Dudley’s own journey with running is a testament to its transformative power. “When I started trying to run properly,” he says, “I had a lot of issues—mental health struggles, depression, anxiety, PTSD… I’d even been hit by a car.” After his accident, Dudley found himself avoiding roads and feeling self-conscious about his fitness. He didn’t want to be seen by others, especially after transitioning from playing football to feeling like a “bit of a lump.”
The breakthrough came when he discovered Eaton Park, a green space in Norwich that would become a sanctuary for both his physical and emotional healing. “It was a safe place,” Dudley reflects. “A place where I could run without fear of traffic, where I didn’t feel like I’d be judged by others.”
The park’s accessibility was key to his success. It’s flat, has well-maintained paths, and even provides a café and toilet facilities—important for anyone struggling with anxiety or other concerns. As time passed, Dudley found the confidence to use the park as a guide runner for people with visual impairments, which is how he met his colleague, Lawrence. Together, they’ve supported countless individuals on their running journeys.
One of the core messages Dudley shares with his participants is that running isn’t about speed or distance—it’s about moving your body in a way that feels good. “Pace is completely irrelevant,” he emphasises. “If you can move one foot in front of the other, you’re welcome.” Over time, Dudley has seen people from all walks of life, including a woman who lost six stone in a year and a 70-year-old man who reversed his type 2 diabetes, discover the power of running.
For Dudley, running is just one part of the journey to overall wellbeing. “Running can be the trigger for a whole life change,” he says. It’s not just about physical fitness; it’s about making small, consistent choices that can have a big impact. He highlights how one participant, despite not solely using running to lose weight, found that it helped her stay motivated to make healthier lifestyle choices, from eating better to getting more sleep
“Running is almost a way to break down societal barriers,” says Dudley. “Once you’re running together, it’s easier to talk about life, share stories, and connect. That’s what it’s all about.”
Dudley’s approach is rooted in sustainability. He’s not interested in short-term, fad-like transformations but in long-term, life-changing habits.
Whether you’re looking to improve your physical fitness, boost your mental health, or simply find a supportive community, running offers something for everyone. Dudley’s work proves that it’s not about being the fastest runner or hitting personal bests—it’s about creating a space where everyone can feel welcomed and supported on their journey. So, if you’ve been hesitant to take up running, remember Dudley’s advice: “If you can move one foot in front of the other, you’re welcome.”
Running may just be the starting point for the change you’ve been seeking.
