Run Slow? It's OK To Not Be Good

Поділитися
Вставка
  • Опубліковано 19 січ 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 635

  • @MarkLewisfitness
    @MarkLewisfitness  18 днів тому +504

    Anyone else perfectly happy with just being a bit slow?

    • @allenvilleendurance
      @allenvilleendurance 18 днів тому +2

      I brag about it! Not really, but its life lol

    • @72boog
      @72boog 18 днів тому +2

      Oh yes (not that I seem to have much choice in the matter)

    • @crankgreenwatts
      @crankgreenwatts 18 днів тому +3

      5k PB 20:32 and final Parkrun of 2024 was 22:39 .. Am I slow 🤔 Yes, well no am making progress , am getting older at 53 years young, still trying and will keep trying 💪 Stuff others and enjoy life as you only get one chance; it ain't a rehearsal 🙏 Happy New Year Mark 🥳

    • @ghashul
      @ghashul 18 днів тому +12

      I can either be frustrated that I'm running way slower than I used to, or be happy that I'm able to run again after several different injuries. I'll choose the latter.

    • @acidbeat311
      @acidbeat311 18 днів тому +11

      I can't say i'm perfectly happy about it. My 5k pb is 46 minutes but i'm 250 lbs. But I was able to do a long run of 3.5 miles without stopping. Hearing that your 5k time improved from around there down to 20 minutes is inspiring.

  • @joelavandantzig9473
    @joelavandantzig9473 18 днів тому +359

    Did a 5k run just before Christmas. Ended 432nd out of 487 females, well below average. BUT felt incredibly proud. Ran a 1min 4sec pr and it was the medal for losing 28kg in 2024. Bring on 2025!

    • @AlistairLattimore
      @AlistairLattimore 17 днів тому +4

      Congrats, the weight loss and the time are a huge accomplishment !

    • @marcelspringer4921
      @marcelspringer4921 17 днів тому +8

      Average isn't running at all. You're doing great.

    • @GTE_Channel
      @GTE_Channel 17 днів тому +3

      Well done. Running a 5k pb is far above average in my book.

    • @wuff42
      @wuff42 17 днів тому +2

      Amazing! Congrats to this achivement!

    • @chrissaysno
      @chrissaysno 17 днів тому +7

      Sure you only beat 55 in the race, but you beat the many many millions of people who didn’t even bother running 5k that day. Go get it

  • @warius33
    @warius33 18 днів тому +151

    That speed walking clip never gets old. Keep doing your thing Mark.

  • @kenvyn123
    @kenvyn123 17 днів тому +96

    “Be more dog” is an amazing mantra. Thanks for the pearls of wisdom Mark.

    • @Mowsemowse
      @Mowsemowse 17 днів тому

      This is one of my favorite videos of Marks - Be more dog. ua-cam.com/video/UIRBg53ePAs/v-deo.htmlsi=VxCjAzznjcuP_bgh

  • @lucastacla
    @lucastacla 17 днів тому +66

    "Enjoy being bad while you can, it doesn't last" hit me hard. I was starting to feel demotivated with my runs, now I'll try looking at the smaller things again

  • @matthew1471
    @matthew1471 18 днів тому +258

    Something I think to myself when someone drives past me whilst I'm wheezing my way through the 2km mark is "they don't know if I've run 2km or 60km." Therefore, I'm a 60km endurance runner. Not a wheezing, pained 48 year old wreck, just about managing to get through the 2km mark.

    • @glenn1534
      @glenn1534 18 днів тому +21

      Just mumble "Only 98km to go..." to yourself as you're running past people 😅

    • @crankgreenwatts
      @crankgreenwatts 17 днів тому +6

      As long as having a good run, enjoying your space, and smiling what is not to like ?

    • @kath2606
      @kath2606 17 днів тому

      I like your mindset! 🙂

    • @plowestv
      @plowestv 17 днів тому +3

      @@glenn1534 great comment, I used to actually do this and say "We're cycling to Manchester" for example, when Manchester was still 200km away BUT no one believe me so I gave up :-).

    • @matmul4850
      @matmul4850 17 днів тому

      Love that 😅

  • @ericahouston4395
    @ericahouston4395 17 днів тому +223

    I did my first race yesterday. 47 minutes for a 5k. 😂. But that’s way faster than all the races I did last year (none).

    • @msydneyau
      @msydneyau 17 днів тому +4

      Well done!

    • @Dbaifngjska
      @Dbaifngjska 17 днів тому +3

      That’s a great effort! Keep going!

    • @Namoraslife
      @Namoraslife 17 днів тому +3

      That's the spirit! Keep going!

    • @Stu_2112
      @Stu_2112 17 днів тому

      Well done!!

