported through the month. β€οΈ
Friends and family are the most important aspect of my life and I wouldn't be the person I am without everyone of you.
@movember thanks for everything you do and I can't wait for this year's Movember Challenge!
#movember #moawards #humble #movember465 #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mensmentalhealth
This was quite an important change for me to make, at the start of the year I ran to feel like a better person, trying to rebuild my confidence and self worth. I now run to create headspace and enjoy the freedom.
You can listen to the full podcast via the link in my bio!
#mentalhealth #movember
Do things that make you happy, with ppl that make you smile.
βπ½
Feeling quite up and down today. Great first day off work, caught up with @samir.mussa.94 for breakfast and got lots done but feel like something is missing.
I miss the focus, routine, discipline and freedom I had for 30 days...
Looking forward to getting out and running this week!
I know it's Dec and my running challenge has finished but @bennyboy_adams and I were able to sneak in a 7.5km recovery run today while he is over from Australia. ππΎππΎ
Ben and I have been friends for almost 15 years and he has the best way to instill confidence in someone while making sure they stay humble. Thanks for years of support and belief in me!
A quick thank you β€οΈ
30km βοΈ
A solo run by choice... I wanted to reflect on the month, what I have learnt, and the conversations shared and soak it all in.
I had a friend drop by at 7:30 am just to wish me luck and drop off some beers for when I finish which I wasn't expecting and so many messages of support as well.
I set off with the aim of running some of the places I have over the month and mapped it to finish at work to see my team. During the run, I spoke to my sister and a few voice messages to my friends who helped me get through this year. I had some very emotional moments and it was great, made me realise what's important in my life.
Before I knew it I was 16.5km in... I hadn't stopped or thought about my pace, or how long I had run. The penny dropped that I had a little over half of my distance for today left and it was all coming to an end... Luckily it was coming to an end at work where some of my biggest supporters were waiting to see me finish.
I am glad I took on this challenge this year, my goal was to raise awareness about men's mental health and I can say that I have done that in a small way! Also raised over £6000 and there is still time for some last-minute donations (link in my bio!)
Mental - 7/10 (I can't help but worry about what's next. I'm trying to enjoy the moment)
Physical - 7/10 (knee good, mostly injury free but need some recovery!)
πΈ@23tachambers
#mentalhealth #movember465 #movember #mensmentalhealth #running #strava #nofilter #finished
@movember @lifeatvisa
29km βοΈ
Not sure what to say about today... @shjames15 what a legend, 4 runs (98kms) to keep me company. I think we were both feeling it today by the end.
One thing we spoke about, which worries me, is what happens on the 1st of Dec, the sudden stop of running, endorphins, and drop in energy could easily lead to feeling down. I am lucky I have time to think about it today and come up with a plan to help my body recover but still stay active.
I'm fairly fatigued both mentally and physically. I could feel I was struggling today and not able to relax (even with Sam setting a really good pace and having a route planned). I couldn't wait to hit 29km and go home. It's expected after running 435km over 29 days...
A massive thanks to everyone who sent such nice messages this morning and donated. Just over £5300 in total!
Mental - 7/10
Physical - 6/10 (knee is fine, im just exhausted)
#movember465 #movember #mentalhealth #mensmentalhealth #strava #running #runlondon #nofilter
28km βοΈ
I had the pleasure to speak with the @movember UK team at their town hall meeting. I shared a little about my mental health journey, how this challenge came about and some of the highlights so far! Also, I was able to say thanks to the Movember team that put so much effort into the programs that help so many men around the world. You are helping move the needle on mental health and allowing men to live better lives - Thank you.
Thanks in particular to Katy, Georgie, Paul, Josh, Rhys, Hafsa, and Karen from @movember who also ran with me. I loved chatting with everyone, it made the last 8km fly.
@tom_blackettpt sets the benchmark for determination and physical fitness for me. An ultra-marathon runner and such a positive person! Thanks for running today and believing in my ability from when I first told you about wanting to do the challenge.
Mental - 9/10 (only 2 days to go!)
Physical - 8/10 (knee is good, had it strapped the last two days which has helped!)
#movember465 #movember #mensmentalhealth #mentalhealth #strava #running #nofilter
27km βοΈ
Today was really difficult for personal reasons and I'm glad it's done. @ajdunn98 and @m_blacky thanks for helping me get through today!
