I worked out for 10 years and became a Fitness YouTuber

[@HyderAlbarsg]

I have clinical depression, been on heavy medication for almost 2 years, am now 50 kilos overweight, most things in life still feel pointless but I’ve started dragging myself to the gym over the last few months. This video couldn’t have come on my feed at a better time. Thank you for sharing your story and your approach to life. Watching this video has made me feel hopeful about my own ability to change life for the better.

[@CED99]

Good luck on your journey 👍

[@TalkBoxing]

Keep going and God bless you.

[@quda]

Let’s go! The only easy day was yesterday.

[@miriammoriarty8588]

It's always much more interesting to watch the journey of people who were overweight themselves.

[@oz_jones]

You got this, mate. Upwards and onwards

[@phillipandimacht4065]

Your channel is by far the best, the YT algorithm ever threw at me.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

A long one folks so feel free to skip if you are after the health and fitness content - more of that up next week 😁 💪 🏃 And sorry the audio isn’t up to scratch here…. Will be perfect next time 🙏

[@joecolombo1727]

Nah mate it was great don't worry, great quality and relatable to many out there. Good stuff.

[@lenrock12022001]

I ran a parkrun in 29:40 a few years ago and ever since i have started watching your videos I decided to get back to my parkrun and chase my goal of 25mins. Currently at 35mins after the 1st month back, but there is no other way than up from here! Thank you Mark! P.S hello from Pretoria, South Africa 🇿🇦

[@DSKHo1968]

Best of luck mate! Love your content. Even tempted to do the Hyrox myself. It would be great to do it annually as a fitness marker. Not this year though as I am too busy trying to see how good a table tennis player I can be! 😆 🤣 😂

[@uandme41]

Good to learn on other people mistakes rather than my own 😆 good watch

[@MarkLewisfitness]

@@DSKHo1968 Hyrox as a yearly "where am I at" is a really good idea!

[@PAULPICKLES]

Mark. I've said it before but I just love your clean cut, straight to the point, honest approach. In an generation of fake KZbin wannabees, that make content just for likes. You show that being your honest self makes more of an impact. Keep up the amazing work. Ps. The tiny t-shirt are a much better upgrade to the suit.😉😂

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Cheaper too, that suit was bloody expensive 🤣

[@CED99]

I think it's Jen's influence... at least that's who I'm giving credit 😉

[@erickotiniano6654]

Please create merch that only comes in one size to small

[@justingreek6428]

@@MarkLewisfitness you paid a premium on a suit just to clash it with that tie?

[@LearningFast]

One of the things I have always thought about when watching your videos is “This guy could be a stand up comedian”. Now I know I am not the only one.

[@davidsprenger7336]

Maybe if things had gone a bit differently, maybe if he had started earlier, maybe if he had had more luck and met the right people.... Anyway, I'm not complaining... I really enjoy these videos.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

@@davidsprenger7336 it's a young persons game really. Gigs in London at 1 am with a two hour drive home and a 7 am start the next day at your regular job just grinds after a while!

[@fartinmartin00055]

"If you always do what you always did, you'll always get what you always got."

[@robbo3132]

youre a poet and you didnt even realise

[@BruceLeroyUK]

@@robbo3132 a poet who’s good at repeating what he’s just seen on screen.

[@Dom-De]

Not true! Sometimes you'll get a new and exotic STI. But every day you should try to be a good example, or a cautionary tale :-)

[@motivegrind]

The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a person’s determination.

[@tpemarshall]

"You find him inspirational, don't you?" my wife asked me when I showed her one of your vids lately. And she's right. Only just discovered them, but they are funny and inspirational, and in the 4 days since I watched the first one I'm on day three of the 16:8 and I went for a run today for the first time in months (well, more of your lampost-style run, but exercise.) Thanks.

[@CED99]

It still counts, well done.

[@benjaminroe311ify]

Good job!

[@jl1280]

Keep going mate!

[@graf]

I've been watching a bunch of your vids the past week ever since getting one in my recommended. I've always wanted to be fit, attempted multiple times with varying results. You're a great motivation, thanks for everything you put out.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Thanks 🙏 It took me plenty of attempts to get fit before I finally did - so I know what that's like.

[@adamthornton5027]

Exactly the same as me! Good luck to you, Graf.

[@ernestochefujara2709]

cóż za zaskoczenie widzieć cię tutaj :D

[@mihaelam8339]

It's your personality. I have just discovered you looking through my recommended, all similar videos, but you stuck out to me. I like your attitude, your humor, your interests.

[@andrewfox723]

Big fan of this sort of content. I’m finding in my fitness journey that mindset is everything. You can calculate how to get your body in better shape but getting your mind in shape is an art.

[@jamesjackson3104]

its mindset, and setting a target goal that is challenging

[@joyabia682]

Mind is everything!!

