How We Avoid The Darker Side of Running

[@BullitCake]

“A candle never loses its flame by lighting another candle” brilliant

[@iberiksoderblom]

Have to admit, I have NEVER judged other runners, no matter what they look like, how they run or how fast they are. But I've allways felt that others judged me.

[@edwardsmith992]

TMH and ML are both great channels and I can enjoy both.

[@abbyschwendler1107]

I ONLY ran indoors for YEARS for fear of judgement. Since running outdoors, I've really embraced the fact that i am a runner, and if someone wants to judge me, so be it. I'm getting out there and giving it my all. I've improved leaps and bounds since leaving my fear at the door.

[@sylvaindore3190]

Great attitude!

[@scott_strool]

brilliant, thank you

[@glenn1534]

I'd love to watch a Messy Happy/Mark Lewis duo video where you do something together 😊

[@juliana8113]

Yes running is such an inclusive sport, I've chatted with hundreds of people on the start lines of races and whilst out running, and nobody ever seems to judge anyone else - we are all here for the same thing Comparison is the thief of joy

[@jpsmooth7156]

Adding to the judgment aspect, but on the other side of the coin, is allowing insecurity to creep into your head worrying about what others are thinking about you when you're on your running journey. Earlier this year, I was training for my first marathon and would head to the local track. Other runners would fly down the stairs all fresh-faced and sweat free just starting their run. They'd zip around, passing me so often to the point that it came into play and started to take away the focus (and joy) of the experience (even though I was tackling 15-20 mile sessions and was a good 10-12 miles or more in when they appeared). One morning, as it was raining, I kept saying "Keep showing up..." out loud again and again. Something clicked in my mind and from there, it sunk in that this is for ME and these people were showing up too...but weren't necessarily out there for the same reason. We're all on a different path. So, do your thing and keep showing up!

[@HS-fm9kv]

Mist runners are nice and encouraging people. When I first got running, I was carting around 120kg of primo fun living fat. My early attempts at long runs were walk / run home after work- with a section across Sydney harbour bridge. It’s when I noticed that there is a running community. Nearly every runner whose path I crossed nodded/ said hello in one form or another… That didn’t happen when walking in civvies!!! Was super encouraging!

[@LaurentSansonetti]

Long time watcher of your channel here. I'm a fan of Mark Lewis too but as I see it it's a different type of content. I find yours very motivational, during my running journey I have been through a few things that were all very well covered by your videos, they *really* helped me to become a better runner (and overall a better person). I think it's my first comment on YT but I had to write this. Please keep the great work :)

[@kitschofield5307]

I had exactly the same thought. This Messy Happy is (for me) more of a journey channel and I love it for that reason

[@Burps___]

My 3 year old went across a balance beam at the city park without falling. He asked me: "Are you proud of me?" It almost threw me on my keester that he could understand the abstract concept of pride. "Yes, son, I am proud of you." We all want to feel good in the eyes of others. The story that Ben told about the opposite-direction runner that he and Mary encouraged exemplifies this notion. It feels wonderful to make others feel wonderful. 🏃‍♀

[@SchvennMeister]

LOL I found you because of Mark Lewis and found Parkrun because of Mark, as well. At this week's Parkrun I managed to hit a goal I never thought I'd hit, knocking more than 10 minutes off my original Parkrun time in April of last year, with a PB of 23:21, yesterday. It's thanks in no small part to Parkrun and all of you fantastic KZbinrs who helped me to get here and I have no intentions of slowing down, aiming for my first marathon in October. So, thank you to the entire running community for lighting my candle, as well!

[@ms.s.4710]

I don't usually comment on videos. But I want you to know what this channel has meant to me. Because of you and this channel, I ran for the first time in my life with a sense of purpose in 2022. I was 35yo a month away from 36yo and it was during the cold winter. I ran my first 5k following your 10-week schedule. Every Saturday that I would run, I would tell myself, "That's the furthest you've ever run!" I couldn't believe I was doing it, even sticking it out in snow and over the holidays. My husband ran track in school, ran in college, and is still a runner. In our 16+ years together, he could NEVER get me to join him. This channel not only has gotten me to run multiple 5ks, but now I'm going for 10k. I am a runner. Never in my life would I expect myself to utter that sentence. I don't know the other guy, but this channel changed it all for me. My husband and I now enjoy runs together. 😊 You and Mary are amazing!