    • @craigevans8912
      @craigevans8912 16 днів тому

      Awesome, well done 😃 keep it going 👌

  • @choochoo9506
    @choochoo9506 16 днів тому +33

    Some random guy over in the UK whom I'll never meet has absolutely changed my life.
    Thanks to you, Mark, I'm STILL running 2 years on, and am up to a 5K cpl times a week, but a short run almost every day. I do weights 3-4X/week, and try to eat healthily, but am not psychotic about it. And I feel great, and look so much "better than average".
    I could never thank you enough, Mark,
    Little old lady in the US - 63yo soon.

  • @MultiSimpsonator
    @MultiSimpsonator 17 днів тому +35

    One unexpected side effect running has had on me is that I no longer care about the weather - after a few km I'm lost in my own daft thoughts and just enjoying being out in the woods or the park or wherever. Running slow makes it much more enjoyable regardless. Thanks for a really nice inspirational video!

  • @KevinMahoney-v7p
    @KevinMahoney-v7p 17 днів тому +34

    In the summer of 1986 I was on a trip with my wife-to-be in Northwest Scotland. I went or a run up and down the local hilly roads, dodging sheep and marvelling at the incredible beauty of the highlands. Just before I turned around for home, an old bugger in broken down care stopped, rolled down his window and asked me a question. Not understanding his thick, Scottish brogue, I asked him to repeat his question. After two or three back-and-forths, with the old Scottish crofter finally yelling his question, perhaps thinking I was deaf, I finally understood that he was offering me a lift. I declined, and told him I was running for my health. With a “you’re mad” and a scowling shake of his head, he rattled off in his car. I am still running, more slowly, and getting less offers of rides. Though there are times recently I might wish for a lift. 😂. Love you stuff. Keep it coming!

  • @glenn1534
    @glenn1534 18 днів тому +23

    No matter how often that video of you power-walking unexpectedly appears on your videos, it never fails to make me burst out laughing 🤣

  • @paulsansome1628
    @paulsansome1628 17 днів тому +44

    I've had to confront this. I'm now 61 with stage 4 prostate cancer and therefore zero testosterone to keep me alive (prostate cancer feeds on testosterone). Muscle wastage is constant, as is weight gain, unless I exercise. However, with zero testosterone, my performance times have dropped off a cliff. But as you say, who cares? Get out and do what you need to do. I know I am slow and will never be fast again. But I can be better (both in health and fitness) than I am now. So that's what I'm doing.

    • @bankaihadouken1180
      @bankaihadouken1180 17 днів тому

      Water fast 48hours a week no food just water and it will starve the cancer..and dont eat red meat or white rice/white pasta/sugary processed foods, because glucose feeds the cancer and the glutamine frm red meat feeds the cancer aswell..eat wholefoods, fruits, veg, water fasting and exercise- the cancer will reduce to a point it wont impact you anymore.

    • @HowlingFantods
      @HowlingFantods 17 днів тому +1

      Im sorry to hear about your prostate cancer. My grandfather died of prostate cancer. Any suggestions as to what a younger male could do to help reduce the risk?

    • @Stu_2112
      @Stu_2112 17 днів тому

      Very powerful words. Best of luck with it all.

    • @zundee4182
      @zundee4182 16 днів тому +1

      God Bless and may God grant you health. Keep going with what you have and where you are

    • @darolfishman3470
      @darolfishman3470 15 днів тому

      Absolutely! Keep digging and moving forward.

  • @Eightfathorses
    @Eightfathorses 17 днів тому +30

    I've always been slow and I always will be slow. But I was in chemo last year so every run to me is a blessing and I'll be doing my first ultra this year. And all I get around my town is encouragement and praise because as you said most people don't even attempt to run.

    • @zundee4182
      @zundee4182 16 днів тому +1

      Awesome, God bless, keep going and stay strong

  • @MindyMikami
    @MindyMikami 18 днів тому +158

    “Socks too pink” 🤣🤣🤣
    At 63, after recently losing 85 lbs, my 5K time is 50 minutes and I don’t give AF!
    Great video!

    • @LLenaaaaa
      @LLenaaaaa 18 днів тому +5

      That's amazing!!
      Cheers to you, keep it up!! 😊

    • @A.P.Garland
      @A.P.Garland 18 днів тому +3

      50 minutes! You show off😂. I did 52mins 40secs on my last one.

    • @joshk9328
      @joshk9328 17 днів тому +10

      running circles around the people on the couch!

    • @SubtleAsh-TheImmortal
      @SubtleAsh-TheImmortal 17 днів тому +3

      Fk yeah!!! Showing up is winning a battle in itself rest is only a journey. Kudos To you for motivating me

    • @strengthofabear2640
      @strengthofabear2640 16 днів тому

      Legend!

  • @mightyn8
    @mightyn8 18 днів тому +40

    Not yet able to run due to being too heavy so don't want to ruin my knees and ankles, but I've been striving to walk more in the past month and have been finding it very nice to slowly ramp up my daily steps. I don't mind that I can't run right now - I'm just hoping I'll be able to walk a bit faster in time, as well as be able to sustain walking for longer. Thank you for being inspiring in an honest way, your videos always make me feel far more inclined to exercise!