[@mikeelkington783]

Working in digital marketing and enjoying the occasional gaming session with my friends - I decided that it was about time to not be sitting down for 11 hours a day. Last week, speaking to said online buddies - we decides to run a WOLF run in Spring - they had done one last year. Not knowing what to do, I decided to search a few channels on youtube and maybe do the Couch to 10k. The result has been to find your channel, love the humour and motivation, and just completed Week 1 Run 3. Still a way to go. Thanks for helping to get a 53 year old father of 5 up and out. Wishing you all the success you deserve with the YT thing.

[@DavidPerrybusinessengineer]

Well done Mark - you've definitely inspired me (67 yr old road cyclist) to go above average

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Awesome stuff-there is nothing more inspiring to me, as I get older, than hearing about people still crushing it 20 years older than me. Nice to know there is no reason to slow down!

[@nicksmith9217]

35, obese and unhealthy here, started my journey last month at the gym and now getting super interested in running. Loving your channel and thanks for the motivation!

[@alwynsmit3546]

All the best mate. If I can do it, you can

[@rgh622]

I think Nixon should have a before and after video as well....

[@MarkLewisfitness]

He was a beast from day 1 🤣

[@troyh544]

A well deserved compliment... because of your park run videos, I did my first 5k instead of continuing to say "I'm not fit enough yet"... 35 minute time, but so glad I did it, thank you.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

I can remember doing 35 minute runs at Parkrun! The nice thing about that time is, with some consistency, you will start chipping away at it nicely. Sub 30 by the summer no problem!

[@MiguelGuila]

This is inspiring. I'm in my mid 30s working in the finance industry and have no previous experience with any sort of fitness activities. I started running and cycling last year. Exactly 1 year ago I couldn't even run 1k without stopping. This year I completed my first half marathon. I'm planning to document my fitness journey in youtube as well. Glad to know someone did it already, I think I can learn a lot from you. Subscribed. 🙂

[@amarug]

I am now in that "end 30s" era and I feel completely directionless. I thought I knew my whole life what I want to do, but somehow things have nudged out of place and I have zero clue anymore what to do. I am well educated (BSc/MSc + PhD in engineering from a "top 10" world uni), I teach some courses at uni, I supervise some of the ongoing research and I started a biotech-related company which is still alive but I am not pushing it enough at the moment. I also have some other "useful" skills, like I can speak 6 languages decently ("exotic" ones like Finnish and Japanese among them), but the thing is, I have done SO many things, work and hobby wise, that I have kinda "lost myself". I am kinda "good" at many things, but not the worlds nr. 1 expert in anything. I feel more and more insecure and like an imposter and think that there is no place for me because there is everywhere people better at anything I try to do. I started working out a year ago and doing more Karate for the "cardio part" which I enjoy and I like watching the little progress. I also like that I feel so much better physically, but I still feel directionless. I suppose if I could choose anything, I would love to run a Ramen shop, but thats one of those childish dreams that almost always fail.

[@rustintime9333]

I know Mark isn't a fan of Crossfit but it's given me the discipline to start my path to fitness after 25 years of sitting behind a desk, now if only I can get my diet sorted out.

[@adrosjp]

Commenting for the algorithm. As many people as possible need to see this. Super inspiring and different to 99% of other fitness KZbinrs. You're like a 20 year older version of Will Tennyson - right down to the doughnut references. And that's only a good thing!

[@MarkLewisfitness]

I was eating donuts when that kid was in nappies 🤣 (although my kids love his videos more than mine) 😁

[@mememe0199]

Great video Mark. Your 5k video inspired me to get back into health and fitness. 1 stone lighter and 4 minutes quicker in parkrun so far this year, thank you for the motivation. Good luck as a full time KZbinr!

[@jonahthewhale]

I'm in my early 40s, just started my fitness change, overweight, running my ass off and enjoying it. You're funny and your tips help me. We're both not professionals and this part of you clicked with me.

[@ADSCoachSimonB2112]

It’s because of your normal person no bs funny nature with confidence and common sense approach, a breath of fresh air and dare I say light 💡 start to ride my gravel bike and walk/run trails it’s how to Essentially get of the couch and in a very proactive way design an attractive adventurous lifestyle that doesn’t suck

[@charlymcfly9716]

I'm 27, almost 28 years old and the knowledge gain from this video is pure gold for me right now. Makes me feel better about my fitness journey, what I want to do for a living and some worries about my job and overall future. Thank you Mark, sometimes we forgot all the silent grind that is needed to achieve loud results in the future. Much love.

[@charlymcfly9716]

And the laughs! I do appreciate the sutil jokes you sprinkle on your videos.

[@TotalA7XManiac]

As someone who has struggled with my weight my whole life and spent the last 15 years yo-yoing between 72 and 143kg I just want to say how brilliant I find your KZbin channel. It’s given the inspiration now that I’m back down to a healthy weight (74kg) to get back out running and see what I can achieve.