[@ThisMessyHappy]

Oh wow!! This is incredible to read and thank you so much. If we played even a tiny part in your journey to being a runner then we feel super privileged 😊 here’s to the rest of your amazing life in running. Thanks so much for the kind words 😊

[@LeePrice82]

Ben, one of your main pieces of advice really helped me out today during a scorching hot half-marathon. I was discussing with my wife on the way to the race about the heat and being anxious for a result... Me: I've heard from youtube (you) that to take the pressure off I should have an A goal, a B goal and a C goal. Least then you can walk away with something. Me: A goal, break sub 1:30. B goal, sub 1:35. C goal just PB. Me: Actually with the GI issues from gels and my anxiety. A goal is don't 💩 myself on the way round, then B, C and D. So yeah, I ran the race. Had a horrendous time. But still got my D goal. I met my wife at the finish. Me: that went terrible. Absolutely the worst experience I've ever had on a run. Me: but at least I still PB'd. So I got my D goal at least :) Wife : hey you didn't 💩 yourself! Me: ... Still me: ... Still me: ...YOU ARE FLUFFING RIGHT!!! 'A' Goal Achieved 🥇 Me: Fluffing great :) #CelebrateEveryWin 🙂 *I didn't say fluffing

[@Simoneemilie]

Knowing how hard running sometimes can be, I always celebrate, when seeing another runner on my run, with a high-five and people literally light up by this small gesture. Sharing good vibrations is important ☀️🥳😍

[@joseguillermodelhoyohuidob2032]

I love your content, I’m 55 years old and running for 1 1/2 years , and you can’t imagine how much you have helped me .

[@rhinopaul]

I only started running at the age of 49 when covid hit and quarantine started we were only allowed out for 1 hour a day. The reason I started so late was the fear of being judged. It didn't take long before I really couldn't care less what others thought, I was doing it for me not them. Fortunately iv never judged only looked on with admiration for anyone getting out there.

[@jps5871]

Love 10min rule ( used once), but it’s easy to fall into bad traps. Need to be aware of them. I think in running one of the punishments I see most common is I eat (whatever) so need to run to or run extra because.

[@ScottMDavis-zm2cd]

This feels like it's more geared toward "How we avoid the darker side of life". Great advice that can be adapted for anyone, even non-athletes.

[@jfarmer911]

This right here is why I love the running community. I’m plus size and took up running as part of my weight loss goals, and I felt that same nervousness described in the video, but I find that other runners are just so supportive and it’s the only sport I’ve ever tried in which I don’t feel judged or outcast by those who are faster or more fit than me. 😊

[@AlbertWeijers]

Judging is indeed a trap for all of us runners, the story about the guy you told was beautiful, inspiring stuff!

[@50Something]

I used to be self conscious and wondered what people were thinking while I was out trying to run. I was also too shy to wear a flashy pair of trainers that I ordered but all of that passed and now I just don't care. I really enjoyed this one, great content Ben!!!!

[@erickehr4475]

There’s a bit of a “conflict”between running despite low motivation and not punishing yourself by running through an injury. If one part of the brain is looking for excuses not to run, any slight niggle can be used as just such an excuse. So we train another part of our brain to over-ride those thoughts. But when we do have a genuine injury, that part of our brain still kicks in and tells us to just get out there.

[@bui340]

Well done being nice to that runner 👍 Made me smile inside

[@Mowsemowse]

I'm subscribed to you and Mark Lewis, and enjoy both, you're just different. Also I'll never forget a conversation with a clearly very experienced runner at the end of my first 5 miles in about 10 years without having run, he was really friendly and encouraging. He only lives down the street but I've never bumped into him again, but he cheered me up when I thought I was doing horribly. I always smile and say hello to other runners whether they reply in kind or not because they might be cheered by it, or if not I am. 😊

[@brewerm1718]

I love that you stopped this person and have him some support. I bet you made a huge difference in his life! ❤

[@guillaumevandessel3085]

This should serve as a basis for a course like RUNNING 101; so much wisdom in a single video

[@graham4099]

Love this channel and Mark's channel too. A rising tide floats all ships, in running and on You Tube!