    • @Real_Matt
      @Real_Matt 17 днів тому +3

      Took me a long time to be able to run. Slow and steady wins the race. My right knee couldn’t handle it for absolutely ages. Build it up slowly. I did incline walks for ages.

    • @FireFire_HehHeh
      @FireFire_HehHeh 17 днів тому +1

      It will come. Keep plugging away. I came into running after almost a year on my back due to injury. When I first started running both my knees felt like they would disintegrate in turns. I would hobble and shuffle around corners. A little over a year later and one knee is back and the other is nearing 85-90%.
      You will have setbacks. Get that in your head. You will backslide, but here’s the thing. Even when you are having bad days or weeks, you are still making progress. Just keep going one way or another. Once you are running and it’s too painful to run, then walk those miles. When you’re feeling better run again. Then walk. The walking will become less and the running more. And soon enough you will be doing it.
      Walking fast when you’re out of shape is as beneficial as running fast when you’re in shape. Look at your progress in 3-6 month terms, not days or weeks.
      Keep going. Make it fun. Don’t try to adhere to some ideal you see in a video. As long as you are getting out there consistently and getting your heart rate up, it literally doesn’t matter.
      All the best to you.

  • @RunningCalle
    @RunningCalle 17 днів тому +10

    The part "your joy cannot be stolen by conparision, it can only be given up by you" *chefs kiss*❤. Need that some days, thanks Mark!

  • @rediscoveringcassandra
    @rediscoveringcassandra 17 днів тому +16

    Just did a 5K yesterday. My time? 46:09.8. That was almost 5 minutes faster than last year. It is also 1 1/2 minutes faster than 1 month ago. I’m so proud!!! 😊

  • @robswan816
    @robswan816 17 днів тому +8

    “Be more dog” - love it. I’ve said several times to several people this year that “healthy comparison and competition” is brilliant for inspiration, motivation and entertainment. I think, a bit like being able to not care what other people think, it’s a skill that’s deceptively hard to master.

  • @brainslugged7957
    @brainslugged7957 15 днів тому +4

    Whenever I drive past someone running, whether they look fit or not, I'm always impressed by their commitment to actually do something - unlike most of the population.

  • @mikesteen-l1i
    @mikesteen-l1i 18 днів тому +120

    The winners at the gym are the ones that walk through the door and not at home thinking about going to the gym,

    • @SubtleAsh-TheImmortal
      @SubtleAsh-TheImmortal 17 днів тому +7

      Beautiful yet profound thought. As Muhammad Ali said the toughest challenge in his regime was not about sparring all day, weightlifting or even running. It was to avoid the women, late night drinks with buddies and to get to the bed by 7pm and rise early for a 5am workout

    • @marks-0-0
      @marks-0-0 15 днів тому +1

      I like the saying about "just turning up"
      90% of people don't do anything so you're already ahead by turning up

  • @ingobaby1
    @ingobaby1 17 днів тому +8

    I started “running” about 2 years ago, after I came across your channel and got inspired. Never ran before that and I am still extremely slow, and have to take a lot of walking breaks. But I’m so proud of actually getting out and moving my body a few times a week, and since I’m so slow, it’s awesome to see all the improvements I’ve made. So I just wanted to say thanks!

  • @fastmuell2137
    @fastmuell2137 17 днів тому +14

    the speed walking clip is amazing!!! i can't stop laughing every time you us it, the gift that keeps on giving.

  • @JelloSpine
    @JelloSpine 17 днів тому +3

    Mark, I’ve watched a lot of your videos and I don’t think I’ve ever commented. You inspired me to get up and start running close to two years ago.
    I was a depressed, disabled vet with spine issues who had hated running my entire life, but thanks to your videos I had learned to embrace it and I truly began to love it.
    Unfortunately due to my injury coming back hard and losing my father, I found myself back in a hole and in haven’t stepped on a trail in a little over 6 months.
    Hoping to get back out there soon, just wanted to say thank you for the videos you post.

  • @mercedessl8718
    @mercedessl8718 17 днів тому +9

    Mark. Thank you you’re my inspiration. I’m now 70 with 243 park runs achieved, umpteen 10k plus 5 half marathons. I’m going to do the Hackney half this year with the aim of 2 hours (or just under like my previous one) and all I can say is I’m grateful. I admire anyone who achieves ….

  • @FitLawyerK
    @FitLawyerK 17 днів тому +3

    Definitely Mark, the best advice I've received is that no one truly cares about you because everyone is primarily focused on themselves. If they take the time to mock you, they might be the kind of people you don’t want in your life. Thanks Mark for the excellent video

  • @ianmatt4182
    @ianmatt4182 17 днів тому +2

    Loving this Mark. Fantastic message and well said! I turn 50 this month, and a few years ago gave up a very well paid engineering career to instead earn next to no money coaching and guiding people into feeling fit, healthy and happy. I'm no influencer and social media is a mystery to me, I just smile when I see someone's face light up after hitting a personal goal. I find that challenges are quite important to a person's mental health....no matter how big or small. They provide a focus, and a welcome antidote to the pressures of everyday life.
    On a personal note, I used to sprint for GB, but time is a cruel mistress and the body creaks as I now bimble around a 5K in a steady 22 mins, or wheeze my way around a marathon in 3:30, and so like you I also give zero f**ks what anyone thinks of it, ha ha
    Keep up the videos mate, and good luck with the guitar!