[@oleengen1165]

You are a huge inspiration! I have currently lost half of my earlier bodyweight (used to be 165 kg, is now 82,5 kg), and my fiance has lost almost 70 kg (used to be 135 kg). Your videos is one big reason that we manage to keep being motivated. You have helped us to really find our love for running.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Those are incredible numbers. I sometimes wonder if people commenting, like you have, in the comments section realise how much they motivate other people as well. It is all very inspiring stuff 🙏

[@alex31721able]

I was just reading through the community post about the new video as the notification came through

[@Mikklez]

I just found you a week or two ago. That clip of you holding onto that bike for dear life just a few feet above the ground absolutely tickles me. I see why others stuck around for the rest.

[@TheCherriesTV]

I normally skip videos, I don’t with yours, simple and relatable. Enjoy your videos a lot

[@karlevans5102]

I stumbled across your page maybe 4/5 months ago and I’ve been hooked since. You’re the only KZbinr that I’ll watch every video regardless the content just because you’re very entertaining and inspiring. I hope you get all the success you deserve and keep smashing it bud

[@hwjhanna]

I like the point that people only notice the “final” shape you have got into and think they can replicate it in a few weeks when they never noticed you had started going to the gym or otherwise exercising for a sustained period of time. (Final in “ “ because if you have good training habits you probably don’t/shouldn’t think of anything as a final position). I think this video ties in nicely with the atomic habits one some time ago. It gives the true picture of building sustainable long term fitness instead of the typical magazine/KZbin strap line of beach body in 28 days etc

[@mocat4]

I was one of those who discovered you in December 2020 because of Zwift and I haven't missed a video since. You're the only KZbinr I subscribe to where I will watch no matter what the content. You could read the phone book (do they still have those?) and I would watch. It's your wit, personality, and content that draw me in. The trifecta!

[@fastmako]

Hey mate. 6’6, 51 year old former oarsman here who enjoyed your Steven Redgrave convo. Love this! Really enjoying your journey. It gives me the justification of why I decided to lose 65 pounds in two years and run. Although, long way to go to break 20 mins in a park run (23:45 old man PB currently) and training for a marathon in December with a moderate sub 4 hour goal. But I’m enjoying the ride and love your vids. Keep it up and cheers!

[@dood-vr9yh]

this speaks to me. at 32. a college athlete that kinda lost the fire but always stuck with it. I really crave the competition and improvement of myself. the last 5 years have just been professional accolades chasing BS

[@thegrymwolf6360]

10 years later and you look 10 years younger now. Loving the channel mate, really helping me.

[@D_o_n_k_e]

I didn’t know you used to do stand up! It explains why you’re so witty and engaging. You talk really well! Really inspiring life story btw :)

[@DrumDude53]

Incredibly motivating, and happy to hear that more content is coming in the future!

[@Jonesy781]

Great to hear this kind of video, I started running recently myself and was immediately thinking "How does that KZbinr whose 20kg heavier than me do this so easily?" But this is a reminder that I'm seeing you after years of hard work and dedication and you weren't always "above average".

[@GeoffRichards_GP]

Amusingly, by definition, he was distinctly BELOW average for quite some time 😂. Then drew equal, then left most in the dust

[@ian-mucarruthers441]

I'm genuinely pleased when I see you have a new video out.. I'll put time aside to watch them well and enjoy them. As to why I do that with yours and not others? The content is great. But it's much more a combination of your story telling and your personality. Your honesty and your willingness to share elements of your not so 'KZbin shinny' struggles, are key for me. The jokes and the dog are cherry on the cake. Thanks and keep at it.

[@tomogorman3947]

My path to fitness is still ongoing … but i love the channel because you remind me of me a lot … especially when you pour over data! I was captain of the rowing team at uni … weighed 80kg looked great but hated training. Decided to quit in my last year and just have fun and then when i started working the weight really started to pile on. Then over the next few years i got obsessed with triathlons, half marathons, and half ironmans purely relying on fitness, knowing that if i bothered to lose weight i’d actually be quite fast. I loved the training and the races but i couldn’t put down the donuts. But i must be fit right, i have loads of medals?! Wrong! Then in 2017 i was moved to Sweden for my job and i lived in a hotel for six weeks which was above a Mcdonalds. I ate hotel breakfast and mcdonalds nearly every day for six weeks and honestly i’m still fighting that addiction to fastfood five years later! After those six weeks i moved into an apartment here in Stockholm and dragged myself down to the gym. And i got addicted to the gym (and got some weightloss) and went minimum five times a week for two years until i realised that actually wasn’t really pushing myself or progressing each day. It’s amazing how much the body just stops responding when you stop pushing it! So then i started crossfit and again the weight started to drop off and i started to feel fitter again. So two years of crossfit later i’m still big but i feel fit. Now i’m finally realising after all this time that you can’t outtrain a bad diet and i’m starting to eat a bit better and lose a bit of weight! I’m also moving away from traditional gym muscle building back to some crossfit and some hyrox and some triathlon … because have you ever seen a gym bro do cardio? Its embarassing! Thanks for the content! You truly are funny and i’m really enjoying watching videos of you just entering everything because that used to be me and i want to get back to that! Keep it up …. Ps you should start a podcast!

