Join the ‘For Men To Talk’ walkers aiming to complete the TCS London Marathon MyWay for the third time.
The London Marathon is back on Sunday 21 April 2024 and on the same day for the third time, ‘For Men To Talk’ attendees will be back to walk a 26.2 mile route to improve their physical and mental health. This will be after a 12-week training plan.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, the London Marathon moved to the month of October in 2021 and 2022, from the normal April, and also introduced a virtual event, now called the TCS London Marathon MyWay. This means that there is an opportunity to complete the 26 miles and 385 yards (42.195 kilometres) distance from home.
If finishers enter through ‘MyWay’ they all get a TCS London Marathon medal and t-shirt. It can be booked through https://bit.ly/48G9vfa.
On Sunday 2 October 2022 and Sunday 23 April 2023, members of the men peer support group ‘For Men To Talk’ walked a 26.2 mile marathon through Biggleswade, Sandy, Potton and Sutton.
Participating in a 12-week training plan, then the actual marathon walk, can have several positive effects on men’s mental health, especially when done as part of a group. Here are some ways in which this type of activity can benefit mental well-being:
Physical Activity and Mood: Regular physical activity, like walking, has been shown to release endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Engaging in a structured training plan encourages consistent exercise, leading to more stable and improved moods. It can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Sense of Achievement: Completing a walking marathon is a significant accomplishment. As participants progress through their training plan and eventually cross the finish line, they experience a sense of achievement and self-esteem boost. This can translate into improved confidence and mental well-being.
Social Connection: Training for a walking marathon as part of a group provides an opportunity for social interaction and support. The camaraderie and shared goal of completing the marathon can strengthen social bonds, reduce feelings of isolation, and increase feelings of belonging and support.
Stress Reduction: Engaging in regular exercise can help reduce stress levels. Physical activity serves as a healthy outlet for stress and can help men manage the challenges they face in their daily lives more effectively.
Mindfulness and Mental Clarity: Long walks during training can offer a chance for mindfulness and reflection. It’s a time when individuals can clear their minds, think through problems, and gain mental clarity. This meditative aspect of walking can promote relaxation and reduce symptoms of anxiety.
Goal Setting and Discipline: Following a 12-week training plan requires setting and achieving goals. This process of setting and reaching milestones can instill discipline and a sense of purpose, which are important for mental well-being.
Sense of Purpose: Having a goal like completing a walking marathon provides participants with a sense of purpose. It gives them something to look forward to, plan for, and work toward, which can be particularly meaningful for mental health.
Body Image and Confidence: Engaging in regular physical activity and achieving fitness goals can improve body image and self-confidence. This can be especially beneficial for men who may struggle with body image issues.
Community Support: Being part of a group training for the same event fosters a sense of community and support. Men may find it easier to open up and discuss their mental health challenges within this supportive environment.
Positive Distraction: Training for a walking marathon can serve as a positive distraction from daily stressors and negative thought patterns. It gives individuals a focus and something to look forward to.
If you are interested in joining the ‘For Men To Talk’ attendees by participating in the TCS London Marathon MyWay, please contact Luke Newman on 07709 446480 or luke@formentotalk.co.uk