How did you get into going to the gym
My brother and I foolishly signed up for a marathon about 15 years ago (a decision made with the help of alcohol!!). Whilst I’d always played team sports as a way of keeping fit I found running suited the changes in my life, with less time available through a growing family and work.

What do you enjoy most about it?
Over the past couple of years I have started to run far more on trails and in the countryside. I’m blessed to live in a lovely part of Scotland and when it’s not pouring down with rain the feeling of satisfaction when you’re on top of a hill looking over the view or beside a river having run a forest trail makes the pain in my lungs and legs feel almost worthwhile.

How does running benefit your wellbeing?
There are the obvious physical health benefits that comes with any form of exercise, however over the past couple of years I’ve placed more importance on the mental health benefits. There is no doubt that running improves my mood (something that my wife and boys would wholeheartedly agree with).

Why do you recommend running?
I’m a big believer in any form of exercise / actvity that get’s you out and active. However it’s the simplicity of running that appeals to me. You just grab your running shoes put on a t-shirt and shorts and you’re hopefully out in the fresh air / countryside within 5 or 10 minutes. It’s as equally appealing if you are out on your own with your own thoughts or with a group of firiends for a chat (between gasping for oxygen!)