[@HAKA...]

Found this channel when i got my fenix 6 pro for my 50th, now my favourite channel. Love the motivation and humour

[@martialwhite6831]

I recently (4 weeks ago) started couch to 5k being overweight. I am turning 40 next year as well and felt the urge to change. You are one of my motivators and I hope that I can stay strong and continue my journey.

[@jsselman]

Love your channel, Mark. Love your dry jokes, love the dogs, and love your honesty.

[@troymorgan4955]

I'm sort of drawing parallels for myself. Very much in the doldrums myself - where you used to be- and what I can do to make things better before I disappear into the abyss. Love your content.

[@vp102]

"Other peoples 'what ifs' are not for you" - the best advice anyone could ever give to anyone else. Do not allow people to define your limits. Thanks Mark.

[@martinlilly]

What a world we live in that such opportunities like this now exist to make a living from this (KZbin) when just a short time ago it was for the elite, those who started early and the famous. Keep doing what you're doing bro. Your content is thought provoking and very inspiring!

[@MarkLewisfitness]

It is crazy - especially for somebody that grew up when the Internet didn't even exist!

[@ellleigh1216]

The no bs style of videos, with subtle comedy, is brilliant. There’s no one out there doing this, good job 👍🏻

[@williamosborne6258]

It's like you did a complete 180 turn around on your life absolutely brilliant

[@jeremiahpatz1192]

Just stopping in to say thanks for making me get out there today. I started this video , insipred me to get out for a run and came back to finish the video.

[@itsmemiked03]

Hey brotha, just wanted to drop a comment. I just did my first Tough Mudder today. I turned 38 last month. I'm a big fella, 6'1 270 lbs. I'm pretty mobile for a guy my size. I'm a corrections officer. Anyways, I made the jail SWAT team a month and a half ago and barely made it. I made it a point to get back in shape after that, I just happeto come across your channel. The advice and content of tour videos has helped me tremendously! Thank you.

[@cpruns4501]

This is awesome and I can tell you right now why I fell in love with your videos. 1 - Super funny! Your sense of humor is awesome 2 - Your passion 3 - Great info 4 - You speak fast and the edits are great so I get a lot of content in not much time. I can't stand videos where people.......talk.......like........this...... Yikes. YouTalkLikeThisAndILoveIt!!! I hope you blow up (even more) and become the biggest person in this space. Very well done my friend!

[@paulalbietz9719]

Mark, found your channel when looking for Fenix 7 reviews. Stayed for your diverse and entertaining content. Since then, you inspired me to do my first Parkrun, subsequently broke 20 mins (got the same time as your first sub 20!) and I have been more active and health conscious than I ever have been. Really happy for you that it is going well, thanks for your work, and I look forward to your inspiration, no nonsense words of wisdom, and the gags (I snorted coffee when you said that you would throw the dog on eBay). All the best. Paul

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Sub 20 Parkrun is rapid - nice work! And people spitting their tea and coffee everywhere watching the videos is the primary objective 😁

[@chrisshaw2810]

For me it's your message of being above average that strikes a chord. I'm 2/3 your weight, 5'6", I'm not really a fan of dogs, and I wouldn't pay a thousand quid for that sled thing (- I think you've been had...), but I did couch-5k trying to recover from Covid in March 2020 as I never wanted to be that ill again - ever - and last week I ran my first ultramarathon. 59th/130. I'm probably never going to win any of these things (not beardy enough), but I don't care. I'm better than average - which is affirming (as it means I'm now looking for the next thing to make me a bit beardier), but I'm competing against me, not you, so I can still enjoy the scenery, and will never fail even if I don't finish. Keep up the good work, and thank you.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

I always love it when somebody enjoys the channel but equally hates some of the things on the channel - that's when you know you put a decent video together 😁 and you definitely need a beard to break top 50 on an ultramarathon 😆

[@danincapetown]

Mark, love your content and story, as a 44yr old 6ft 4in 120Kg guy you cannot begin to understand what the impact of having someone of a similar age, size, journey as you to be motivated by means vs. all of the content put out by 5ft 6in 25yr olds. So thank you, and the next time you are in Cape Town for a ride hit me up, my GS650 is always fueled up and ready to go

[@ben_imaging]

Fantastic video, Mark. One would assume that "Chubby Office Guy to Fitness KZbinr" was a video about physical fitness but you actually covered a lot of mental health. It's great to see the conversation moving towards them being aligned. I was trying to think about the first video of yours I watched. I think it was about running whilst holding water bottles. I watched that for tips on making running easier for me as I was just starting out, but I've ended up staying for your story and to see you take on the next challenge. I'm looking forward to watching the continued growth of this channel 😊

[@Reqnr]

I discovered you after researching Garmin watches. For some reason your video on the 7X versus the 6X really stood out to me, and even though it didn't really help me to buy a watch I found myself coming back to your channel multiple times. I've now watched easily 30+ of your videos and have loved them all.. It's actually motivated me more than any other channel has, and I recently started running again and just signed up for a local Parkrun (which I didn't even know existed!). Thank you Mark, you have earned your success many times over :)

[@BTurner.]