Alex and I have been working together only for a couple of months so it was great to get to know him better, we spoke about our favorite cities, running, family and relationships!
Martyn and I have known each other for almost 10 years! We met while on holiday in Positano at a restaurant where we shared a bottle of wine and have become such good friends over the years! We spoke about the importance of verbalising things in your mind - all of yesterday I was thinking about something and only when I spoke to Alex and then Martyn I realised today is a single day in my life. It's nice to know you had some special memories but you will also create some new ones!
Lastly, Martyn had a sign taped to his bright top and spoke to ppl on his commute to meet me about the cause and asking for donations. So much love and support.
Mental - 9/10 (3 days to go!)
Physical - 7/10 (ran quite a bit slower with Martyn which helped the knee recover!)
#mentalhealth #mensmentalhealth #movember465 #movember #strava #running #batterseapark #clissoldpark
26km βοΈ
Thanks to Emma and @mvm555 for today! The three of us chatted about work, running, and traveling. I was struggling with my knee so some general chat was exactly what I needed.
Very early on when I spoke to Emma about my challenge she said she would run one of the longer days! I loved the support and knowing I could rely on her on the harder days was special.
Manu and I have worked at @paysafe and now at Visa. Great that we have been able to keep in touch for such a long time! Manu ran the NY marathon only a couple of weeks ago and still joined me for a full 26km!
Mental - 6/10 (I have a lot on my mind and tomorrow is a day I am not looking forward to)
Physical - 5/10 (the good thing is, I have no plans today so it's a full recovery day!)
#mentalhealth #mensmentalhealth #movember465 #movember #london #running #strava #towerbridge #batterseapowerstation #batterseapark #nofilter
25km βοΈ
@shjames15 stepping up to the next level to join me for a 3rd run this week! Just the small things mean so much right now - helping keep my mind off the pace and also planning the runs to perfection so I end up at home as I finish. FYI we both wash our running clothes daily before any questions come up about wearing the same thing every day! π
Also lucky to have @abihosier join! So great to meet and get to know Abi, we spoke about so much work, running, mental health, @allpointseastuk, and being excited to see @stormzy this year but our chat about her dog and my cat was the highlight ha! (also thanks for such great pics and videos!)
5 half marathons done, 5 to go (only 140kms left!)
Mental - 9/10 (feel like I have almost made it through the workweek and got all my running done!)
Physical - 6/10 (right knee ππ½.. Tape, rest, and ice.. Hopefully manageable)
#mentalhealth #movember465 #movember #mensmentalhealth #running #strava #eastlondon #hackneymarshes #nofilter
@movember
24km βοΈ
Firstly, I'm really lucky to have such amazing friends in my life. Thanks to Stefan, Jay, Jess, and Jayden for running with me! That's 300km of 465km done.
Stefan, Jay, and I spoke about supporting family/friends in your life who suffer from mental health challenges and how difficult it can feel to connect with that person... Jay asked for advice and all I could say was to continue to be kind, persist when you feel shut out, and don't offer solutions... Just listen.
@jessicadeneef_featuring_pedro @jayden_bott... I don't know how to put into words how much your support means to me β€οΈ thanks for everything and I'm lucky to still have you both in my life! I'll see you in Cancun πΎ
Mental - 8/10 (feeling good but also very emotional)
Physical - 7/10 (I'm riding a lot of positive energy and feeling πͺπΎ)
#movember465 #movember #mensmentalhealth #mentalhealth #aussiesinlondon #strava #running #nofilter #hydepark #london #nike #runlondon
23km βοΈ
Second run this week with @shjames15. We chatted a little about relationships, enjoying your own company, and being happy. We just enjoyed our run today and the views of a bleak rainy London skyline.
Sam had a slight back issue he was trying to manage during our run but still did the whole run with me... Just a good reminder that it's not easy to know what someone is going through and the importance of checking in.
Mental - 6/10 (felt very emotional and overwhelmed last night but was lucky to speak to a friend about it so feeling better today!)
Physical - 7/10 (slight hamstring strain but manageable for now... Also @clairesunderlandhay thanks for the Theragun!)
#mentalhealth #mensmentalhealth #movember465 #movember #running #strava #london #rainrun #nofilter
22km βοΈ
Thanks @dhammerton for the company. Running for 12 km together gave us a lot of time to speak about trying to fit in, which I found very interesting, the impacts it has on you growing up, and questioning who you become. It sounds intense but was a refreshing conversation from different perspectives.
