GET THE WEIGHT OFF YOUR MIND
RUTH SINCLAIR SHARES HER EXPERIENCES TO WARN OTHER YOUNG ATHLETES ABOUT BEING OBSESSED WITH WEIGHT
RUTH SINCLAIR
Stockport runner Ruth Sinclair has overcome numerous challenges
MARK SHEARMAN
MY NAME is Ruth Sinclair, I am an 18-year-old endurance runner who trains six times a week at Stockport Harriers.
Okay, so this is a fairly standard introduction for any sort of disciplined athlete, but what many don’t know about me is that I have also recovered from glandular fever, an eating disorder and have recently branched out into modelling. Yes, a sweaty distance runner modelling makeup and handbags while getting my routine blood tests. Strange, right?
My story really begins in January 2012.
I was an energetic 13-year-old running, dancing and swimming every day. I aimed for perfection in all my hobbies and would always question how I could be the best. I remember at one of my cross country races standing on the start line and looking down at all these slim, tall girls wearing crop-tops in the snow and I instantly decided I had to lose weight to be faster. I suppose this is a common misconception in our running community today.
It didn’t help that I spent the rest of the weekend either in a tight swimming costume or leotard staring at a wall of mirrors. I was extremely self-critical and conscious of myself so I suddenly cut back on foods restricting my diet to fresh fruit and sugar-free squash as I had the belief it would make me slimmer, so more talented and successful.