A South London Teen Story: Unplanned Transformation
I first discovered the benefits of walking in year eight whilst experiencing the bustling life at Dunraven School in Streatham, South London.
I wasn't exactly overweight, but I was a little chubby. As a teenager, my life revolved around the usual stuff—FIFA on the Xbox360, trying to wake up for school, and hanging out with friends.
As the school year wound down, we entered a period where textbooks were replaced with fun activities—"Activities Week." Options varied from the adrenaline rush of daily football matches to the disciplined art of Krav Maga. I remember the excitement buzzing through the school as everyone discussed their top picks.
We had to rank our preferences on a form to get into these activities. But, in a typical teenage fashion, I missed the deadline.
Mr. Dickson, our stern yet fair head of P.E. at Dunraven, assigned me to the only available option: "Best Foot Forward." It was two weeks of walking through the English countryside with classmates I barely knew.
At first, the idea sounded boring, especially compared to the thrill of football. But, with no other choice, I went along. The countryside was full of vibrant greens and yellows, with old oak trees and fields of flowers. Compared to Streatham, the air felt clean, and there was a peacefulness that I'd never experienced in the city.
The walks became a journey of unexpected friendships and laughter. Conversations flowed easily, ranging from light-hearted banter about our favourite football teams to deeper talks about what we wanted to do growing up. Something about the open air and the clear skies made it easy to open up.
Physically, the change was gradual but undeniable.
My step count skyrocketed from a modest 8,000 to an impressive 30,000 steps daily. About three weeks later, I was amazed to see a significant drop on the scale. The walking and less snacking (who has time to eat when you're exploring the great outdoors?) led to this massive change.
But the transformation wasn't just physical. There was a mental clarity and a sense of well-being that had happened, too.
That's when it hit me, a 14-year-old with newfound friends and a slightly looser waistband: walking, a simple activity often overlooked, was a gateway to a healthier life.
It was a lesson from the English countryside I'd carry with me and share with my 1-2-1 online fitness members forever.
Speak soon,
Leo
P.S. Even though pictures from those two weeks don't exist (I had a Vodafone flip phone at the time), below are a few pictures of me from secondary school.
From left to right:
Outside The Westbury Hotel in Mayfair during my work experience in year 10.
My close group of friends on a boat exploring the River Thames in year 10.
An I.T. class with my closest mate at the time in Dunraven School in year 11.
The last day at Dunraven School, in year 11, with a few mates.
