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    The UKRunChat podcast.

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    Francesca Baker-Brooker: Training for London Marathon

    Francesca Baker-Brooker: Training for London Marathon

    October 13, 2025
    34m

    In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, Michelle speaks with Francesca Baker-Brooker about her powerful journey with running and anorexia. Francesca first started running as a student, but what began as a way to fit in soon spiralled into two decades of illness, hospital stays, and setbacks.

    Now 38, Francesca has rediscovered running in a healthy, joyful way. She shares how support from her husband and family helped her start again, why her first 10k was both awful and life-changing, and how running has shifted her relationship with her body.

    We talk honestly about fuelling, relapse fears, and the importance of building a life worth being well for. Francesca is training for the London Marathon in support of Coach Core, a charity creating opportunities through sports apprenticeships.

    Please note: This episode includes discussion of eating disorders, hospitalisation, and fuelling struggles. Listener discretion is advised.

    Resources:

    • BEAT Eating Disorders: https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk
    • RED-S Project: https://red-s.com
    • Coach Core: https://coachcore.org.uk

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