Summary
Mel Bound, founder of one of the largest women's running communities in the UK, This Woman Runs, reflects on her transformative journey from a single Facebook post in 2014 to receiving an OBE for her contributions to women's community sports. Initially seeking a running buddy, Bound's post attracted 75 women, leading to the establishment of a supportive network that now boasts a quarter of a million members across 35 cities.
Bound emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming environment for women, particularly those who may feel intimidated by running. She shares her own struggles with confidence and the challenges of returning to fitness after motherhood and health issues. The community not only promotes physical activity but also fosters mental well-being, with statistics showing significant positive impacts on members' health. As the organization evolves, it aims to expand its reach globally, focusing on inclusivity and encouraging women to embrace movement, regardless of their fitness levels.
Show Notes
Who would of thought that a simple Facebook post asking if anyone fancies a run could lead to one of the worlds largest women's running communities, consisting of over 250,000 people, in 25 cities across the UK! Mel Bound's inspirational story of giving women a community to enjoy running freely has even led to her recently being awarded an OBE! This Woman Runs continues to grow from strength to strength and in this episode, you will hear the incredible story of how we got here... and maybe even a sneak peak of whats to come!
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