  • @christinemeske5885
    @christinemeske5885 17 днів тому +13

    *Anticipates the speed walking clip*
    “Ah, there it is!” 😊

  • @JasonRaneses
    @JasonRaneses 17 днів тому +7

    One mantra I’ve found helpful is that in the end, you’re only ever competing with yourself - in whatever way or means that resonates, for where you’re at today and where you want to go

  • @joelle3135
    @joelle3135 17 днів тому +10

    It took me about 6 months to complete the Couch to 5K last year, repeating weeks multiple times. I now run 2 or 3 times a week for 30 minutes. I doubt it’s actually 5K as I’m quite slow.
    My husband asked if I was going to move on to the 10k training but I’m happy as I am. I don’t want to go faster or do Park Runs or marathons.
    My only goal is to try to run a few times a week and not let it slide. 30 minutes is manageable time wise for me, it’s helped me keep off the weight I lost last year and I like to do yoga and Pilates as well so a few times a week is enough for me.

    • @AdamAnderson-y2q
      @AdamAnderson-y2q 15 днів тому

      I started a couple of times but only lasted for a few weeks

    • @volancydogs
      @volancydogs 8 днів тому

      @@AdamAnderson-y2q I suggest trying some trails at least some of the time. It's way more interesting/fun.

  • @Mystic_Paths
    @Mystic_Paths 5 днів тому +1

    Rituals create a sense of stability and intention in your day ❤

  • @euan1234
    @euan1234 17 днів тому +2

    Of all the amazing content you have put out, I think this particular video hits me hardest and I really really(!) needed to hear these words. Thank you Mark, and hope you have a great 2025! (for context, I haven't been swimming in 1.5yrs, because I basically lost confidence in myself, and keep looking at all the club swimmers in the other lanes and couldn't cope with myself struggling for breath after a single 50m length. I need to get back out there and "be more dog"!)

  • @heighRick
    @heighRick 17 днів тому +4

    I was the fastest person on my run yesterday, the day before that too, and every other time I ran last year bar one; when I was peer-pressured into a parkrun by my lovely in-laws. The following day I was bested by four-dozen under 12s at a junior parkrun as I ran with my daughters for their first time. We had a great time together and none of us had leggings wedged up our butts.
    Thanks Mark, helps a lot, and happy new year to you and Jen.

  • @Anni127
    @Anni127 17 днів тому +6

    I was once doing some speedwork (800m strides) and ran past a girl sitting on a bench, She turned around and said to her friend "Wow, I wish I could run like that!" Girl I was sprinting for 800m, I don't even run like that!
    Moral of the story is: don't compare yourself to anyone and don't judge anyone on your run/who is running. You never know where they are in their journey!

  • @Verysimpleyetverydifficult
    @Verysimpleyetverydifficult 18 днів тому +11

    I’ve got myself somehow up to 107kg. I feel terrible. I mindlessly started running whilst on holiday and I’m horrendously slow. But I’m starting to feel better again… I even feel a bit impatient on my non running days to run again! I’ll get this sorted out….

  • @mickheritage7166
    @mickheritage7166 17 днів тому

    i find these types of videos so much more motivating as you capture the feeling and reality perfect Mark. I stopped worrying about PBs and times years ago, and just enjoy my running now at what ever pace . You still get all the benefits of low resting HR etc, and for me its been a massive help to my mental health, it just clears my mind when i run, and seems to dissolve away any niggles in your head

  • @garyspencer8598
    @garyspencer8598 17 днів тому +3

    Last ran in 2013 when I beat my age (minutes) for a 10k, that was my recent 5k time, but every run it's getting better which is the main thing. Keeping it real Mark

  • @jazzguitarwithandy
    @jazzguitarwithandy 12 днів тому

    As a guitar player I’ve never been obsessed with getting better, I’ve just enjoyed playing it as much as possible. It’s always been a journey over destination. You never master it and that’s the great thing about it. I need to try and carry that over into my running. Great video 🙏

  • @paulshoover
    @paulshoover 14 днів тому

    Mark - thanks for the message today. Just what i needed. My fitness has declined over the past year, lost some motivation, and today I just ran, rowed, and did some strength. Point being I just went on and did the work. Thanks for the encouragement and entertaining insights in the everyday persons fitness. Keep it up! I'm right there with you moving forward.

  • @gazev9691
    @gazev9691 17 днів тому

    This is exactly why I will always watch your videos Mark 👏👏 This is essential viewing for all, regardless of whether you care about fitness or not. Absolutely wonderful stuff.

