Weight For It Running While Fat
Sep 12, 2024
Martinus Evans, a motivational speaker, author, and marathon runner, shares his journey of overcoming weight stigma in the running community. He talks about the pivotal moment that sparked his marathon ambitions after a fat-shaming doctor visit. Martinus discusses the barriers faced by diverse runners and the importance of inclusivity in fitness. With a focus on self-love and resilience, he emphasizes running as a form of protest against societal expectations and advocates for embracing active fat bodies.
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Origin Story: Doctor Visit Triggered Running
- Martinus Evans was fat‑shamed by an orthopedic doctor who dismissed his hip pain and mocked his plan to run a marathon.
- He stormed out, bought running shoes on the way home, and that became his origin story into running.
Running Success Without 'Transformation'
- Since that moment Martinus ran eight marathons, was on Runner's World cover, and featured in a Nike commercial while remaining fat.
- He explicitly never aimed to be straight‑sized; his goal was to prove his body could be healthy and capable.
Runner Image Is Shaped By Access And Bias
- Martinus observes that the stereotypical image of a runner is white and skinny, shaped by access and cultural expectations.
- He links those expectations to socioeconomic and geographic barriers like where running stores and resources are located.
