Matt Bevis: Just Start and Keep It Simple

March 18, 2026

Starting running doesn’t have to be complicated.

This First Miles story is about taking a chance, starting with no experience, and discovering how small, consistent steps can lead to big changes.

Why I Started Running

I signed up for the Great North Run in 2017 with no running experience at all.

It was a bit of a leap but I wanted a challenge, and I was running to raise money for Cancer Research.

Sometimes, that’s all it takes. A decision.

Running didn’t just help me complete a race, it changed my health.

Over 18 months, I lost 2 stone. But more importantly, I felt fitter, stronger, and more in control of my wellbeing.

It showed me what’s possible when you stay consistent.

One of the biggest things I’ve learned is to go at your own pace.

It’s easy to compare yourself to others, but running doesn’t work like that. Everyone starts somewhere, and progress looks different for everyone.

Just start.

Keep it easy, don’t overthink it, and focus on building it up over time.

You don’t need to do everything at once, just take that first step and keep going.

Running isn’t about being perfect.

It’s about starting, staying consistent, and letting it build over time.

Your First Miles don’t need to be fast, they just need to happen.

Got a story about how you started running?

We’d love to hear it.
Send us your First Miles story by following the link in our Instagram bio.