  • @ConorSmith2059
    @ConorSmith2059 16 днів тому

    I really needed to hear this-especially at this time of year. Even if you’re not into New Year’s resolutions, it’s hard not to compare your current fitness to last year or the year before, and it’s so easy to talk yourself down. I don’t do resolutions, but choosing not to steal my own joy when reflecting on past fitness feels like a good one. Thanks, Marc.

  • @AlainBoudard
    @AlainBoudard 13 днів тому +1

    I've never been a "competition" guy, for any of the sports I like, mostly because I don't like the wait, the crowd and many other things.
    But I love doing these activities ! We are alive to move and do things. Running becomes likable when you train enough to have your "dog pace" as you say.
    Awesome video as usual 👍💪😎

  • @Rich_1
    @Rich_1 11 днів тому +1

    That was just what I needed! I've been training for ultramarathons for four years, but had to take a break after having our new a baby. I didn't realize how much I got caught up in posting the "long runs" on Strava. Training for shorter distances is actually really fun now, running a 5K with friends is way more fun than a solo 55K. I love ultrarunning, but this break helped me see I was probably overtraining

  • @chrisp6044
    @chrisp6044 17 днів тому +3

    Mark, started to run after watching your earlier videos. I'm now 12 weeks in and have dropped my 5k time to sub 21min after starting at 29. Vo2 max from 42 to 48. Can't believe how quickly my fitness is coming back. Started very unconventionally by running 1k as fast as I could and building distance.

    • @JibbaJabber
      @JibbaJabber 17 днів тому

      That's exactly what I did back in the day! Dropped 8kg and got down to 18 min. I then took up park football. And years later, I'm into cycling and am halfway into a 3 month indoor train plan! Tough, but enjoying it.
      Take it steady and keep it up. And if you get bored, change things up and set another goal 👍

  • @darronpearce1974
    @darronpearce1974 17 днів тому +2

    I needed this today.. I’m happy where I am.. I’m plodding around at 6:30 km and enjoying every minute of it.. I still ran Malaga and finished..

  • @justinkatz146
    @justinkatz146 17 днів тому +1

    Great video, Mark. I love your mentality about fitness as a whole. Your motto of "above average" and the philosophy of "It just takes a bit of effort to be better than most" has gone a long way for me.
    I'm definitely a slow runner, but I've been enjoying those unsustainable gains lately. A few months ago I was mentally intimidated by running for more than 3 minutes at a time with only 30 seconds to rest in between. Just this week, I completed workouts that involved running for 30 minutes continuously without rest!

  • @anotheruser337
    @anotheruser337 18 днів тому +13

    Good advice to start the new year. Thanks Mark

  • @davelawrence3410
    @davelawrence3410 14 днів тому

    This is a refreshingly grounded perspective. As a middle-aged guy building new fitness habits, I agree with you: compare to others for inspiration, but look inside for motivation.

  • @HereThereBackAgain
    @HereThereBackAgain 18 днів тому +4

    Thanks for the video Mark, needed this. In the last year I went from 100kg to 130kg. Looking to get back and its so frustrating not being able to perform like I know I can. Appreciate you being real and sharing. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

    • @MrSeedi76
      @MrSeedi76 17 днів тому +1

      Slightly less than a year ago I was 110 kg myself. Ended up in the hospital (at age 47) directly for new year with a clogged artery in one toe. Sounds harmless but can mean to lose the toe if untreated. So 2 weeks on blood thinners with horrible hospital food (really, the food was the worst part), I started exercising. First on the elliptical. I thought I'd have a heartattack after 5 minutes at first. Worked myself up to 3 km on the elliptical. Then 3 km of running, then 5, then 7, then 10k. And that's what I kept doing. 10k, 6 days a week. I'm now 48, at 79 kg, fitter than I've been in my life. Can easily run 10k in under an hour. It's never too late and the good thing when starting late in life (last time I was "sporty" was in my teens and 20s) is - you get better and faster for quite a while, when others already get slower because they've been running for 30 years already.

    • @JibbaJabber
      @JibbaJabber 17 днів тому

      ​@@MrSeedi76Respect✋️

  • @Doctor.Kapow.
    @Doctor.Kapow. 17 днів тому +1

    im glad i must have randomly subscribed to this channel recently, this philosophy goes deeper than running. This was a really good article.

  • @trentseymore7385
    @trentseymore7385 13 днів тому

    I feel like Mark Lewis is just saying 'be yourself and enjoy it,' in the most practical way and I love it. My new new years resolution is now 'run like a dog'.

  • @darolfishman3470
    @darolfishman3470 15 днів тому

    I stumbled a cross your video today and I feel invigorated. Did a very consistent 45 minute run today…longest since September. Your message is reassuring and simple…and I love “be more dog”.

