A year of making a difference

"I turn 50 on the 26 July 2018, and so every day of my 50th year I will be running at least 1 mile a day in honour of those friends and family who have, and have not beaten Cancer."

That's what I said at he start of the challenge - but I kind of enjoyed running so my total will now be in excess of 1,250 miles in the year - an average of over 3.5 miles per day.  My final run will be on 1st September 2018 at the Rugby Parkrun when I will run with my father and my brother - both of who are inspirations to me.

Who am I?
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My name is Graham Old and in January 2016 I weighed 25 stone. I was active but not fit, and certainly overweight.

Since then I have lost over 10 stone, joined Slimming World (where I have lost 8 stone) and started running. I also swim and cycle but running has really taken off.

I reached my target weight in November 2017 and wanted to set myself a challenge that would benefit me but also allow me to raise money for a cause that is very close to my heart.

The before and after pictures show just what a difference there has been.

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Why  the challenge?

I only started running using the couch to 5K programme in Easter 2017 when I ran in the local park in the dark so no-one would see me. I now regularly take part in the local ParkRuns which are 5K runs.

The reason I am setting at least 1 mile per day is that I am not used to running, and I plan on entering a number of events this year including half and full marathons.  It is important to me that I am able to run each day so 1 mile seems a sensible distance.

I do intend on running further as my body gets used to running, but I also want to complete the challenge so its important that I don't set the bar too high initially.

That's now changed - the projected total is now over 1,250 miles with an average over 3.5 miles per day - guess I've got the bug now!

How has Slimming World helped?

Since joining Slimming World I have a different approach to food and what I can and can't eat.

I tell people I am not on a diet, I am changing my life!

I have more energy, am able to buy clothes off the peg rather than from specialist shops (the ones that cater for the "larger build") and generally feel better about myself.

When I look at the photos of me previously I don't like what I see, and realise that I was not happy - just existing.  To be honest I didn't realise how big I had actually become!

​Don't get me wrong this is not for everyone but for me it was a great decision to join, and with the support of my family I am continuing to look and feel great.