[@DegenGaming]

'If it needs to happen, then I make it happen.' I like your style. It's what I live by as well.

[@SeanLander63]

I found your channel after Mark Lewis and I have to say if I could watch only one it would be yours. It mightn’t be as funny but it’s way more informative, inspirational and with much higher production values. You’ve pretty much covered everything I could ask as a runner. Apart from one thing. I’d love you guys to do a story about running as a couple and how you address the issues that can arise when trying to balance a relationship, your training goals, the goals of your partner, and all the “messy happy” stuff that happens in between. I love running with my partner and love seeing her progression but sometimes it can be a mental struggle for her when she sees we are at very different levels in our running journey. Any tips greatly appreciated. Keep up the great work!

[@Ohjeezno]

What a lovely story about that other dude. So nice of you guys to support him and give him a confidence boost.

[@mhidoux0]

I just want to say thank you! Thank you for this channel. It's one of those rare truly honest places on the internet. I started really getting into running last year training for my first half marathon. I have always been relatively active, mostly lifting waits at the gym. I used to run occasionally too but I didn't enjoy it (it was pretty much torture). I decided to give running one more try through signing up for the HM and following your beginner program. The most humbling thing, and the one that changed everything, is that the program started with alternating running and walking intervals. That was so counter-intuitive to me coming from the weight training world where you had to lift more every time and push yourself. I learned that in order to enjoy running, to not feel blood in my mouth, to be red faced, to feel dead after 5K, I needed to slow down. I realised I pushed myself way too much during all these years running due to my ego, comparing myself to others, looking at Strava. Today, I enjoy running and it helps me every day keep my body and more importantly my head in the right place. Thanks again! You made a difference in my life.

[@ahmadsalaj9703]

I am a new runner and found your channel just so inspiring, you two are clearly sweet and passionate. Watching you saying your feelings about Mark, really made me to write my first comment for you! You are far superior and relatable and vulnerable and these qualities make you and Mary special. I do understand it must have been a process to get over that feeling, but its very important for me that you know, your personality is make you special within this vast of youtubers! Be well and continue to share!

[@sylvaindore3190]

Loved your videos as usual. Great humor and use of the camera. Ego is one I have to fight. I'm always disappointed when I don't get a podium for me age category so sometimes I train to hard and fast to get to that podium. Running is not all about climbing those steps and get a trophy. Tks for the reminder.

[@JM-rm3lt]

Great video. I’m 5 years deep at 38 and loving running. Dream is to do a sub 20 5k. I’m the guy who used to scoff at runners and never in a million years would I have thought I’d be into it like I am. Life is mad. Love to all. Keep running!

[@bookreadingbilly8329]

I’m injured currently so after having had the ‘it’s over, why do I even bother’ thoughts I’m now using it as an opportunity to do what I’ve been told many times over the years…..Pilates. Once I’m back up and running again the Pilates should help massively in an area my ego has always held me back in

[@ThisMessyHappy]

Definitely! S&c is the key 🔑 hope you get back soon xxx

[@JM-rm3lt]

Stay strong, you’ll be back.

[@gloriaortiz5956]

I just want you to know that this channel inspired me a lot til the point I become a guide runner and accomplish a half marthon. The way you explain things and the direction you give to everything helps me a lot to find new ways to enjoy something as normal as running. your advise are not juts applicable to running but they also suit daily life. Thank you for lighting this candle and keeping shining just the way you are !!

[@stephennaylor6662]

Great video, we all need to be reminded of this message, I used to punish myself with a five mile run, if I lost at football 😢

[@meridian8275]

I watch Mark Lewis and This Messy Happy not necessarily for the content (it is good though) but for the motivation and the feeling of having running buddies. Mark got me up and running in the beginning of this year in the first place and This Messy Happy keeps me motivated on my journey. Thank you two for that!

[@leerunsultras]

So relatable, i have over 200 videos on my pursue purpose channel with only 600 subscribers. This was the whole reason i started this channel. I know my story telling and filming is sub par, so i need to step it up. Great topic Ben 👏

[@de_naenae]

Love the honesty. Not everyday that a youtuber can admit to being jealous of another youtuber. You've earned yourself my sub!