  • @RobPrice-z8e
    @RobPrice-z8e 14 днів тому

    Thanks

  • @MrAlexshellard
    @MrAlexshellard 15 днів тому +1

    Ended up have a t test (with the big 4 values) after looking at your videos. Totals 10 and im 36, from what ive been reading thats canny low haha. Used to train for contact sports, crossfit, even clean armature strong man which is just funny because you can usually tell there. Even been asked if I was taking gear in the past. Had issues with mental health and out training a bad diet, been on and off loads of head pills since my 20s and not once has a GP thought it could be this. Stings thinking how many years I might have wasted in my head with this but thanks for having the balls to put your videos out there, its helped me so I cant believe its not helped a lot of others.
    As for sports, if I've managed what I have for all these years with one hand tied behind my back, honestly kind of curious to see what happens when its an even playing field, not to mention being a better partner to the Mrs.
    Thanks man and keep it up. This feels like managing ASD or even being colour blind, which im both. If you know you know, someone calling you out that doesn't, is usually scared your getting an advantage. They dont really care your managing something and might need a nudge to get you on equal terms or just enjoy it. We can all be more dog. :)

  • @dinozord
    @dinozord 13 днів тому

    These are the types of video that made me subscribe. I enjoy a lot of your content but over the last few months you've gotten away from the 'above average' stuff you used to do. I've always related to your normal bloke trying to be a bit better than before content and it's videos, like this one, that inspire me to push on. I've always been out of shape, I do worry unnecessarily about what others might think and do get very self conscious, and sometimes, I just need some bloke I've never met to tell me, via the medium of UA-cam, that I'm not alone and I need to get my head out of my arse. Thanks Mark.

  • @shocks123
    @shocks123 17 днів тому +1

    I needed this today. I hope to perfect your approach to not caring what people think.

  • @Jean-uw7uk
    @Jean-uw7uk 17 днів тому +1

    I’m 71 and quite slow. I’ve recently made peace with it and enjoy running more than ever.🎉

  • @graememorrison333
    @graememorrison333 18 днів тому +12

    Also Strava. I've given up on it. I just go by feel now. And that feel is 'slow'.

    • @K_____
      @K_____ 17 днів тому +1

      Strava has become at “look at what I can do” app now. If people didn’t care what others think they would just use the app for their stats alone but each to their own I suppose.

    • @meepmeep1313
      @meepmeep1313 17 днів тому +2

      @@K_____ It's whatever you want to use it for. I don't use any of the social media functions, it's literally just me and my data and no interactions with anyone. By definition your view of the site is biased as you'll only see the folk who are actively trying to get interactions.
      Also, the vast majority of interactions are mutually supportive and people motivating each other without any reference to stats, I think the number of people using it to show off their stats is very low - but again they'll appear like a majority because they're trying to be the most visible.

  • @wanderingsouls2302
    @wanderingsouls2302 17 днів тому

    Love the message Mark. And, while I’m loving all of your and Jen’s new content, I’m so happy to see one of your traditional style videos get made again too, right down to the speed walking clip (though I don’t think I saw a duck pond). Happy new year mate, long time fan from Brisbane Australia.

  • @rachelvedock6376
    @rachelvedock6376 6 днів тому

    I absolutely love your content! I recently started getting back into shape in November (taking your advice that you don't need to wait for a special day to stop punching yourself in the face 😉). Last week I was running on our treadmill and was getting tired. I only had about 4-5 minutes left and thought "It's just one Kipchoge mile. I got this!" Comparison can absolutely be fun with the right attitude! Thanks again for another great video 😊

  • @chrissimpson1990
    @chrissimpson1990 17 днів тому

    Mark, I've been watching your content for a while. I just wanted to thank you for being the inspiration that you are to so many of us. You encourage us to be a little bit better than we were before, repeatedly. I can't wait to see what 2025 holds for you and your channel. You're the man!

    • @99cya
      @99cya 16 днів тому

      how on earth is he motivating? he has turned into an old sock. a good year ago he was fun. now its just sad.

    • @chrissimpson1990
      @chrissimpson1990 16 днів тому

      ​@99cya Hello! While I respect your opinion on this, you gotta give the guy some credit. From where he came from to where he is now and everywhere inbetween, he's a shining example of how we all have the opportunity to be the best version of ourselves. While you personally may not like the current content etc, you're still on his channel too! Have a nice day 🙂

  • @cesarmelendez31306
    @cesarmelendez31306 18 днів тому +11

    I am not the fastest or the slowest, but I run for myself, and I really dont care if I'm faster or slower than anyone else.

    • @clitaiulian4497
      @clitaiulian4497 16 днів тому

      That’s the spirit. Exactly the way I think. You should run for your health, not for performance. You should only compete against u yourself, if you want some challenge.

  • @nicholadeanewriter3499
    @nicholadeanewriter3499 17 днів тому

    Happy New Year, Mark and Jen. Great message, as ever. A reminder of how much joy I get from doing lots of burpees nowhere near as well as Iron Wolf and running 5k in about the time it would take my 15 year old son to do 2 of them .... Bless you and all the other folk having fun with fitness! It's play, after all.

