Meet Katie

Being active helped Katie boost her confidence and self-esteem.

Katie from Charnwood

As a lifelong asthmatic, Katie was never encouraged to exercise when she was younger, and was overweight and inactive in her childhood and teenage years, which continued into her early adult life.

Katie decided to start being active when she turned 41, when a close friend developed cancer. Katie joined a Couch to 5K group, with her children running with her. At first, she couldn't run 30 seconds, but over the next few months this gradually built up until she was able to complete the programme and raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Since then, Katie has continued to be active, going on regular walks and runs. She even completed the London Marathon, raising money for charity, making everyone around her immensely proud.

Being active continues to help improve Katie's physical and mental health, helping her deal with symptoms of the menopause, and now she wants to inspire others to be active and remind them that it's never too late!

Find out more about Katie

Who is your biggest inspiration/role model?

There's two, my cousin whose illness inspired me to start running, and my autistic son who runs with me.

Where is your favourite place to be active and why?

Our local Charnwood countryside. We live near some lovely areas that you can either walk to or are only a short drive away.

For you, what is the best by-product of being active?

The best by-products of exercise are definitely better mental health and an appreciation of the world around me.

What is your one top tip for others looking to be more active?

Find something you enjoy doing and start small. Walking round the block, dancing in the kitchen - anything that gets and keeps you moving.

Do you want to be active like Katie?