[@itsevelinakp]

Your videos are amazing! I always compare myself to others, bc I've veen working extremely hard on my KZbin channel for the past 2 years straight and I've got nowhere even tho i know my videos are great 😭

[@MrAllanAhmet]

I love your honesty! This is why you guys make my top 3! I religiously watch everything you drop! If anyone is wondering who the other 2 are, Ben Parkes and Stephen Scullion. Thank you very much for keeping it real!❤

[@jojosuuu]

I’m subbed to you, Mark Lewis & Philly Bowden. Everybody trains differently but all are jolly good people who enjoys running differently. Mark is kinda gearhead with reviews on smartwatches & zwifts quite a bit. You & Mary are real blokes working as educators while running. Philly is living her dream life trying for her ultimate Olympics qualification goal. I’ve grown from a couch potato 2 years back while listening to your old podcast Fitness Freaks to completing 3 marathons (2 physical & 1 virtual). You keep doing your thing; I keep on jogging.

[@sganton]

Well done for making this video and focusing on thoughts and emotions and making the point about the importance of resilience and how one's ego can be one's worst enemy.

[@Zinerun]

I just want to let you both know that I completed your 6 week couch to 5 km plan on Friday. Thank you for the video on it, and making it available.

[@OmahaTonyG]

Mark Lewis is good, but I prefer This Messy Happy. Your trail running and ultra marathon running is on a different level. You do an excellent job showing the races and motivated me to get into trail running and ultra marathons! My suggestion is continue leaning into the trail stuff. It makes you unique.

[@grantchanin2878]

Hi TMH. A superb upload. Thank you. You and your wife are superb human beings. You both represent what is good and wonderful about running.

[@MrKingamaziah]

I think your channel is unique in several ways as you focus on things that get minimized on other runtubers, especially the emotional aspects you focus much more on and that’s overlooked a lot elsewhere!

[@surklyn523]

You are/were the person who got me back into running at 45 years old. I was pretty good back in my teens (track/cross country) but really fell off and made some poor health decisions along the way. I love your posts because you talk about running as a lifestyle and a way of life. Competition is not the main focus, although we all want to compete! You and Mary inspire me to do this long term and find a way to enjoy even the mundane runs. What I love about Mark is he shows me at 50 (49 and change) that you can still compete at a pretty high level and be very healthy coming from a really bad space like he was. His motivations and reasons for running/exercise are different from yours but I think you both nail it on the head when it comes to health, fitness, and motivating your viewers! Never stop being you!! We love you for that! Thank you for all you do!

[@marathonranati]

"Happy is he who has overcome his Ego"

[@fujidust76]

It was big of Ben to admit that feeling of jealousy. I suppose that is a great example of why I love This Messy Happy. It is about running but for me it’s really more about life. I’ve played “The real reason causing your lack of running progress” countless times. It’s truly a metaphor for living a healthy life. Mark Lewis makes me laugh. I need both purpose (Messy Happy) and play (Mark Lewis).

[@mailorlee2]

This is the reason why I decided to subscribe to your channel. You and Mary's love for running and runners 🙏🙌.

[@faba6292]

What a lovely message!

[@SeeChadRun]

100% So many great words of wisdom in this video! Love love love it!

[@MrPanda2577]

I found this channel after watching Mark Lewis. I've been binge watching your videos ever since. I love your content and you guys really inspire me. Thank you for all your work, tips, and honesty

[@bobkrogh1670]

Another good video. I get jealous often but have learned how to control it and I think at this point it is more of a positive. Being jealous and enjoying others success is a life changer. Funny, we all think the latest injury is the the "one" that will cause us to move on from running. I face planted on a treadmill run 2 weeks ago when my sciatic nerve decided to shut down my left leg. Quite excruciating and after laying on the floor for five minutes, managed to pull myself onto the bed. No worries and started rehab immediately. Back running 10 days later and only a slightly slower.

[@hkplaymad]

Excellent video! Such an inspiring first story, and holy crap your editing is so good now. Transitions galore! I was engaged throughout. Content and delivery on point!! Must be hard to come up with running content every week - somehow you manage to do so and make it very entertaining. Top work both. I love the candle quote, i'll remember that!