I know where you’re coming from. I was 39, had a very well paid job but getting fatter by the day. A mate of mine persuaded me to go to the gym with him. That was twenty four years ago. I took to it like a duck to water, packed my well paid but highly stressful job in, bought a taxi to work my own hours and I’m three stone lighter and a lot fitter now than I was then and I’m so glad I did as I’m a lot happier now. I did a ten mile hike up Ingleborough today which I throughly enjoyed, if I’d stayed as I was I reckon I’d have been a couch potato by now.

[@itsgaiagg2387]

My current favourite KZbin channel.. and I am a female, in my 20s, doing a bit of running, bit of cycling, bit of CrossFit and strength training (and excelling at none of those!). Mark does really share a message, relatable to many, regardless of gender, age or activity!

[@Samwidges21]

I watch every video you release regardless of the topic, I just know I’ll enjoy it. Good luck with going full time with KZbin, sure you’ll get above average results!

[@Fourty-Six]

I'll be honest, I subscribed because you give it your all, there's a variety, and the comedy is beautifully British. You're an inspiration and an entertaining bloke!

[@danielgreenough1065]

Never comment on videos really. But love yours. Just run 10k in under 50mins having started running a year ago. Some of the credit is yours!Keep up the good videos. Stay hard.

[@Jeff.Slavich]

One of the best take aways: Give it your best, or at least enough to know what your best might be. Well done and good luck.

[@zandralapoi9203]

Trying to get back into working out. Unmotivated, knackered, overweight, 52 yr old lady, soon to retire next year. I love Zwift, however am not very good. With your 'Empty Classrooms' sentiment as my motivation, I have just done my own version of interval training going up the Alpe du Zwift. Didn't get to the top, but beat my last effort. I suppose that is what it is all about isn't it, just getting off your arse and doing something lol Love your content and love Nixon, more Nixon please!! Thank you xxxx

[@SteezyG]

I saved this to watch when I was in a good place to pay attention. I have the same outlook and same lessons but in different words. I'm carrying stress that isnt important and I know it isnt. The best thing for getting over stresses is having a support network thats on the same wave length. Theres no right or wrong answer in a lot of life, but some people/things make you question it. When you feel wrong and full of doubt you can spiral into thinking you have your morals wrong. I think its important to have someone that you can express your thoughts too that wont scream and shout at how you're wrong to develop yourself. Otherwise you can go down the wrong path thats your path due to others dog shit morals they're passing onto you.

[@garrett0150]

Hope you’re doing better! Maybe look into some mediations or something to see if it helps you take care of yourself

[@HendoHendo-ft6sr]

Found your channel about 3 weeks ago, and since then I've watched almost every video on the channel your story is amazing your jokes make me giggle endlessly and your dogs make me actually like dogs (sorry I'm a cat person). I've been a relatively decent level athlete for a couple years but post covid was struggling with motivation your channel has completely flipped that, I now can't find enough time to train so thank you for the positive impact you have made on me and so many others.

[@adamthornton5027]

Hi Mark, not sure if you read many of these comments, but I want to say how inspiring and important I find your videos. I've just discovered them after watching your excellent Steve Redgrave video (I'm a former rower). But this video is the most important, for me. Seeing the photo you posted right at the start of this video (when you were overweight), next to the video of you talking now, was very sobering and eye-opening. Your face is so much slimmer and healthy now. When I saw that photo I have to admit to myself "that's me now!" I'm 49 now (how did that happen?!), separated from my wife for the past year, and overweight. Dare I say it but I'll be 50 next February and I don't want to be like this then. I'm going to do something about it.

[@Sandppy]

Found you this last week, you have been very inspirational, listen like pod casts, I had lost 65lbs just off getting diet right, went back to eating gained 50 back but recently put in a garage gym and dusted off the bike, so I’m holding the line now just got to get the diet back. The adage you can’t out run a bad is true, but you can hold the line

[@mikevbreugel]

Hi Mark, I was inspired by your video's. I am 38 years old, 1,85 meter and weighed 117 kilo's after neglecting myself for about 6 years. I have always been super fit until I quit football, fitness and doing Viking runs (half marathon) around age 32. I was to busy with study, work and went backpacking for some months when I graduaded. So I bought a Kickr Bike last month and a treadmill a few months ago to work on myself again. Tried alpe du zwift today for the first time. After the third turn i thought. 'Goggins can kiss my ass' and turned around. Did get 3 badges (U-turn, 50 mph and 700 watts) tho on the way down. I'll keep at it. I weigh just under 113 kilo now so there is hope for the future. Love your video's and jokes. Keep at it. I will do the same.

[@erichaynes7502]

Hi Mark, I have to admit I was a little reluctant to watch your videos at first. But I stuck with you, you've knocked A LOT of sense into me and I'm already making changes. Thanks!

