**Slow AF Running Club Founder Martinus Evans Passes Away as a Result of Critical Condition**
The running community and broader fitness world are in mourning after learning of the passing of Martinus Evans, the beloved founder of the Slow AF Running Club, following a critical health condition. Evans, who built a movement around inclusivity, resilience, and personal empowerment through running, has left behind a lasting legacy that has impacted countless lives.
### The Legacy of Martinus Evans
Martinus Evans was not your average runner, but that’s exactly what made him such a powerful and influential figure. After being told by a doctor in 2012 that he needed to lose weight or face serious health consequences, Evans was spurred into action. However, instead of simply adhering to traditional weight-loss methods, he took a bold and unconventional route by signing up for a marathon.
What followed was a remarkable journey of self-discovery, community-building, and empowerment. Evans, who often referred to himself as a “fat marathoner,” began chronicling his running experiences through his blog and social media. His message resonated with thousands of people who had previously felt alienated from the fitness world. In 2019, he founded the Slow AF Running Club, a community built on inclusivity, support, and the belief that running is for everyone, regardless of body type, size, or speed.
Through his work, Evans challenged stereotypes about what it means to be a runner. He embraced the idea that slow runners, or those who may not fit into society’s narrow image of an athlete, deserve the same respect, resources, and community support as elite athletes. His slogan, “Running is for every body,” became a rallying cry for those who felt left out or discouraged by traditional fitness culture.
### Building a Community
The Slow AF Running Club quickly grew into a vibrant global community with thousands of members. Evans’ unique combination of humor, authenticity, and determination brought together people from all walks of life. Members of the club often expressed gratitude for the space Evans created, one where no one felt judged, and everyone could celebrate their accomplishments — whether running a mile or completing a marathon.
The club provided not only a sense of belonging but also practical tools and training programs designed for beginners and slower runners. Through virtual challenges, online meetups, and constant encouragement, the Slow AF Running Club became a beacon for people who wanted to be active but didn’t feel comfortable in conventional fitness spaces. Evans empowered people to redefine their fitness goals on their terms, shifting the narrative around physical health and what it means to be a runner.
### Impact on the Fitness Industry
Martinus Evans’ influence extended far beyond his club. His message of body positivity and inclusivity resonated with the broader fitness industry, which had long been criticized for promoting narrow, often unrealistic body standards. Evans was a vocal advocate for change, speaking at conferences and partnering with brands to make fitness more accessible and diverse.
He authored a book, *Slow AF Run Club: The Ultimate Guide for Anyone Who Wants to Run*, which offered practical advice for runners of all shapes, sizes, and abilities. His work in both writing and advocacy helped shift the culture in a direction where more people felt welcome to take up running without fear of judgment or ridicule.
Evans’ commitment to diversity in fitness was groundbreaking, and he was recognized by numerous organizations for his contributions to the sport and the wellness industry. His mission was simple: show that running isn’t about speed, but about perseverance, joy, and self-improvement. Evans’ message was that everyone deserves to feel like they belong in the world of fitness, regardless of their pace or body type.
### Tragic Loss
While the specific cause of Evans’ passing has not been fully disclosed, his death comes as a tremendous loss to the running community. Tributes have poured in from around the world, with many members of the Slow AF Running Club and beyond sharing their memories of how Evans inspired them to lace up their shoes and hit the pavement.
Evans is remembered not only for his contributions to running but also for his warmth, humor, and ability to make people feel seen and valued. His legacy will live on through the thousands of lives he touched, the community he built, and the ongoing work of the Slow AF Running Club, which will continue to promote the principles of inclusivity and empowerment that Evans so passionately championed.
### Final Thoughts
Martinus Evans redefined what it meant to be a runner, changing the landscape of fitness in the process. His passing is a heartbreaking loss, but his spirit of perseverance, self-love, and inclusion will live on in the running community and beyond. The Slow AF Running Club will continue to serve as a testament to Evans’ vision — that running truly is for every body, and every pace is worth celebrating.
As the world mourns his loss, his legacy continues to inspire runners and non-runners alike to push past societal expectations and focus on what truly matters: showing up, moving forward, and celebrating progress.
