Ellie Takes Part in Sheffield 10K on Her Eating Disorder Recovery Journey

“I want other people to know that with the right support, exercise and running can be a healthy part of eating disorder recovery.”

Ellie originally took up running two years ago in 2023, but it was a part of her anorexia, and she fell into serious exercise addiction. However, in 2024, with the support of SYEDA, a charity in South Yorkshire which supports people suffering from eating disorders, she began to manage her eating disorder and exercise. 

“I began to love running and cycling and learnt to fuel my body appropriately for it. I became a member of Sheffield Triathlon Club and completed my first triathlon and have now done several more.”

In Autumn 2024, Ellie was unfortunately admitted to a medical ward at the Northern General Hospital and was unable to take part in the Sheffield 10K. Slowly, running became an important part of Ellie’s recovery, it was time away from the ward, and “reminding myself why I wanted to keep eating and stay strong.”

“I took part in a 10K race whilst still an inpatient – beating my previous PB.”

This year, Ellie will be taking on the Sheffield Mutual Sheffield 10K - though her eating disorder and complex PTSD impact her daily living, she knows she can do difficult things if she puts her mind to it.

“I’m excited to finally be in the place where I can run the Sheffield 10K this year, exactly a year and a day since I was first admitted.”

“I want other people to know that with the right support, exercise and running can be a healthy part of eating disorder recovery, but it’s important that the person is well supported in this and finding their own goals, not that of their eating disorder.”