about

During my teenage years I led an inactive lifestyle with unhealthy impulses which led to mischievous behaviour and hospital visits. At 17 a teacher suggested taking on a half marathon for charity. Out of 240 Sixth Form students, only four volunteered—myself included. I saw it as an opportunity to redirect my energy into something positive and regain health, direction and happiness! 

At that point, I had no sporting background or natural athletic ability. Nevertheless, I committed to the training and completed my first half marathon in 1:58. That experience marked a turning point and sparked a lasting interest in running.

The following year, I progressed to the marathon distance, raising money for Cancer Research and completing the Liverpool Marathon in 4:08. Soon after, I achieved a sub-4-hour marathon (3:59), which was a significant personal milestone.

I am on a mission to debunk the science and say F*** you to talent. Ask AI or science literature and it will say you can only improve your v02 max by 20%. I don't believe that! I had no talent, coming 2nd last out of over 100 people in School cross country. I would of came last but one lad broke his leg! I went from a 4:08 marathon to a 2:29. Don't limit yourself. I remember getting my first Sub 3 and crying. I worked so hard for that. At the time I thought that was my genetic potential but then I stopped thinking like that and believed in myself and eventually did Sub 2:30. Much more than a 20% improvement the "Science" will tell you. I'm still working to disprove old theories and Science is ever changing and your own belief can literally physically alter your mitochondria in your cells and the way they operate. Type that last sentence into AI and you will see that's true!

Over the years my training principles have developed, I began to approach running with greater structure and intent. Breaking the three-hour barrier. I have continued to improve, achieving a marathon personal best of 2:29:18, a half marathon best of 1:12:15 passing the 1st 10K in 33:34.

I am running the London Marathon in 2027. Aiming for Sub 2:20 🤞

What matters most to me is not only performance, but sustainability—maintaining a healthy body, enjoying the training process, and achieving long-term progress. In my experience, enjoyment and consistency are key drivers of success.

I also recognise the value of guidance and support. Having a coach or training partner can make a significant difference, both in maintaining motivation and in navigating the inevitable challenges of training.

With a background in nutrition and life sciences, alongside my qualification as a Certified Personal Trainer and Run Leader Certificate, I place a strong emphasis on a holistic approach. Nutrition is often overlooked by recreational runners, yet it plays a fundamental role in both performance and overall wellbeing. I believe it should be considered alongside training volume and intensity.

Whether your goal is to complete your first 5K, improve your marathon time, or develop strength and body composition, I can help you structure your training in a way that is both effective and sustainable.

While performance goals such as personal bests are important, I place equal value on wellbeing and enjoyment throughout the process.

If you are interested in working together, please get in touch:

oliver@fuelbodyrun.com

Newport Marathon 2026 - 2:29:18