  • @plowestv
    @plowestv 17 днів тому

    Mark, this is spot on :-) All those opinions and other people are irrelevant. They are not part of YOUR (anyone's) journey and we are force fed their output. "Keep moving forward, however slowly"

  • @harryruns1
    @harryruns1 18 днів тому +12

    “Enjoy being bad while you can, it doesn’t last” Love that 👌

  • @MatthewSmith-k6d
    @MatthewSmith-k6d 17 днів тому

    Thanks for this video Mark, it was just what I needed. Just getting back to it after a break, so this was well timed! Keep up the great content.

  • @monguzzle
    @monguzzle 17 днів тому

    Great video to kick off the year! You encapsulated the harm of comparison beautifully. Happy new year to you both from NZ - looking forward to seeing your new gaff take shape and following progress in having fun training.

  • @hojo5081
    @hojo5081 13 днів тому +1

    I used to run a lot. Regularly 10 km in under 45 minutes - but every run was somehow a struggle - until I eventually lost all motivation, and my running shoes gathered dust on the shelf. Now, I’ve started again. But the big difference: I only run in Zone 2 now. And that’s really slow. But I don't mind. Because the amazing thing is: I actually look forward to it. Just listening to an audiobook and running completely stress-free for 45 minutes at a heart rate of 120. No pressure, no struggle. Just for fun.

    • @MrDomestosWC
      @MrDomestosWC 6 днів тому

      same... I've been kicking my butt trying to improve my time, not getting even close to top-amateur runners, until I eventually gave up. I wasn't enjoying it. Now, I run when I don't feel like lifting (which I've always loved) and I look forward to listening/watching when on my treadmill, or enjoying being outside when I run outside... I even turn into run/walk if I feel like I've pushed myself too much. Just do it for the joy of it, and whenever I don't feel like it, I just don't do it, I switch to another form (cardio/strength) that I feel positive about. And if I feel like my body is numb and I REALLY don't want to move today, I just take a rest day. I still workout 4-6 times a week.

  • @GrampyT62
    @GrampyT62 17 днів тому +1

    Welcome back to starting again mark. I'll join you next week when all the Xmas junk food has been eaten and don't dare suggest I throw it away. I'm 62, half a dozen mince pies and a slab of Xmas cake won't kill me. Well it might but I'll die happy.

  • @jameslombardo2
    @jameslombardo2 16 днів тому +1

    That “athletic” Race Walker clip is the gift that keeps on giving

  • @Stu_2112
    @Stu_2112 17 днів тому

    The content I need, when I needed it most. Your words burn right into my struggling sport brain.

  • @liamredrup
    @liamredrup 17 днів тому

    Love the content, love the intent and generally just really enjoy your videos. Keep them coming Mark!

  • @henrydodson655
    @henrydodson655 17 днів тому

    mega love you mark and jen, once i get my first pay cheque im gonna donate toward the channel. you and guys are just too good. i know exactly who i'll send this too and youre just guys. Hope Ozempic equivalent (forget which) treat you well!
    Edit: I've actually decided this is your best video ever having got through it! dont get me wrong what all of this stuff - if i dont want is the life and endurance stuff, but i will always click like and watchh through all through this stuff..its a perfect enry level vid. love you mark and jen!
    got bored of correcring my spell checks drunk happy new year!

  • @busterska2860
    @busterska2860 17 днів тому

    Mark brilliant. You speak so much truth. Love your motivation you speak. Brought me down to reality and enjoy my running again. Cheers mate

  • @helenwoollven3116
    @helenwoollven3116 17 днів тому

    Such a good way of looking at things, this has given me a boost to get going again. Thanks and happy new year 🎉

  • @rossbowman112
    @rossbowman112 17 днів тому

    Thanks Mark, an excellent perspective to start the year. Just what I needed, keep em coming! Happy New Year to you both. Ross

  • @Skrellington
    @Skrellington 13 днів тому

    I mean, I like to think of it like this. If I've improved a bit at something, then I'm by definition the best at that I've ever been. And that's always something to get excited about.

  • @audgester
    @audgester 17 днів тому

    I am injured and haven’t done any races for a while. Can’t wait to get back out there! My first race in 2022 was a 4-miler and I finished 1:10:15. The next year I finished the same race in 40 minutes. It is not about winning- I never will- but the enjoyment of being out there and seeing improvement in my fitness. Looking forward to competing with myself again. Don’t give a crap about what anyone thinks about me, but I do love to encourage others!