[@marathonranati]

Running should NEVER be a punishment! You must enjoy those long runs and make the most of it!

[@bookFreak8191]

Exactly! I tell people running is one of those things you either love or you hate, imo, and if you hate it, there’s no shame in finding an alternative form of exercise. There are sooo many options out there.

[@bilbobeutlin6045]

Very honest very true! Thanks for that video… im in! Smile a little more as you spread the love ♥️

[@neilhulme8426]

WOW Ben that was certainly a hard watch for me. Guilty of a few of them topics you brought up. Just missed a 17k trail race that i’d been so looking forward to. A weekend away in the lakes booked. I had to sit and watch instead. BECAUSE i tried running through an injury. I’d say that’s your BEST episode yet.

[@Andyholle]

always something in your videos to take away for my journey. Seen myself in the self punishment a bit. But felt caught by the Ego-part. Especially by the "push hard" part. Love your work

[@carlosmparada1]

Im not trying to bash Mark Lewis, i dont believe that i've seen any of his videos, if I have, maybe it didnt grab my attention like your videos have. Please keep the content coming, there are so many layers to your videos, every once in a while when im looking carefully i can say to myself "i see what he did there" weather its a transition in music, change in voice, focus of voice, but it all really comes together in your videos. I really appreciate your channel. thanks for being so inspirational.

[@firmanjati]

thank you, I am glad I click on this particular video... it's inspirational, in a unique way, in a way that, I am like the nervous runner in your story (well not nervous, but new runner, start at pandemi, and so on) and as a new runner there's so much mental challenge to keep running regularly, work, boredom, procrastination and so on.. btw, thanks again for the video...

[@paulj6637]

Hi. Been following you for years, the honesty in this video really hit the mark so well done. With regards to the comments about Marks channel, I have actually only just come across it. That being said, I use both yours and his channels very differently. I come to you for genuine, accurate and safe advise that I know will get the best out of me not just for today, but for the rest of a long running relationship. You have helped me create training plans, hacks for getting out the door and those painful s+c sessions. The quality of content cannot be understated so thanks buddy. BTW, that candle saying is just absolutely on point. Keep it up!

[@michcookies]

I found your channel looking for a half marathon training plan. I used to be a regular runner until 4 years ago when my mental health went to shit and stopped doing everything I love. I’ve just entered a half marathon that I’ve done for years, and your enthusiasm is infectious, I can’t wait to find the love for it again. I feel like I’m starting from scratch again, and last year it disheartened me to the point I quit after two weeks of training, but I’m going to stick with it again ❤

[@mikekarpaty3871]

Cracking video Ben. I used to be a lone wolf when it came to running,actually its been 6.5 years of silo running. Thanks to watching your channel I have had the confidence to join my local running group and it has been such a positive move,all thanks to you and Mary. I keep telling them to watch Messy Happy and they are impressed so keep it going.All the best from sunny Wales 😊😊

[@irawhitlock1084]

Mark recently appeared on my feed and I actually got a little jealous on your behalf😂. Like, who does this guy think he is! Your channel is better. You’re subs are still increasing and I really believe that at some point you’ll have exponential growth. The quality of your videos is just too high for this not to happen.

[@ThisMessyHappy]

Ha ha thanks Ira but don’t you worry. Jealousy was literally a day or two for me but there’s enough space for us all. He seems like a good dude so I hope he is crazy successful. I just hope I am too 😂

[@krxahfb]

I really enjoy the content that you guys put out. I’ve said it before but it’s always surprising how much I still learn almost a decade into my running journey. Thanks for all you do

[@MrSimblock]

Like others, I've watched a lot of Mark Lewis videos and a lot of them are good while some are simply trying to drive up subscriber numbers with what amount to entertaining stunts - which is fine because he's trying to make a living from YouTubing. But it does make for quite uneven content - the more so because while he's wanting us to watch what he's doing, he's also keen not to be held up as any kind of exemplar of what to do to become better at whatever we do. It's a bit of a mixed message. What I particularly enjoy about your channel is that you and Mary are professional teachers who're unabashed about using your teaching expertise to teach by example - and information - how to get the most out of running. Incredibly helpful. I've now watched many of your videos and they are very consistent, on point each time, and very effectively deliver the enthusiasm and knowledge you to have for and about running. You and Mark are doing two completely different things. You're a running coach, while I guess he primarily sees himself as a fitness-entertainer. Apples and pears. You're not competing for the same audience.