This is the furthest I have ever run and this won't last long as I will run further every day for the next 8 days.
Mental - 7/10 (the way I have tackled these last few days I want to explore a bit more and explain it in a future post)
Physical - 7/10 (I knew the fatigue would kick in but it's later than I expected which I am happy about... Just need to stay used )
#mentalhealth #mensmentalhealth #movember465 #movember #running #strava #hydepark #nofilter
21km βοΈ
An easy Monday morning run with @shjames15. One of the best runners I know and easily one of the nicest guys too. Sam was an ex-professional rugby player and had to retire because of persistent injuries. We spoke about our mental health challenges and having people in our lives we could open up to.
We both now use running to have some space, even when running with someone, to distance ourselves from day-to-day issues and time to think.
Into the serious running from this point and looking forward to it!
Mental - 7/10 (need to get through a couple of busy work days so I can feel in control)
Physical - 9/10 (got 8 hours of sleep.... π€―)
#movember465 #movember #mensmentalhealth #mentalhealth #running #strava #hackneymarshes #eastlondon #victoriapark #nofilter
20km βοΈ
Had an awesome run with Xavi, thanks for planning the route and running the full distance! We chatted about so much including F1, musicals, and marathon running while seeing the sights of London. 2 hours flew by and 20km was done!
Week 3 wrapped up and a total of 210km completed. Thanks for all the donations... currently at £2800!
Mental - 9/10
Physical - 8/10 (some general fatigue!)
#movember465 #movember #mensmentalhealth #mentalhealth #running #strava #nofilter #london #emirates #arsenal #stpauls
19km βοΈ
Thanks @laurenjk95 for running regents with me this morning! Lauren has been so supportive and checking in after runs which I really appreciate. I think I did most of the talking today so thank you for listening!
Sorry that I made us take a photo after the run not before, but as you said - it's authentic!
The last pic - my @corosglobal watch is telling me that I need to wait 85 hours. Unfortunately, there is nothing like this to tell you how you're doing mentally, take time to check in with yourself and make time for an unwind/recovery day!
Mental - 8/10 (coming off a fairly tough evening but feeling much better this morning!)
Physical - 9/10 (just generally tired!)
#mentalhealth #mensmentalhealth #movember465 #movember #running #nofilter #strava #regentscanal #regentspark
18 days in, 171km done, so many conversations, speaking on live TV, and articles in the paper... So many positive things but the fear of failure and the pressure I put myself under every day is very real. I'm scared I won't make it to day 30 or I'll drop the ball on another aspect of my life.
I am scared to let down my family, my friends, and everyone who has donated and supported me... it's constantly in my mind.
I started to feel it this evening (once the high of the run wore off), the tightness in my chest, the feeling of dread and not being able to focus. I'm lucky to have people I can speak to and take it one day at a time.
Be kind to yourself, I am my own toughest critic and need to remind myself of that. Heading out for dinner with a friend which I'm sure will lift my spirits βΊοΈ
π½οΈ @jonnygurteen
#mentalhealth #movember465 #movember #mensmentalhealth #running #letstalk #anxiety
18km βοΈ
@emma.hanratty what a legend! Said she would join me for 5-8kms and see how she felt and ended up running a bit over 12kms ππΎ perfect weather to have an easy run and some general chat!
18 straight days of running done and without too many issues! Feeling strong and ready for the weekend βΊοΈ
Mentally - 9/10
Physical - 9/10
#movember465 #movember #mentalhealth #mensmentalhealth #strava #running #towerbridge #nofilter
17km βοΈ
@23tachambers thanks for everything over the last two years and the run today! Tom has always checked in when he noticed I was a little quiet or not myself, but what I appreciate the most is the fact he asks again when I said I'm good "how are you really?"
Creating a safe space without forcing someone to talk is really important. Don't feel scared to ask a couple of times how someone is doing but if they don't want to talk (it might be a bad day) doesn't mean they don't appreciate being asked or don't want to be asked again in the future!
Also @laurenjk95 thanks for the podcast recommendation. I was laughing even though I was running in the rain for the first 10kms.
