Today the podcast is joined by a special guest , Harry Lancaster, with a very important message.
It is one of those rare episodes where we have a male guest, but this is a serious topic which affects both men and women, quite possibly women more.
Harry is a class club runner, online running coach, and running content creator. But he was also diagnosed with osteoporosis at the age of 26 - as a healthy and fit individual-.
This episode shares his journey from diagnosis to taking the first step in reversing his condition.
In 2024, Harry came off a PB- filled year, where he ran 15.23 (5k) and 2.27.26 (marathon). Things couldn't have been going better when he was hit by two almost consecutive stress fractures.
Unfortunately this is something which is not uncommon within the sport. As a knowledgeable and proactive individual, Harry knew this wasn't right and went to medical and sporting experts to pursue answers.
This process led him to being diagnosed with both RED-S and Osteoporosis. When he received his Osteoporosis diagnosis, he was told his running future was uncertain.
Determined to make the best of the situation he found himself in, Harry learned everything he could about the condition, and to his benefit uncovered some solutions along the way.
With this new knowledge Harry was able to make several major, but simple, changes to his life.
These changes not only allowed him to return to running, but one-year-on he has reversed his condition from Osteoporosis to Osteopenia- and technically with more time and his continued efforts this should shift him back into the 'normal'-.
Note Harry was not referred by his GP for a bone density scan where his osteoporosis diagnosis was revealed.
If you have had one or more stress fractures, or have reoccurring stress fractures or bone injuries, then it might be worth investigating further...
Osteoporosis can affect anyone at any age and any fitness level, and it can develop into a crippling condition.
But as Harry demonstrates, by taking action and acting fast it can be possible to re-write the narrative.
Contact Harry for Coaching - via Instagram