[@lazzaboyman8003]

Great video and yes I’ve been guilty of a few of those but I’m also always looking for ways to improve as a runner but more importantly as a person which is why I’m a big fan of this channel and you both.

[@TheHappiness1980]

Ben your channel has truly changed me. You and Mary put out great contents. Keep it up. I binged watched all your videos ❤

[@superwaynem]

I really enjoy the content and have learnt so much and that’s coming from a non runner to getting off my arse back in 2021 and start C25K. Since then I’ve done park runs, 10k and a couple half marathons. I still have loads to learn and adjust within my running techniques eg, strength and conditioning, interval training etc. running has gave me a great sense of purpose and I’ve enjoyed raising money for charities. Yesterday I decided to hit that signup button for Manchester 2024 marathon! I’m absolutely bricking it!! Then I look back and think to myself that I have been bricking it since I started my running journey and know that I’ve come a long way and it’s gonna be ok.

[@recuperativept]

The video did bring some value. Thank you.. There is a depth and honesty with your channel that feels very genuine and I appreciate that.

[@kimhargrove2013]

I enjoy watching your videos every week to see how you and Mary can help me with my running. I like that you have evidence-based processes. And it 58 and training for my first marathon I am trying to be careful an injury-free. I have watched Marx videos and while he's funny he trains a lot harder than I can. So I stick to yours because they are enjoyable and chock-full of information I can use.

[@nickbarton6022]

Superb mate. For me, your most relatable vid yet. In fact, there’s so much relatable stuff in it I’ve just immediately rewatched it. Twice! 😅 Now I really have to go, run and my ego is definitely not invited.

[@marathonranati]

Hi ben! Great video and effort! (I am "FINALLY" noticing some cool weather! It is only 32 degrees Celsius! Cant wait until winter which is amazing thailand! Lets GO!)

[@rubarb1275]

Really good video, lots of great insights. Thank you for sharing.

[@AnthoniaV]

I really appreciate your honosty! Your video's are always great to watch, so keep it up! 😊👍 Also love Mark's channel and there is enough space for everyone here on YT!

[@arjanvanderzwan537]

Editing skills 💯. Great video again Ben! One to keep and watch regularly.

[@ians3983]

Hi Ben I watch Marks channel as well as yours, and the running channel and Ben Parkes, all you guys are inspiring you keep me motivated thank you all. 👍

[@ximenazapatista3306]

You are very inspiring to me! This channel is filled with wisdom from running and life, thank you

[@nathanjpickles]

Excellent video. Thank you for storytime

[@andrewood]

Mark lewis is a general fitness enthusiast so he's appealing to people who do park runs or cycle or swim or lift weights etc etc you're more running focused but love you both ,feel you know more about running than mark

[@scullgirl5069]

I’m currently a week behind in my C-5k schedule due to work commitments and now I have a cold. I have however been doing yoga everyday with Adriene thanks to a suggestion in your training plan. Yours and Mary’s level of running is so far ahead of mine I’d be forgiven for thinking it’s not relatable but you are both inspiring (okay so mainly Mary 😂) but I really value your knowledge, experience, honesty and transparency. Thankyou!

[@plaplaplapla]

I can't really relate to much you've said but kudos for being so open !

[@p.s.224]

So I don’t ever run to punish myself, but I sometimes do rage runs when I am angry about some life situation, like trouble at work, being unhappy with myself, feelings of rejection, worries about a loved one‘s health scare etc… I just put on angry music and run off those aggressions. 10/10 would recommend angry runs. Great coping mechanism as you start to enjoy the anger through the exertion and usually end up with peace of mind as you relativise your problems and eventually stop ruminating about them as you start to focus more on the run, maybe notice your surroundings more (the cool/hot air, the beautiful clouds, nature throughout the seasons etc.) After all, you can be genuinely happy that you _can_ run and have that in your life! The one problem is that I often go too hard if I am angry and then get out of breath too soon😂

[@bookFreak8191]

Running is such a form of stress relief for me. The first mile or two are always brutal, but after I hit that third mile it’s like everything going on in my life, relationships, jobs, etc., just crumbles and falls away. Such a liberating feeling.

