Jenny Nesbitt

Running saved my life

“Running literally saved my life because it gave me that one positive thing to hold onto and the opportunity to prove to myself and others that I was stronger than my eating disorder.”

This week we have something really special. We speak to Jenny Nesbitt, Welsh Commonwealth Games Finalist, about her story. Jenny gives an incredibly honest and vulnerable account of her running career so far, from struggling with an eating disorder in her teens to hitting success and the downward spiral which followed. She reflects on her most successful period in 2021, where she achieved significant personal bests and represented Wales at the Commonwealth Games, and the low that followed due to overtraining and underperforming syndrome, which led to health issues and setbacks. 

Jenny talks candidly and bravely about being diagnosed with an eating disorder at the age of 12 and how her love for running became a vital source of motivation and strength to overcome it, despite many relapses along the way. She credits needed to be healthy enough to run with saving her life. She shares her aspirations to support and inspire others who have experienced similar challenges by sharing her story and providing guidance, including mentoring girls and boys navigating the pressures of adolescence while pursuing their athletic goals.

We're delighted that we're able to partner with UK Charity Beat Eating Disorders on this episode. You can read Jenny's story on their website. They also have tons of resources and support available. If you’re worried about your own or someone else’s health, you can contact Beat, the UK’s eating disorder charity, 365 days a year on 0808 801 0677 or beateatingdisorders.org.uk

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Go Do:

What lessons have you learnt in life that you could share for the benefit of someone else?
Have a think, is there anyone in your life that you could consider mentoring?

Relationships are at the heat of mentoring, so maybe the first steps towards this is to have a few more vulnerable and open conversations with friends this week.

We'd love to hear what emerges for you as you try this. Follow us and tag us on twitter, instagram, linkedin, tiktok or send us an email: hello@runalive.co.uk

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This season of the podcast is sponsored by Run Unbound Endurance Coaching.

Whether running your first half, discovering trail running, tackling an ultramarathon or attempting one of the UK big 3 rounds, Run Unbound can help you to achieve your goals in a fun and inspiring way.

We are so grateful for Run Unbound's support Find out more about them here.

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Show Notes:

The RunAlive Podcast x Jenny Nesbitt

Podcast Title: Running Saved My Life - The power of vulnerability so others can benefit
Hosts: Ed Perry and Gary Armstrong

Jenny's Love for Running

• Jenny shares her love for running, especially in the morning, and how it sets her up for the day.

Running Routine and Preferences

• Ed asks about Jenny's preferred running routine, including solo or group runs.

Jenny's Recent Successes

• Jenny discusses her recent achievements in running, such as representing Wales at the Commonwealth Games and achieving personal bests.

Challenges in the US

• Jenny talks about her time in the United States, her training challenges, and the party lifestyle she embraced.

Overtraining and Underperforming Syndrome

• Jenny discusses her diagnosis of overtraining or underperforming syndrome, caused by pushing herself too hard physically and mentally.

Road to Recovery

• Jenny describes her journey to recovery, including the difficulty of reducing her training and the challenges she faced during the process.

Struggles and Setbacks

• Jenny opens up about her recent struggles and setbacks, including health issues and her determination to overcome them.

Motivation to Keep Going

• Jenny's motivation to keep going stems from a fear of wasting time, given her past experiences and challenges.

Struggles with Eating Disorder

• Jenny discusses her early struggles with an eating disorder that began at the age of 12, coinciding with her introduction to athletics.

• She emphasizes the importance of understanding the impact of eating disorders on individuals and the need for support.

Supportive Family

• Jenny expresses her gratitude for her family, particularly her parents, who provided unwavering support and chose to care for her at home during her recovery instead of hospitalization.

Running as a Lifeline

• Jenny's love for running and how it played a significant role in her recovery from her eating disorder.

• Running served as a positive goal that motivated her throughout her difficult journey.

Changing Perceptions

• Jenny challenges the misconception that exercise and running are negative for individuals with eating disorders and emphasizes their positive impact on mental health.

Supporting Young Athletes

• Jenny offers advice to young athletes, highlighting the importance of finding someone relatable to talk to during challenging times.

Future Goals

• Jenny's goals for the future, including achieving a 5k time of under 15:15.

Embracing the Process

• The significance of setting and achieving process goals rather than solely focusing on outcomes.

• Jenny's positive mindset and determination to persevere.

Giving Back

• Jenny's desire to give back to the sport and help young athletes navigate challenges they may face.

Sharing Her Story

• Jenny's intention to use her experiences and story to inspire others and provide encouragement.

Coaching and Mentorship

• Jenny's involvement in coaching and the joy she finds in helping others achieve their goals.

Encouragement and Belief

• Jenny's message of encouragement for others to give themselves a chance and believe in their abilities.

Where to Connect

Jenny's active presence on social media, particularly Instagram (JennyNesbitt1), where she shares her story and updates on her journey.