From Non-Runner to Marathoner: A Life-Changing Fitness Journey

My journey to fitness started in late 2022.  Covid had me working from home, depressed and needing to make changes in my life. On September 22, I woke up and decided I felt like going for a run…I was not a runner, I lifted weights occasionally but NEVER ran.  My idea of cardio was small rest break in between sets at the gym.  But something pulled me outside and I ran, I got done a couple of KM’s and felt exhausted but I also had a feeling of joy, something I had been missing.

I continued with it and what started as a random run turned into a passion.  I decided to push myself and what better way then signing up for a Marathon.  I started on my training journey and soon realized I had some endurance and this running thing was feeling kind of natural.  My initial goal of completing a Marathon turned into maybe doing it in under 4 hours.  Soon that turned into a Boston Qualifying time (BQ) and ended on seeing if I could run my first Marathon in the holy grail for amateur runner a “Sub3”.

In just over 1 year in October 2023 I completed my first Marathon, the Toronto Waterfront Marathon and finished in a time of 3:03.  Getting the BQ but just missing out on a Sub3.

I only became more determined and began taking my training even more seriously.  In  2024 I ran 2 more Marathons, the Ottawa Marathon and the Chicago Marathon, my times getting better each time (2:54, 2:53).  This has now become a lifestyle and has changed my life in every way.  My personal, professional and family life are all better then ever and I am healthier as I turn 40 then I ever have been in my life.

In 2025 I have 2 more Marathons with my eyes on running Boston in 2026.

Leanfit has been on this journey with me as the Whey Protein has been a staple in my diet from the beginning and I have added the Creatine, Electrolytes and Zinc along the way.  Proper nutrition, vitamins and supplements are crucial for the amount I train, especially at my age and with a wife and 3 children along with a growing Marketing business I have no time to be tired or feel sluggish!

Your Path to Progress

January is a fresh start - a time to embrace small, meaningful changes that lead to lasting progress. True transformation happens through daily habits, not drastic, unattainable goals. Whether it’s meal prepping, taking a 10-minute walk on your lunch break, journaling to reflect on your day, adding an extra glass of water or protein to your routine, stretching for 5 minutes in the morning, or swapping one processed snack for a healthier option, every small step is part of your journey. Let’s focus on progress over perfection and build sustainable habits together this year! Slow and steady, wins your race.

Your path to progress is uniquely yours - celebrate the wins, big or small, and recognize the effort it takes to show up every day. We invite you to share your #PathToProgress with us for a chance to be featured in our January campaign. Submit your story, photos, or videos to info@leanfit.com, and each Friday in January 2025, one submission will be randomly selected to win a $100 LEANFIT e-gift card.