[@RichsRidesandRestorations]

Hi Mark, I started watching your channel a couple of weeks ago when you had just 66.6k subscribers and KZbin took it upon themselves to recommend the "boris fat-shaming" video to me; a 5 ft 3", 99kg cyclist in his mid 30s, who was just working on a video about my own struggles with weight, lack of cycling due to injuries and working from home and the impact on my mental health. (Thanks, KZbin...) 11 years ago, I was the wrong side of 17.5 stone and on the edge of pre-diabetes. I'd been fairly physically active as a teenager despite my asthma, doing swimming twice a week, cycling for my paper round and to school. Cue going to university in 2004 and eating and drinking poorly with much less exercise. In 2011, at 17.5 stone I made some rather big diet changes and lost 4 stone in about 6 months, and then another stone in the next 6 months by doing more exercise, cycling to work, etc. Due to a change in circumstances, I couldn't do as much exercise and weight crept back on slowly to about 14 to 15 stone over the next couple of years. In 2016 I took up triathlon and my weight stabilised, but Other Commitments(TM) and persistent calf injuries meant I couldn't devote enough time to it in order to be "not bad", let alone "above average". In 2019 I broke my collarbone in a collision with a car when I was cycling to work. By the time I had healed, it was just in time for lockdown and working from home. By the time you were falling off your indoor trainer, I was still trying to get back the confidence to ride outdoors again without being scared stiff at the prospect of drivers crashing into me. I wanted to film the few rides I did do, as a kind of motivation to keep riding, and ended up mostly filming myself working on bikes instead of riding them! But it did help my mental health, which was starting to suffer due to lack of social interaction, physical exercise, my weight gain and so on. But something still wasn't right, so 7 weeks ago I dug out my smart trainer and started doing 30 minute "virtual commutes" each weekday morning, which have really helped me with weight loss, making me more alert and productive for work each morning and improved my mental wellbeing. In your "boris fat-shaming" video and others, you've talked about people bullying people about their shape, and the "body positive", fat-but-fit, "don't lose too much weight, you're a tall lad" end of the spectrum. Toxic negativity vs Toxic Positivity. I agree with most of what you say. People shouldn't make negative comments about others' shape - they don't know that person's trajectory or journey. They could have lost 5 stone and still be chunky, or be just about to sign up for their first parkrun. It's like mocking someone for having a soft drink in a pub. They could be an alcoholic who's been sober for 20 years, or someone just making that first step to have a soft drink instead of 5 pints of lager. It's petty, cruel and is more about the insecurities of the person saying it. Likewise the toxic positivity, which can also undermine someone's determination to do what's right for them for the sake of making those similar to them look bad for their own choices. If people can't mind their own business then they should support that individual's choice or right to choose, not project their own insecurities. My wife is Buddhist and taught me about "radical acceptance", which has helped me to accept, but not in a fatalistic way, that I am the shape and weight I am. I can't do anything about the past, but I can shape the future. To let go of the shame that is holding me back from taking action. I'm not a bad person for being fat, but if I want to lose weight and be fitter and healthier I should do it for me and not for the approval or fear of what others think. Keep up the good work, Rich p.s. I listened to the Rocky 4 soundtrack earlier this week because of your videos. Some of Vince DiCola's best work - apart from his tracks on the "Transformers: The Movie" soundtrack 😉

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Rich, I've said it a few times and it applies here again-posts like yours in the comment section are absolutely brilliant to see. They motivate me to simply churn out more videos and I can guarantee motivate and inspire others who see them too. Although, you are cheating on the ability to sensibly rationalise your situation by having a Buddhist wife 😂

[@m.ibr.4156]

I just finished today my first 3K, in 20 min. There is a lot to do till I get to 5k in 30 min. Your video is inspiring. Thanks

[@scottrobinson3628]

I am obsessed with watching people on KZbin go on epic bike rides and ultra runs, but never found the motivation myself to actually get up and train for something (a strange place mentally to be i know). The goal of being in the top 50% of everything has changed my life, it gets me up and out for a run and gives me something to train for. I never thought having a goal like that would be so meaningful. Doing my first half marathon in 3 weeks and booked in for a marathon in September with a 3 day mountain biking holiday in between totalling 160 miles to look forward too. I have gone from having yoyoing fitness levels to the fittest i have been with no signs of slowing down all thanks to you and the 'be better than average'. All the best for the future and thank you!

[@chrisellison8074]

Came for the trail run fail video...for a bit of schadenfreude, but stayed for the humor & overall theme of the channel. Love the videos, Mark. Somehow comforting to know that while I'm grinding away in my pain cave, you are probably crushing yourself somewhere across the pond. Keep it up you maniac!

[@joshbrindley9537]

Love the content Mark. I've never related to anyone who claims that someone is inspiration to them...until I've found your channel and you are an inspiration to me. I am at the start of your journey. Dad, unhealthy and running a new business. Hope I get a fraction of your success in a few years. Keep it up!

