Runner Spotlight Q&A with Scott

Why Are You Running (and Do You Regret It Yet)?

I am running the relay as at the time I thought it would be a good talking point and something different, fun maybe. So, I put myself forward to complete it. However, I quickly realised that running is hard, I have thrown myself into the training and have completed the Couch to 5K programme and continued with running 2-3 weekly runs on the treadmill, these runs range between 3-5k. I did convince myself that running will get easier the more I progress but again quickly realised that this is not the case and every run is as hard as the first. I am definitely feeling the benefits of regular exercise, my physical health has improved along with my mental health too. Which is an added bonus. I am now seeing running as a long term habit and something I will definitely continue with after the marathon.  

You’ve signed up for the Marathon Relay – what made you do it? Was it a burst of inspiration or a moment of madness?

Definitely a moment of madness that has turned into a commitment to myself. I also like the point that I will be pushing myself out of my comfort zone to give back to the local community.

You’re running to raise money for YMCA Humber’s Youth Services, namely improving the facilities at Kent Street. Why do you think the work we do in the local community is so important?

The money raised will provide improved facilities to what I consider to be a pillar of the community for our young people. I have seen first hand how much this service is appreciated and I there is no doubt the funds raised will only add to this.

Would you class yourself as a runner and have you done anything like this before? If not, why now?

Easy, I am 110% a non-runner and a non-runner that has developed a simmering obsession. I have never considered running as something that is ‘me’ or that I could never understand why people are aimlessly running. I have now learnt/seen the benefits to my physical and mental health. Running gives you the time to reflect and process anything that has been on your mind, as well as this it gives a release for negative energy too.

What song is always on your running playlist? Any guilty pleasures we should know about?

Mostly Limp Bizkit really, that gives me a needed boost. Guilty pleasure would probably be a bit of McFly and that’s about all I will admit too haha.

How do you keep yourself going when your legs are ready to call it a day?

I then try and break my run down into short times or distances, like I will run for 5 minutes and tell myself I have to run another 5 minutes 3 more times. It’s the same with distance too.

What’s been your most memorable moment while out training? Good or bad!

My first outdoor run was an eye opener, I had a stitch for 99% of it and couldn’t wait to get back home. As well as the bad runs you do occasionally finish a run on a high with adrenaline which does give you a good feeling that you are doing well even if it doesn’t feel like it.

Do you have any pieces of wisdom, mantras, tricks or treats that help you get out the door and on the road on tough days?

The benefit to my mental health has been my biggest motivator, my head tells me that I need to get out or on the treadmill. There are days that I do battle with myself but I just have to think of how much better I feel after a run knowing that I have got through it feeling better than I did before. A good playlist or podcast really helps to, I usually pick a podcast that sits close to the length of my run.

What’s your go-to reward after a long run?

Usually being able to sit on the sofa watching TV in the evenings without feeling guilty that I haven’t done any exercise that day.

What do you think the most enjoyable thing about this challenge will be?

Having everyone together for a cause, the laughs and jokes throughout the day and the togetherness. I do think that we will all get each other through it and give us something to be proud of.

Why should people donate and support our fundraising?

The donations will directly benefit the local community. You will be able to actually see where the money is going and how you have contributed. You can also have a laugh at some of the pictures from the marathon too.

How you can help

YMCA Humber is asking the public to get behind the campaign by donating via the team’s JustGiving page, sharing the campaign on social media, or simply cheering the team on in the weeks ahead.

Every donation will go directly towards improvements at the Kent Street Youth Hub, from brighter, more welcoming communal areas to upgraded equipment and enhanced support spaces.

To donate, visit our JustGiving page here.