[@JohnBirtchetSharpe]

Cracking post , 💯 agree. Keep lighting candles 👍

[@amywalworth9068]

Wonderful video 👍👍👍!! Love your channel. Thank you for all you do!! You are making a wonderful impact on the world.

[@aqasanu1992]

Strong video Ben, very strong. Keep up the great output.

[@MobileBroadbandBlog]

Love the positivity at the start of the video. Thanks for all the content, your channel keeps getting better and better!

[@Levi_is_Smol]

@4:14 We have the same doormat, lol.

[@ep2653]

The injury part hits home right now. I picked up my 1st significant injury May 3rd. Been struggling with a bad case of plantar fasciitis. At first I didn't realize how bad this was. Haven't ran since May 31st. Getting better but not there yet. I've taken the time to do lots more strength and conditioning, also been cycling some. It's not the same but I'll take it for now. Thank you for your content. I really like your approach to this journey. YOU GUYS ROCK 👍🏼👍🏼

[@bookFreak8191]

I’ve been running for about nine months now and had some setbacks along the way, including a hip injury just two weeks before my first half-marathon. I was so scared with it being that close to my race, but my PT told me to do what I’ve always done whenever I’ve injured myself or overtrained: cross train. I personally find the elliptical a good form of CT, though I do cycle too, and I regularly strength train. All this to say, I know how stressful and frustrating it is to take time off and cross train, but having had to do it several times now, I just want to encourage you to keep taking care of yourself and keep your head up, because when you do finally get back out there, you might just surprise yourself at how much stronger your body is now. 😊

[@ep2653]

@@bookFreak8191 Thanks 🙂 Really looking forward to it

[@bookFreak8191]

@@ep2653 you’ve got this! 😉

[@robertmason2311]

Your quite about the candle stopped me dead in ny tracks: Absolutely beautiful. I instinctively 'like' your videos as soon as i play them, but that's really not enough

[@justinlloyd-jones1658]

Well said. Great video again. I too watch Mark also. In fact his was one of the first running related channels I started watching and still do and through him I found This Messy Happy and now I watch both :-) Keep up the great work. (y)

[@trailsandbeers]

Some good points, I can relate to the guy who stopped when he saw you, that was me not too long ago! I still feel pretty much the same but decided that I don't care what others think about my attempts at running, at least I turn up and have a go and am a lot better than I was and have done some really cool races and met some great people through trail running. I used to watch mark, but stopped because his channel is all about him, which is ok, and it's funny, which is good, but I wasn't getting anything useful out of it and then he put up a video about needing to pay to watch his videos so I unsubscribed.I do contribute to some channels, but through choice not because they say I have to, also he has too many adverts embedded in his videos, I don't pay premium to skip adverts and then watch channels that are including sponsored ads and promoting stuff that is unrelated and pretty obvious they don't actually use themselves. good luck to him, he is making a success of his channel but it's no use for me. There are a lot of good running channels yours included 👍 Imo your channel has much better and interesting content than Marks.

[@micah1754]

Really appreciate your channel. I'm really struggling at the moment. After working up to running 10km over 6 months (not being a runner beforehand) I have a stress fracture in my metatarsal. I've struggled with anorexia since I was 15, I'm 31 now. Holding a much healthier weight and managing that better the past few years, but it has left me with osteoporosis. I''m a trans guy and getting to grips with all of that has been important in my recovery. I'm really worried this stress fracture is the beginning of the end for me in my running journey. Mental health has taken a dive with this injury, and the temptation to restrict given I can't exercise as much is strong. Bit of an overshare sorry, not really sure why I'm saying this here. But feel like you and the followers of this channel will get it.

[@zulkhaireesulaiman8575]

this was much needed to hear. thank you so so much.

[@ThisMessyHappy]

Thank you for the kind words 😊

[@dariusmueller3767]

One of your best videos ever made!

[@patriciacampbell456]

Amazing video, Ben. Thank you for highlighting the things that do happen as athletes and how we can turn things around.

[@rac6510]

Humble suggestion here. More gear review and gear lists. I dont know why but people love to watch other people wearing and talking about gear.