Dr Alex George on the positive power of running

In this episode, hosts Ben Hobson and Rachel Boswell welcome Dr. Alex George, a prominent doctor and mental health advocate, who discusses his personal journey with running after a difficult period marked by his brother's suicide. Alex reflects on how he turned to exercise as a means to cope with his struggles, detailing his transformation from feeling lost and overweight to discovering the joys and benefits of running.

Dr. George emphasizes the mental health benefits associated with running and physical activity, describing how it provides a form of relief, boosts moods, and promotes resilience. He advocates for changing societal perceptions of running from competition and judgement towards enjoyment and personal growth. By helping children understand the joy and health benefits of exercise, he believes we can shift the paradigm on how young people view physical activity.

Alex also touches on issues of body image and mental fitness, discussing the misconceptions about what a 'runner' looks like. He encourages listeners to focus on their own progress rather than comparing their achievements to others, asserting that everyone can be a runner if they simply move faster than walking. This episode is a celebration of resilience, the joy of running, and the vital importance of mental health awareness.