Ep72: Vassos Alexander - Why we should ALL be getting out of our comfort zone

In this episode of 5 Miles Easy, Rose and Steph welcome Vassos Alexander, well-known from the Chris Evans Breakfast Show, to share his remarkable running journey. Vassos has completed nearly a hundred marathons and ultra marathons, including the grueling 153-mile Spartathlon, and recently tackled the London Marathon while wearing a 25kg weighted vest. They explore his motivations for running, which range from mental health to physical fitness and self-discovery. Vassos discusses how he started running in his thirties and how it evolved from a challenge into a passion.

The conversation then delves into training for the London Marathon with the weighted vest, the physical and mental challenges faced during the race, and the camaraderie experienced among the runners and supporters. Vassos shares his philosophy on running, emphasizing that it’s about pushing oneself out of comfort zones to grow personally. The trio also discusses the power of commitment over motivation in maintaining a running routine.

As they reflect on specific races, Vassos opens up about the overwhelming experience of the Spartathlon and the unique aspects that come with running long distances. He highlights how running and ultra running is about communal experience rather than competition, and how everyone’s personal journey should be celebrated.

The episode wraps up with discussions on the support of the running community, the importance of enjoying the process, and Vassos encouraging listeners to embrace their own running journeys, regardless of their starting point. His story is an inspiring testament to the transformative power of running.