Almost exactly ten years ago I took on the Royal Parks Half Marathon. It was my first ever “proper” running event and, if you are thinking “crikey, he jumped in at the deep end”, you are not the only one who thought that. But that was kind of the point.

I have always been interested in fitness. My time working in a gym and as a personal trainer are years I look back on very fondly, but running and the truly "fit" side of fitness, outside of lifting weights and trying to build the biggest biceps I could, always seemed to escape me. So I decided I needed a big challenge and signed up.

I approached training the same way I do now, doing what feels right, to the best of my ability, and trying to enjoy it as much as possible. On race day I absolutely loved it. I was raring to go, the atmosphere was incredible, and seeing all the sights of London was just magical. I dug out my old finish time and it was 2:44:01, hardly setting the world on fire, but I got it done with a smile on my face.

Now, a decade later, I am taking it on again. Can I beat my previous time? I may be older and substantially fatter (for now) but on paper I am actually fitter and faster, at least over ten kilometres anyway. This race is really special for me, and I wanted it to benefit something really special as well, so I am honoured to be running for Tommys.

Tommys exists to stop the heartbreak and devastation of baby loss and to make pregnancy and birth safer for everyone. They fund vital research into the causes of miscarriage, stillbirth and premature birth, and they provide trusted information and support for anyone affected by pregnancy complications or baby loss. Every donation helps find answers, drive new treatments and, ultimately, save babies lives.

If you have arrived here from one of my videos, I cannot tell you how much your support means to me. And if you are brand new, a massive welcome. It is a lovely little community here and we could not be happier to have you along for the ride.

Follow along on the socials for the training updates and to keep in touch

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshwasapt/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joshtheworstpt

Thank you so much for any donation you are able to give, and I will see you at the start line on Sunday 11 October 2026, and (hopefully) at the finish line too.