Tyson Fury might seem like an unlikely advocate for the benefits of the daily jog, but the ‘Gypsy King’ is back on Netflix and back celebrating running as a tool for improving his physical and mental health.
His 6’9” (2.06m) frame can be regularly spotted running in Morecombe, especially along the promenade. Speaking to Muscle and Fitness back in 2019, the former WBC, WBA and WBO world champion said, ‘I run every day … staying active and staying fit makes me happy and well, so I’ll continue to do that throughout my career and life,’ indicating that those daily miles play more of a role than just getting him ready for the ring.
Speaking to The Guardian in 2024, Fury reiterated how much he enjoys running, saying, ‘My idea of a good day is getting up early, going for a run and dropping the kids off at school.’
There’s plenty of evidence to support running as a way to manage and improve mental wellbeing. In a survey of more than 8,000 runners, conducted by Glasgow Caledonia University and Strava, 89% of respondents said that running made them feel happier.
In a University of Edinburgh review, meanwhile, 46 studies drew a positive association between long-term running and positive mental health, while a further 22 showed that even a single run could lift mood and alleviate depression and anxiety.
A timely intervention
On Instagram, Fury recounted the time a suicidal man came to his house and told the boxer that he was going to kill himself. ‘So, obviously, me being me, I talked him out of it and took him on a three-mile run.’
Fury went on to say, ‘There is help around the corner, please seek medical advice’ – a message that all mental health charities would echo.
If you’re struggling with any form of mental health, reach out to the Samaritans. You can contact them free of charge, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, on 116 123 in the UK and Ireland.
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Ben is Runner’s World’s Multiplatform Director and has worked at the title for over 11 years. He has always had a deep interest in running shoes and tech and has amassed a wealth of knowledge on running products during this time and through countless hours of testing. Ben also enjoys exploring the science behind running and how it informs advances in training and racing. He is also the co-host of the weekly podcast. Ben is a firm believer that running is just as much about adventure and fun as about chasing PBs, and he likes nothing more than a day spent explore new trails.