Why I Started Motivated to Run: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly Runs

If you’d told me back in 2013 that I’d one day run marathons, I’d have laughed. Back then, I was over three stone overweight and desperate to make a change. I started running to lose weight — no big plans, no fancy gear, just me, a pair of trainers, and a determination to do something for myself.

In the beginning, I couldn’t even run 100 metres without my chest feeling like it was about to explode. I used to run in the dark because I didn’t want anyone to see me — a beginner, red-faced and struggling. But little by little, the running and walking balance began to shift. The first time I ran 5K without stopping was a huge milestone — one I’ll never forget.

From there, I built up to 10Ks, 10 miles, half marathons… and eventually, three full marathons (with hopefully another one on the horizon). Somewhere along the way, running stopped being just about losing weight. It became about finding peace, clearing my head, and managing my mental health. It gave me strength in ways I never expected.

When the Motivation Slipped

Fast forward to the start of this year — and something had changed. I was still running, but I wasn’t feeling the same spark. The motivation that used to drive me just wasn’t there, and I found myself struggling to enjoy it the way I once did.

That’s when I realised something important: if I was feeling like that, I couldn’t be the only one. There had to be other runners out there — new or experienced — who were also struggling to find their rhythm again.

I still remember the first marathon I finished. The final mile was a blur of pain, sweat, and disbelief. My legs were screaming, my lungs were burning, and my mind was fighting to keep me moving. But when I crossed that finish line, everything changed. It wasn’t about the medal or the time on the clock — it was about proving to myself that I could do hard things. That feeling, of surprising yourself, is something I’ll never forget. And lately, I’ve been craving it again.

A Space for Real Runners

So, in early 2025, Motivated to Run was born.

Motivated to Run isn’t about chasing medals, finishing times, or personal bests. It’s about being honest — about the good runs, the bad runs, and all the messy in-between. It’s a space for the runners who are trying their best, even when it doesn’t feel like enough.

Because we all have those days when nothing goes to plan — when every step feels heavy and every mile feels endless. And that’s okay. Those days don’t define us. What matters is that we keep showing up.

Here, I’ll be sharing the ups and downs of marathon training, the lessons I’ve learned (and the mistakes I keep making), and the small wins that remind me why I love running in the first place. Some posts might be about long runs that go perfectly; others might be about the days I’d rather throw my trainers in the bin. But that’s real running — and I think that’s what makes it worth sharing.

Why It Matters

Running has given me so much — confidence, community, mental strength — and I wanted to give something back. If sharing my ups and downs helps even one person feel less alone on their journey, then Motivated to Run is doing exactly what I hoped it would.

This blog is a reminder that running isn’t just about moving your body — it’s about finding your strength, again and again. It’s about showing up for yourself, even when it’s hard, and learning to be proud of the small steps that lead to something bigger.

So, as I start marathon training again, I want to take you with me — through the early mornings, the sore legs, the setbacks, and the little moments of triumph. Because if there’s one thing running has taught me, it’s that the journey matters just as much as the finish line.