Lewis Robling’s athletic journey from rugby to ultramarathons is a compelling tale of resilience, transformation, and mental well-being. The latest episode of the “Business of Endurance” podcast delves into Lewis’s inspiring story, shedding light on his transition from the rugby field to the grueling world of ultra running. His story is a testament to the power of the human spirit, the importance of mental health, and the impact of community support.
Lewis Robling began his athletic career as a professional rugby player, starting at the tender age of eight. He quickly rose through the ranks, eventually playing for Wales under 20s. His rugby career was marked by memorable moments, including playing against star-studded teams and experiencing the thrill of representing his country. However, a severe concussion and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic abruptly ended his rugby career. This unexpected turn of events led Lewis to discover the world of ultramarathons during the lockdown.
The transition from rugby to ultra running was not an easy one. Lewis faced numerous challenges, both physical and mental. The solitary nature of ultra running was a stark contrast to the team dynamics of rugby. However, Lewis found solace and purpose in ultra running, which provided him with a new sense of accomplishment and personal responsibility. Inspired by friends and the story of David Goggins, Lewis’s dedication led him to complete the Goggins 4-4-48 challenge, raising £10,000 for Alzheimer’s research in honour of his partner’s late grandfather.
The episode also highlights the inspiring work of Jeff and Chloe from Big Moose Charity. Their mental health support initiatives have made a profound impact, saving over 50 lives and aiming to raise 15 million dollars to expedite critical mental health services. Lewis’s advocacy for mental health is deeply personal, as he has benefited from the support of Big Moose and now uses his platform to raise awareness about the importance of mental well-being.
In the podcast, Lewis discusses the pivotal role of a remarkable coach who instilled in him the values of confidence and responsibility. These values continue to guide him in his new athletic endeavors. He also shares his coaching philosophy, which centers on helping athletes achieve their personal goals. Lewis’s journey is a rich tapestry of stories that emphasize the importance of resilience, the transformative power of sport, and the impact of community support.
The episode begins with an introduction to Lewis’s early days in rugby. He recalls his first experiences with the sport, the influence of a remarkable coach, and his rise to professional status. The coach’s unique approach, which included giving Lewis an imaginary key to the game, empowered him with confidence and responsibility. This foundation played a crucial role in Lewis’s athletic journey, both in rugby and ultra running.
As the episode progresses, Lewis reflects on the unexpected challenges he faced after his rugby career ended. He shares his motivations behind his coaching philosophy and the abrupt end of his rugby career due to a severe concussion. The COVID-19 pandemic marked the beginning of his running journey, driven by the need to stay active and mentally balanced. The story transitions into his passion for ultra running, fueled by influences from friends and the inspirational story of David Goggins.
One of the significant milestones in Lewis’s ultra running journey was completing the Goggins 4-4-48 challenge. This experience was meticulously planned and highlighted the rewarding feeling of contributing to a cause greater than oneself. Lewis’s dedication to Alzheimer’s research in honour of his partner’s late grandfather was a testament to his resilience and meticulous planning.
The podcast delves deeper into the transformative journey of ultramarathon running. Lewis shares insights on the intense personal responsibility and the unique sense of accomplishment that comes with completing an ultra. He discusses how each race brings new challenges and learning opportunities that can be applied to life and work. Reflecting on his journey, Lewis highlights the transformative impact of ultrarunning on his mental health, particularly after seeking therapy to reframe his approach.
The episode concludes with a discussion on inspiring stories and charity partnerships. Lewis’s insights into resilience and the transformative power of sport are profound, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being and community support. The impactful work of Jeff and Chloe from Big Moose Charity is also highlighted, showcasing their significant strides in mental health support.
Lewis Robling’s journey from rugby to ultramarathons is an inspiring tale of resilience, mental well-being, and the transformative power of sport. His dedication to raising funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s research, coupled with his advocacy for mental health, makes his story a powerful testament to the human spirit. This episode of the “Business of Endurance” podcast offers valuable insights into the importance of mental well-being, the impact of community support, and the incredible feats one can achieve through determination and resilience.
Whether you’re an athlete, a mental health advocate, or someone seeking inspiration, Lewis Robling’s story will resonate with you. His journey from the rugby field to ultra running is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of sport. Tune in to this extraordinary episode to learn more about Lewis’s inspiring journey and the importance of mental well-being and community support.