Mental - 10/10
Physical - 9/10
#movember465 #movember #mentalhealth #mensmentalhealth #running #strava #hydepark #regentscanal #nofilter
16km βοΈ
Thanks Simeon for the company today! Great chatting about career, family, being driven and the pressure we put on ourselves to be successful!
I have always run alone and never thought I would enjoy running and chatting. Speaking without an agenda, whatever is on your mind, if that's the run itself, work, family, life... Has been amazing.
Mental -10/10
Physical - 7/10 (work is kicking my butt so trying to unwind is proving a challenge)
#movember465 #movember #mentalhealth #mensmentalhealth #running #hydepark #strava #nofilter
15km βοΈ
Thanks to Alex for meeting me for the last 5kms. I needed the company today, I was quite tired and it then started to rain which zapped my energy. Once Alex and I started to chat, we naturally picked up the pace. I only spoke to Alex in the office a couple of times so it was great to get to know each other better!
Mental - 10/10
Physical - 7/10 (I need a good sleep tonight!)
#movember465 #movember #mentalhealth #mensmentalhealth #hydepark #regentscanal #running #strava #nofilter
14km βοΈ
6 am solo run and then straight into the GBN studios. I loved speaking about my challenge and what it means. I wanted my message to be clear, having mental health issues isn't bad and we should be talking about it more openly.
Running has helped and continues to help with creating the mental space for me to think and process my emotions. I'm not sure if I'll ever be 100% ok but as long as I can run I know I have a way to work through however I feel! βΊοΈ
Mental - 10/10
Physical - 8/10 (slightly pulled muscle)
#movember465 #movember #mentalhealth #GBN #running #mentalhealth #mensmentalhealth #strava #regentscanal #mondaymotivation
13km βοΈ
Quite a special run today. @the_richo has helped me through some tough times, especially this year. I cried when I spoke to him earlier this year and his response was "let it out, it's natural to cry"... This should be the normal response by men when others show vulnerability and create a safe space to open up about how they feel or going through.
Feeling - ππΎ (Although I have had a bit of anxiety which is affecting my sleep and recovery..)
#movember465 #movember #mentalhealth #strava #running #london #nofilter #mensmentalhealth
12km βοΈ
Thanks to the @run4rene crew for the run! Stef Stavri set up Run4Rene in 2017 following the death of her brother Rene to suicide. It's an amazing group of people open to a chat. #Run4Rene and #Movember465 couldn't fit more perfectly together, raising awareness for mental health and suicide prevention.
Feeling - ππΎπ
#movember465 #movember #victoriapark #run4rene #mentalhealth #strava #running
11km βοΈ
Thanks David for running today! A fellow @highburyfieldsparkrun runner... We spoke about running as a coping mechanism which can be a very positive thing but the importance of still working through the underlying issues.
Feeling - ππΎ (although my @corosglobal watch is telling me to wait 50 hours before my next run)
#movember465 #movember #mentalhealth #highburyfields #victoriapark #running #strava
10km βοΈ
Perfect 10km solo run, got to do my regular route to Vic Park. Some pics from the run.... and the shark on the canal is by far my favourite place right now!
1/3 of the way through @movember and 55km done (410km to go!).
Feeling - ππΎ
#vicpark #movember465 #movember #mentalhealth #running #strava #eastlondon #nofilter
9km βοΈ
Thanks, @iamleighannb for running with me today! I realised we have known each other for over 6 years and stayed friends across two companies. We shared what our year has been like and pushing ourselves at work sometimes as a distraction which can work in the short term but the importance of addressing what you are going through.
Feeling - ππΎ
#movember465 #movember #hydepark #goldenhour #mentalhealth #strava
8km βοΈ
Rainy start but today was my best run so far! Thanks to Ian for the chat, mostly around charity work and people who have done work for mental health charities in particular. Running and chatting was so great made the time fly! (I usually do constant running maths which is a real drain π)
Feeling - ππΎ
#movember465 #movember #running #hydepark #strava #mentalhealth #londonyouth #nofilter
7km βοΈ
Kicked off week two of running. Thanks to @paigemanchip for doing a virtual 7km run (last pic ππΌβοΈ)! A friend I was meant to run with had to cancel so it was great to get a msg from Paige saying she did a 7km to support this morning just what I needed to get through a dark run in Hyde Park!
Feeling - ππΎ (no niggles and recovering well each day!)
