21 April 2026
The ideal weekend plan for many might include putting their feet up, but for an increasing number of people, weekends will include lacing up a pair of trainers and setting off for a run.
Running has long been recognised for having both physical and mental wellbeing benefits and the popularity of running has skyrocketed in recent years.
In fact, a world-record breaking 1,133,813 people from the UK and around the world applied in the public ballot for an entry to the 2026 TCS London Marathon, taking place on Sunday 26 April.
So, as tens of thousands of runners prepare to take to the start line, OT heard from three people about their reasons for participating in the London Marathon and what running brings them outside of their work.
Josie Evans, independent prescribing optometrist and AOP Councillor
When did you start running?
I first started running at school through obligatory cross-country races, which I quickly swapped for hockey when I had the chance. I picked it up again at university, running occasionally with a social club and completing my first half marathon in my final year. Like many people, I returned to running during lockdown, and have been on and off with it since.
Why are you running this marathon?
This will be my first marathon. I’ve always hoped to run one, especially the London Marathon. The real motivation came in summer 2024, when my uncle was diagnosed with myeloma. I felt quite helpless and wanted to do something that could make a positive difference, which is why I’m fundraising for Macmillan. They have been an incredible support to our family and to so many others affected by cancer.
How are you feeling about the event?
I’m apprehensive, but excited. I began training at the end of September, so it feels huge to be this close to the finish line.
What do you feel running brings to you both personally and in your professional identity or wellbeing?
It gives me a purpose and a goal, outside of my career in optometry. It’s helped me to become more resilient and disciplined - I don’t think I’ve ever worked towards something with this level of consistency before.
Dr Ian Beasley, head of education at the AOP and OT clinical editor
When did you start running?
I started running in 2016 after my darling cherubs cheekily threatened to buy me a bra for Christmas. That comment gave me the push I needed to lace up and begin the Couch to 5K programme. I didn’t see it through on my first attempt, but I came back more determined the second time. I completed my first parkrun on 31 December 2016 and haven't looked back since.
Why are you running this marathon?
I’m running London Marathon to raise funds for the Samaritans, in memory of my best man, who tragically took his own life in 2024.
‘Custard Corner Marathon’ challenge
Dr Ian Beasley, head of education at the AOP and OT clinical editor, raised money for the Samaritans by running a marathon distance around a 0.045 mile stretch of road
How are you feeling about the event?
I’m really looking forward to this one. I ran the London Marathon in 2021, but I was so focused on achieving a good time that I barely remember the experience, which I regret. This year feels different. The London Marathon will actually serve as a training run for an even bigger challenge in June: Comrades Marathon, a 54-mile uphill race in South Africa. So, this time I can relax, forget about chasing a personal best, and soak up the atmosphere – well, that’s the plan.
What do you feel running brings to you both personally and in your professional identity or wellbeing?
I originally started running to get in shape, but it quickly became about so much more. Running has introduced me to incredible people, taken me to exciting places, and supported my physical and mental wellbeing. There’s nothing quite like a tough run for 'flossing the brain’ after being glued to my desk all day.
Sam Wymer, co-founder of The Body Doctor
When did you start running?
Last September once I knew I had secured a spot in the London Marathon. This is very much a couch to 42km in six months for me. I haven’t run for the purpose of running since I left school at 18.
Why are you running this marathon?
I’m fundraising to support the incredible work cancer charities do for those who need them the most, in particular Pancreatic Cancer UK, for research and raising awareness. The aim is to help people to be diagnosed earlier and improve the chances of prevention. My dad sadly passed away just four weeks after diagnosis. He wasn’t a runner and neither am I, however, I am a believer that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.
How are you feeling about the event?
Obviously, I’m a little apprehensive and nervous, which I believe is normal, questioning if I have done enough training etc. That said, I am confident in myself and feel incredibly strong and determined to complete the task ahead.
What do you feel running brings to you both personally and in your professional identity or wellbeing?
Since I started running, I have lost nearly two stone in weight. I feel calmer and have a clearer focus. Running has given me some time to myself to process various things in life, like my dad passing, but also work, new ideas, new initiatives and coming up with ways to better support my team and the optical profession. You think of a lot when running for over three hours.
Will you be participating in a marathon or fundraising challenges this year? Comment below.
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