In this episode of the Sapphire Running Zone Podcast, Tim Rogers speaks with Stuart Boakes about his inspiring return to running after years away from the sport.

Stuart shares how watching the Great North Run motivated him to get back into fitness, despite initially struggling to run for even a minute using the Couch to 5K program. Through consistency, improved nutrition, and support from friends and a local running club, he quickly progressed from beginner to completing multiple Parkrun races, achieving significant personal bests.

Within just a few months, Stuart built up to running a half marathon, finishing in an impressive 1:45 after pacing alongside experienced runners. He highlights the importance of community, strength training, and mental determination in his journey. Now, he’s focused on training for the Great North Run, raising funds for the Great North Air Ambulance Service.

The episode is a motivating story of how gradual progress, support systems, and commitment can lead to remarkable transformation at any age.

If you'd like to join Stuart and fundraise for Great North Air Ambulance you can find out more here

For more podcasts go to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have three channels, this one, one on event podcasts and one for members only. If you'd to be the focus of one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

Keywords

• Couch to 5K
• Beginner running journey
• Half marathon training
• Parkrun community
• Running motivation
• Fitness over 50
• Personal best improvement
• Running transformation
• Great North Run
• Endurance training
• Strength training for runners
• Running club support
• Weight loss and fitness
• Charity fundraising run
• Mental resilience in sport