From Sedentary to Strong: My 22KM Run & Lessons for Busy Men


Hey Reader,

It has been a while since you heard from me.

But I have been working out consistently, building on my routines and training for my longest run so far in my life.

On Sunday 21 September 2025, the world watched the Berlin Marathon – an international stage where thousands push their limits.

Closer to home, I laced up for the Friends of Karura Forest Anniversary Race, running 22KM in 1 hour 17 minutes – and bringing home my first medal ever. šŸ™Œ

Just 9 months ago, I was 85kg and pre-diabetic.

Now, at 37, I’m 60kg, strong, healthy, and living proof that it’s possible to balance a busy corporate life with fitness.

What kept me going?

A simple mission: to live long for my family, to create impact, and to leave a legacy.

When my legs felt heavy and the road seemed endless, I whispered a prayer: ā€œGod, give me strength.ā€ And He did – with the strength of a lion and the speed of a cheetah. I finished strong, crown in hand, already eyeing the Standard Chartered Marathon.

Running reminded me of lessons I once heard from Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom, on leadership mistakes and resilience:

  • šŸŽÆ Allow surprises, but manage them wisely.
  • āš–ļø Keep emotionally stable, even in chaos.
  • 🧘 Look after yourself – fitness, sleep, diet, mindset – so you can look after others.

After the race, I got home to another challenge: teaching my 5-year-old daughter how to ride a bike.

I used ā€œhabit stackingā€ (tidy the living room first, then ride the bike) – and soon she was riding on her own, teaching me again about confidence, resilience, and the power of perseverance.

Here’s the message I want to leave you with today:​
If a once sedentary, pre-diabetic 37-year-old can transform into a medal-winning runner in under a year, you too can make fitness a lifestyle – even with a packed schedule. Start small, stay consistent, and use every win (no matter how small) as fuel for the next challenge.

šŸ‘‰ In next week’s issue, I’ll share practical tips to fit workouts into a 9-to-5 corporate routine without sacrificing family or career.

Stay strong, stay consistent.

Gregory Omondi​
Fitness & Lifestyle Coach for Busy Corporate Men
Flex Fitness Buddy


PS: If Berlin Marathon runners can conquer 42KM, what small step can you take this week towards your fitness journey? Reply and let me know – I’d love to cheer you on!

FLEX FITNESS BUDDY NEWSLETTER

Hey busy Nairobi men in your 30s & 40s šŸ‘‹ Balancing career, fitness & health is tough—I know. I was once pre-diabetic and overweight. Through low-carb eating & simple home workouts, I transformed my life—no gym. Now I coach busy corporate men to do the same: āœ… Actionable fitness & nutrition tipsāœ… Exclusive low-carb meal plans & challengesāœ… Practical routines for energy, focus & results. Join my newsletter to build a strong, healthy life—while also helping me support Kenyan kids with storybooks & libraries. šŸ‘‰ Subscribe today & let’s get fit, anytime, anywhere.

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