  • @SteveNinetyski
    @SteveNinetyski 17 днів тому

    Nice one Mark,
    I have watched plenty of your videos, and not agreed with everything you've ever said but I must say, this is as good a video as you have put out in my opinion. Nail on the head in many ways. I feel like many people instinctively know this but do anything but practise it. It is simply a mindset. Such a simple yet efficient way to improve your running, or any part of your life for that matter.
    It is all in our brains..we have all the medicine we ever need right there at our disposal. Learn to access and understand it😁💪

  • @charlier7711
    @charlier7711 15 днів тому

    Yes! Happy to run slower, and get out more often; instead of killing the PR and not getting out for a week. Love your videos, great common sense stuff with humor 😊

  • @AdamWRides
    @AdamWRides 17 днів тому

    Great video Mark, as always! One thing that helped my fitness journey is to enjoy ‘my’ journey. Even if that journey is staying still for a bit…

  • @jukerdanz
    @jukerdanz 17 днів тому

    I have been running for 42 years and loving it. I didn’t know how fast I ran until I was given a smart watch five years ago. Running has been my thing and I love it, but it hasn’t been a competition, with myself or anyone else. I have gotten to be a very fit 69 year old without ever knowing what my personal best is or winning any competitions, it surprises me that adults need to be reassured about how fast they are or are not, whether they are improving or not. Just do it.

  • @topsysdad1
    @topsysdad1 17 днів тому

    I love running/training, I love seeing someone who's obviously just starting and perhaps overweight or in poor fitness, if I pass them driving or walking,inside I'm willing them on in their personal battle/journey

  • @Fractures100
    @Fractures100 15 днів тому

    Thank you. You don't know how much I needed to hear this today. Much appreciated.

  • @chad.haggerty
    @chad.haggerty 17 днів тому

    I f’ing love your approach, Mark. I am content being slow but largely because I’m not as slow as I used to be. Most times.
    I once tried to be more like my dog. I was drunk and my wife was upset that I’d shit in the yard. There’s no pleasing some people.

  • @beracinq
    @beracinq 18 днів тому +1

    I did my Benchmarkrun on the 31st :D And yesterday a nice 25k MTB ride to start the year. Looking forward to your content this year! And now, into the video :D

  • @BoxingFishingGuy
    @BoxingFishingGuy 13 днів тому

    I did a 5 mile race in 46:48 over the weekend and although not very fast, I did my best effort. That felt very satisfying to me. This is the first race I’ve done in 5 years and it was a blast. I was passed by a lot of people but I didn’t care. I went out there to run the way I wanted to run. I know by now what is a good time for me and that’s all I try to do.

  • @hellogoodbye353
    @hellogoodbye353 18 днів тому

    Another top video, Mark. Nice to have a reality check and remind ourselves that progress is never linear and doesn't have to end with 'mission accomplished.'

  • @bullsfan3705
    @bullsfan3705 17 днів тому

    Love your videos Mark. Thanks for the inspiration! That walking clip has me in stitches every time!

  • @KindEarthTV
    @KindEarthTV 17 днів тому +1

    Thank you. I love watching your videos. Such real life advice and inspiration!

  • @petermurray42
    @petermurray42 9 днів тому

    Would absolutely love to see the stats for these slow runs / walks you're doing as you get fit again. As a fellow tall heavy guy it's super inspiring!

  • @adamryan5538
    @adamryan5538 17 днів тому

    Thanks Mark, I needed this video today - am going to put my shoes on and get out for my first run in months today. I only need to be better than Adam of last week, and that guy ate, drank and set on the couch all week, I can definitely win this battle. 💪💪

  • @michaelcultra4496
    @michaelcultra4496 17 днів тому

    Thanks for this Mark. Was feeling a bit down about my fitness. But as long as I'm out there trying who cares!

  • @bighungryjack
    @bighungryjack 16 днів тому

    Being entertained, impressed and motivated by those better than you can help create a positive mental state beneficial to your own physical exertion.

  • @cityslickerbass
    @cityslickerbass 18 днів тому +2

    Great words @MarkLewisfitness and nicely articulated 👏🏻

  • @ppstix
    @ppstix 17 днів тому +1

    Brilliant, helpful, encouraging and insightful. Thank you!

  • @him050
    @him050 16 днів тому +3

    I was disappointed at the lack of the race walking clip when you said about being an elite athlete. I’m very glad that it was swiftly remedied 🤣.

  • @MoveToCalm
    @MoveToCalm 14 днів тому

    This is definitely me… letting go of what I used to be able to do and just enjoying the process of getting fit again.

  • @nathanross8459
    @nathanross8459 17 днів тому

    what a refreshing perspective on today's pursuit of fitness goals. love the satirical view because at the end of the day people shouldn't take the advice on some 5 second short of "must have" BS.

  • @BrianSmith-ps7lh
    @BrianSmith-ps7lh 17 днів тому

    I keep a book of great quotes many of which are from Winston Churchill. I am legitimately adding “Be More Dog”-Mark Lewis to my book. Thanks for the honest and timely video

  • @MarcKent
    @MarcKent 17 днів тому +1

    Muscle memory is a real thing my friend. It’s harder to get fit than regain the fitness you’ve let slip. You’ll soon get back to the 20 minute 5k times. And legendary speed walking.