This November, as we observe Men’s Health & Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s crucial to recognise the importance of both physical and mental health, particularly amongst men – who represent 89% of people in our industry.
In the UK, 65% of men report avoiding medical help when feeling unwell, hoping their issues will resolve on their own*. This statistic highlights the need for open conversations and proactive steps toward well-being.
We sat down with our Business Director – Terry Marsh, who shared with us how running has significantly improved both his physical health and wellbeing and has also offered some valuable tips for anyone looking to get started on their own wellness journey.
Tell us a bit about all of the running you have been getting into over the past year and what made you get into it?
“I started attending the gym early February 2023 due to my personal appearance and made use of the treadmills in the facility. I then signed up for a 100 miles in March for young lives vs cancer. This is when I started running on the road. This was a very tough challenge. Especially suffering an injury halfway through. Since then, I have factored in a minimum of 4 runs per week as part of my weekly routine. I’ve taken something that I used to hate to something I will continue to do until my legs fall off!”
What changes have you noticed in your overall mood or mental state since you started this journey?
“Life itself can throw a lot of obstacles in your way. Whether that’s work or day-2-day family life. I have found that running is my medicine. If I feel tired, I go for a run. If I have a headache, I go for a run. If I’m feeling stressed, I go for a run. If I don’t fancy going for a run, I go for a run! My overall mood and motivation / energy has considerably improved. Running clears your head and becomes a place where you can have a conversation with yourself and clear all the negativity.”
Are there specific times or places you run to feel more calm or centred?
“On my running days, I like to run fasted. My alarm is set between 3.30am – 4.30am (depending on the route I’m taking) and my favourite place to run is London. This is a circa 1-hour drive from my home, but I like a scenic route and starting your run at Tower Bridge where it’s all lit up in its glory is something that lightens my mood and makes me feel calm.”
What motivates you to keep running, even when it feels difficult?
“Consistency is key to any challenge the human body takes on. Rest days motivate me as I feel at my best the days I do run (sound silly I know)! All I can think about on rest day is “where am I running tomorrow & what route shall I take” No run is easy, although you can opt for the easiest route. When I’m feeling a niggle, the mind tells you not to go. It’s always difficult trying to persuade yourself to get out but these are the days when I take on a difficult run. At the end of the run, you get such a great sense of achievement.”
Do you feel more focused or productive at work on days when you run? If so – why do you think that is?
“The answer is yes. Well at least until around 3pm when my body hits a wall Ha-Ha. It’s all related to your Endorphins. There is nothing better than turning up to work feeling electric. Breakfast time feels like lunch, lunch feels like dinner time. This is something that my body has now adapted too.”
People often say they use running as a form of therapy or reflection. Would you say you do this and if so, does it help you work through emotions or challenges?
“People start their journey of running as a therapy, but this isn’t the reason why I took up running. It definitely helps you work through your emotions and reflect on the future. For those who do use running as therapy, life can make you experience some intense, turbulent emotions: sadness, anger, jealousy, despair, or emotional pain. It is not always possible (or even a good idea) to turn off these emotions, since they can help you work through your problems and improve your life. However, sometimes strong emotions can make it difficult for you to function, and you have to numb yourself temporarily just to get through the day. My advice to numb, is to RUN!”
Does running in groups or participating in events like marathons affect your sense of community?
“I do prefer to run in groups, with friends but especially my wife. Gives you the opportunity to get together and talk absolute nonsense for the whole duration. This helps you with training and it improves your breathing for the days you do run solo. I love taking on challenges. I like soaking up the crowds and enjoy capturing every moment on camera. But most of all, I love collecting the medal at the finish line.”
What advice would you give to someone struggling with mental health who is hesitant to start running or physical activity?
“No matter how your feeling, where you are, the weather conditions your facing, and any demons you are facing, as long as you have a pair of trainers with you, put one foot in front of the other and keep moving forward. I mentioned this word earlier, but Endorphins are hormones that are released during running and produce feelings of happiness and pleasure. They also help you feel less pain whilst your running, acting as a pain reliever. Whether your mental struggle is related to a previous loss in the family, personal family related issues or similar, after your run, you will feel 100% better!”