Men's 10k 2009

Dailly exercise can be good for mental health

FORMER Scotland and World Cup star Christian Dailly spoke to Breathing Space about the benefits of exercise for mental wellbeing at the 2009 Men's Health Forum Scotland 10K.

 

The Rangers player, who completed the race in an impressive 37 minutes 49 seconds, joined more than 3000 men taking part in the UK's only men-only 10K at Bellahouston Park in Glasgow on June 21.

 

Dailly, 35, who ran on behalf of event sponsors Maggie's Cancer Caring Centres, said: “Exercise is massively important. It's one of the biggest benefits if you're trying to look after your stress levels. Being able to get out and run and get those endorphins going is so beneficial. It's one of the things I love about my job as a footballer.

 

“You can have that sense of achievement regardless of the time you run. When you get in the shower afterwards you feel great.

 

“Exercise is one of the most important things for someone with mental ill health. If you do feel unwell, it can be tough getting out there to run, but it’s one of the most important things you can do.”

 

The defender took on the role of Maggie's Centre patron in Dundee following the death of his father, Dan, 56, from cancer five years ago.

 

Celtic legend Joe McBride, 70, also pulled on his running shoes on the day and his son, Joe, 48, and grandson, Joseph, 21, supported him around the course.

 

For the second year in a row, first place went to David Millar, 39, of Irvine Athletics Club, who finished in 31 minutes and 50 seconds to beat his previous time by 12 seconds.

 

A team of 20 men ran for event sponsors Breathing Space, the phone line for people in Scotland – particularly men – who are experiencing low mood, anxiety or depression.

 

And this year's Breathing Space achievement award went to Gerry Russell for running his first ever 10K at a respectable 1 hour 5 minutes and 50 seconds.

 

Children cheered on their dads at the Father's Day event with Breathing Space clappers and the kids also flocked to the Breathing Space family art tent to have their face painted to help celebrate their dads’ achievement.

 

Tony McLaren, national coordinator for Breathing Space, said: “The energy and enthusiasm shown by participants was really positive, contributing to a great atmosphere. There was a real sense of comradeship around the route.

 

“The MHFS 10K for Men reinforces the positive impact physical activity can have on mental wellbeing.”

 

John Turner, chief executive of NHS 24, which runs Breathing Space, also took part in the race and said: “It was a great team effort and everybody put a lot of work into it. It’s great to see Breathing Space having such a positive presence at the Men’s 10K.”

 

Breathing Space team member, Fraser Elliot, ran for Combat Stress, the charity for British veterans. The father-of-one, who left the Army in 2006, said: “You’re just a number when you come out of the Army - and it’s good to raise awareness by doing this. I’d definitely encourage people to run."

 

Fellow Breathing Space team member and father of four, Kevin Reith, from Kinross, said: "Several years ago I realised I was getting stuck on the treadmill of life. Jogging fitted around my home and work and it has been a revelation in making me feel better, reducing stress levels and getting my life in better balance."

 

 Mark Ward, national coordinator of the Men’s Health Forum Scotland, said: “I am delighted with the success of this year’s event.

 

“We are determined to help raise awareness about the need for men throughout Scotland to consider the importance of looking after their mental and physical health."

 

Richard Leckerman, national development officer for Breathing Space, said: "It was fantastic to have a record number of men literally taking their Breathing Space by running, jogging or walking the 10K."