#movember465 #movember #hydepark #running #mentalhealth #nofilter #strava
6km βοΈ
A little disappointed to not run with Aycan as planned (thunderstorms βοΈ) but got it done non the less.
That's a wrap for week one - 21kms (444kms to go!)
Feeling - ππΎ
#movember465 #movember #mentalhealth #running #gym #strava
5km βοΈ
Thanks to @michael_runs_explores and @highburyfieldsparkrun for putting on parkrun 504! Great to speak to and run with so many people this morning!
Feeling - ππΎ
#movember465 #movember #mentalhealth #running #parkrun #parkrunuk
4km βοΈ
Yesterday the day wasn't perfect and today I wasn't feeling perfect. But 10ks in total completed.
Not sure why but yesterday evening was full of anxiety, including a few anxiety attacks. I have learned to work through them well enough that @nicolevandenberg might not have even noticed while we were at the #arsenal match! Sometimes I accept that I don't feel good but know it will pass.
This isn't a negative post and I'm excited about the weekend. Happy Friday βΊοΈ
Feeling - ππΎ
#movember465 #movember465 #running #shoreditch
#mentalhealth #anxiety #coyg
3km βοΈ
Not every day is perfect π§οΈ ... time for a treadmill run. 3 days in, 6kms total done.
Feeling - ππΎ
#movember465 #movember #running #mentalhealth
2km βοΈ
Perfect morning for a run and loved chatting with my friend Chris!
Chris ran with a slightly injured ankle and we naturally spoke about the visibility of mental vs physical challenges. Next time your friend is a little quiet or someone at work doesn't seem themselves, check in and see how they are! Sounds simple but could make a big difference!
#movember465 #movember #letstalk #running #mentalhealth
1k done βοΈ
With the amount of support everyone is showing, I really wanted to just keep running!
@io.ros thanks for joining β€οΈ
If I wasn't nervous, I would know I wasn't pushing myself for my Movember challenge!
I feel as ready as I can and just for some extra motivation.. some new gear in time to start tomorrow ππΎ
#movember465 #movember #running #nike #nofliter
With only 5 days to go, I wanted to share why I am doing this. 3 out of 4 deaths by suicide are men. That's a scary number of brothers, fathers, and sons. I have spoken to so many people in the last few weeks, who have shared with me their own stories. Everyone is unique but someone else has mostly like felt how you are feeling whether that's depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. Speaking about how you are feeling is the first small step forward #letstalk
I can't wait to start my running this @movember, the last few weeks of support from my family, friends, and even strangers have been amazing.
π½οΈ@jgurteen π
π΅ Credit - Atch (song title First Light)
#movember465 #movember #mentalhealth
No substitute for commitment! 8 days of training left, thanks for all the donations and support so far π
You can donate at www.anilt.com or via my bio!
Reflecting or dwelling?
Being stuck in the past and constantly thinking about things you can't change won't help.
Appreciating things for what they were and how you can grow from every situation is my current focus. It has massively helped me stay positive and happy!
Oddly enough I saw this at the half way point of my run today, a nice reminder to enjoy the rest of the run than thinking of the Kms I had done!
Back-to-back long-run training is done. ππΎπͺπΎ
#movember #movember465 #mentalhealth #running #frieze #friezelondon #nofilter
What a week it has been... Getting my story picked up by the London Daily News!
It felt really hard to open up and speak honestly about my own mental health challenges but the amount of people who have reached out to share their own experiences made me feel it was absolutely the right thing to do. Link in my bio to the article.
___________________________________________________________
Thank you to the team at @movember for the support so far and I'm super excited to start my challenge in 17 days. You can support by donating to my Movember page (www.anilt.com).
___________________________________________________________
To speak with someone immediately, contact NHS on 111 or contact Samaritans on 116 123.
If you're ever worried that someone's life is in immediate danger, call 999 or go directly to emergency service.
36 days to go till Movember, it's always been one of my favorite months and will continue to be. This year I have created my challenge to raise money for Movember.
I will be running for 30 consecutive days and increasing the distance by 1km each day. 465kms in total including 9 back-to-back half marathons (plus some) in the last 9 days!
This pic was me recently in Sardinia where I settled on the idea and started some training!
You can head over to my site - www.anilt.com to donate or if you are interested, join me for a run or part of a run!
I would love any support, donations, and/or likes β€οΈ
#movember #mentalhealth #mensmentalhealth #running #training
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