[@Magnificent729]

I’ve just found your channel. No idea why! I think it was contemplating buying an Applewatch Ultra, not because I’m ‘ultra’, but because I like nice things. Im glad I did. Just found this beauty and found it motivating. I’m a 62 year old ex Army Commando who, due to service, has just had to have two new knees. Not fun. Can’t recommend it… but I want to make the most of my new kit (not the watch, the knees). Initially I thought “what Mark is doing is great, but I can’t run” (it’s not good for the new kit). Then I thought “take your blouse off, drink a can of man-up and think - what CAN I do”. I’ve bought a second hand spin bike (I can actually pedal for twenty minutes - slowly) some kettle bells and a TRX, changed my home office and garage to a semblance of gyms and, whilst I’m still in rehab, I’m doing something. I’ll be back to being more, after all - ‘It’s a state of mind’. Thanks buddy.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Welcome aboard and glad the stuff I make is helping 👍🏼💪

[@alisonS4708]

I feel we bonded over Atomic Habits and the time it took for us to actually read it from when we acquired it! And I'm going to position myself further up the parkrun shute when I go for my sub-goal time, good hints! Great laughs along the way too! Now I know why!

[@jackbuckley89]

This channel is a breath of fresh air, someone who is actually interested in FITNESS. Good luck with the hyrox training

[@anyexpat]

Having just discovered your channel in the past few days i think your channel appeals as you are not a super athlete and working out is not the be all and end all of your life. I always thought that sort of intensity is for people who want to be at the Olympics, when you have no chance of that treating what is basically a hobby as if you are a potential Olympian is really off putting i think a lot of channels fall down by over estimating the importance of their journey . Your journey is impressive, relatable and motivating.

[@joeyr4869]

The amount of genuinely useful insights you managed to pack into this video is impressive. I'm not trying to brag but I'm one of those people that have been watching you from the beginningish and I must say you are one of the most compelling people I watch. And all of this is coming from a cyclist so you know its reputable

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Thanks for sticking around 😁 Channel only exist today because of the few people watching at the beginning!

[@courier627]

Hi Mark, I first came across your channel when I watched the Thames Path Challenge. I commented that I found it inspirational and you were kind enough to reply. At the time I had just turned sixty and was in a bad place, I weighed over 20 stone and hadn't stepped outside the house, except to buy food, for nearly two years. Since then, I re-joined Parkrun and started to slowly build up my fitness. It hasn't been a linear journey but, as I write this, I am down to 17s7 8lbs and a few weeks ago completed the Surrey Half Marathon. I was the last to finish and it did take me 3hrs 31mins but I did it and I intend to continue my journey. I have a 25k booked for the end of May and intend to do the first 50k of the Thames Path in September. I have written this to let you know your channel (and others) have been a great motivation and to wish you all the best in your switch to doing this fulltime

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Hey Mike - I'm doing Thames Path again! If you see me give me a shout! In fact, message me nearer the time and I'll make sure to bump into you there and get you some airtime :). And 50 K is hell of an achievement when you were 20 stone the last time the race was on - awesome target to have

[@courier627]

@@MarkLewisfitness Hi Mark, I'll definitely look you up at the start but that will probably be the last you see of me as you disappear into the distance 😁😁

[@GladysAmelia]

I saw your video about calories in/calories out, and your empathy and warm confrontations convinced me to subscribe. And the dog is adorable.

[@clivepreston2228]

I am a seasoned cyclist and now runner, but i come here for the Nixon content, and i don't have a dog!. Keep up the great content

[@cappaculla]

Any video that makes me laugh always gets an up-vote, this did for sure.... It was also motivating, I'm 50 this year and determined to ride my first century... Videos like this one do help...

[@DSKHo1968]

Doing a century is easy as long as there are not many hills! Put it this way 10mph is pretty slow pace, a pace that you can ride pretty much forever on a flat road. So as long as you've adequate fuel and not pushing too hard, you can do 100 miles no problem!

[@cappaculla]

@@DSKHo1968 thanks for the message x

[@DSKHo1968]

@@cappaculla no problems. As long as you have a decent amount of fitness 100 miles on a relatively flat route is not a problem at all. Good luck with the challenge.

[@markbaldwyn6963]

I have possibly the ultimate accolade for you here Mark. I was out for a run the other day, feeling pretty knackered and a phrase popped into my head… Not “stay hard” or “he didn’t see me” no… “What would Mark Lewis do?” No I didn’t fall over or even start shouting. But I didn’t stop either. Thanks for the content man.

[@glenng725]

Fantastic! As a 53 yo this is very inspiring! I look forward to more

[@stargazerbird]

I love the idea of above average for your peer group. As a fairly new runner in her sixties I will never win a park run but seeing my stats reaching above average is a huge motivator. Thank you for that. It’s a new sort of fitness channel as the others are all full time fitness types who have world records and are at the extremes. It’s not relatable and what works at the extremes is not necessarily what works for just above average.

