MY SIZE DOESN’T MATTER
Former professional sprinter Courtney Fearon is switching to longer distance running – and out to prove that his build is no obstacle
Health and fitness coach Courtney Fearon is no stranger to hard work in the gym. But the next challenge for the Nike trainer and former sprinter is running the Simplyhealth Great North 5K on 7 September.
‘A 5K might not sound too hard to most people, but I’m used to running much shorter distances. So my goal is to push my limits and beat my PB of 21 minutes – I’m aiming to get sub-20,’ says Fearon. ‘I also weigh around 100kg, which is why this challenge is all about pushing my body in a different way and dispelling the myth that a heavier person can’t run long distances.’
Fearon’s varied schedule as a PT means he squeezes in his training sessions whenever possible. ‘I’m active five out of seven days and I grab time to train in between coaching. For example, on a Monday I’ll do a 45-minute weights session, then I’ll teach a Versaclimber class. In the evening I’ll do a track session – I’ve started doing three weekly 200m and 400m sessions with the ultimate goal of competing in the Canadian Masters Athletics Championships.’
In the immediate run-up to the 5K, Fearon plans to make some small but effective changes to his training routine. ‘My current sessions will have a beneficial impact on my race time, but around four weeks before the run I’ll start bringing in some more long-distance training on top.’
He’s also mindful of injuries. ‘ When I was at university, I damaged my knee playing football and didn’t have rehab – ignoring it meant it didn’t heal properly. I’ve had niggles ever since – I pulled my right hamstring and currently have a swollen ankle, so I’ve been using the Versaclimber instead of running, and an aqua belt to “run” in the pool with less impact.
‘I’ll also be using my plan from Simplyhealth to support my fitness goals and help pay towards the cost of regular physio appointments. It’s a great way to help fix issues, avoid injury and maintain peak performance.’