Happy Global Running Day!
Today is all about celebrating the joy of movement. Global Running Day encourages everyone to get moving, regardless of pace, distance, or experience. Whether you’re training for a marathon, jogging around the block, or simply heading out for a walk, today is a great excuse to get outside and be active.
We asked the Footprint Digital team why they love to run, and the responses were genuinely inspiring. From improving mental wellbeing and clearing busy minds to setting personal goals, embracing new challenges, and enjoying time outdoors, running means something different to everyone.
What stood out most was how inclusive running is. There’s no “right” way to do it. It’s just about getting outside, moving your body, and doing something positive for yourself.
So today, why not join in?
Lace up your trainers, head out for a run, take a lunchtime walk, or simply aim to get a few extra steps in. Every step counts!
I run for my mental and physical health, because it’s easy to forget any other problems while you’re puffing and panting for your life!
Getting into a weekly routine really helps to clear your head, and I’d recommend anybody give it a go, regardless of your ability.
Start with a casual parkrun and see where it takes you!
I started running in the new year – I wanted to work on my resilience, and running is something I’ve always struggled with!
Now every Saturday at 9am I set off on my local parkrun, podcast in one ear, my dad in the other not letting me give up.
In 2 weeks time I’ll be doing a 10km with some of the Footprint crew which will be my furthest run yet!
If I feel like sh*t, I go for a run.
If I feel good, I go for a run.
If I’m not sure how I feel, I go for a run and figure it all out.
Running has given me something to aim for, to structure my time, improve my mental health, and be proud of.
It’s given me the ability to explore new places, to raise money for charity, and to connect with people.
It’s just putting one foot in front of the other a bit quicker than normal, but really it’s so much more than that.
I’ve never been the fastest runner; I gave up worrying about times and distances. But whenever I need to clear my head I know I can put my trainers on and run.
Running and riding my motorbike are the two things I class as medication when it comes to my mental health… and maybe Bruce Springsteen.
I have completed a few marathons in recent years, including Rome, which was a proper bucket-list moment. According to the organisers, that means I can now call myself a Gladiator!
I enjoy walking (and often running after my kids!) as it’s quality time we spend together as a family in nature. My youngest son’s middle name is actually ‘Forest’ because of how much we love the outdoors as a family!
Reasons why I run?
I want to eat food!