[@ciprian7243]

Well the good think that i take from it is that "relapse is not failure". I do come from a history of training for a while, relapsing on donuts, kebabs (basically anything food), then starting again. So there`s hope! :)

[@SharonLoans]

I love your devotion to training at 57 I will never be where you are. I found your site when I purchased a peleton and was looking for likeminded people on youtube. Keep up the great work.

[@CarCrazedFool]

Quite simply Mark, Good Luck. Awesome work. At this rate you'll go down in the KZbin hall of fame!

[@igvabe]

watching this I realized I like watching this channel because making vids about what you like to do, is also what you like to do. Double the enjoyment, no fake-ness. Keep it up

[@runstokesrun]

I only discovered your videos the other day, I had been watching a few park run vids and yours came up as a suggested one. I have since fully immersed myself in your content, and you have already replied to a few of my comments on other vids. As a 37 year old who only started running properly about 2 years ago I see many parallels between us. I've gone from 96kg to 70kg from body weight exercise, running and cycling. I ran a park run PB of 21:13 yesterday and aim to one day get sub 20. One of the best things about your channel is your delivery and enunciation, you speak confidently and clearly, perhaps it's all those boring meeting from your old job. You clearly have fun with what you do and don't take it too seriously, you also present very realistically struggles and setbacks that just aren't highlighted in other videos. I particularly loved your Kipchoge, Farrah, Wiggins and Redgrave videos, would love to see you try a flat out track 5K to see how quick you could go (I know in one comment you said this was on the list). Keep up the good work and content.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Yes the 5k is coming!!! I’m getting spikes and everything! It will happen 😁

[@ghawk16-ish]

Stumbled upon your page while looking for Garmin 7X and Epix reviews and now...I'm hooked. Every time I'm on Zwift doing a massive climb I think about your "1 hour to the top of Alpe du Zwift" video. Appreciate the honesty, no BS, fun, etc of your videos. I think you're doing a GREAT job at succeeding with how you wanted to approach this channel! Keep it up and if you ever find yourself in Colorado...look me up. Show ya some of the local biking areas. Cheers

[@TheScottGordon]

What I like about your videos Mark is that, for me, it is a blend between an adventure/challenge video and a podcast that I think keeps your material fresh. I look forward to seeing more of your runs and also you checking in with your audience on things you've learnt in life/just figured out. Thanks!

[@samuelprescott7426]

I'm not entirely sure why I was suggested your content - but I know why I keep watching. You're entertaining to listen to, you're motivating to watch, and I enjoy your content. It reminds me to keep pushing for my fitness goals, unlike other people I watch.

[@robthewaywardwoodworker9956]

LOTS of good advice and motivation in this one. Thanks to KZbin for recommending Mark.

[@maxpoppe]

honestly, I've been watching this channel for the past few days and the video's are interesting even when it's about topics I don't care about, the silly little jokes are just the cherry ontop of the cake. almost 3.5 years ago I started my running journey and I went from barely being able to run 1.5 km to being able to do half marathons on a weekly basis sadly that stopped because of an injury and then I had personal issues and I got overweight. Since I started watching this channel it has motivated to truely start thinking about my diet again and cutting out all bad snacks and meals and replace them with healthier alternatives and also get out there again and try to get fit enough to enjoy running again. I've gotten motivated a couple times before to get out there agian, but with this channel I've actually put in the time to plan out my meals and training again which I've never done before and I know next few weeks will be painfull, but I'm going to stick with being healthy this time. I hope this channel keeps making video's with silly little jokes in it because they bring back my running day memories again and want me to be a better version of myself again!!

[@jonsaxby7683]

I discovered your channel last year when I became aware of hyrox and started investigating whether or not it was something I'd like to do, I still haven't done a hyrox mostly because of the financial cost involved in what would be essentially a vanity project but I never miss one of your videos because theirs something alot more relatable when a man of not too disimilar dimensions to a fridge tries to be good at something that said dimensions don't lend themselves to and does above average at it than someone clearly on 💉 making clickbait to sell me protein powder they clearly aren't taking

[@fiddycaliber947]

I don't tend to comment but i've been watching every vid you post for the last 6 months or so.. you're not above average Mark, you're absolutely unique. The story style is really engaging, the content is varied and interesting, and more so, relatable. Stay awesome Mark!

[@jamesmyerscough6038]

I can resonate with what you describe Mark. At 32, I'm on my own journey, clawing back my fitness aspirations from the grasp of corporate lifestyle. Ironically, my sporting background got me the job. But what I've come to realise is slowly the job takes over and its doesnt care if you've got abs, only if you've got data to back up some other bullshit metric. Thanks for the video, I've subscribed and will continue to be motivated by your advice and experiences. J 👊

[@MorganInForm]

You had a video that hooked me that said you could either keep eating the donuts and maybe have a heart attack or get in shape and maybe have a heart attack and that really stuck with me. If I'm gonna go down from a heart attack I'd much rather it be because I was working on my fitness doing something that makes me a better person.