A LONGBRIDGE teacher who has shed over six stone has claimed that his new running hobby has potentially saved his life, writes Kieran Kelly.
Stuart Warner, who teaches English at Colmers Secondary School, previously weighed over 25 stone until he decided to make a big change in his life.
Stuart was inspired to improve his health after watching the 2016 London Marathon on TV.
“I was taken aback by all the amazing runners on TV but soon realised they hadn’t always been amazing.”
Stuart added his problems started when he left for university.
“Moving away from home you have access to catered halls, a fry up every morning, a big dinner every night, eating and drinking what you want.”
He attempted to lose weight numerous times during university using weight loss programmes but never succeeded, until he discovered running.
“After my first run, I thought I was going to die. It was horrible – the worst thing in the world.”
However, now Stuart has finally found the method for him and after completing the Simplyhealth Great Birmingham 10k in April, Stuart has committed himself to the Simplyhealth Great Birmingham Run half marathon which is set to take place on Sunday October 15 this year.
Stuart will watch the sold out Birmingham International Marathon in the morning, before setting off on his own half marathon later that same day.
Whilst Stuart has clearly benefited from his newly found running hobby, he will also be helping others out in the process as he also fundraises for Alzheimer’s Society.
Stuart’s dad, Derek, was diagnosed with the disease in 2012 and serves as an excellent motivator for Stuart when he sets off for a run.
“For every kilometre I ran at the 10k, I raised about £100 which isn’t a bad motivator and I want to raise as much money as possible at the half marathon.”
Another way Stuart manages to motivate himself to get running is by deliberately purchasing clothes that are too small for him when he visits family in America.
“The challenge when I get back is to lose enough weight to get into them. That’s been a real motivator. I was an XXXL shirt size but I can now get into a large.”
Anyone who entered the Simplyhealth Great Birmingham 10k will receive a £10 discount for the Simplyhealth Great Birmingham Run half marathon.
Visit www.greatrun.org/great-birmingham-run to sign up and www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Stuart-Warner2 to sponsor Stuart.
