In an emotional revelation that has stunned many in the running community, Martinus Evans, the founder of the popular Slow AF Running Club, opened up about a series of personal challenges that he had kept hidden from public view for years. Evans, a well-known figure in the fitness world for his advocacy of body positivity and making running inclusive for all, recently disclosed the struggles he has faced behind the scenes while building the community that has empowered so many runners.
### The Journey of the Slow AF Running Club
Martinus Evans launched the Slow AF Running Club in 2018 with a mission to create a space where runners of all shapes, sizes, and abilities could feel welcomed and supported. As a plus-sized runner himself, Evans had experienced firsthand the criticism and exclusion that many non-traditional athletes face in the world of fitness.
The Slow AF Running Club quickly gained momentum, attracting thousands of members from around the world. It became a sanctuary for people who had been told that they weren’t “real” runners or that they didn’t belong in fitness spaces due to their body type or pace. Evans’ message was clear: no matter how slow you run or what you look like, you are a runner.
With his motivational speeches, social media presence, and coaching programs, Evans became a beloved figure, celebrated for his candidness and refusal to conform to traditional standards of fitness. However, beneath his uplifting persona, Evans recently revealed that he had been struggling with personal issues that had weighed heavily on him throughout his journey.
### The Shocking Confession
In a heartfelt post shared on social media, Evans confessed that the pressure of being a leader in the running community had taken a toll on his mental health. “For years, I’ve been telling people to push through barriers, to overcome their doubts and keep moving forward. But what I didn’t talk about was the mental weight I was carrying myself,” Evans wrote.
He described feeling overwhelmed by the expectations placed upon him and admitted that there were times when he questioned whether he was the right person to lead such a large and influential community. “I felt like I had to be perfect all the time. I had to be the strong, confident figure people expected me to be. But inside, I was struggling with anxiety, imposter syndrome, and feeling like I wasn’t doing enough,” he shared.
Evans also revealed that he had faced financial difficulties in the early days of starting the Slow AF Running Club, something he had never spoken about publicly. “When I started this club, I didn’t have a lot of money. I was pouring my time and energy into something I believed in, but there were moments when I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to keep it going. It was tough, but I didn’t want to let anyone down, so I kept pushing through,” he explained.
### Impact on the Community
Evans’ confession has resonated deeply with the Slow AF Running Club’s members and the wider running community. Many have expressed their gratitude for his honesty and vulnerability, acknowledging that it takes immense courage to speak openly about mental health and financial struggles, especially as a public figure.
“I always admired Martinus for his positivity, but hearing him talk about his challenges makes me respect him even more,” said one member. “It’s a reminder that even the people we look up to have their own battles, and that’s okay.”
In response to the outpouring of support, Evans reiterated his commitment to the Slow AF Running Club and its mission. “I’m not going anywhere,” he assured his followers. “If anything, this has reminded me why I started this in the first place – to show people that we’re all in this together. We don’t have to be perfect; we just have to keep showing up.”
### Looking Ahead
Martinus Evans’ confession serves as a powerful reminder that even those who appear to have it all together may be struggling in ways that aren’t immediately visible. His openness about his mental health challenges and financial hardships is a testament to his resilience and dedication to the Slow AF Running Club.
Moving forward, Evans has promised to continue advocating for inclusivity in the running world and to use his platform to raise awareness about the importance of mental health. “Running isn’t just about physical fitness,” he said. “It’s about mental and emotional wellness, too. We need to take care of ourselves in all aspects of life, and that’s something I want to keep talking about.”
With his renewed sense of purpose and the unwavering support of his community, Evans is poised to lead the Slow AF Running Club into its next chapter, stronger and more resilient than ever.
